American Express offers different types of credit cards for a variety of purposes, giving them one of the most diverse lineups of credit card offerings of any financial institution. Within each type of credit card, American Express also generally offers several different versions of the card, each with their own advantages and disadvantages for different kinds of users.
That way you’re able to customize the kind of credit card you use to better fit your exact needs.
The result is a wide cards library that can be a little difficult to grasp when you’re first getting one of their cards. That huge library is also why it’s critical to research American Express cards instead of signing up for the first one that’s offered to you. There are pretty good odds that the first card on offer isn’t actually the best card for your situation.
Don’t worry though, this section will help you understand the different kinds of American Express cards. Here are The Smart Investor Select’s picks for the top Amex credit cards:
Card | Rewards | Bonus | Annual Fee |
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | 1-6%
6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit
and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
| $250
$250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
| $95 ($0 intro for the first year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express | 1-3%
3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets / U.S. online retail purchases/ U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%
| $200
$200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
| $0 |
| The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
| 1X – 2X
2X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1X), 2X points on prepaid rental cars booked through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases
| 10,000 points
10,000 points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 3 months
| $0 |
| American Express Cash Magnet® | 1.5%
unlimited 1.5 percent cash back on all purchases
| $150
$150 statement credit for spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
| $0 |
| Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | 1X – 2X
2X miles on delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide (including take-out and delivery in the U.S) and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1x miles on all other eligible purchases
| 40,000 Miles
40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months
| $150, $0 intro first year |
| American Express® Gold Card | 1X – 4X
4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
| 60,000 points
60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
| $325 |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | 1X – 5X
5X points on up to $500,000 spent on directly-booked airfare and flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel (per calendar year), 2X points on prepaid car rentals through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases
| 80,000 points
80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership
| $695 |
| Hilton Honors American Express Card | 3X – 7X
7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 5x points at U.S. restaurants (including takeout and delivery) U.S.supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and 3x points for each dollar on other eligible purchases
| 70,000 points
70,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership
| $0 |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers an outstanding 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases , making it a suitable choice for commuters and a 2.70% fee on foreign transactions. Terms Apply.
However, warehouse clubs and superstores are not included. The American Blue Cash Preferred Card charges an annual fee of $95 ($0 intro for the first year), but you can justify this if you reach the higher cashback threshold in U.S. supermarkets. This makes the card suitable for individuals that buy or purchase their groceries at traditional supermarkets. New cardmembers can earn up to $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- Rewards Plan: 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%) and selected U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations, 1% cash back on other purchases
- APR: 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Annual Fee: $95 ($0 intro for the first year)
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3%, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.70%
- Welcome Bonus: $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate Months: 12 months on purchases and balance transfers
* Terms Apply
- Welcome Bonus
- Cash Back Rewards
- 0% APR Intro
- Redeeming Options
- Extended Warranty on Purchases
- $95 Annual Fee
- Short Introductory Rates
- Balance Transfer Fee
- Foreign Transaction Fee
- Minimum Redemption Amounts
- Is there a limit to rewards/cash back? You can get the premium cashback rate on groceries until you have annual purchases in this area of $6,000. The rate then goes to 1%.
- Can I get car rental insurance? how? Yes, you will get this insurance if you refuse the car rental company’s insurance coverage and you pay for the entire cost of the rental with this card.
- Does it have a cash-back/point rewards limit? You can get the premium cashback rate on groceries until you have annual purchases in this area of $6,000. The rate then goes to 1%. Otherwise, there are no restrictions.
- Do you need a proof of income? No transparent income requirements or proof of income requests.
- Does the rewards points expire? They do not expire once you keep your account open and meet a few basic conditions.
- Can I get pre-approved? Yes, you can get pre-approval.
- What is the initial credit limit? It will be at least $1,000 and usually greater.
- How do I redeem cash back? The rewards will be credited to you in the form of a statement credit.
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is a no-annual-fee credit card that excels in providing rewards for everyday spending. With a focus on U.S. supermarkets, gas stations, and online retailers, it offers a competitive 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets / U.S. online retail purchases/ U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
The card provides a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months. Additionally, it features a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening , followed by a variable APR of 19.24% – 29.99% Variable. This card pairs this introductory APR with the Pay It Plan It program, allowing users to manage their payments efficiently.
