Which is the best American Express card?

American Express issues dozens of cards, each with features and benefits offering advantages to a specific type of consumer. The best American Express card for you will reward you for your greatest expenses and has redemptions that you prioritize, whether that’s cash-back, Membership Rewards points, airline miles, or hotel points. The card’s benefits should be useful to you, with an annual fee you’re comfortable paying.

Is American Express or Visa more accepted?

Visa is the largest payment processing network and widely accepted globally, more than any other. American Express, however, is the top issuer of credit cards domestically and is now accepted by 99% of U.S. merchants. If you travel internationally, you should have a backup card (Visa or Mastercard) in case your American Express card isn’t accepted. In the U.S., the chances of it being accepted are quite high.

What is an Amex third-party card?

An Amex third-party card is a card that uses the American Express payment processing network but isn’t issued by American Express. For example, the bank Wells Fargo may issue a credit card and use the American Express network to process transactions between the merchant and Wells Fargo. The card would be a Wells Fargo card but carry the Amex logo, as well, because Amex serves as the processing network. Amex may also provide some of the benefits that come with these third-party cards.

Which is better, Membership Rewards or cash-back?

Membership Rewards points are one of the most valuable rewards currencies because they’re so easy to use at redemption time. If you’re a traveler, having the ability to transfer rewards points to airline and hotel partners to receive potentially greater than 1 cent in value per point makes Membership Rewards better than cash-back. If however, you want simplicity in your redemptions and prefer statement credits, cash-back may be a better choice.

Does Amex do cash-back?

American Express issues several cash-back cards, including the popular Amex Blue Cash Everyday card and the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card. You earn cash-back on each eligible purchase (minimum 1%) and elevated bonus earnings on specific category purchases, such as supermarkets. You earn cash-back in the form of Reward Dollars, which are deposited into your rewards account. You can redeem rewards once your statement period ends and you have made at least the minimum required payment on your account. You can redeem Reward Dollars for a statement credit, gift cards, or merchandise. As long as your card is active, rewards do not have an expiration date.

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Credit Cards

The Best American Express Credit Cards for Rewards, Perks, and Cash-Back [2025]

Updated: October 15, 2025, 12:35pm CDT

Edited by:

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Table of Contents

Overview
Earning Rewards With American Express Cards
Best Cards for Travel
Best Cards for Cash-Back
Best Business Cards
Best Airline Card
Best Hotel Cards
Types of American Express Credit Cards
How To Apply for an American Express Credit Card
What Credit Score Do You Need To Get an American Express Credit Card?
What Credit Limits Can I Get With an American Express Card?
How Many American Express Cards Can You Have?
Can You Combine Points on American Express Cards?
American Express Network Cards Not Issued by American Express
How We Selected the Best Amex Credit Cards
Final Thoughts

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether you’ve got a single card or dozens, chances are you’ve never really examined your credit card in depth. Which is a shame, because there’s a plethora of information on every credit card.

Go ahead: Look closely at each of the credit cards in your wallet. You’ll find the name of the financial institution that issued your card.

Now you’ll notice the distinctive logo of the payment processing network responsible for facilitating every transaction you make with the card. That network may be Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or even Discover. These processing networks serve as links between the financial institution that issued your card and the merchant from which you’re making a purchase.

Visa and Mastercard have the single purpose of operating as card networks and do not actually issue credit cards.

American Express, however, is special. It plays a more expanded role, serving as both a card issuer and a payment processing network.

That’s part of the reason why American Express excels when it comes to issuing a diverse collection of cards, adding benefits that relate to each card’s target audience and making it easy for nearly every consumer to find a card that fits their lifestyle.

So now you’ve learned about American Express just by looking at the card. Let’s take it further and talk about what the card itself can’t tell you: which American Express cards are best for each lifestyle.

