Can I use Delta eCredit to upgrade?

eCredits are a specific monetary value that can be applied as payment toward the cost of a Delta ticket and any government-imposed taxes and fees. Examples of an eCredit include: Unused or partially used tickets. Remaining value of an unused post-purchase seat upgrade or Preferred Seat.



As of 2026, you generally cannot use a Delta eCredit directly to purchase a "post-purchase" upgrade (such as clicking "Upgrade with Miles or Money" in the app after you have already booked). Delta's systems typically treat eCredits as a form of payment for the base fare of a new ticket. To use an eCredit for a higher class of service, the most effective method is to apply the credit at the time of initial booking to buy a First Class or Delta Comfort+ ticket outright. If you have already booked an Economy ticket and want to use an eCredit to move up, you usually have to "Change Flight," select the same flight, choose the higher cabin, and then apply the eCredit toward the fare difference during the checkout process. Note that eCredits cannot be used for ancillary fees like baggage or in-flight Wi-Fi; they are strictly for air transportation and government-imposed taxes.

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This Delta eCerts Credit Voucher will not be honored when purchasing Prepaid Tickets, gift certificates or excess baggage charges, payments on account or Delta eCerts Agency Discounts. Once ticketed, penalties may apply for changes, per the fare rule purchased.

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Passengers typically receive this credit after canceling and receiving refund for non-refundable tickets; its value typically equals that of their purchase. Delta also provides eCredits for changes and upgrades but these credits cannot be transferred - only their original owner can use them.

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You can use miles to upgrade to Delta One®, Delta Premium Select, First Class or Delta Comfort+® for eligible flights within the U.S. 50 while purchasing a ticket* either at delta.com or with Delta Reservations. If your reservation is eligible for an upgrade, you'll see the option to upgrade in your Trip Summary.

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Delta SkyMiles members with Reserve miles or the American Express card are eligible for a free upgrade to first and comfort seats. Moreover, it also qualifies for unlimited updates to Delta One seat on the departure day for flights originating within the United States and Hawaii.

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Only itineraries that are wholly operated by Delta or Delta Connection are eligible for post-purchase upgrades at this time. Additionally, Basic Economy tickets are not eligible for upgrades.

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While there are few ways to secure an upgrade on a Delta flight without Medallion Elite status, opportunities do exist. Purchase a Comfort+ Upgrade during booking or anytime up until 3 hours before departure.

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So, is Delta Comfort Plus worth it? The answer is entirely up to you. If you value extra legroom, space for your luggage and complimentary booze, then yes, it's worth spending the extra money.

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Here's a rundown of how earning Delta Medallion status still works in 2023: Delta rewards its most loyal members with special airline perks through its Medallion status program. Benefits include free checked bags, waived fees, bonus SkyMiles, complimentary upgrades and more.

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Nonrefundable tickets are ineligible for a cash refund, but you can receive eCredit on the value of the ticket, minus any cancellation fees (if applicable). The eCredit can be redeemed toward a future Delta flight.

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Each passenger flying with Delta can bring 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item free of charge (such as a purse, laptop bag or item of similar size that will fit underneath the seat in front of you).

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Realistically, it's a gamble and getting upgraded to business class at the airport is pretty rare. If luxury and extra legroom is really important to you, book it in advance. However, if you're perfectly willing to fly economy class, and willing to roll the dice, a last-minute upgrade can be the cheapest option.

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Ask at check-in. Airlines may sell upgrades at a discount when you check-in, either online or at the airport. The closer to the flight departing, the less likely the airline is to sell a cash fare in the upgraded cabin. Thus, they may be open to the idea of offering it to an existing passenger for a discounted price.

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Earn airline elite status
The most reliable way of getting upgraded for free is to have elite status on the airline you're flying. Most airlines reward their most frequent flyers with complimentary upgrades on domestic routes.

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After booking, you may be presented with the option to upgrade with miles at Delta.com or through the Fly Delta app. You can check your reservation at any time to see if this is an option. Alternatively, you can contact a Delta representative to upgrade with miles.

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“While we expected some variation, particularly with the longer flights, it was interesting to see that a first-class upgrade costs an average of anywhere between $93 to $658.” Overall, the study found that on average, passengers pay $262.97 on each one-way flight for first-class cabins, and more than $525 to go round- ...

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Low Fare with Restrictions. Save with Basic Economy, but please remember refunds and upgrades are not available at any time. Basic Economy is best for those traveling by themselves with firm travel plans.

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