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Updated April 6, 2022

American Express Platinum Benefits

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Are the benefits of the Platinum Card® from American Express worth it? Read this in-depth guide to make the best use of the perks.

5-point scale (the higher, the better)

The AMEX Platinum is one of the top travel rewards cards. It comes with a $695 annual fee (See Rates & Fees). But savvy cardholders can help make up for it by taking advantage of its perks and rewards.

Maybe you're debating whether to add a Platinum Card to your wallet. Or maybe you're just not sure you're getting the most out of it. Either way, keep reading.

We'll break down each benefit and its true value. We also give you tips on how to maximize the value. As always, terms and conditions may apply.

Is the AMEX Platinum worth it?: American Express Platinum benefits include $200 annual airline credit, unlimited access into 6 lounge networks, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application credit, Uber Cash credit, $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit, discounts and credits for fine hotels, premium cabins, and cruises. Terms apply.

Keep reading to learn about these useful benefits in detail.

Is this premium card right for you? Read on for a full in-depth breakdown of the AMEX Platinum benefits.

Shortcut: The AMEX Platinum is ideal for frequent luxury travelers who often fly with one airline and like to splurge on nice hotels. It's good for those who value travel perks and savings over earning rewards for everyday spending.

Rewards, Credits, and Premium Travel Perks

1. WELCOME BONUS OFFER

The Platinum Card offers 80,000 bonus points to new members when you spend at least $8,000 in purchases during the first 6 months. Terms apply.

This welcome bonus offer is equal to $800 if you redeem for airfare on the Amex Travel portal. It can be worth even more if you transfer to airline and hotel partners.

2. REWARDS STRUCTURE

The AMEX Platinum card earns:

  • 5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
  • 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

Like other travel cards, the Platinum has no foreign transaction fee for purchases made while traveling abroad.

Points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, and more. Each point is worth 1 cent when redeemed for flights through Amex Travel. Points can also be transferred to select frequent flyer or hotel loyalty programs.

The downside to this reward structure is that you're limited to booking directly with the airline or on the Amex travel portal for bonus points. It's not great for those who like to shop around for cheap flights on discount travel sites.

But for most people, the value of the card lies with the helpful travel benefits and savings potential. Let's review.

What credit score do you need for a Platinum AMEX? To apply, you should have a good or excellent credit score. However, approval may not be as strict as you think. Learn more about AMEX Platinum's credit requirements.

3. $200 Annual Airline Credit

You receive up to a $200 airline fee credit each calendar year. This credit is for incidental fees such as:

  • Checked bags
  • Overweight/oversize baggage fees
  • Seat assignment fees
  • Phone reservation fees
  • Airport lounge day passes
  • In-flight refreshments

To receive the statement credit, you need to select and enroll one qualifying airline. So make sure there is one airline you frequently fly with. This isn't as flexible as Chase Sapphire Reserve® $300 travel credit, which can be used for any airline, any travel expense.

Tip: Select an airline that typically charges for a checked bag. For example, for domestic travel, Southwest and JetBlue already give you a free checked bag (Southwest even gives you 2). But airlines like Delta and United will both charge baggage fees.

Estimate Value: $200

4. Up to $200 Annual Uber Credit

This benefit gives you up to $200 in Uber credits each year. You get $15 in Uber credits each month, and $35 in December.

To activate, just add your AMEX Platinum in your Uber account in the "Add Payment" section. You'll then automatically receive the credits when you ride with Uber.

Unused credits do not roll over to the next month. And they're only valid for rides or eats orders in the United States. This applies for food deliveries with UberEats. So you can also use the monthly credit to get free food deliveries.

Note: Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Benefit renews annually.

Estimate Value: $200

To get the most out of this, just make sure you take a couple of Uber rides every month. If you're going somewhere where the parking fee is typically high, use your Uber credit instead and save on parking at the same time.

5. Global Entry Or TSA PreCheck Credit

You can get a statement credit towards either Global Entry OR TSA PreCheck.

Card Members are eligible to receive a statement credit every 4.5 years for the application fee for TSA PreCheck® and every 4 years for Global Entry. To receive the statement credit, you must charge the application fee to your Platinum card. Terms apply.

Note: Card Members can receive no more than one credit for up to $85 for TSA PreCheck or $100 credit for Global Entry (but not both programs).

