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The 7 Best Amex Cards With No Preset Spending Limit [2024]

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A common misconception about select American Express cards is that they have no credit limit, allowing cardholders to charge as much as they’d like to their card each month.

However, this is more of a half-truth. While it is true that many Amex cards do not have a preset spending limit*, that does not mean that your monthly spending is unlimited.

This post will break down Ames’s approach to no preset spending limits, along with the Amex cards that offer no preset spending limits and their benefits.

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Best Amex Cards With No Preset Spending Limit*

*All information regarding the American Express® Green Card and Business Green Rewards Card from American Express was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

How Does Amex’s No Preset Spending Limit Work?

Most card users are used to having a predetermined credit limit when they are approved for a card. For example, if you are approved for a credit card with a $5,000 credit limit, you can charge up to $5,000 on the card, and any transactions over that amount will be declined.

On the other hand, many Amex cards do not issue you a preset credit limit when you are approved for the card. However, no preset limit does not equal no limit, and that is where many people tend to get confused.

American Express will still determine a range for what it will allow you to spend up to, based on factors like your monthly spending patterns, your payment history, credit record, and your stated income. For instance, if your stated income with Amex is $50,000, it is unlikely that it would allow you to charge, say, $20,000 in a single month.

Hot Tip: If you have a much larger than average purchase coming up and you want to ensure that Amex will not decline the purchase, it offers a spending power tool that lets you do just that. All you need to do is enter the dollar amount you plan to spend, and Amex will tell you immediately if it will be approved.

The 3 Best Amex Personal Cards With No Preset Spending Limit

While most card options that American Express offers will come with the standard credit limit that most of us are used to, it offers 3 personal card options with no preset spending limit.

Card Summary

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Card

Welcome Bonus Offer and Annual Fee

Benefits

The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first 6 months.
  • Annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
  • 5x points on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • Amazing statement credits
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges
  • Hotel elite status with Marriott and Hilton (upon enrollment)
American Express® Gold Card
  • NEW OFFER: Earn 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months, up to $100 back. Offer ends 11/6/24.
  • Annual fee of $325 (rates & fees)
  • 4x points at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. (up to $50,000 per calendar year, 1x after)
  • 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year, 1x after)
  • 3x points on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
  • Up to $120 annual Uber Cash, up to $120 annual dining credit, up to $100 annual Resy credit, and up to $84 annual Dunkin’ credit (Enrollment required)
American Express® Green Card
  • Earn 40,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first 6 months.
  • Annual fee of $150 
  • 3x points at restaurants worldwide, all eligible travel, and transit purchases
  • Up to $199 statement credit per year towards a CLEAR Plus membership
  • Up to $100 statement credit per year on LoungeBuddy purchases

Amex Platinum Card (Best for Worldwide Lounge Access, Premium Benefits & Perks)

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

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Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

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The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
$1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $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 using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.¤
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Platinum card is designed for frequent travelers who want premium perks and benefits. Not only does the card earn a capped 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year), but it also offers the best airport lounge access of any travel rewards card, allowing you to visit over 1,400 lounges worldwide across 8 lounge networks.

Cardholders can also access more than $1,400 in statement credits, including:

Amex Platinum cardholders also receive benefits such as trip delay insurance, purchase protection, access to the American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts program, and complimentary Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.

Note: Enrollment may be required for some Amex benefits mentioned above.

Hot Tip: The benefits don’t stop here, though — for more, check out our guide on all the best benefits and perks of the Amex Platinum card.

Amex Gold Card (Best for Earning Points on Dining & U.S. Supermarkets)

LAST CHANCE
American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
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.
60,000 points + up to $100 back
$1,420
$325
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros
  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • 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.
  • Get the American Express® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points + up to $100 back. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Gold card is a real heavy hitter for earning Membership Rewards points. With it, you’ll earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. (up to $50,000 per calendar year in purchases), 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases), and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with AmexTravel.com.

