Southwest loyalists, listen up! A new Rapid Rewards debit card, issued by Sunrise Banks, has officially landed. The card comes with a $6.99 monthly fee (unless you maintain a $2,500 average monthly balance), but it also offers some interesting perks. New cardholders can snag 2,500 bonus points after meeting the spending requirements. More importantly, this card offers some compelling ways to boost your Rapid Rewards balance and even your progress towards the coveted Companion Pass.

Here's the breakdown: You'll earn 1 point per $1 on Southwest purchases, dining, and select subscriptions (internet, phone, streaming, utilities, insurance premiums). All other purchases earn 1 point per $2 spent. Plus, you can snag up to 7,500 bonus points each year based on your spending, and a sweet 7,500 Companion Pass qualifying points annually. The card also includes a $35 annual Southwest statement credit, and a 20% off promo code each January (though it excludes those pesky Basic fares).

So, is it worth it? It depends on how much you value Southwest points and whether you can stomach that monthly fee. If you're a Southwest devotee chasing that Companion Pass and can put significant spending on the card, it might be a good fit. However, carefully weigh the benefits against the costs to decide if this debit card will truly elevate your Southwest game, or just drain your bank account.