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American Express Platinum Card Review

The Platinum? Card from American Express Credit Card

Rating: 4 Stars

Bottom Line:
Perks For Frequent Travelers

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 4 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:Not Stated In Terms and Conditions
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel

5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
Credit Needed:(670 – 850) Excellent/Good
Annual Fee:$550
Card Brand:American Express

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases in your first 3 months.
  • Enjoy Uber VIP status and free rides in the U.S. up to $15 each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings.
  • 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel.
  • 5X Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
  • Enjoy access to the Global Lounge Collection, the only credit card airport lounge access program that includes proprietary lounge locations around the world. Receive access to The Centurion Lounge and The International American Express lounges, as well as our partner networks, Delta Sky Club and Priority Pass Select lounges.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 credit for TSA Pre
  • Receive complimentary benefits with an average total value of $550 with Fine Hotels & Resorts. Learn More.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit, up to $200 per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
  • Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on your Platinum Card. Enrollment required.
  • $550 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Is American Express Platinum Card worth it?

American Express Platinum is a great card for frequent travelers. Travel booked with airlines or through Amex Travel and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel earn five points per dollar.

Another major benefit is access to partner lounges through Delta Sky Club and Priority Pass Select. The Centurion Lounges can be on the small side and there are a limited number of International American Express lounges, so the real value is Delta Sky Club and Priority Pass Select membership.

Pros

  • Intro bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases in your first 3 months.
  • Priority Pass Select membership offered at no additional cost – lets you visit over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide, including luxurious Centurion Lounges. Unlimited Priority Pass would cost $429.

Cons

  • Inflexible rewards requirement: American Express? Platinum will not earn rewards on bookings through third-party travel sites

Why 4 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


4 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


4 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction Fee$0
Balance Transfer FeeN/A
Cash Advance FeeEither 5% of transaction amount or $10, whichever is greater
Penalty APRN/A

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Concierge Service
Extended Warranty Program
Travel Accident Insurance
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Travel Assistance
Get Started with American Express Platinum Card

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

Credit Cards Research:

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The fastest way to pay off credit card debt is by transferring a balance to a 0% APR credit card. These are the best balance transfer cards on the market.

Best American Express Credit Cards, Best Charge Cards, Best Credit Cards, Best Credit Cards For Global Entry, Best Credit Cards For Good Credit, Best Credit Cards With Lounge Access, Best Metal Credit Cards, Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards, Best Priority Pass Credit Cards, Other

American Express Business Platinum Card Review

The Platinum? Card from American Express Credit Card

Rating: 4 Stars

Bottom Line:
For Business Travelers with Travel Expenses

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 4 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:If you activate Pay Over Time: 19.74%
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com

1.5X points per dollar on eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half point per dollar). Up to 1 million additional points per year

1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases
Credit Needed:(670 – 850) Excellent/Good
Annual Fee:$595
Card Brand:American Express

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn up to 110,000 Membership Rewards points
  • Earn 60,000 points after you spend $10,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $15,000 all on qualifying purchases on the Business Platinum Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
  • Get 5X Membership Rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com
  • Make Business Purchases Rewarding. Get 50% More Points on Purchases of $5k or more and use points for flights and Get 35% Points Back
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline and get a statement credit of up to $200 a calendar year for baggage fees and more
  • Enroll to get up to $200 in statement credits annually by getting up to $100 semi-annually for U.S. purchases with Dell. Terms apply
  • Enjoy the highest levels of luxury at any of our own networks, The Centurion Lounge and The International American Express lounges, or visit one of our partners including Delta Sky Clu? when flying Delta or a Priority Pass Select lounge once enrolled
  • Receive a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or every 4.5 years after you apply for TSA Pre ($85)
  • When you book through Fine Hotels & Resorts, receive complimentary benefits including a room upgrade upon arrival when available, daily breakfast for two people, guaranteed 4pm late check-out, noon check-in when available, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a unique amenity valued at US $100, such as a food & and beverage credit or one-way private sedan transfer
  • As a Business Platinum Card Member, you can upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status without meeting any stay requirements
  • With Hilton Honors Gold status, you can enjoy benefits at hotels and resorts within the Hilton Portfolio and earn reward stays faster with Hilton Honors Bonus Points
  • Platinum travel counselors specialize in providing custom itineraries and tailored recommendations to help you make the most of your travels
  • For air transportation provided by Delta, a Card Member who purchases a Delta Private Jet Card is entitled to a 20% discount off published fares for select fare classes in effect when booked

Is American Express Business Platinum Card worth it?