Hide SummaryShow Summary

Best American Express Credit Cards for Rewards, Perks & Cash-back

Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Travel and Lounge Access
American Express^® Gold Card — Best for Earning Points
American Express^® Green Card* — Best Midtier Card for Travel
Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express — Best for Cash-Back
Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express — Best Cash-Back Card With No Annual Fee
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best Business Card for Travel and Lounge Access
American Express^® Business Gold Card — Best Business Card for Earning Points
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card — Best Business Card for Amazon
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card — Best Premium Delta Card
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card — Best Premium Hilton Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card — Best Premium Marriott Card

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

Overview

*The information regarding the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card was independently collected and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Earning Rewards With American Express Cards

There are several ways to earn rewards with American Express cards. Membership Rewards points provide value and flexibility, cash-back rewards offer liquidity, and co-branded airline and hotel cards earn miles or points that add to your loyalty program rewards balances.

Let’s look at the types of reward-earning with Amex cards.

Membership Rewards

Membership Rewards points are among the most valuable types of rewards points you can earn because they’re so flexible at redemption time. For the best value, redeem Membership Rewards on flights via Amex Travel or American Express transfer partners.

The Amex Platinum card and the Amex Gold card are examples of cards that earn Membership Rewards points.

Cash-Back Rewards

Cash-back is one of the most flexible types of rewards, as it can directly affect your bottom line. Cash-back earning structures and redemption processes are also generally easy to understand and execute.

There are cards that automatically apply cash-back each billing period as a statement credit and cards that allow cash-back earnings to accumulate over time.

Examples of cash-back credit cards include the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card.

Co-Branded Card Rewards

American Express issues cards that are branded with both airline and hotel groups and that earn rewards in the form of miles or points in the affiliated loyalty rewards program of that brand.

For example, the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card earns Delta SkyMiles, and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card earns Hilton Honors points.

Bottom Line: The collection of American Express-issued cards offers several reward-earnings options including valuable Membership Rewards, cash-back, and miles and points on co-branded airline and hotel cards.

Best Cards for Travel

Travel rewards cards have travel-focused earning structures and redemptions. The right travel rewards card can save you money, make your travels more comfortable, and provide travel-related protections and benefits.

American Express has done a good job of understanding travelers’ needs and steps up when it comes to delivering benefits for them, whether they’re domestic road-trippers or seasoned world travelers.

Amex Platinum Card (Best for Travel and Lounge Access)

+ NEW BENEFITS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

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

Apply Now(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.

Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
As High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to $3,850

Annual Fee

$895

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

Pros

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,550 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), 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

$895 annual fee (rates and fees)
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards^® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel^®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts^® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel^® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection^®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club^® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card^® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card^® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card^® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel^® using the Platinum Card^®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card^® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card^®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
More Value! $209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card^®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card^® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts^® through American Express Travel^®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card^® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card^®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
$100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card^®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
$895 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: See Pay Over Time APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Known as the premier travel rewards card, the Amex Platinum card offers one of the best collections of benefits available, plus earnings bonuses and redemptions that deliver strong travel-related value.

In addition to worldwide lounge access, elevated earnings on select category purchases, and the statement credits listed above, the Amex Platinum card offers these additional benefits:

Access to over 1,550 lounges as part of the Amex Global Lounge Collection
Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors upon enrollment
Rental car status and benefits with Hertz, National, and Avis
Statement credit for TSA PreCheck or a statement credit for Global Entry (but not both)
Membership Rewards redemptions for flights via AmexTravel.com, gift cards, and more
Points transfer to travel partners for potentially greater value
Amex Offers

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of earning Membership Rewards points is the ability to redeem points by transferring to airline and hotel travel partners for premium travel experiences.

This flexibility inspired us to search for and write about the best ways to maximize the points for luxury travel.

Hot Tip: Find out if you meet the required credit score for the Amex Platinum card by reading our guide.

Amex Gold Card (Best for Earning Points)

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating

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!

Apply Now(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.

American Express^® Gold Card

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!

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

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

$325 annual fee (rates and fees)
No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
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 get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
$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 U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
$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: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 100,000 points with the Amex Gold card. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

While the Amex Gold card functions powerfully as an everyday spending card, it also carries enough travel benefits to make it a contender for a place in your wallet if you’re a traveler.

Earn well at U.S. supermarkets, restaurants, and qualifying flight purchases, but also know that your card is earning valuable Membership Rewards points that can be redeemed for great travel value.

