The American Express Platinum Card is a premium credit card that comes with a hefty annual fee of $550. This fee can be a major deterrent for some people, but it's worth considering if you're a frequent traveler or enjoy luxury perks.
The annual fee is offset by a wide range of benefits, including a $200 airline fee credit, a $100 credit towards a Global Entry application, and a $100 credit towards a Saks Fifth Avenue purchase. These credits can add up quickly and help justify the cost of the card.
One of the biggest benefits of the American Express Platinum Card is its travel perks, including a fourth night free at participating hotels and a $200 credit towards air travel when booked through American Express Travel.
Benefits
The Amex Platinum card offers a range of benefits that can make your travel experience more enjoyable and rewarding. One of the most valuable benefits is the welcome offer, which allows new card members to earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases on their new card in the first six months of card membership.
These points are worth roughly $1,600, thanks to the high value of American Express Membership Rewards points, which are typically valued at around two cents per point. With this bonus, you could book a luxury stay with hotels like Marriott, Hilton, or Choice, or even book a one-way business class flight to Europe with several of Amex's airline partners.
The Amex Platinum card also earns 5X points on flights booked directly with an airline or through Amex Travel, and 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. This makes it a great option for frequent travelers who want to earn rewards on their travel purchases.
Here's a breakdown of some of the other benefits offered by the Amex Platinum card:
- Rental car privileges with Avis, National, and Hertz
- Access to the Amex Global Lounge Collection
- Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)
- Marriott Bonvoy Gold status (enrollment required)
- No foreign transaction fees
Benefits
The Amex Platinum card offers an impressive welcome offer of 80,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. This is worth roughly $1,600, given the value of Amex Membership Rewards points at around two cents per point.
You can unlock even more value by transferring your points to airline partners, such as booking a luxury stay with Marriott, Hilton, or Choice, or a one-way business class flight to Europe with several of Amex's airline partners.
The Amex Platinum card earns 5X points on flights booked directly with an airline or through Amex Travel, and 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. It also earns 2X points on other eligible travel booked through Amex Travel and 1X points on all other purchases.
Some of the other benefits of the Amex Platinum card include rental car privileges with Avis, National, and Hertz, as well as access to the Amex Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, Plaza Premium Lounges, and more.
Here are some of the insurance benefits you can expect: Rental car insuranceReturn protectionExtended warrantyPurchase protectionTrip cancellation and interruption insuranceTrip delay insuranceBaggage insurance
The Amex Business Platinum Card also offers a range of benefits, including access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Priority Pass and Amex Centurion lounges. You'll also get statement credit offers worth over $1,400 every year, as well as hotel and rental car elite status perks.
Cardholders can also book upscale properties through The Hotel Collection and receive benefits like property credits and room upgrades.
Rewards
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers a rewards program that's hard to beat. You'll earn Membership Rewards points on your purchases, which can be redeemed for a variety of rewards.
One of the best ways to earn points is by making large purchases, such as flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. You'll earn 5x points on these purchases, which can add up quickly.
The card also offers bonus points in specific categories, including electronics, software, and cloud service providers, shipping providers, and construction materials and hardware supplies. You'll earn 1.5x points on these purchases, up to a maximum of $2 million per year.
You can redeem your points for travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars. You can also use your points to book airfare, hotels, and more through American Express Travel. Plus, you'll get a 35% points rebate when you redeem points for first- or business-class tickets, or for any fare with your selected airline through Amex Travel.
If you're not traveling, you can still use your points for non-travel redemptions, such as statement credits, merchandise, food delivery, charity donations, and gift cards. The value of your points varies depending on the redemption, but you can get up to 1 cent per point in value.
Here are some of the specific redemption options and their values:
- Statement credits: 0.6 cents per point
- Merchandise: 0.7 cents per point
- Food delivery: 0.7 cents per point
- Charity donations: 0.7 cents per point
- Gift cards: 1 cent per point
The Amex Business Platinum Card also offers a range of statement credit offers, including up to $200 Uber Cash per year, up to $200 airline fee statement credits per year, and up to $360 per year in Indeed credits.