While it stands out for its unique U.S. online retail reward category, it may not be the most lucrative option for those who spend heavily outside these specified areas.
- APR: 19.24% – 29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% or $5, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7%
- Rewards Plan: 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets / U.S. online retail purchases/ U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. Terms Apply.
- Welcome Bonus: $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 15 months on purchases and balance transfers from the date of account opening
- Competitive Rewards And Welcome Bonus
- No Annual Fee
- 0% Intro APR
- Foreign Transaction Fee
- Spending Caps
Are there any restrictions on redeeming cash back for direct deposits or checks?
Yes, unlike some other cards, the Blue Cash Everyday card doesn't allow for direct deposit or check redemptions.
What is the Pay It Plan It program?
The Pay It Plan It program allows cardholders to manage payments effectively, offering upfront payment options for qualifying purchases.
Does the Blue Cash Everyday Card have any exclusive perks?
Yes, cardholders enjoy exclusive access to American Express Experiences, providing special ticket presale access and event invitations.
Does the card offer any travel-related benefits?
Yes, cardholders have access to the Global Assist Hotline for emergency assistance when traveling more than 100 miles from home.
How can I redeem the cash back rewards?
Cash back rewards, earned as Reward Dollars, can be redeemed for statement credits with no minimum redemption amount.
The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card is a very good option among rewards cards for individuals that rank up spending at the grocery checkout and gas pump. The Everyday card offers 2X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1X), 2X points on prepaid rental cars booked through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases. Terms Apply.
It also offers a nice welcome bonus – 10,000 points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 3 months. Lastly, you'll enjoy 0% intro for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers , so if you plan a big purchase – it's another reason to consider this card.
- APR: 18.24% – 28.24% Variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: $5 or 3%, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7%
- Rewards Plan: 2X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1X), 2X points on prepaid rental cars booked through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases. Terms Apply.
- Welcome Bonus: 10,000 points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 3 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Welcome Bonus
- Rewards Plan
- No Annual Fee
- 0% APR Introductory
- No Balance Transfer Fee
- Foreign Transaction Fee
- Variations in Reward Points’ Worth
- Cap on higher cashback rewards
- Not as Widely Accepted as Other Cards
- Is there a limit to cash back? You can get the premium cashback rate on groceries until you have annual purchases in this area of $6,000. The rate then goes to 1%.
- Can I get car rental insurance with Amex Everyday Card? Yes, you will get this insurance if you refuse the car rental company’s insurance coverage and you pay for the entire cost of the rental with this card.
- Can I get pre-approved? Yes, you can get pre-approval.
- What is the initial credit limit? It will be at least $1,000 and usually greater.
- How do I redeem cash back? The rewards will be credited to you in the form of a statement credit.
- What purchases don't earn cash back? All purchases currently will earn some level of cashback with this card.
- Should You Move to Amex Everyday Card? If you are looking for a good all-round card that has some solid rewards and no annual fee.
- Why did Amex deny me? What to Do Next? You might not have met some requirements. You can ask the customer support team where your application failed and seek a remedy to this situation.
- How to maximize rewards on Amex Everyday Card? Take advantage of the welcome bonus and make sure that you know what selected stores are eligible for the premium cashback rates.
- Top reasons NOT to get the Everyday Card? You spend enough on the likes of groceries that mean you will benefit from the Preferred card more than the Everyday card.
American Express Cash Magnet®
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
American Express Cash Magnet®
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The American Express Cash Magnet® Card is a simple cash back credit card that offers you unlimited 1.5 percent cash back on all purchases (Terms Apply). There is an attractive welcome bonus of $150 statement credit for spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening and you can enjoy 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases .
Compared to other credit cards, the American Express Cash Magnet Card does not offer any significantly special reward you can’t find elsewhere, but its good intro APR, modest fees and clear-cut rewards system make it beneficial to anyone looking to earn rewards without having to track spending categories. If you own another rewards credit card, it’s a good idea to use this one on regular purchases that normally would not attract bonuses there.