Global Entry (part of the Trusted Travelers program) is the US government's way of approving low-risk passengers and providing them quicker access through customs during international travel. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck (expedited clearance through security at US airports).

You're automatically credited for one application when you pay for it using the Platinum card. So if you don't plan to apply, you can "gift" it to a friend. It doesn't matter whose name is on the application.

Tip: To maximize the value even more, you can put up to 3 authorized users on your card. It costs $195 for each additional Platinum Card (See Rates & Fees). All authorized users also get Global Entry or TSA-PreCheck application credit as well.

Estimate Value: $100/every 5 years = $20 per year

6. Up to $100 Saks Fifth Avenue Credit

Each calendar year, you get up to $100 statement credit for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on your Platinum Card. You get:

  • Up to $50 credit between January and June
  • Up to $50 credit between July and December

You need to enroll in this benefit from your Platinum account. When you make a purchase at Saks Fifth Avenue (either online or in store) with your Platinum card, you'll be automatically credited on your statement. There is no minimum purchase required.

The $100 credit is shared between the Basic Card Member and any additional card members (i.e. authorized users don't get their own credit).

Note that Saks gift cards or purchases at Saks outlets are not valid for the credit.

Estimate Value: $100

7. AIRPORT LOUNGE Access

The Platinum Card features complimentary access to 6 airport lounge networks:

  • Delta Sky Clubs
  • Centurion Lounges
  • International American Express Lounges
  • Airspace Lounges
  • Escape Lounges
  • Priority Pass lounges

At a participating airport lounge, you need to show your AMEX Platinum Card, photo ID, and same-day boarding pass to get in.

To a lot of travelers, lounge access is worth the fee and more. Lounge entry typically cost $50, so 11 visits will make up the annual fee. The luxury Centurion Lounges are a huge highlight for lounge lovers. They offer exceptional amenities, including complimentary gourmet food (find the Centurion Lounge locations here.)

You also get complimentary Priority Pass Select membership (activation required). This program offers unlimited access to more than 1000 airport lounges around the world. This coverage is equivalent to Priority Pass's Prestige membership, which costs $399/yr. It's even a little better as you're also allowed to bring in 2 guests at no extra charge.

Estimate Value: $400. But depends on how often you fly per year, and if your airports have any of these lounges.

Each lounge has specific policies about bringing guests, so you'll have to review the rules carefully before you pay a visit. For instance, there may be limits on the number of guests you can bring or a minimum age limit. You may also have to pay a separate guest fee, which is automatically charged to your card.

8. PLATINUM CONCIERGE SERVICE

The AMEX Platinum Concierge offers one of the best concierge services. Remember to take advantage of this service. It's actually quite valuable, though maybe not in the monetary sense.

The Concierge team is available to help you with various requests, including:

  • Booking hard to find tickets for popular events
  • Arranging for transport between the airport and your hotel
  • Making reservations at restaurants in your travel destination
  • Helping you buy a bouquet from a local florist

These can be really time-consuming and stressful tasks. So ask the Platinum concierge service to help instead. After all, time equals money.

There is no service fee to use the Platinum concierge (unless you require extensive help, like planning a large scale event or meeting). Of course, you'll be charged whatever the request costs. Usually, you tell the concierge a not-to-exceed amount, and they'll perform the task within your budget.

Value: How much do you value your time?

Did you know: The Platinum Dining Program allows you to use Concierge service to reserve a table at more than 1,000 restaurants worldwide. The consultant team can also help with reviewing menu selections, providing travel directions, or request any other special arrangements before you arrive at the restaurant.

There's another service called the Platinum Travel Service. Travel Counselors are available 24/7 to provide recommendations, help you find special offers or other travel benefits, and guide you on how to use your Membership Rewards points.

Hotel Benefits

9. FINE HOTEL AND RESORTS PROGRAM

AMEX has a FINE HOTELS & RESORTS (FHR) program, an exclusive booking site for over 1,000 luxury hotels around the world. Some of the extra benefits include:

  • Noon check-in times when available
  • Room upgrades upon arrival
  • Daily breakfast for two
  • Guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout
  • Complimentary wi-fi
  • Property amenity valued at $100 (such as food and beverage credit or complimentary spa treatments)

Note: FINE HOTELS & RESORTS bookings are not eligible to receive 5x points.