Business Platinum from American Express is a great charge card for business travelers who travel often enough to gain rewards that more than make up for the $595 annual fee. Cardholders earn 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.

If you need to carry a balance, you can use American Express’ Pay Over Time feature at an APR of 19.74%. You essentially now have a credit card, but not all charges will get carried over into the next month. You choose between the Extended Payment Option, where charges over $100 are automatically moved into your Pay Over Time balance, Select & Pay Later, where you manually choose charges over $100 to move into your Pay Over Time balance, or Sign & Travel, where airline tickets, hotel stays, car rentals, cruises and charges in other countries are moved into your Pay Over Time balance. It’s not the simplest program but whichever choice you select, you basically now have a credit card, where you can choose to pay the full balance, the minimum payment, or anything in between. This is in contrast to what would normally happen with a charge card, where you are required to pay the full balance every month, and if you don’t, you incur a late fee even if you pay an amount that would be above what would be considered the normal minimum payment if the card were a credit card. Charge cards also don’t impact your credit, because you are not extended a credit line.

Pros

  • 5X points on airfare and prepaid hotel rooms on AmexTravel.com
  • High Intro bonus of up to 100,000 bonus points – 50,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $10,000 and an extra 50,000 points after you spend an additional $15,000 all on qualifying purchases in first 90 days after account opening
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $595 Annual fee
  • Not the highest unlimited rewards rate on all other purchases

Why 4 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


4 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


4 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeNo Balance Transfers Allowed
Cash Advance FeeNo Cash Advances Allowed
Penalty APRUp to 29.99%

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Concierge Service
Extended Warranty Program
Travel Accident Insurance
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Get Started with American Express Business Platinum Card

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

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If you have excellent credit, check out these cards. These are the best cards for excellent credit with travel rewards and cash bonuses.

Best Credit Cards to Pay off Debt
The fastest way to pay off credit card debt is by transferring a balance to a 0% APR credit card. These are the best balance transfer cards on the market.

Best American Express Credit Cards, Best Business Credit Cards, Best Charge Cards, Best Credit Cards For Extended Warranties, Best Credit Cards For Global Entry, Best Credit Cards For Good Credit, Best Credit Cards For High Spenders, Best Credit Cards For Rental Car Insurance, Best Credit Cards For Travel Insurance, Best Credit Cards To Book Flights, Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards, Best Premium Credit Cards, Best Priority Pass Credit Cards, Best Purchase Protection Credit Cards, Best Travel Credit Cards

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Review

U.S.-Bank-Altitude-Reserve-Visa-Infinite-Card

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
High Travel Rewards from Mobile Wallet and Travel Purchases

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:17.24 (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:Earn 3X points for every $1 on eligible net travel purchases and mobile wallet spending using Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay
Credit Needed:(670 – 850) Good/Excellent
Annual Fee:$400, $75 per additional card issued
Card Brand:Visa

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 3X points for every $1 on eligible net travel purchases and mobile wallet spending using Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay
  • Enrollment bonus of 50,000 points worth $750 on travel. Just spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening
  • Up to $325 Annual Statement Credit: Get reimbursed for eligible net travel purchases
  • Stay connected with 12 complimentary Gogo Inflight Wi-Fi passes per year
  • Complimentary 12-month Priority Pass Select membership to more than 1,200 VIP lounges worldwide with 4 free visits for the cardholder and 4 free visits for one accompanying guest
  • TSA Pre or Global Entry: Up to $100 statement credit to reimburse your application fee once every four years
  • GroundLink Black Car Service: Receive chauffeured black car service at a discount in more than 110 countries
  • Silvercar: Drive off in a luxurious Audi with special rental privileges and discounts
  • Enjoy special privileges at more than 500 luxury Relais & Chateaux properties around the world
  • Elevated service levels 24/7 with dedicated service advisors and Visa Infinite Concierge
  • 50,000 points can be redeemed for $750 in airfare, hotel, car rentals and more
  • Use your mobile device to instantly redeem points for almost any purchase

Is U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite worth it?

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card is a solid card for premium U.S. Bank customers who travel frequently. Note that cardholders must be an existing U.S. Bank customer.