- APR: 19.24% to 29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7%
- Rewards Plan: unlimited 1.5 percent cash back on all purchases
- Welcome Bonus: $150 statement credit for spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of account opening
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: 15 months on purchases
- Welcome Bonus
- Cash Back Rewards
- Car Rental Insurance
- No Annual Fee
- 0% Intro APR
- Limited Redemption Options
- Foreign Transaction Fee
- There are Better Rewards Cards
- Flexible Redemption
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
TheDelta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, as the name suggests, is a niche travel rewards card that will appeal most to people who frequently fly with Delta. A neat welcome bonus, potential annual rewards, an ongoing miles rewards system, priority boarding, and the opportunity to pay with earned miles when you fly Delta are some reasons you may want to consider this card. If you fly Delta, this card probably ticks many of the right boxes. Terms Apply.
The miles earned through regular purchases with this card are modest for the most part, but if you make in-flight purchases, you get up to 20% back in form of statement credits. The rewards on this card are laser-targeted towards a specific audience. Therefore, it goes without saying that if you don’t fly often or don’t patronize Delta much, there is little to enjoy from this card. You probably won’t even earn enough rewards to offset the annual fee.
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $150, $0 intro first year
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Rewards Plan: 2X miles on delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide (including take-out and delivery in the U.S) and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1x miles on all other eligible purchases (Terms Apply)
- Welcome Bonus: 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: N/A
- Welcome Bonus (Terms Apply)
- Attractive rewards for Delta flyers
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Free Checked Bag
- Priority Boarding
- Annual Fee
- Limited Acceptance
- No Path to Elite Status
- Niche Card
American Express® Gold Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The American Express® Gold Card is a credit account that offers a myriad of benefits to clients. First-timers stand a chance to earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.. In terms of rewards, you can earn 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases.
Other premium benefits include dedicated service team, up to $120 in Uber Cash (enrollment required), preferred seating at sporting and cultural events, signature perks at upscale hotels, fraud Protection and baggage insurance for up to $500 for checked baggage and $1,250 for carry on.
- APR: 21.24% – 29.24% Variable
- Annual fee: $325
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/a
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Rewards Plan: 4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats purchases in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X points), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 2X points on rental cars through amextravel.com and 1X points on all other purchases
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: N/A
- Welcome Bonus + Premium Point Rewards Rate
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Special Gold Status Perks
- $325 Annual Fee
- High Requirements
- Is there a limit to rewards? There is a cap on getting the premium rate of cashback on certain types of purchases.
- Can I get car rental insurance with Amex Gold Card? Yes, you will get it automatically once you decline the car insurance from the rental company and you pay the full rental charge using this card.
- What are Amex Gold Card income requirements? There is no out and out income requirement outlined by Amex when it comes to the Gold card.
- Does card Amex Gold points expire? They do not have an expiration date.
- How do I redeem cash back on Amex? There is a points-based system. You can redeem the points for a variety of rewards that are showcased on the Amex website. These include statement credit, gift cards, paying for certain services etc.
- What purchases don't earn rewards? The minimum rate is 1 point for every $1 spent.
- Should You Move to Amex Gold Card? If you need a versatile card that covers a wide range of purchases, with a main focus on travel-related purchases and perks.
- Why did Amex deny me? You might not have met one of the requirements. You can ask the customer support team if there is something you can do to change this eventuality. Otherwise, you can look for an alternative card.
- How to maximize rewards on Amex Gold Card? Use it for a versatile range of purchases, make sure you are aware of the different perks and credit that you get with this card.
- Top Reasons NOT to get the Gold Card? If you do not travel a lot.
- Can I get pre-approved? Yes, you can get pre-approval.
- What is the initial credit limit? The credit limit will usually be at least $5,000.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best luxury cards available, offering extra ordinary benefits especially when it comes to travel. The card offers 5X points on up to $500,000 spent on directly-booked airfare and flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel (per calendar year), 2X points on prepaid car rentals through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases. Terms Apply.