Here are some of the additional benefits you can expect with the card:

Up to $120 in dining credits each year
Up to $120 in Uber Cash each year
$100 hotel credit for 2-night-or-more stays at American Express Hotel Collection properties
Membership Rewards redemptions for flights via AmexTravel.com, gift cards, and more
Points transfers to travel partners for greater potential value
Amex Offers

Some of the benefits above require enrollment.

We like that the Amex Gold card has a dual purpose: earning well on everyday purchases yet coming through with good value when you’re purchasing flights or redeeming points for travel experiences.

Amex Green Card (Best Midtier Card for Travel)

American Express^® Green Card

U.P. Rating

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.

American Express^® Green Card

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

Welcome OfferEarn 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

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $880

Annual Fee

$150

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

Pros

3x points per $1 spent at restaurants worldwide, on all eligible travel purchases, and transit purchases
Up to $209 per calendar year in statement credits after you pay for a CLEAR^® Plus membership with the Card.
Access to American Express transfer partners

Cons

$150 annual fee
No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

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.
$209 CLEAR Plus Credit: Receive up to $209 per calendar year in statement credits when you pay for your CLEAR Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the American Express^® Green Card.
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

Perhaps you’re not a seasoned world traveler but want to get started with a travel rewards card that doesn’t charge a high annual fee yet offers a nice, well-rounded collection of travel-related benefits.

With the Amex Green card, you receive bonus earnings at restaurants worldwide and on travel purchases. All other purchases receive 1x earnings.

Here are additional benefits that come with the card:

Up to $209 statement credit each year toward CLEAR^® Plus membership
Earns valuable Membership Rewards points
Redeem points for travel via AmexTravel.com or transfer to travel partners for greater potential value
No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)

Bottom Line: If you travel even occasionally, get at least 1 travel rewards card offering related earnings bonuses and redemptions plus a collection of associated travel benefits. American Express offers nearly a dozen travel rewards cards from which to select.

Best Cards for Cash-Back

American Express shines when it comes to rewarding everyday spending with cash-back rewards. You earn cash-back on every purchase in the form of Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, and merchandise.

Here are 2 of the most popular cash-back-earning American Express cards:

Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card (Best for Cash-Back)

GREAT FOR CASH BACK

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express

U.P. Rating

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

Apply Now(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.

Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

Welcome OfferEarn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$250

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$250

Annual Fee

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select U.S. streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases, this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases, this could be the card for you!

Pros & Cons

Pros

6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year)
6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)

Cons

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee (rates and fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Low Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.99% - 28.99%.
Plan It^®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express^® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred^® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Rewards Center

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

Cash-back rewards add up quickly when you qualify for the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card‘s initial welcome offer, plus you receive bonus-level earnings in the form of Reward Dollars on qualifying purchases you make on a daily basis.

We like these additional benefits offered on the card, as well:

Pay It Plan It^® repayment plan
Travel accident insurance

Amex Blue Cash Everyday Card (Best Cash-Back Card With No Annual Fee)

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

U.P. Rating

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Apply Now(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.

Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Welcome OfferEarn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$200

UP's Offer Valuation*:
$200

Annual Fee

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.

Cons

Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
No Annual Fee.
Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR.
Plan It^®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express^® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, on eligible purchases for each category on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
Get up to a $7 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday^® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at Disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Making everyday purchases without earning cash-back is simply missing out. Especially when the no-annual-fee Amex Blue Cash Everyday card makes the process seamless.

In addition to everyday earning power, you receive these added benefits:

Pay It Plan It^® repayment plan
Monthly statement credits for eligible Disney Streaming subscriptions and Home Chef (enrollment required)

Bottom Line: Cash-back is one of the most flexible types of rewards you can earn. American Express-issued cash-back cards allow your Reward Dollars to accumulate so you can determine when and how you want to redeem your rewards.

Best Business Cards

At some point in the midst of growing your business, you’ve probably realized the value of keeping personal and business expenses separate by using a business credit card. You may have also realized that a business card also brings you the benefits of organization, balancing cash-flow, and additional business-related features.