The enrollment bonus of 50,000 points, which is worth $750 in travel, makes the points valued at 1.5 cents. For a $400 annual fee, the card offers 3X points per $1 on travel and 3X points per $1 on mobile wallet spending. With increasing adoption of Apple Pay, Google Pay, Microsoft Pay, or Samsung Pay, U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite is essentially offering $0.015 dollars per point x 3 points per $1 = 4.5% travel rewards for all transactions that accept your mobile wallet payment provider. This is unmatched.

Just looking at perks, the statement credit of up to $325 for eligible travel purchases and $100 TSA Pre or Global Entry statement credit make up for the annual fee if you use them. Note that although U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite does get you 12-month Priority Pass Select membership to more than 1,200 VIP lounges worldwide, it only provides you with 4 passes, good for 4 visits for you and one guest. After that lounge visits cost $27.

Also, unfortunately there have been reports from consumers that U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite does not have the easiest redemption app. At restaurants, using mobile wallet can be a problem. Other premium travel cards, like Chase Sapphire Reserve, offer a higher than 1X rewards rate on dining and are more valuable in this case.

Another item to consider is that the rewards program is separate from the U.S. Bank FlexPoints rewards, so information you read about FlexPoints reward redemption and travel partners will not apply here. If you’re a U.S. bank customer and you are interested in earning rewards at a valuable rate that can be redeemed for travel through U.S. Bank, Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite is a solid card for you.

Pros

  • Earn 3X points for every $1 on eligible net travel purchases and mobile wallet spending using Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay
  • Priority Pass Select membership to more than 1,200 VIP lounges worldwide with first four passes free
  • 12 complimentary Gogo Inflight Wi-Fi passes per year

Cons

  • $400, $75 per additional card issued
  • Rewards can’t be pooled with FlexPoints

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


5 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


4 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither 4% of the amount of each advance or $10 minimum, whichever is greater
Penalty APRNone

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Extended Warranty Program
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Travel Assistance
Get Started with U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

Credit Cards Research:

Best Credit Cards for 2021
These are the best credit cards for 2021.

Best Credit Cards for Excellent Credit
If you have excellent credit, check out these cards. These are the best cards for excellent credit with travel rewards and cash bonuses.

Best Credit Cards to Pay off Debt
The fastest way to pay off credit card debt is by transferring a balance to a 0% APR credit card. These are the best balance transfer cards on the market.

Best Business Credit Cards, Best Credit Cards For Global Entry, Best Credit Cards For Good Credit, Best Credit Cards For High Spenders, Best Credit Cards For Mobile Wallet Use, Best Credit Cards With Lounge Access, Best Priority Pass Credit Cards, Best U.S. Bank Credit Cards, Best Visa Infinite Credit Cards, Most Exclusive Credit Cards

Mastercard Black Card Review

Mastercard-Black-Card

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
Luxury Travel Perks And 1.5% Cash Back

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:16.49% (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):0% for first 15 billing cycles for transfers in first 45 days
Rewards Rate:one (1) point for every one dollar ($1) you spend
Credit Needed:(740 – 850) Excellent
Annual Fee:$495 ($195 for each Authorized User added to the account)
Card Brand:Mastercard

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • one (1) point for every one dollar ($1) you spend
  • 2% Value for Airfare Redemptions: 50,000 points will get you a $1,000 ticket on any airline with no blackout dates or seat restrictions
  • 1.5% Value for Cash Back Redemptions: Cash back can be deposited directly into a US bank account or applied as a statement credit
  • Mastercard Black Card members receive up to $100 in annual air travel credit toward flight-related purchases including airline tickets, baggage fees, upgrades and more. For your convenience, Luxury Card automatically applies the credit to your account
  • Global Entry & TSA Pre Application Credit. With Global Entry, enjoy expedited arrival into the United States from international destinations. Global Entry members are eligible to participate in TSA Pre, an expedited domestic security screening at participating airports in the United States. Luxury Card members receive a one hundred dollar ($100) automatic statement credit for the cost of the Global Entry application fee
  • VIP Airport Lounge Access with Priority Pass Select – Enjoy complimentary access to more than 1,200 airport lounges around the world with Priority Pass Select regardless of the airline you are flying or class of ticket you have booked. For your convenience, Mastercard Gold Card and Mastercard Black Card members are automatically enrolled in the Priority Pass Select program
  • Luxury Card Concierge can assist you with travel bookings, various personal requests and much more
  • Mastercard Priceless: Luxury Card members enjoy invitation-only, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Enjoy a look behind the scenes, sit courtside, see the dress rehearsal before opening night or learn skills from top experts in their trade. Mastercard Priceless delivers exclusive opportunities to go beyond the ordinary
  • Each year Luxury Card Travel offers you an average value of $500 in travel benefits and services per stay. Amenities and services may include resort or spa credits, complimentary food and beverages, room upgrades and welcome perks.
  • Unique metal construction: stainless steel front and carbon back

Is Mastercard Black Card worth it?

