An American Express credit card’s perks give you access to exclusive perks and rewards. This article explains the key benefits that come with membership.
You’ll learn how to earn points, redeem them, and get the most out of premium features. Use this guide to decide if one of these cards fits your lifestyle.
What Are American Express Credit Cards?
American Express credit cards are used to pay for purchases in person or online. They also offer features like rewards points or cashback.
These cards come with different fee levels and benefits. Some are better for travelers, others for everyday spending.
Each card has its own limits and earning categories. You need good credit to qualify for most of them.
Types Of American Express Cards
American Express has several card tiers, each with different benefits and costs. Here’s a simple breakdown of the three main ones.
The Platinum Card®
This card is designed for frequent travelers and high spenders. It comes with premium perks and a high annual fee.
$695 Annual Fee
The Platinum Card charges a $695 annual fee. You’re paying for premium travel and lifestyle benefits.
This card is best if you use the features often. If not, the cost may outweigh the perks.
5x Points On Flights
You earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines. These points help you build rewards faster.
It’s capped after a certain amount yearly. Good for users who travel frequently.
Up To $200 In Entertainment Credits
You can get up to $200 per year in digital entertainment credits. This includes platforms like streaming or news subscriptions.
You must enroll first to get the credit. Not all services qualify.
Airport Lounge Access
This card gives you access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally. It includes Amex lounges and partner networks.
You must show your card and ticket for entry. Terms and guest limits apply.
125,000 Bonus Points
Spend $8,000 in 6 months, and you get 125,000 Membership Rewards® Points. This is a limited-time welcome offer.
Points can be used for travel, gift cards, or purchases. Make sure you meet the spending requirement.
American Express® Gold Card
The Gold Card works better for dining and grocery rewards. It has a lower fee than the Platinum Card.
$325 Annual Fee
The Gold Card has a $325 yearly fee. It’s lower than Platinum but still not small. You’ll want to use rewards regularly. It’s best for food and flight purchases.
4x Points At Restaurants
You earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide. The cap is $50,000 per year. After that, it drops to 1x. Good if you eat out often.
4x Points At Supermarkets
This card gives 4x points on U.S. supermarket purchases. There’s a $25,000 per year limit on this bonus rate.
After that, it becomes 1x. It works well for people who cook often.
3x Points On Flights
Book flights directly with airlines and get 3x points. This helps if you travel a few times a year.
No need to use a third-party site. The rate applies only to direct bookings.
90,000 Bonus Points
Spend $6,000 in 6 months to get 90,000 Membership Rewards® Points. The offer is time-limited.
Rewards work on travel, shopping, and more. Be sure to hit the spending mark.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card
This card focuses on cashback instead of points. It’s better for everyday household expenses.
$0 Intro Fee, Then $95
You pay no annual fee the first year, then $95 per year. This gives you time to test the card’s value.
After that, decide if the fee makes sense for you. It’s cheaper than Gold and Platinum.
6% at Supermarkets
You earn 6% cashback at U.S. supermarkets. The cap is $6,000 per year. After that, you get 1%. Works well for grocery-heavy budgets.
6% on Streaming Services
You also get 6% cashback on select U.S. streaming platforms. This includes popular services like Netflix or Spotify.
You must pay directly to the service. Bundled services may not qualify.
3% on Transit
You earn 3% cashback on transit purchases. This covers buses, trains, parking, and tolls. Rideshares may also be included. Good for daily commuters.
$300 Welcome Bonus
Spend $3,000 in 6 months and get $300 back as a statement credit. The offer is only for new cardholders.
You’ll receive it after meeting the spend. Cashback posts to your account directly.
Membership Rewards Program
You earn points or cashback on eligible Amex cards. The system rewards daily spending.
- You earn points on eligible purchases.
- Categories like travel, dining, and groceries earn more.
- Points can go to airline or hotel partners.
- Use them for travel, gift cards, shopping, or credits.
- They don’t expire if your account stays active.
Premium Perks And Benefits
Perks depend on your card type. Higher-tier cards offer more value.
Travel Benefits
These perks help travelers save and feel comfortable.
Airport Lounge Access (Platinum)
Platinum users get access to 1,400+ airport lounges. Includes Centurion and Priority Pass lounges. You need a same-day ticket. Guest rules may apply.
Hotel Upgrades And Late Checkout
You may get room upgrades and late checkout. Perks depend on availability. Booking through Amex Travel increases chances. Not all hotels qualify.
Travel Insurance And Purchase Protection
Some cards cover trip delays and purchase damage. Limits and rules apply. You must check details before use. Coverage is not automatic.
No Foreign Transaction Fees (Platinum And Gold)
These cards charge no fees for foreign currency use. Good for international travel. Saves money on overseas buys. Not offered on all Amex cards.
Everyday Benefits
Useful for common spending like food and streaming.
Dining Credits And Restaurant Offers
Some cards offer monthly food credits. You must enroll first. Works with select restaurants or apps. Amount resets each month.
Cashback Options (Blue Cash)
Blue Cash earns cashback on daily buys. You get more on groceries, transit, and media. Cashback is a credit on your bill. Best for household spending.
Entertainment And Streaming Credits
You can get credits on select streaming services. Examples include Netflix and Spotify. Most need enrollment. Offers are limited.
Exclusive Access
These perks open doors to tickets and events.
Pre-Sale Tickets To Concerts And Events
You may get early ticket access. Applies to concerts, sports, and more. Depends on location and card type. Slots are limited.
Membership-Only Invites And Experiences
Some events are for Amex users only. Examples include private meals or shows. Invites depend on card tier. Not all users get them.
Interest Rates And Fees
Rates vary by card. Know them to avoid extra costs.
Platinum: No APR
Platinum is a charge card. You must pay in full monthly. No APR unless you enroll in Pay Over Time. Some items qualify.
Gold: Variable APR
Gold has an APR of 21.24%–29.24%. Applies to Pay Over Time balances. Your credit score affects the rate. Interest builds if not paid off.
Blue Cash Preferred
This card has a variable APR of 19.24%–29.99%. Based on your credit history. Best to pay the full amount. Avoid interest when possible.
Other Fees
Late or returned payments have penalties. Fees raise your total cost. Always read your card terms. Pay on time to avoid them.
Who Should Consider These Cards?
Each card suits a certain type of user.
- Travelers who want perks and lounge access (Platinum)
- Food lovers and everyday buyers (Gold)
- Families or budget shoppers (Blue Cash)
- Reward seekers who want extra value
Customer Service And Support
Amex offers 24/7 support. You can call, chat, or use the app. Some cards include priority help. Travel claims and billing help are available too.
Final Summary: American Express Credit Cards
An American Express credit card offers perks and flexible rewards. You can earn points or cashback, depending on the card.
Choose based on how you spend. Use the features wisely to get more from your account.
Disclaimer: Card details and terms may change anytime. Always review the latest info before using.