Rewards
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers a robust rewards program that can help you save money and earn valuable points. You'll earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
The card's earning structure also offers bonus points for large purchases and in categories that appeal to small businesses. You'll earn 1.5x points on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million per card account.
You can redeem your points for various rewards, including flights, hotels, and merchandise. Transferring points to Amex's airline and hotel partners, like Delta and Marriott, can be a great way to get the most value from your points.
One of the most lucrative benefits is the 35% points rebate when redeeming points for first- or business-class tickets, or for any fare with your selected airline through Amex Travel. This rebate effectively boosts the value of your points to 1.54 cents apiece.
You can also use your points for non-travel redemptions, such as statement credits to cover charges on your account (0.6 cents per point), merchandise (0.7 cents per point), and charity donations (0.7 cents per point).
Here's a breakdown of some of the rewards you can earn with the Amex Business Platinum Card:
- 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
- 1.5x points on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million per card account
- 1.5x points on eligible purchases in the U.S. at electronics goods retailers, software, and cloud service providers
- 1.5x points at eligible U.S. shipping providers
- 1.5x points on eligible U.S. purchases of construction materials and hardware supplies
- 1 point per dollar on everything else
You can also redeem your points for statement credits, merchandise, and more, with varying point values:
- Statement credits to cover charges on your account (0.6 cents per point)
- Merchandise (0.7 cents per point)
- Food delivery with GrubHub and Seamless (0.7 cents per point)
- New York City taxi fare (1 cent per point)
- Charity donations (0.7 cents per point)
- Gift cards (1 cent per point)
- Merchandise (point value varies — usually around 0.5 cents per point)
The Amex Business Platinum Card also offers a range of statement credit offers, including up to $200 Uber Cash per year, up to $200 airline fee statement credits per year, and more.
Credits and Discounts
The Amex Platinum Card offers a wide range of statement credits that can add up to a significant amount of money back per year. You can receive up to $1,500 back per year, including offers for Uber Cash, airline fees, hotel credits, Saks credits, digital entertainment credits, Equinox credits, Walmart+ credits, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees, and CLEAR Plus Credit.
Here are some specific details about these credits:
- Up to $200 Uber Cash per year ($15 in Uber Cash each month; $20 in Uber Cash in Dec.)
- Up to $200 airline fee statement credits per year (Enrollment required)
- Up to $200 hotel credit for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings per year (requires a minimum two-night stay; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade)
- Up to $100 Saks credit per year (up to $50 in statement credits from Jan, through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through Dec.; enrollment required.)
- Up to $240 digital entertainment credits per year (Up to $20 in statement credits each month; enrollment required.)
- Up to $300 Equinox statement credit per calendar year (enrollment required.)
- Up to $155 Walmart+ statement credit ($12.95 a month for a Walmart+ membership; subject to auto-renewal; up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee)
- Up to $120 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee
- Up to $199 CLEAR Plus Credit (Excluding any applicable taxes and fees; subject to auto-renewal.)
These credits can be a huge help for frequent travelers and shoppers, and can make a significant dent in the Amex Platinum Card's annual fee.
Up to $200 in Annual Airline Credits
The Amex Platinum Card offers some amazing airline credit benefits. You can receive up to $200 in airline incidental fee credits each calendar year on an airline you choose.
To qualify for this credit, you can use it towards expenses like checked bag fees, seat selection, pet fees, lounge day passes, and inflight food and drink, but airfare is excluded.
You can also get up to $200 in airline fee statement credits per year with the Amex Platinum Card.
Here's a breakdown of the airline credit benefits you can get with the Amex Platinum Card:
- Airline fee statement credits: Up to $200 per year
- Airline incidental fee credits: Up to $200 per year
These credits can really add up and help you save money on your travels.