But to really get the best value, you have to make use of the complimentary night feature. Many hotels have special offers for a complimentary 3rd or 4th night. We find that the FHR rates aren't always the cheapest, but the free night would be significant savings.

Keep in mind that the hotels in this program are pretty expensive. They usually already cost hundreds a night (even up to $1,000/night). But if you do get a free night, $100 food & beverage credit, and free breakfast (just eat later and make it a lunch), you can easily save hundreds on a luxury vacation.

Tip: Another great thing is that you can still usually collect hotel loyalty program points with bookings made through FHR.

Estimate Value: If used, it can easily be worth over $500 savings for a stay.

10. $200 Hotel Credit

$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.

Estimate Value: Up to $200 per year

11. Elite Status with Marriott and Hilton

Platinum cardholders are also fast-tracked to elite status with Marriott and Hilton hotels:

  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status: Get perks like room upgrades, late checkout (subject to availability), and your choice of a complimentary welcome gift.

  • Hilton Honors Gold Status: Get perks like late checkout (subject to availability), complimentary wi-fi, discounted rates, complimentary gift such as bonus points or snacks, and 5th night free when booking a reward stay with points.

You usually need to stay a certain number of nights with the hotel per year to get gold elite status. So it's a nice perk that you just get it with the AMEX Platinum. Enrollment required.

Estimate Value: $50 - $100. More if you're able to score a room upgrade.

Premium Travel Discounts and Savings

12. DISCOUNTS ON PREMIUM CABINS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

AMEX has upgraded their International Airline Program. Now, Platinum cardholders get discounts on premium cabins when you fly with one of their 15+ participating airlines booked through American Express Travel.

  • Discounts on Premium Economy, Business, and First Class seats
  • Can be either a refundable or non-refundable fare
  • Can purchase up to 8 tickets and receive the discount
  • Can Pay with Points (or just a portion of it) and still get miles with the airline too

The trip must originate and return to the US. You can search for fares and discounts on amextravel.com. If your itinerary is eligible for a discount, the lower price will automatically be displayed.

Previously, the only way to search and book is by calling, which was a hassle. Now you can save time and book online yourself. But if you don't see anything online, you can still call in and ask.

Tip: Previously, you could get a complimentary companion ticket if you book a refundable Business or Flight Class international flight with participating airlines. You had to pay a service fee of $39 per ticket, as well as any government imposed taxes/fees and airline imposed fuel/security surcharges. This had limited benefits, as refundable fees are more expensive, and the taxes and fees can end up being a lot. In our opinion, this new program is a big improvement.

Estimate Value: $100 - $600 per ticket, if you make use of this perk.

13. STATUS WITH AVIS, HERTZ, AND NATIONAL

You get complimentary premium memberships with Avis, Hertz, and National Car Rental. This benefit can make it a little less hassle-free to rent a car. And it's a good chance you'll be able to get an upgrade as well.

Some perks include:

Avis Preferred Benefits:

  • Free 1 car-class upgrade whenever possible
  • Special savings on car rentals worldwide

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Benefits

  • Free 1 car-class upgrade when available
  • 4 hour grade period on returns in most countries
  • Up to 25% discounts on rentals worldwide
  • Special savings on premium weekend rentals

National Emerald Club Executive Benefits:

  • Choose any car (fullsize and above) in the Executive Area and only pay the midsize rate (in US and Canada)
  • Guaranteed free upgrade when you reserve using the midsize rate (in US and Canada)
  • No fees for additional drivers
  • Free one-car-class upgrade in Europe (if available)

Estimate Value: $50 - $100 per rental

14. Cruise Privileges Program

If you book an eligible cruise of 5 nights or more with AMEX Travel, you get shipboard credit on most cruise lines. This is only for double occupancy rooms. The credit can be used towards shore excursions, spa services, on-board specialty food and drinks, on-board shopping, and even gratuities.

Cardmembers get:

  • $100 shipboard credit for inside and outside staterooms
  • $200 shipboard credit for balcony, veranda, and mini-suite staterooms
  • $300 shipboard credit for suites on Norwegian, Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean cruise lines
  • $300 shipboard credit for Queen Mary oceanview staterooms category ED or higher, and Queen Victoria/ Queen Elizabeth oceanview staterooms category FA or higher on Cunard Line.
  • $300 shipboard credit for stateroom categories on Ama Waterways, Oceania, Regent, Azamara, Seabourn, Crystal, Silversea, Uniworld, and Windstar.