Mastercard Black Card is a great card for luxury consumers. To start, the card offers its own concierge to assist you with travel bookings, various personal requests and much more. The card also offers you an average value of $500 in travel benefits and services per 3-day hotel stay. Amenities and services may include resort or spa credits, complimentary food and beverages, room upgrades and welcome perks. The rewards rate for Mastercard Black Card is lower than average: cardholders earn one point for every one dollar you spend, but for cardholders who take advantage of all the perks, the $495 annual fee could be justified.

Pros

  • Luxury Card members receive a one hundred dollar ($100) automatic statement credit for the cost of the Global Entry application fee
  • Each year Luxury Card Travel offers you an average value of $500 in travel benefits and services per stay. Amenities and services may include resort or spa credits, complimentary food and beverages, room upgrades and welcome perks.
  • Receive up to $100 in annual air travel credit toward flight-related purchases including airline tickets, baggage fees, upgrades and more
  • 2% Value for Airfare Redemptions: 50,000 points will get you a $1,000 ticket on any airline with no blackout dates or seat restrictions
  • 1.5% Value for Cash Back Redemptions

Cons

  • No sign up bonus
  • $195 for each Authorized User added to the account
  • Even with 1.5% cash back redemption and 2% airfare redemption offered by Mastercard Black Card, the rewards rate of one point per $1 makes this rewards card below average

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


5 Stars

Fees


4 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APRNone

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Baggage Delay Insurance
Cellular Telephone Protection
Emergency Card Replacement
Emergency Cash Advance
Extended Warranty Program
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Travel Assistance
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Get Started with Mastercard Black Card

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

Credit Cards Research:

Best Credit Cards for 2021
These are the best credit cards for 2021.

Best Credit Cards for Excellent Credit
If you have excellent credit, check out these cards. These are the best cards for excellent credit with travel rewards and cash bonuses.

Best Credit Cards to Pay off Debt
The fastest way to pay off credit card debt is by transferring a balance to a 0% APR credit card. These are the best balance transfer cards on the market.

Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards, Best Barclays Credit Cards, Best Credit Cards For Excellent Credit, Best Credit Cards For Global Entry, Best Credit Cards For Rental Car Insurance, Best Credit Cards For Roadside Assistance, Best Credit Cards For Travel Insurance, Best Mastercard Credit Cards, Best Metal Credit Cards, Best Premium Credit Cards, Best Priority Pass Credit Cards, Best Purchase Protection Credit Cards, Best Travel Credit Cards, Other

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Review

Marriott-Bonvoy-Brilliant-American-Express

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
Free Hotel Nights and Perks with Marriott Rewards

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:17.49% – 26.49% (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:Earn 6X Marriot Bonvoy points on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels

Earn 3X Marriot Bonvoy points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines

Earn 2X points per $1 spent on all other purchases

Points don’t expire as long as you make purchases on your credit card every 24 months
Credit Needed:(740 – 850) Excellent
Annual Fee:$450
Card Brand:American Express

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 75,000 bonus Marriot Bonvoy points after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months
  • Earn 6X Marriot Bonvoy points on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn 3X Marriot Bonvoy points at U.S. restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Enjoy up to $300 in statement credits each year of Card Membership for eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card account anniversary. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at a participating hotel. Certain hotels have resort fees
  • Enjoy complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status with your Card. Earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status after making $75,000 in eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year
  • Each calendar year you can receive credit for 15 nights towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status. Limit one 15 Elite Night Credit per Marriott Bonvoy member account.
  • With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express? Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass Select, which offers access to over 1,200 lounges in over 120 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 credit for TSA Pre. TSA Pre can expedite security screening and Global Entry can reduce wait time at U.S. Customs at select airports. If you are approved for Global Entry, you will also receive access to TSA Pre.

Is Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express worth it?