Not only is the Amex Gold card a fantastic points-earner, but it also offers excellent benefits:

  • Up to $120 per year in dining statement credits at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys (distributed as $10 per month)
  • Up to $120 in Uber Cash every year usable on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. (distributed as $10 per month)
  • Up to $100 Resy credit redeemable at any U.S. Resy restaurant and other eligible Resy purchases (distributed as $50 semi-annually)
  • Up to $84 Dunkin’ credit redeemable at Dunkin’ locations (distributed as $7 per month)

Note that enrollment is required for some benefits, so make sure you’re enrolled to get the most out of your card’s benefits

Cardholders will also benefit from no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees), access to The Hotel Collection, baggage insurance, rental car insurance, and purchase protection. Enrollment may be required for some Amex benefits.

Hot Tip: Curious about which card option is best for you? Take a look at our detailed comparison of the perks of the Amex Platinum card vs. the Amex Gold card.

Amex Green Card (Best for Earning Points on Dining, Travel & Transit)

American Express® Green Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card can provide a great way to accumulate Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit, and at restaurants.

All information about American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This card can provide a great way to accumulate Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit, and at restaurants.
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express® Green Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
40,000 points
$880
$150
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Green Card is an excellent all-around travel rewards card thanks to earning 3x Membership Rewards® points on eligible travel and transit purchases and at restaurants, access to American Express transfer partners, and a reasonable annual fee.

Pros
  • 3x points per $1 spent at restaurants worldwide, on all eligible travel purchases, and transit purchases
  • Up to $199 per calendar year in statement credits after you pay for a CLEAR® Plus membership with the Card.
  • Up to $100 in statement credits annually when you purchase airport lounge access through LoungeBuddy with the Card.
Cons
  • $150 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
  • Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express® Green Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on travel, including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and vacation rentals.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on transit purchases, including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the US.
  • $199 CLEAR Plus Credit: Receive up to $199 per calendar year in statement credits when you pay for your CLEAR Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the American Express® Green Card.
  • $100 LoungeBuddy: No airport lounge membership? No problem! Purchase lounge access through the LoungeBuddy app using the American Express® Green Card and receive up to $100 in statement credits annually.
  • Payment Flexibility: When it comes to paying your bill, you have options. You can always pay in full. You also have the flexibility to carry a balance with interest or use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly payments with a fixed fee, up to your Pay Over Time Limit. You may be able to keep spending beyond your limit – you’ll just need to pay for any new purchases in full when your bill is due.
  • Trip Delay Insurance: If a round-trip is paid for entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason delays your trip more than 12 hours, Trip Delay Insurance can help reimburse certain additional expenses purchased on the same Eligible Card, up to $300 per trip, maximum 2 claims per eligible account per 12 consecutive month period. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: No matter where you’re traveling, when you use your American Express® Green Card there are no foreign transaction fees.
  • $150 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The Amex Green card charges the lowest annual fee ($150 ) of the 3 personal Amex cards without preset spending limits. It allows you to earn 3x points at restaurants, all eligible travel, and transit purchases.

Beyond that, the Amex Green card offers an up to $199 annual credit towards a CLEAR Plus membership, up to $100 annual credit on LoungeBuddy purchases, trip delay insurance, baggage insurance, rental car insurance, and purchase protection.

The 4 Best Amex Business Cards With No Preset Spending Limit

If you’re a small business owner, you’ll be pleased to know that American Express also offers a handful of small business cards with no preset spending limit.

Card Summary

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Card

Welcome Bonus and Annual Fee

Benefits

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
  • ELEVATED OFFER: Earn 150,000 points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
  • 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels at AmexTravel.com
  • Up to $200 annual airline fee credit
  • 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1 million bonus points per calendar year)
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass (upon enrollment), Plaza Premium Lounges, and more
American Express® Business Gold Card
  • ELEVATED OFFER: Earn 100,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee of $375 (rates & fees)
  • 4x points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases per year)
Business Green Rewards Card from American Express
  • Earn 15,000 points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months
  • Annual fee of $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

2x points on eligible purchases at AmexTravel.com

The Plum Card® from American Express
  • No welcome offer available.
  • Annual fee of $250 (rates & fees)

Earn an unlimited 1.5% Early Pay Discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date and see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.