American Express knows the needs of business owners and reflects that knowledge in its card offerings. Here are some of the best American Express business cards:

Amex Business Platinum Card (Best Business Card for Travel and Lounge Access)

ELEVATED WELCOME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating

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

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome OfferEarn 150,000 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
150,000 200,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $4,400

Annual Fee

$895

APR

18.24% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

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 1,550 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Earn 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through AmexTravel.com
Access to over 1,550 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
Earn 2x Membership Rewards points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)

Cons

High annual fee of $895 (rates & fees)
Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card^® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
New! Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
Make the Business Platinum Card^® work even harder for you. Hilton For Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Benefit enrollment required.
Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
New! Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
New! Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
1X points on other eligible purchases
$895 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 18.24% - 28.99% Variable
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 250,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum card. The current public offer is ~~150,000~~ 200,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

When your business requires a lot of travel, you need a card that can live up to the associated demands. Receiving statement credits for airline incidentals and having worldwide lounge access is certainly a good start, but the Amex Business Platinum card offers much more.

Here are some of the benefits, in addition to those mentioned in the snapshot above, that you can expect with the card:

2x 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)
Up to $200 in Hilton statement credits after enrollment
Statement credit for a TSA PreCheck application fee or a statement credit for a Global Entry application fee
35% rebate when redeeming Membership Rewards points for flights on your pre-selected airline via Amex Travel
Points transfers to travel partners for potentially greater value
Amex Offers

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

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Business Gold Card

U.P. Rating

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

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

American Express^® Business Gold Card

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

Welcome OfferEarn 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

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $2,200

Annual Fee

$375

APR

18.24% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

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

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

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.*
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 comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and White Gold. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
*Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

APR: 18.24% - 28.99% Variable
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 200,000 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.)

Unlike bonus earnings on the personal Amex Gold card, the Amex Business Gold card focuses its earnings on common business-related expenses and offers benefits geared toward businesses.

No preselection is required, as cardmembers receive 4x bonus earnings automatically. Each statement period, your highest 2 expenses from these qualifying purchase categories receive 4x earnings, up to $150,000 per year:

Tickets purchased directly from the airline
Radio, online, and TV advertising from U.S. providers
Qualifying U.S. provider technology purchases including computer hardware, software, and cloud solutions
U.S. gas station purchases
U.S. restaurant purchases
Shipping purchases from U.S. providers

While bonus category earnings focus on business-related expenses, so do these card benefits:

Employee cards at no additional cost (rates & fees)
QuickBooks compatibility
The American Express business app to load receipts and notes
Year-end statements help organize your expenses at tax time
Mobile account management and alerts

Amazon Business Prime Amex Card* (Best Business Card for Amazon)

Amazon Business Prime American Express Card

U.P. Rating

All information about Amazon Business Prime American Express Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Amazon Business Prime American Express Card

Welcome OfferEligible Prime Members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.
$125 Amazon Gift Card

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $125

Annual Fee

APR

19.49% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Amazon Business Prime Amex card is a compelling option for business owners who frequently make purchases with Amazon, Amazon Business, Amazon Web Services, and Whole Foods.

Pros & Cons

Pros

5% back, or 90-day terms, on U.S. purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Business, AWS, and Whole Foods Market on the first $120,000 in purchases each calendar year, 1% Back thereafter
2% back on U.S. purchases at restaurants, gas stations, and wireless phone services purchased directly from service providers
1% back on all other purchases

Cons

5% back rewards are limited to $120,000 per year in purchases
Requires an Amazon Prime membership

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Eligible Prime Members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.
Take advantage of 5% Back or 90 Day Terms on U.S. purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Business, AWS and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership. You will earn 5% Back on the first $120,000 in purchases each calendar year, 1% Back thereafter
2% Back at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers
1% Back on other purchases
$0 Annual Fee
Back your business with the broad selection of Amazon and the service of American Express. Stay focused on your top business priorities, knowing we’re behind you.
With rewards that don’t expire, you choose when to redeem. Redeem rewards on millions of items during checkout at Amazon.com and Amazon Business (U.S.) or apply towards a purchase on your statement.
Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

If your business involves high-volume purchases on Amazon, the Amazon Business Prime Amex card could add serious cash to your bottom line. And with no annual fee, the Amazon Business Prime Amex card could also serve as the perfect companion card to a primary business card.

