When United Airlines broke the news of their revenue-based changes to MileagePlus, they mentioned that members will have new award offers. We recently got in touch with United to find out more and to learn when members can expect the new awards. The new award options will include using miles to purchase an Economy Plus seat on a single flight as well as a subscription for Economy Plus seats and checked-baggage subscriptions.

We asked when the awards will be offered and we were told, “We haven’t yet announced the date these new options will begin, but customers should stay tuned for more information.”

Bottom line: If you have a United MileagePlus credit card, with a $0 annual fee for the first year and $95 thereafter, you’ll get a free checked bag for you and one companion so unless the amount of miles you would spend for a checked-baggage subscription is quite low, it will more than likely be better to get the credit card, which will come with a signup mileage bonus and other benefits. Economy Plus seating is offered to United Premier Silver members at check-in so we do not know how this new award option to purchase access will change Silver members’ chances of getting the premium seating. Other Premier Elite levels offer complimentary Economy Plus seating at booking.