Amex Platinum: Top Benefits & Perks You Need To Know
The American Express Platinum card is renowned for its premium benefits and exclusive perks. If you're considering adding this card to your wallet, understanding its advantages is crucial. This guide breaks down the top benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Extensive Travel Benefits
One of the primary draws of the Amex Platinum card is its comprehensive travel benefits:
- $200 Hotel Credit: Receive up to $200 in statement credits each year for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits annually toward incidental fees, such as baggage fees, on your selected airline.
- Complimentary Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy access to the American Express Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta).
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit: Receive a statement credit every four years for Global Entry ($100) or every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck ($85).
- Premium Car Rental Privileges: Access exclusive benefits and discounts with select car rental companies.
These travel benefits alone can offset a significant portion of the card's annual fee for frequent travelers.
Earning Rewards
The Amex Platinum card offers valuable Membership Rewards points:
- 5x Points on Flights: Earn 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
- 5x Points on Hotels: Earn 5x Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
- 1x Point on Other Purchases: Earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
Membership Rewards points are flexible and can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or statement credits. Maximizing these rewards can provide substantial value.
Exclusive Lifestyle Perks
Beyond travel and rewards, the Amex Platinum card includes a range of lifestyle benefits:
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a Walmart+ membership with a statement credit (subject to auto-renewal).
- $200 Uber Cash: Get $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus in December, to use for Uber rides or Uber Eats orders.
- $300 Equinox Credit: Receive up to $25 per month when you pay for select Equinox memberships or Equinox+ subscriptions.
- ShopRunner Membership: Enjoy complimentary ShopRunner membership, offering free two-day shipping and returns at participating online stores.
- Access to Exclusive Events: Get access to unique experiences and events through American Express Experiences.
Purchase Protection and Insurance
The Amex Platinum card provides valuable purchase protection and insurance benefits:
- Purchase Protection: Protects eligible purchases against damage or theft for up to 90 days.
- Return Protection: If a merchant won't take back an eligible item, American Express may refund the purchase price (terms apply).
- Extended Warranty: Extends the manufacturer's warranty on eligible purchases.
- Trip Cancellation Insurance: Reimburses non-refundable trip expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason.
Is the Amex Platinum Card Worth It?
The American Express Platinum card is best suited for individuals who can take full advantage of its travel, rewards, and lifestyle benefits. Evaluate your spending habits and travel patterns to determine if the card's value aligns with your needs. If you frequently travel and can utilize the credits and perks, the Amex Platinum card can be a rewarding addition to your financial toolkit.
Call to Action: Considering the Amex Platinum? Calculate your potential savings and rewards to see if it's the right fit for you. Visit the American Express website to learn more and apply today!