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant from American Express is a great card for Marriott travelers with a lot of hotel perks. The signup bonus is 75,000 Bonus Points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months – that’s more than 2 nights of standard hotel room nights. You also get a free room night every year after you renew for rooms valued at up to 50,000 points: this is a higher room value than what you get with the lower-tier Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card.

To offset the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express’ $450 annual fee, you also get $300 of statement credits each year that can be used for hotel bookings or for purchases at the hotel during your stay. As a cardholder you automatically earn Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, so you get perks like 25% bonus points on hotel stays, room upgrade opportunities, 2pm checkout, and the fastest internet connection they have for free. The rewards rate is solid too: cardholders earn 6X points for every $1 spent at Marriott Bonvoy? hotels.

Pros

  • $300 in statement credits each year of Card Membership
  • 75,000 Bonus Points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
  • 6X points for every $1 spent at over 7,000 participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, including Marriot, The Ritz-Carlton, Westin, Courtyard, Residence Inn, and more
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
  • No foreign transaction fee

Cons

  • $450 annual fee

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


5 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
Penalty APR29.99%

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Baggage Delay Insurance
Concierge Service
Extended Warranty Program
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Travel Assistance
Trip Delay Reimbursement
Get Started with Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

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Hilton Honors American Express Business Review

Hilton Honors American Express Business Card

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
Rewards for Hilton Business Travelers

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:17.49% – 26.49% (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:12X points per dollar for purchases made directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio

6X Points per dollar on select business purchases at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchases directly from U.S. service providers, and on U.S. purchases for shipping

6X Points, per dollar on select travel purchases, at U.S. restaurants, on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies

3X Points per dollar on other purchases
Credit Needed:(670 – 850) Good/Excellent
Annual Fee:$95
Card Brand:American Express

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 125,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors Business Card after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership
  • 12X points per dollar for purchases made directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio
  • 6X Points per dollar on select business purchases at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchases directly from U.S. service providers, and on U.S. purchases for shipping
  • 6X Points, per dollar on select travel purchases, at U.S. restaurants, on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and 3X Points per dollar on other purchases
  • Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status: Enjoy even more perks as a Hilton honors Gold member, like an 80% bonus on all Base Points, space-available room upgrades and more
  • Rest up with a Free Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card account in a calendar year
  • 10 Free Priority Pass Visits: Whether you just want to relax or get work done, you?ll have 10 free visits to over 1,000 Priority Pass airport lounges every year

Is Hilton Honors American Express Business worth it?

Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a great card for Hilton business travelers. Cardholders earn 12x Hilton Honors bonus points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio. The card comes with complimentary Gold status, which allows you to earn 18 more points per $1 you spend with Hilton. You get 10 base points for being a member and 8 more points for Gold Status. Even when you account for the value of Hilton points being lower than average – about one half cent per point or less – in total you are receiving an excellent hotel rewards rate.

Pros

  • Earn 125,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors Business Card after you use your new Card to make $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership
  • Rest up with a Free Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card account in a calendar year
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • 10 Free Priority Pass Visits: Whether you just want to relax or get work done, you?ll have 10 free visits to over 1,000 Priority Pass airport lounges every year

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Purchases made through 3rd-party booking sites will not receive 12x points – purchases must be made directly with hotels and resorts in the the Hilton portfolio to receive this rate

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


5 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR29.99%

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Baggage Insurance Plan
Concierge Service
Extended Warranty Program
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Travel Assistance
Get Started with Hilton Honors American Express Business

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

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Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Review

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
High Rewards for Hilton Travelers

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:17.49% – 26.49% (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:Earn 14x Hilton Honors bonus points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio

Earn 7x Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases on your Card for flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and U.S. restaurants

Earn 3x Hilton Honors bonus points on all other eligible purchases
Credit Needed:(740 – 850) Excellent
Annual Fee:$450
Card Brand:American Express

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
  • Earn 14x Hilton Honors bonus points when you make eligible purchases on your Card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
  • Earn 7x Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases on your Card for flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and U.S. restaurants
  • With your Hilton Honors Aspire Card, you can enjoy complimentary Diamond status which includes even more perks from Hilton, such as 100% extra Bonus Points on all Base Points you earn, room upgrades, and more
  • Enjoy one weekend night reward with your new Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card and every year after renewal. Plus, earn an additional night after you spend $60,000 on purchases on your Card in a calendar year
  • With your Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, enjoy up to $250 in statement credits each year of Card Membership for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
  • Relax with unlimited lounge visits for you and up to 2 guests per visit once enrolled in complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which offers access to over 1,000 airport lounges around the world
  • With the Hilton Honors Aspire Card you can also take advantage of the $250 Airline Fee Credit for incidental charges that are charged by the airline to your Card

Is Hilton Honors American Express Aspire worth it?