Amex Business Platinum Card (Best for Worldwide Lounge Access, Premium Benefits & Perks)

ELEVATED OFFER
The Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)
This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
150,000 points
$3,300
$695
18.99% - 27.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros
  • 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
Cons
  • High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
  • Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Business Platinum card is similar in many ways to the personal version of the card. They both offer best-in-class airport lounge access, an up to $200 annual airline fee credit, access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program, Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status, travel protections, and purchase protection. Similar to the personal cards, enrollment may be required for some benefits.

But the Amex Business Platinum card does have some key differences that small business owners might find compelling, with benefits like an up to $400 annual Dell credit, up to $360 annual Indeed credit, up to $150 annual Adobe credit, and up to $120 annual wireless phone services credit. The card earns 1.5x points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year) and cardholders get a 35% bonus to the value of their points when using Pay With Points.

Bottom Line: The annual fee of the Amex Business Platinum card can feel a bit excessive for any frugal small business owner, but you should know that the card is packed with great benefits that can give you even more value than what you pay for the fee.

Amex Business Gold Card (Best for Earning Lots of Points)

ELEVATED OFFER
American Express® Business Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)
Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
100,000 points
$2,200
$375
18.99% - 27.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros
  • 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
    • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
    • U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
    • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
    • U.S. purchases at gas stations
    • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
    • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
  • 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
  • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
Cons
  • $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 18.99% to 27.99% variable APR.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
  • The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
  • *Terms Apply
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 110,000 points with the Amex Business Gold card! The current public offer is 100,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

If you’re a business owner with a lot of expenses, you’ll love the Amex Business Gold card.

This card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on the top 2 categories in which your business spends the most every month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year):

  • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
  •  U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
  • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
  • U.S. purchases at gas stations
  • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online, TV, radio)

Beyond the Amex Business Gold card’s great bonus categories, cardholders also enjoy benefits like access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection, trip delay insurance, baggage insurance, rental car insurance, and purchase protection.

Amex Business Green Card (Best for No-cost Employee Cards)

Business Green Rewards Card from American Express
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This entry-level business card earns points for your business spending, which you can redeem in a simple-to-use rewards program. Business owners will appreciate the suite of tools designed to simplify finances.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)All information about Business Green Rewards Card from American Express has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.
This entry-level business card earns points for your business spending, which you can redeem in a simple-to-use rewards program. Business owners will appreciate the suite of tools designed to simplify finances.
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases with the Business Green Rewards Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
15,000 points
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95

The information regarding the Business Green Rewards Card from American Express was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 


Most people recognize the Business Green Rewards Card from American Express by sight due to its classic green design. Many of you have probably carried that card yourself at one time.

But did you know the familiar Green Card is available for your small business too?

The Amex Business Green card gives you the same great benefits of the personal card with added benefits for business owners!

  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases with the Business Green Rewards Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 2x for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases at amextravel.com
  • Earn 1x for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases
  • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
  • Terms Apply
Financial Snapshot
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

While the Amex Business Green card doesn’t earn as many points or offer as many benefits as some of its counterparts, it can still be a good option for small business owners looking for a more affordable option.

You’ll earn just 1x point on all purchases, except for purchases through AmexTravel.com, where you’ll earn 2x points, but you can also add employee cards at no additional cost to help you rack up even more points.

Plus, you’ll receive standard perks like purchase protection, extended warranty protection, rental car insurance, and baggage insurance.

Amex Plum Card (Best for Cash-back)

The Plum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Instead of normal cash-back, earn an unlimited 1.5% early pay discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date. You'll see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Instead of normal cash-back, earn an unlimited 1.5% early pay discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date. You'll see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.
No welcome offer
No welcome offer
$0
$250
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-840)

Cash flow can be unpredictable. Sometimes, you can pay bills right away, and other times, it may be easier to wait. Either way works out in your favor with The Plum Card® from American Express!

With this card, you can pay your bill early and earn an unlimited 1.5% early pay discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date. Or, you can take up to 60 days to pay without interest when you pay your Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.