Up to $120 in Wireless Credits
If you're an Amex Business Platinum Card holder, you can receive up to $120 per year in wireless credits towards your cell phone bill.
These credits can be used towards purchases made from any U.S. wireless telephone provider, giving you a significant break on your monthly expenses.
You can earn up to $10 per month in statement credits, which can really add up over the course of a year.
Indeed Credits up to $360/Year
You can receive up to $360 per year in statement credits toward all Indeed hiring and recruiting products and services.
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers this benefit, which can be a game-changer for small businesses looking to save on recruitment costs.
You can earn up to $90 per quarter in statement credits, which adds up to $360 per year.
This credit can be used on a wide range of Indeed products and services, making it a versatile benefit for businesses of all sizes.
By taking advantage of this credit, you can reduce your expenses and allocate your budget more effectively.
The Amex Business Platinum Card is a great option for businesses that need to hire frequently, as this credit can help offset the costs.
Up to $120 Toward Application Fees
If you're a frequent traveler, you know how frustrating it can be to wait in long security lines at the airport. One way to speed up your airport experience is by enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are programs that allow you to use faster airport security lanes, saving you time and hassle. With Global Entry, you also get faster immigration and customs clearance when you return to the U.S. from overseas.
American Express offers a statement credit of up to $120 for Global Entry fees every four years, or up to $85 every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck. This can help offset the cost of the application fee.
Here are some details about the statement credit offers:
Keep in mind that you'll need to enroll in the program and pay for the application fee with your American Express card to receive the statement credit.
Features and Services
The American Express Platinum Card is packed with valuable benefits that can help offset its annual fee. The card comes with access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass, Amex Centurion lounges, Delta Sky Club lounges, and International American Express lounges.
These lounges offer complimentary snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi, making them a great place to relax and unwind before your flight. You'll also get to enjoy an upscale vibe at Amex Centurion lounges, which offer complimentary cocktails and quality food created by award-winning chefs.
Here are some of the statement credit offers you can receive with the card:
- Up to $200 Uber Cash per year
- Up to $200 airline fee statement credits per year
- Up to $200 hotel credit for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings per year
- Up to $100 Saks credit per year
- Up to $240 digital entertainment credits per year
- Up to $300 Equinox statement credit per calendar year
- Up to $155 Walmart+ statement credit
- Up to $120 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee
- Up to $199 CLEAR Plus Credit
These offers can add up to over $1,500 in statement credits per year, making the card a great value for frequent travelers.
Airport Lounge Access
Airport Lounge Access is a game-changer for frequent travelers. With the Amex Business Platinum Card, you'll have access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide through Priority Pass Select.
You'll also get to enjoy the upscale vibe of Amex Centurion lounges at more than a dozen US airports, as well as international locations like Hong Kong and London. These lounges offer complimentary cocktails, quality food, and a quieter place to work and relax.
Delta Sky Club lounges are another perk, with over 30 locations available to cardholders when flying with Delta. You can enjoy snacks, complimentary soft and alcoholic drinks, premium Wi-Fi, and a quieter space to unwind.
The Amex Business Platinum Card also includes access to International American Express lounges in countries like Argentina, Australia, and Mexico. Escape Lounges, a Centurion Studio Partner, offers additional lounge options in the US and UK.
Here are some of the airport lounges you can access with the Amex Business Platinum Card:
- Amex Centurion lounges
- Delta Sky Club lounges
- International American Express lounges
- Escape Lounges
- Priority Pass Select lounges (over 1,400 locations)
Hotel Elite Status
Having hotel elite status can make a big difference in your travel experience. With the Amex Business Platinum Card, you'll get Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors Gold elite status.
You'll receive perks like upgrades, late checkout, and in Hilton's case, free breakfast (currently offered as a food and beverage credit).