Bottom Line: We’ve only listed a few of Amex’s business card options here, but American Express offers more than a dozen business cards. Each card has earnings bonuses and redemptions focused on business owners, regardless of the size of your operation. We’ve dug deep into the collection can recommend the best American Express business credit cards.

*The information regarding the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card was independently collected and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Best Airline Card

Delta Reserve Card (Best Premium Delta Card)

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

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.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome OfferEarn 125,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 10/29/2025.
125,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $1,500

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases.
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.

Cons

$650 annual fee (rates & fees)
No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 125,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 10/29/2025.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members receive 15 Visits per Medallion^® Year to the Delta Sky Club^® when flying Delta and can unlock an unlimited number of Visits after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you’ll receive four One-Time Guest Passes each Medallion Year so you can share the experience with family and friends when traveling Delta together.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
$240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
$120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
With your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
$650 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

If Delta is your airline of choice, the Delta Reserve card will enhance that relationship with Delta-specific perks, earnings, and redemption options.

Priority boarding and free checked bag
Complimentary Delta Sky Club access
4 single-visit Delta Sky Club guest passes each year
Complimentary Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta
Delta SkyMiles companion flight certificate on each card anniversary
Statement credit for TSA PreCheck application fee or a statement credit for Global Entry application fee
Upgrade priority over travelers with the same level of elite status
Discounted CLEAR membership
Access to Pay with Miles redemption option
A faster path to Delta SkyMiles Medallion elite status

While the Delta Reserve card is top of the line when it comes to Delta-branded cards, American Express issues additional cards that may offer better value for the Delta loyalist:

To review all the Delta-branded cards available, including business cards, visit our article on the best cards for Delta loyalists.

Best Hotel Cards

If you frequent a particular hotel brand, you may be familiar with how loyalty program status can enhance your experience when you stay at that brand’s hotels. A hotel-branded card steps up that experience even further.

Here are our choices for some of the best hotel-branded American Express cards.

Hilton Aspire Card (Best Premium Hilton Card)

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

U.P. Rating

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Apply Now(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.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Welcome OfferEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026. 
175,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
7x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants
3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

High annual fee of $550 (rates & fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026.
Card Members can earn 14X Points on purchases made directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
Card Members can earn 7X Points on purchases of Flights booked directly with airlines or flights booked through American Express Travel, Car rentals purchased directly from select car rental companies, and purchases at U.S. Restaurants.
Card Members can earn 3X Points on all other eligible purchases.
Enhance your hotel stay with complimentary Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status and enjoy a world of hotel privileges and benefits. Get exclusive perks at any of Hilton's 24 hotel brands, like a 100% Bonus on Base Points earned on every stay, Premium Wi-Fi and space-available room upgrades at select properties, and more.
Enjoy an Annual Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors in your first year of Card Membership and every year upon Card renewal.
$400 Hilton Resort Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually for eligible purchases made directly with participating Hilton Resorts on your Hilton Honors Aspire Card. That's up to $400 back annually.
$200 Flight Credit: Get up to $50 in statement credits each quarter, for a total of up to $200 back each year, on flight purchases made directly with an airline or through amextravel.com using your Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you can earn an additional Free Night Reward from Hilton after you spend an additional $30,000 (for a total of $60,000) in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
$209 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: You can receive up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you sign up and pay for a CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your eligible Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card.
$100 Property Credit: How it Works: To receive up to $100 in credits for qualifying hotel charges, book a 2-night minimum stay at participating Waldorf Astoria^® Hotels & Resorts and Conrad^® Hotels & Resorts with your Card through hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com and select the Aspire Card Benefit rate option on the booking page or call Hilton Honors at (855) 292-5757 with the proper booking reference. See Terms & Conditions for further details.
Hilton Honors Aspire Card Members can enjoy complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status, including perks like Executive Area Access (for full-size reservations and above) in the USA and Canada. Card Members must enroll in the National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status through their American Express online account using their Card. Terms apply.
$550 annual fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

In addition to the exceptional earnings mentioned in the card snapshot above, the Hilton Aspire card offers these premier benefits of interest to any Hilton Honors loyalist:

Complimentary top-tier Diamond Elite status
Priority Pass Select membership with access to over 1,300 lounge properties worldwide
3x earnings on all other purchases
Additional free hotel night certificate after spending $60,000 in a calendar year on the card
$400 Hilton Resort statement credit (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually)
$200 airline incidental fees statement credit
$100 property credit for stays of 2 nights or more at Conrad and Waldorf Astoria properties

Find a Hilton Honors-branded card that fits your travel profile with these additional American Express-issued Hilton Honors cards that come with elite status, elevated earnings, free hotel nights, and more:

For an in-depth look at all of the best cards for Hilton loyalists, we’ve created an informative overview.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card (Best Premium Marriott Card)

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply Now(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.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
100,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $700

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status.
$300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
A Marriott Bonvoy^® Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
$100 Marriott Bonvoy^® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, with an unlimited number of visits to over 1,200 airport lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
Trip Cancelled or Interrupted? If you purchase a round-trip entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason cancels or interrupts your trip, we may be able to help. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
$650 Annual Fee.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99%-28.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Designed for the ultimate Marriott Bonvoy loyalist, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card delivers elite status, top earnings at Marriott properties, free hotel nights, and travel and shopping benefits.

Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
1 free hotel night certificate every year after your card’s renewal month, up to 85,000 points
25 elite night credits toward a higher status level
Statement credit for TSA PreCheck application fee or a statement credit Global Entry application fee
Restaurant and flight purchases receive 3x bonus earnings, 2x on all other purchases
Up to $25 per month in dining statement credits (enrollment required)
$100 property credit for stays of 2 nights or more at Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, or St. Regis properties

There are several Marriott Bonvoy-branded cards available. Some of these cards are issued by American Express and others by Chase. You can find the best of both in our article on the best credit cards for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists.

Bottom Line: Hotel-branded cards enhance the benefits of hotel loyalty programs by elevating earnings, expanding redemptions, and offering free hotel nights and on-site property benefits. For more information on the best hotel-branded cards, our article provides an excellent overview.

Types of American Express Credit Cards

American Express offers 2 main types of cards: personal and business credit cards. Within each of those categories are multiple subtypes, including rewards cards, cash-back cards, airline cards, and hotel cards.

Rewards cards are tied to the American Express Membership Rewards program. Some of the best rewards cards offered by American Express include:

Amex Platinum card and Amex Business Platinum card
Amex Gold card and Amex Business Gold card
Amex Green card and Business Green Rewards Card from American Express
The Blue Business^® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Cash-back credit cards are limited to earning cash-back rewards and include cards like:

Amex Blue Cash Preferred card
Amex Blue Cash Everyday card
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card

Airline cards are linked to a co-branded airline partner, which in the case of American Express is Delta, so the rewards and perks for the card are tied to Delta. These cards include:

Delta Reserve card and Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card
Delta Platinum card and Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card
Delta Gold card and Delta SkyMiles^® Gold Business American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles^® Blue American Express Card

Similarly, hotel cards are linked to a co-branded hotel partner, but in this case, American Express offers both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy co-branded cards. Some of the top cards include:

Hilton Aspire card
Hilton Surpass Card
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card
Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

How To Apply for an American Express Credit Card

Applying for an American Express card is easy. First, make sure that you meet the following requirements:

You are at least 21 years old
You have a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
You have a source of income

From there, submit an application and provide details like your name, date of birth, Social Security number, annual income, address, and so on.

Once you’ve submitted your application, you may receive a yes or no response right away, or it may take up to 7 to 14 days for American Express to give you their decision.

What Credit Score Do You Need To Get an American Express Credit Card?

No credit score will guarantee that you’ll be approved for any American Express credit card. Your credit score is not the only factor that American Express considers — your income, the amount of credit that has been extended to you, and your history with American Express can all play a part in their decision.

That said, most applications with a credit score of 670 or higher usually have strong odds of approval for the full suite of American Express credit cards.

What Credit Limits Can I Get With an American Express Card?

The credit limit you receive for your American Express card depends on a variety of factors, including what type of card you are approved for, your credit score, your income, and the credit limits on your other American Express cards.

How Many American Express Cards Can You Have?