For those who run seasonal businesses or whose incoming cash flow is unpredictable, the card can provide you with payment alternatives that most other cards don’t.

Pros
  • Earn 1.5% cash-back on your purchases, or receive 60 days to pay back your purchases with no interest
  • No foreign transaction fees or employee card fees (rates & fees)
  • Rental car insurance
Cons
  • Charges an annual fee
  • Limited benefits
  • Paying early pays off: earn an unlimited 1.5% Early Pay Discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date and see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.
  • Take up to 60 days to pay with no interest‡, when you pay your minimum due by the Payment Due Date.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.‡
  • Terms Apply. Learn More.
Financial Snapshot
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

There isn’t a rewards center for this card; the cash-back earned is applied directly to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.

The Amex Plum card is the only Amex card with no preset spending limit that does not earn Membership Rewards points. Instead, you’ll earn an unlimited 1.5% Early Pay Discount on eligible charges paid within 10 days of your statement closing date and see the discount applied to your next statement when you pay at the least the Minimum Payment Due by the Payment Due Date.

But a unique benefit of the Amex Plum card is that if you need extra time to pay off your balance, the Amex Plum card offers up to 60 days to pay without being charged interest as long as you make the minimum payment by your Payment Due Date.

Other benefits include rental car insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, some of the very best cards that American Express offers are no preset spending limit cards. While it is easy to see how someone might confuse no preset spending limit with no limit at all, the fact is that no matter how much you spend or how large your income is, each cardholder has some sort of variable limit.

For the most part, though, it is unlikely that you would ever reach the limit where Amex began denying further purchases unless you’re behind on previous payments or make a relatively large purchase out of nowhere. Fortunately for Amex cardholders, you can always use the spending power tool to double-check whether or not you’ll have any issues making a purchase on a no-preset limit card.

*No Preset Spending Limit on an American Express card means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.

For the trip delay insurance benefits of The Platinum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the purchase protection benefits of the Platinum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the American Express® Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the American Express® Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the purchase protection benefit of the American Express® Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
 
For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the American Express® Green Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the American Express® Green Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
For the purchase protection benefits of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For the trip delay insurance benefits of the American Express® Business Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the American Express® Business Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the American Express® Business Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the purchase protection benefit of the American Express® Business Gold Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
 
For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of The Plum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. For the purchase protection benefit of The Plum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the extended warranty benefit of The Plum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

The information regarding the American Express® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Business Green Rewards Card from American Express was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Business Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Plum Card® from American Express, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does no preset spending limit mean?

With American Express cards, no preset spending limit means you will not have a predefined monthly credit limit when you are approved for the card, but it does not mean you can spend an unlimited amount.

So every no preset spending limit Amex card does in fact have some sort of limit, but this is not preset at approval and can vary from month to month based on a variety of factors.

How does American Express determine spending limits?

On no preset spending limit cards, American Express will determine a range that it will allow a cardholder to charge up to based on factors like your monthly spending patterns, your payment history, credit history, and your stated income.

If you want to check about how much you can spend on your Amex card with no preset spending limit, you can use Amex’s spending power tool that will tell you instantly whether or not your purchase will be approved.

How can I get a card with no spending limit?

To get an Amex card with no preset spending limit all you need to do is apply and be approved. Many of the cards mentioned in this piece are not especially difficult to be approved for. But again, keep in mind that no preset spending limit does not equal no limit at all.

Does the Amex Platinum card have a limit?

The Amex Platinum card does not have a preset spending limit, but will have some sort of variable limit based on factors like your spending habits and income.

Does the Amex Black card have a limit?

The Centurion card (also known as the Amex Black card) does not have a preset spending limit, but will have some sort of variable limit based on factors like your spending habits and income.

What American Express card has no limit?

There are many American Express cards that do not come with a preset spending limit:

  • Amex Platinum card
  • Amex Gold card
  • Amex Green card
  • Centurion card (Amex Black card)
  • Amex Business Platinum card
  • Amex Business Gold card
  • Amex Business Green card
  • Amex Plum card

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About Jarrod West

Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.

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