Car Rental Insurance
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers secondary rental car insurance when you use the card to pay for your rental in full and decline the rental company's collision damage waiver.
Coverage is limited to theft or damage only, not liability. Some rentals, vehicle types, and countries are excluded, so be sure to read the terms carefully.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers a range of travel perks that can make your journey more comfortable.
One of the most valuable benefits is the Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance. If you paid for a covered trip with the Amex Business Platinum Card and it's canceled or cut short for a covered reason, you could be reimbursed up to $10,000 per trip.
This insurance can provide peace of mind when booking travel, knowing that you're protected in case of unexpected events. You could be reimbursed up to $20,000 per card per consecutive 12-month period.
Baggage Insurance
Baggage Insurance is a valuable feature that can protect your belongings in case of loss or damage. You can be covered for baggage loss or damage when you pay for a covered trip with your Amex Business Platinum Card.
The coverage limit for checked bags is up to $2,000 per person. This can be a huge relief if your luggage gets lost or damaged during your trip.
There are some exclusions for high-risk items, so make sure to check the terms and conditions for specific details.
Extended Warranty
With an extended warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing your purchases are protected for a longer period.
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers an extended warranty on eligible items, adding up to one additional year to eligible U.S. manufacturer's warranties of five years or less.
This benefit is a game-changer for businesses that rely on quality equipment and products, allowing them to focus on growth without worrying about unexpected repairs or replacements.
Global Assist Hotline
The Global Assist Hotline is a valuable feature of the Amex Business Platinum Card. It's a complimentary service that can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.
Cardholders have access to a dedicated hotline that can help arrange things like passport replacement, medical referrals, and translation services. These services can be especially helpful when traveling abroad.
You may be responsible for any third-party costs associated with these services. But in some cases, Amex may provide emergency medical transportation assistance at no cost if it's approved and coordinated by the Premium Global Assist Hotline.
This service can be a big difference-maker in emergency situations, providing peace of mind for cardholders who travel frequently.
Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection offer exclusive benefits to cardholders. Members can book luxury properties through Amex Travel and enjoy perks like room upgrades, free breakfast, late checkout, and free Wi-Fi.
The unique amenity at each hotel can be a property credit to use at spas or restaurants. This can be a great way to indulge in some pampering or try out the local cuisine.
Amex Business Platinum Card members have access to the Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts program. This program offers a range of luxury properties to choose from, each with its own unique benefits.
Cardholders can also book upscale properties through The Hotel Collection. This collection offers benefits like property credits and room upgrades, making it a great option for those looking to treat themselves to a higher level of luxury.
Points Estimator
The Amex Platinum card offers a rewards program that can be estimated using their Points Estimator. You can earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines per year, and similarly, 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel per year.
To estimate your rewards, you'll need to input your annual spending in these categories. For example, if you spend $10,000 on flights booked directly with airlines per year, you'll earn 50,000 points.
You can also earn points on other purchases, with a rate of 1X point per dollar spent. This can add up quickly, especially if you make a lot of purchases each month.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I avoid paying Amex Platinum annual fee?
To avoid paying the Amex Platinum annual fee, you'll need to maintain a significant balance in your account through monthly deposits and daily balances. This includes having at least $5,000 in monthly deposits and an average daily balance of $25,000.
Is it worth getting Amex Platinum?
The Amex Platinum offers significant rewards, including up to $1,500 in statement credits annually, making it a potentially valuable option for those who can maximize its benefits. Consider applying if you frequently use Uber, travel, or dine at high-end restaurants.
Sources
- https://www.cnbc.com/select/is-the-amex-platinum-worth-it/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/credit-cards/amex-business-platinum-card-review
- https://moneywithkatie.com/blog/american-express-platinums-new-annual-fee-of-695-worth-it
- https://www.moneygeek.com/credit-cards/reviews/american-express-the-platinum-card/
- https://www.cnbc.com/select/amex-business-platinum-is-annual-fee-worth-it/
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