Each cruise line usually also offers some other exclusive amenities for Platinum cardmembers. These can include private galley tours, spa credit, complimentary bottle of wine/champagne and hors d'oeuvres, etc.

Plus, you also get one extra point per dollar when booking with American Express Travel or any eligible Travel Associate Platform agencies.

If you are planning on taking a cruise, this benefit can potentially save you hundreds of dollars on your trip. You can use the extra shipboard credit on items or activities you usually wouldn't splurge on, making your trip more fun and memorable.

Estimate Value: $100-$300 per room, if used

Travel and Purchase Protections

15. Car Rental Insurance

You are covered for up to $75,000 in cases of damage or theft of your rental car. You must pay the entire car rental fee in full and decline the rental company's insurance. Rental can not exceed 30 days.

However, this insurance is only secondary. This means you still need to file first with your own car insurance company. Amex only kicks in after your personal insurance's coverage (like for the deductible and costs over the limit). If you don't have personal car insurance, then this benefit becomes primary.

Coverage is not available for vehicles rented in Australia, Italy, and New Zealand.

Exceptions include vintage cars, trucks (except for pick-ups), cargo vans, motorbikes, off-road vehicles, limousines, and recreational vehicles.

16. TRAVEL INSURANCES

The Platinum Card offers these travel insurances when you charge your trip to the card:

Baggage insurance:
You, your spouse/partner, and dependents under 23 are reimbursed for baggage lost by a common carrier: up to $3,000 for carry-on and up to $2,000 for checked luggage. There is a limit of $1,000 for high-risk items such as electronics, jewelry, sporting equipment, and fur items.

Premium global assistance:
When you travel more than 100 miles from home, Amex can provide medical, legal, and financial assistance and referrals. The referrals are free of charge, but you'll have to pay for the cost of any services. This global assist hotline is open 24/7.

Medical evacuation:
If you or a covered family member get injured or sick on a trip, the Premium global assist hotline can provide emergency medical transportation and evacuation at no extra cost (if determined that it's necessary). However, the actual medical expense is not covered.

The Platinum card does not offer the most comprehensive travel protections. Unfortunately, it does not offer things like trip cancellation and interruption and trip delay insurance.

17. PURCHASE PROTECTIONS

Return protection:
If a store will not take back your purchase, you're covered up to $300 per item, and up to $1,000 each calendar year. The item must have been purchased within 90 days.

Purchase protection:
If your item is lost, damaged, or stolen within 120 days after date of purchase (90 days for New York residents), you can be reimbursed up to $10,000 per occurrence, and up to $50,000 per calendar year.

Extended warranty:
For original manufacturers' warranties less than two years, Amex will match the length of the warranty. For warranties between 2-5 years, Amex will provide two additional years. You are covered up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per calendar year.

There are no foreign transaction fees (See Rates & Fees) associated with the Platinum Card, so you won't have to pay extra for purchases made outside the U.S.

Other Card Benefits

18. ShopRunner free 2-day shipping

Platinum cardholders get a complimentary ShopRunner membership. This service partners with hundreds of brand-name stores to provide free 2-day shipping, free returns, and exclusive deals to members. This service usually costs $8.95/month (or $79/year).

You can shop either on ShopRunner or directly on the stores' websites. As long as an item has a ShopRunner logo next to it, it means it's eligible for free 2-day shipping with membership. You'll receive this perk as long as you don't log out of ShopRunner.

This is a small perk but it's great for the online shopping lovers.

Estimate Value: $79

19. AMEX Offers

Amex Offers gives you discounts when you use your card at partner brands for shopping, dining, entertainment, travel, and more.

You can search for offers through your American Express account or on the Amex app. If you see an offer you like, just add it to your card. Then when you use your Platinum card to pay, you'll automatically receive the deal.

Offers can be cashback (in the form of statement credit) or Membership Rewards points. This gives you the chance to earn more than just the normal 1x point on purchases. The discounts could be quite valuable if you shop and dine with the merchants.

