With 54 Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and 18,000 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) needed for 1K status (or 24,000 PQP without hitting the necessary PQF threshold), United Airlines’ requirements for top-tier status attained without an invitation (like Global Services) are very rigorous. Whether you’ve already achieved that coveted milestone or are still clawing your way up, here are some of the top benefits to take advantage of when you’re a United 1K-er:

Upgrade with PlusPoints

Flyers with 1K status get a whopping 280 PlusPoints to use to upgrade themselves to Premium Plus or Business Class cabins; these points need to be used in the calendar year in which they were awarded or they’re forfeited. It’s most beneficial to use them for long-haul flights where you aren’t already on the Complimentary Premier Upgrade (CPU) list. Just because you request a PlusPoints upgrade doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get one, though, but your chances are higher if you request one soon after booking. Keep in mind you can request to use more PlusPoints than you actually have, but once you max out, no other PlusPoints upgrades will be cleared. If you do find yourself with a windfall towards the end of a calendar year, however, you can gift unused ones to friends and family members.

Take Advantage of Pre-Boarding

1K-ers are eligible to pre-board after passengers with disabilities, active military, families with small children and Global Services members but before passengers in Group 1. While it may seem like a small perk, boarding early gives you first dibs on overhead space and gives you the chance to settle into your seat to work, nap or just relax.

Get Those Onboard Freebies

As a 1K flier, you are entitled to a free food item and free alcoholic beverage. The three snack boxes (Tapas, Takeoff and Recline) are always available. These include a variety of snacks, spreads, cheeses, crackers, chocolate, nuts and dried fruit; sometimes there’s a fruit and cheese platter, as well. Hot food options might be offered, including a burger, breakfast bowl or Southwest salad, depending on the duration and time of the flight. And after you’re done sipping your one free G&T or glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, some flight attendants will offer you a refill as a courtesy for your loyalty.

Relax in the Lounge When Traveling Internationally

United IK flyers are eligible to use United Clubs when traveling internationally on the airline (and, yes, the Caribbean counts.) Since 1K status also encompasses Star Alliance Gold status, you can also use Star Alliance lounges when traveling internationally on United or on a Star Alliance partner. 1K status also gives you a $100 discount on annual membership to United Clubs. (Note: You are ineligible to use United Clubs when traveling domestically on United unless you have club membership or purchase a one-time pass — or have access with a United-branded credit card.)

Get CLEARed for Takeoff

1K status includes a free annual membership to CLEAR Plus, a $189 value. If you already have TSA PreCheck (or Global Entry), you’ll be able to hedge your bets and choose whichever line is shorter at the 51 or so airports where CLEAR is offered. CLEAR requires biometrics (eye or fingerprint scan). CLEAR flyers also often get to bypass  travelers waiting in the PreCheck line.

Get United Help Via a Dedicated Phone Line

Need help booking or changing a flight, or have questions about the status of an upgrade? Call the United Premier 1K customer service phone number, (800) 756-1000. You’ll (usually) be able to reach someone a lot more quickly than by using the general phone number; and since staff members know you are a loyal United customer, service tends to be swift and friendly. The fee for booking a flight via phone is also waived for 1K flyers.

Have More Legroom with Economy Plus Seats

You’re eligible to select an Economy Plus seat at the time or booking or change to one later; this includes those coveted spots in the emergency exit and bulkhead rows. And remember up to eight of your travel companions get complimentary Economy Plus seating as well.

Use the Perks from United Partners

Those with 1K get complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status, giving you access to extra amenities like priority checkout as late as 2:00 p.m. and an enhanced room upgrade.  You’ll also become a free member of Avis President’s Club, letting you bypass the rental check-in counter, as well as up to 1,250 bonus base miles per rental at Avis and Budget. And a free subscription to Timeshifter, the jet lag app, helps you recover more quickly from those long-haul flights.

Go Ahead, Check Those Bags

1K-ers are entitled to check up to three bags up to 70 pounds each in Economy and Premium cabins. Use the dedicated Premier 1K counter at most airports, and you’ll breeze through check-in even more quickly.