Also, you can enjoy welcome bonus of 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership, as well as a lot of extra premium perks such as dedicated service team, up to $200 in Uber Cash (enrollment required), preferred seating at sporting and cultural events, signature perks at upscale hotels, fraud Protection and baggage insurance for up to $500 for checked baggage and $1,250 for carry on. Lastly, this card is one of the top credit cards with rental car insurance.
- Up to $200 hotel credit per year when you book select prepaid hotels using your Platinum card via American Express Travel. Enrollment Required.
- Up to $240 or $20 per month in Digital Entertainment Credit when you pay for one or more The New York Times, Peacock, SiriusXM or Audible products with your card. Enrollment Required.
- Up to $155 in Walmart+ credit. When you use your card to pay for your monthly Walmart+ membership, you’ll get the full cost back every month. Enrollment Required.
- Up to $200 in Airline fee credit per year when you charge incidental travel fees from selected airlines on your card. Enrollment Required.
- Up to $300 back every year for eligible Equinox memberships when you enroll and pay using your card.
- Up to $189 back per year when you use your card to pay for a CLEAR® membership. Enrollment Required.
- Welcome Bonus + Premium Point Rewards Rate (Terms Apply)
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Special Premium Status Perks
- High Annual Fee
- High Requirements
- Why did Amex Platinum Card deny me? What to Do Next? You might not have met one of the requirements. You can ask the customer support team if there is something you can do to change this eventuality. Otherwise, you can look for an alternative card.
- How hard is it to get Amex Platinum Card? You need to meet the credit score and income requirements, which are higher than a lot of other cards.
- What is the initial credit limit? The minimum credit limit you will get with this card will be $5,000.
- How do I redeem cash back? There is a points-based system. You can redeem the points for a variety of rewards that are showcased on the Amex website. These include statement credit, gift cards, paying for certain services etc.
- What purchases don't earn cash back? Every type of purchase through this card will earn cashback points.
- Should You Move to Amex Platinum Card? It is a good fit if you spend a lot of money on travel-related expenses and want to avail yourself of some great travel perks.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
See Rates & fees, Terms Apply
The Hilton Honors American Express Card is one of the most prestigious in the country. New cardholders earn 70,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership (Terms Apply).
Aside from the excellent rewards rate, cardholders won't have to worry about paying an annual fee because there is none. Hilton Honors cardholders receive travel benefits such as no international transaction fees, car rental insurance coverage, and a global assist option for usage in an emergency in a foreign country.
- Rewards Plan: 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 5x points at U.S. restaurants (including takeout and delivery) U.S.supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and 3x points for each dollar on other eligible purchases
- APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $0
- Balance Transfer Fee: n/a
- Foreign Transaction Fee: $0
- Welcome Bonus:70,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership
- 0% APR Introductory Rate: N/A
- Welcome Bonus & Rewards
- No Annual Fee
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Loyalty Program
- Too Niche
- Low Redeeming Rate
- High APR
Can I redeem for flights with airline partners?
Hilton Honors allows swapping points for miles with almost all of the major domestic airlines and some international carriers including British Airways and Air Canada. However, the transfer ration is typically 10:1. This means you’ll need 10,000 Hilton Honors points to get 1,000 miles.
Do the travel reward points expire?
Hilton Honors points do not actually expire, but if your account is inactive for 24 months, any points balance will be forfeited.
Can I get pre approved?
American Express does allow pre approval for the Hilton Honors card. This takes only 30 seconds and you’ll need to supply some basic information. You can then make an informed decision without impacting your credit.
What is the initial credit limit?
The card limit for the Hilton Honors American Express is $1,000 to $20,000, based on your score and other factors.
Should you move to the Hilton Honors Card?
If you are brand loyal to a particular hotel chain, getting a rewards card dedicated to this hotel chain is a good idea. You can not only earn free stays, but you can also enjoy other perks. So, if you love Hilton hotels, these cards could be a good option for you.
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card
Reward details
Current Offer
Credit Rating
Annual Fee
0% Intro
APR
The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card is a mid-tier hotel credit card with lucrative perks for Marriott loyalists, but it may lack long-term value and flexibility. The card offers 6X points on purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, 4X points at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $15,000 in combined purchases per year, then 2X points), 2X points on all other purchases.