Estimate Value: $100+

20. ENTERTAINMENT EXCLUSIVES

Preferred Seating:
Subject to availability, you can purchase tickets to Broadway shows, score prime seats for Wimbledon, see your favorite artist live in concert, or sit in the front row at a New York fashion show.

Discounts are available for selected events when you use your Platinum Card, and you're always eligible for Preferred Seating.

Global Dining Collection:
Get special access to top restaurant reservations and exclusive culinary events, including opportunities to meet famous chefs.

By Invitation Only:
This is a separate entertainment program offering once-in-a-lifetime events. Most packages are all-inclusive and trips are already fully planned out, so you just have to show up. If you're looking for a unique experience, like watching the Monaco Grand Prix from a VIP yacht or wine tasting in Napa Valley, the Platinum Card can try to make it happen.

21. AUTHORIZED USER BENEFITS

Authorized users cost $195 for each additional Platinum Card.

Each additional Platinum card gets:

  • Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, with two guests for free
  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite and Hilton Honors Gold Status
  • Rental car benefits and status
  • Fine Hotels and Resorts program

Authorized users don't get their own airline fee credit, Uber credit, or Saks credit.

Ways to Redeem Membership Rewards Points & Value

There are many ways to redeem your AMEX Platinum Membership Rewards points. However, the value differs significantly. Here are the various redemption options and what they're worth:

Book travel on AMEX Travel:
When you Pay with Points to book airfare on the American Express Travel portal, your points are worth 1 cent per point (10,000 points = $100). Booking Fine Hotels & Resorts yields the same value.

However, if you book other prepaid hotels and cruises, then the value is lower at just 0.7 cents per point (10,000 points = $70).

Transfer points to travel partners:
You can transfer your points to a number of airline and hotel partners, including Delta, JetBlue, and Hilton. This often gets you maximum value. However, note that not all transfer at 1:1 ratio.

Cover your card charges:
Choosing to get statement credit will only yield a value of 0.6 cents = 1 point.

Exchange for gift cards:
There are many dining, retail, and travel gift cards to choose from, but the value varies greatly from just 0.5 cents per point to 1 cent.

Pay with Points at checkout;
You can checkout with points when you shop online at Amazon, Best Buy, Boxed, Dell, Expedia, Grubhub, Newegg, Paypal, Rite Aid, Saks Fifth Avenue, Staples, and Walmart. The redemption value for these is all 0.70 cents per point.

Redeeming with Ticketmaster is valued at 0.50 cents/point.

Donate to charities:
Use your points to donate to more than 1.5 million registered US charities with JustGiving.

CONCLUSION: IS THE PLATINUM CARD WORTH THE ANNUAL FEE?

In general, frequent travelers will find that the indispensable benefits are worth the hefty annual fee. To recap, here are the most valuable card benefits, in our opinion (estimate based on 4 trips):

  • Airline fee credit: worth up to $200/year
  • Uber savings: worth up to $200/year
  • Saks savings: worth up to $100/year
  • Global Entry credit: worth $20/year ($100/5 years)
  • Airport lounge access: worth about $400
  • Hilton and Marriott Gold Status
  • Fine Hotels and Resorts
  • Platinum Concierge

If you travel several times a year, you will definitely make use of the airline credit and access to airport lounges. And it's easy to use up the Uber credit too. All this alone could easily justify the $695 annual fee.

But there are also some benefits that are hard to assign a value to. It all depends on if you use it or not. Benefits like shipboard credit on cruises, hotel credits, and premium cabin discounts can save you hundreds (if not thousands) if you use them.

The AMEX Platinum card is mostly about benefits that allow you to travel in style. Perks like elite hotel status allow you to have better travel experiences. And don't forget about the value of the Platinum Concierge too.

As always, terms and conditions apply.

Tip: Not sure if you're up for that hefty annual fee? Take a look at the American Express Gold, which has a smaller annual fee. The Gold Card offers more earning potential and carries some of the same travel benefits.

Next Step: View the issuer's official application, terms, and details

Rebecca Lake is a journalist at CreditDonkey, a credit card comparison and reviews website. Write to Rebecca Lake at rebecca@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by American Express. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by American Express. This site may be compensated through the Advertiser's affiliate programs.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. This site may be compensated through the Advertiser's affiliate programs.

For rates and fees of the American Express Platinum card, please click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express Gold card, please click here.

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