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is a great card for Hilton travelers. Cardholders earn 14x Hilton Honors bonus points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio. The card comes with complimentary Diamond status, which allows you to earn 20 more points per $1 you spend with Hilton. You get 10 base points for being a member and 10 more points for Diamond Status. Even when you account for the value of Hilton points being lower than average – about one half cent per point or less – in total you are receiving an excellent hotel rewards rate.

Pros

  • Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership
  • Enjoy one weekend night reward with your new Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card and every year after renewal
  • Relax with unlimited lounge visits for you and up to 2 guests per visit once enrolled in complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which offers access to over 1,000 airport lounges around the world
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $99 annual fee
  • Few travel perks besides one-time 50% off companion ticket
  • Only cardholder gets free checked bag

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


4 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


5 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
Penalty APR29.99%

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Baggage Insurance Plan
Concierge Service
Extended Warranty Program
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Travel Assistance
Get Started with Hilton Honors American Express Aspire

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

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Citi Prestige Card Review

Citi-Prestige-Card

Rating: 5 Stars

Bottom Line:
For Air Travelers Who Eat Out

Apply Now
Card DetailsThe OfferIs it Worth It?
Pros and ConsWhy 5 Stars?Fees
Benefits

Card Details

Regular APR:18.74% – 25.74% (Variable)
Intro APR (Purchases):None
Intro APR (Balance transfers):None
Rewards Rate:Earn 5X Points on Air Travel and Restaurants

Earn 3X Points on Hotels and Cruise Lines

1X on all other purchases
Credit Needed:(740 – 850) Excellent
Annual Fee:$495
Card Brand:Mastercard

*See online credit card application for details on the terms and conditions.

Offer Highlights

  • Click APPLY NOW to apply online
  • Earn 50,000 bonus ThankYou Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening
  • Bonus ThankYou Points are not available if you received a new cardmember bonus for Citi Rewards+SM, Citi ThankYou Preferred, Citi ThankYou Premier/Citi PremierSM or Citi Prestige, or if you have closed any of these accounts, in the past 24 months
  • Earn 5X Points on Air Travel and Restaurants. Earn 3X Points on Hotels and Cruise Lines. 1X on all other purchases
  • Up to $250 Travel Credit every calendar year
  • Enjoy complimentary access to hundreds of VIP lounges through Priority Pass Select
  • Complimentary fourth night hotel statement credit equal to the average nightly rate of your four consecutive night stay for any hotel booked through thankyou.com or by phone at 1-800-THANKYOU

Is Citi Prestige Card worth it?

Citi Prestige is a great card for air travelers who eat out with 5x points on air travel and restaurants. The sign up bonus is solid: earn 50,000 ThankYou Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening. The points can be used to book airfare through Citi’s ThankYou portal at a solid rate of 1 cent per point, and there are no blackout dates. You can also transfer points but please note there is only one domestic airline, JetBlue, among the travel partners.

Pros

  • 5X points on air travel and restaurants
  • You can transfer points to travel partners including Air France/KLM Flying Blue, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, JetBlue TrueBlue, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, and more than 5 more.
  • Access to Priority Pass Select, which has 700 lounges wordwide
  • Up to $250 Travel Credit every calendar year
  • Free credit against Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee, up to $100 every five years – renewals covered
  • No foreign transaction fee

Cons

  • $495 annual fee
  • Travel partners only include one domestic airline, JetBlue

Why 5 Stars?

Regular APR


5 Stars

Intro APR


4 Stars

Fees


4 Stars

Perks


5 Stars

Overall


5 Stars

Fees

Foreign Transaction FeeNone
Balance Transfer FeeEither $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Cash Advance FeeEither $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater.
Penalty APRUp to 29.99%

Benefits

$0 Fraud Liability
Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
Extended Warranty Program
Purchase Protection
Roadside Assistance
Travel Accident Insurance
Get Started with Citi Prestige Card

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinion, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author?s alone, and may not have been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

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