One of its key attractions is the automatic complimentary Gold Elite Status in the Marriott Bonvoy program, providing cardholders with enhanced benefits such as bonus points, room upgrades, and exclusive member rates. The card's co-branding with American Express opens up access to additional Amex perks, including Plan It® for convenient payment plans and exclusive offers through Amex Experiences.
However, the $250 annual fee might be steep for infrequent travelers, and the card misses some features common in other hotel cards, such as TSA PreCheck credits or lounge access.
- APR: 20.99% – 29.99% Variable
- Annual fee: $250
- Balance Transfer Fee: N/A
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 0%
- Rewards Plan: 6X points on purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, 4X points at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and U.S. supermarkets (up to $15,000 in combined purchases per year, then 2X points), 2X points on all other purchases
- Sign Up bonus: 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership
- 0% APR Introductory Rate period: N/A
- Competitive Rewards Structure
- Complimentary Gold Elite Status
- Annual Free Night Award Upon Spending
- Redemption Options
- High Annual Fee
- Limited Benefits Compared to Higher-Tier Marriott Cards
- Lack of TSA PreCheck or Lounge Access
- Is there a limit to cashback rewards? There is no cap.
- Can I get car rental insurance with a Chase Freedom Unlimited card? Yes, when you rent the car and pay for all of it with this card and do not accept coverage from the rental company.
- Should You Move to Chase Freedom Unlimited card? This is a good fit for people who are looking for no annual fee card including good cashback rates that do not change.
- Why did Chase Freedom Unlimited card deny me? You might not have met one of the requirements for this card. You can talk with a member of the customer support team to see what the issue is and how you might be able to rectify it.
- How hard is it to get a Chase Freedom Unlimited card? It is not very hard to get this type of card once you meet all of the straightforward requirements.
- How to maximize rewards on the Chase Freedom Unlimited card?
- You can choose between the options as to how you utilize the rewards. To maximize rewards, you should make the most of the signup bonus and also be aware of which of your credit cards have the best cashback for a particular type of purchase.
- Top reasons NOT to get the Chase Freedom Unlimited card? If you are looking for higher flat cashback rates. You may also travel a lot and not want to pay the 3% foreign exchange transaction charge that comes with this card.
- Does Chase ask for proof of income? There is no specific income requirements and it does not usually ask for proof of income requirements.
- Does the card offer pre-approval? Yes, you can get pre-approval.
- What is the initial credit limit? The initial credit limit varies, but can often be between $1,000 and $5,000.
- How do I redeem cashback? Go to the Ultimate Rewards section that Chase offers and you can choose between the options as to how you utilize the rewards.
- What purchases don't earn cashback with the Freedom Unlimited card? All purchases earn cashback with this card.
American Express Credit Card Types
Here are the basic types of cards you can find on the American Express website:
1. Standard Credit Cards
Standard credit cards have a pre-set balance limit. You can use them anywhere and for any transaction up to the posted limit (through fraud prevention services may sometimes lock the card for safety reasons if your purchasing habits change suddenly). These cards have no interest if you pay off the balance every month, but will change some interest on any balance carried from month to month.
Interest rates vary depending on the credit card and your own credit score and credit history. Standard credit cards (and most other credit cards) require that you make a monthly payment of at least 1-3% of the total balance on the card.
2. Rewards Credit Cards
Rewards credit cards have similar features and functionality as regular credit cards, but they also have some reward system for using the card. Typically rewards are cashback, travel miles, or redeemable points.
Almost all American Express credit cards offer some level of a rewards program. Their travel cards offer rewards in miles, but American Express also has standard and business credit cards that offer cashback or points-based rewards, depending on the card.
The exact level of rewards depends in part on your credit score and which cards you can qualify for, as well as your willingness to pay annual fees and other high-cost cards that offer higher value rewards programs.
3. Charge Cards
A charge card is a little different from a typical credit card. They generally don’t have credit limits, but you are also typically required to pay the full balance on the card each month. You can’t let balances carry over from month to month.
American Express currently doesn’t offer any charge cards. However, they do offer prepaid cards, which serve a similar purpose.
