American Express is one of the most well-known credit card issuers in the world, offering a wide range of credit cards that cater to various needs and lifestyles. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to American Express credit cards, including their history, types, benefits, fees, and charges. We will also provide tips on how to maximize rewards and manage your account, as well as alternatives to American Express credit cards. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of American Express credit cards and which one may be best suited for your needs.
American Express, also known as Amex, is a multinational financial services corporation based in New York City. It was founded in 1850 as an express mail business, and later expanded into financial services, including money orders, traveler’s cheques, and credit cards. American Express is known for its charge cards, which require the balance to be paid in full each month, and its credit cards, which allow customers to carry a balance.
American Express credit cards offer a variety of benefits and rewards, including cashback, points, and travel perks. They also come with annual fees and other charges, depending on the card. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of American Express credit cards.
Types of American Express Credit Cards
American Express offers several types of credit cards to cater to different needs and lifestyles. Here are the main types of American Express credit cards:
Amex Green Card
The Amex Green Card is a basic credit card that offers 2x points on travel and dining purchases, as well as a $100 statement credit for CLEAR membership.
Amex Gold Card
The Amex Gold Card is a premium credit card that offers 4x points on dining and grocery purchases, as well as a $120 dining credit and $100 airline fee credit.
Amex Platinum Card
The Amex Platinum Card is a luxury credit card that offers 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels, as well as various travel benefits, such as airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and concierge service.
Amex Delta SkyMiles Card
The Amex Delta SkyMiles Card is a co-branded credit card that offers miles for Delta Airlines purchases, as well as various travel benefits, such as priority boarding and free checked bags.
Amex Hilton Honors Card
The Amex Hilton Honors Card is a co-branded credit card that offers points for Hilton hotel stays, as well as various travel benefits, such as complimentary room upgrades and late checkout.
Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card
The Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card is a cashback credit card that offers 6% cashback on select US streaming services and grocery purchases, as well as 3% cashback on transit purchases and gas stations.
Benefits and Rewards of American Express Credit Cards
American Express credit cards offer a wide range of benefits and rewards, including the following:
- Explanation of Membership Rewards program – The Membership Rewards program is American Express’s loyalty program, which allows cardholders to earn points on eligible purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more.
- Cashback and statement credits – Some American Express credit cards offer cashback on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for statement credits or deposited into a bank account.
- Point redemption options – American Express offers a variety of point redemption options, including travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more. Some cards also offer the option to transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs.
- Travel benefits – Many American Express credit cards offer travel benefits, such as airport lounge access, airline fee credits, and travel insurance.
- Purchase protection and extended warranties – American Express credit cards provide purchase protection and extended warranties on eligible purchases.
- Exclusive events and experiences – Some American Express credit cards offer access to exclusive events and experiences, such as concerts, sports events, and dining experiences.