4. Business Credit Cards
Business credit cards are only to be used for business expenses and can be used by businesses, business owners, and some employees. These cards should never be used for personal expenses, even by the business owner.
These cards may also have different rewards structures that are more focused on providing business benefits.
American Express has a wide selection of business cards, including but not limited to:
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- American Express® Business Gold Card
- The Plum Card® from American Express
- American Express Green Business Rewards Card
- The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
These cards are all tuned to offer different kinds of rewards and benefits to the business. The Platinum Business card is a good option for larger more profitable enterprises, while the Lowes Business Rewards card might be a good option for construction businesses and contractors.
5. Prepaid Cards
Prepaid cards aren’t credit cards in the technical sense. These cards are paid for in advance, and can only be used while there is a balance on the card. However, they can be helpful for monthly budgeting, gift-giving, and limiting certain kinds of spending, and you can generally add more money onto pre-paid cards as long as you keep the card’s account open.
American Express offers three different versions of their charge card, the basic American Express Serve, the American Express Serve with Free Reloads, and the American Express Serve Cashback charge card. All three versions offer free ATM withdrawal services, an easy online portal to check your budget and reload the cards, and are direct deposit compatible.
6. Student Credit Cards
Typically, these cards are for college students who are learning how to use a credit card and are starting to build their personal credit for the first time. They tend to have lower fees but may not offer as many benefits as other personal credit cards.
American Express currently doesn’t offer any specialty College Student cards. Still, their Amex Everyday card can be a good student card alternative, especially if you go for a low starting limit.
Amex Reputation & Customer Satisfaction
838/1000 on J.D Power: American Express ranks in the 1st place in 2020 research, got 838 out of 1000 available points on J.D. Power credit card satisfaction survey. J.D Power offers the most comprehensive and independent study of customer satisfaction of card issuers. The study aims to help consumers and issuers to understand user opinions and ratings of the largest bands. It covers terms, benefits, services, communication, rewards, and more.
Top Offers
Top Offers
Top Offers From Our Partners
Credit Score Needed For Amex Cards
There isn’t an exact credit score that will guarantee you can get any particular American Express credit card.
Generally, all American Express cards require good or better credit. For some cards, like anything Platinum-rated, it’s better to have a Very Good or Excellent credit score, but it’s possible for people in the Good credit range to get a card.
If your credit is only in the Fair range you may need to opt for a Secured credit card. American Express doesn’t give many people with Poor credit a credit card unless there is other evidence of them being a safe borrower in their credit history.
How Do Amex Cashback Offers Work?
How Do Amex Points Rewards Work?
How to Maximize American Express Rewards?
Here are some great ways to maximize your Amex rewards:
- Choose the Right Card: Select an American Express card that aligns with your spending habits and lifestyle. Different cards offer various rewards structures, such as travel points, cashback, or specific category bonuses. Pick the card that maximizes rewards based on your regular expenses.
- Leverage Welcome Bonuses: Capitalize on introductory offers and welcome bonuses. Many American Express cards provide substantial bonus points for meeting spending requirements within the initial months. Utilize these bonuses to jumpstart your rewards accumulation.
- Optimize Category Spending: Some American Express cards offer bonus points for specific spending categories, such as groceries, dining, or travel. Maximize rewards by using your card strategically in these high-bonus categories.
- Take Advantage of Amex Offers: Regularly check and activate Amex Offers available on your account. These targeted promotions provide discounts or bonus points for specific purchases at participating merchants, enhancing your overall rewards.
- Transfer Points Wisely: If your American Express card is part of the Membership Rewards program, consider transferring points to travel partners. This can significantly increase the value of your points, especially when redeeming for flights or hotel stays.
- Shop Through the Membership Rewards Portal: When making online purchases, consider using the Membership Rewards portal. Many retailers offer bonus points or discounts when accessing their sites through this portal, amplifying your rewards on everyday spending.
- Combine Points Across Cards: If you have multiple American Express cards, some programs allow you to combine points. Consolidating points from different cards can provide more flexibility and unlock additional redemption options, ultimately maximizing the overall value of your rewards.