The number of cards you can have with American Express depends on what type of cards you hold with the credit issuer. Traditionally, American Express limits customers to 5 credit cards, though your experience may vary.

However, historically, cards that do not come with preset spending limits do not count toward the 5 credit card limit. These cards include the Amex Platinum card, the Amex Business Platinum card, the Amex Gold card, the Amex Business Gold card, and the Amex Green card.

With no preset spending limit, 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.

Can You Combine Points on American Express Cards?

That depends on the type of cards you have. If your cards share the same rewards program, then yes. If the cards earn different rewards, then no.

For instance, if you hold both the Amex Platinum card and Amex Gold card, both of which earn Amex Membership Rewards points, then points from both cards are pooled in your Membership Rewards account.

On the other hand, if you hold the Delta Gold card, which earns Delta SkyMiles, and the Hilton Surpass card, which earns Hilton points, then these points cannot be combined.

American Express Network Cards Not Issued by American Express

We mentioned earlier that American Express operates as both a financial institution that issues credit cards and as a payment processing network that serves as a link between the financial institution and merchants.

There are, however, circumstances where American Express serves a single role, as only a payment processing network for a card issued by a financial institution other than American Express.

Here are a few examples of cards, also known as third-party cards, that utilize the American Express payment processing network but are not issued by American Express, along with some of their benefits:

U.S. Bank Cash 365™ American Express Card — no annual fee and 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
USAA^® Cashback Rewards Plus American Express^® Card — no annual fee with 5% cash-back on the first $3,000 in purchases at gas stations and military bases and 2% cash-back on the first $3,000 each year at grocery stores. (For those interested in military cards, see our post on the best credit cards for members of the military.)
USAA^® Secured Card American Express — best for those with no credit or poor credit

In addition to American Express processing transactions made on these cards, some of the benefits that come with these cards may also be American Express benefits.

Bottom Line: American Express occasionally serves as the payment processing network on cards issued by other financial institutions. The card-issuing financial institution may also offer American Express benefits with these cards.

How We Selected the Best Amex Credit Cards

At Upgraded Points, we evaluate Amex credit cards by the amount of value they offer to travelers. We evaluate each card on important factors including its benefits, earnings structure, welcome offers, redemption value and rewards program, fees, and more.

Here’s some insight into our thought process when selecting the best Amex cards:

Associated Benefits

The best Amex cards should offer great benefits for holding the card. These can include airport lounge access, automatic elite status, and annual statement credits.

Earnings Structure

One of the most important parts of a rewards credit card is the rewards you earn for everyday spending. We prioritize Amex cards that offer bonus categories you’re likely to use often, like dining and supermarkets.

Welcome Bonus Offers

The welcome bonus offer on a hotel card can give your points balance a nice boost early, which helps kick-start future award redemptions. Given that welcome bonus offers are a 1-time bonus and can be lucrative, factor into how we evaluate cards.

We provide you with the current welcome bonus offer information available for each card, but you should still confirm the offer and review earnings offers before applying for any card.

Fees

Many of the best Amex cards charge an annual fee for holding the card, so make sure you’re getting enough value from the card each year to justify it.

Redemption Value

The more valuable these rewards you get from a card, the more valuable the card is to you. Because of this, we prefer cards that offer multiple high-value redemptions.

Hot Tip:

While the most desirable benefits and features of a card vary by person, our holistic approach gives readers the full picture of what they can expect from every card we review. To learn more about how we review cards, read through our methodology page.

Final Thoughts

With American Express functioning as a card issuer, payment processing network, and benefits provider, the resulting collection of cards is diverse.

Nearly every consumer, regardless of spending habits, annual fee preference, or desired benefits, can find an American Express card that’s potentially a perfect match.

And while you may currently need a backup Visa or Mastercard when traveling globally, the American Express acceptance network has expanded greatly, as evidenced by its acceptance at over 10 million merchants in the U.S. and 66 million worldwide.

If you’re curious how American Express stacks up to its competitors, check out our post comparing Amex to Chase.

The information regarding the U.S. Bank Cash 365™ American Express Card, USAA^® Cashback Rewards Plus American Express^® Card and USAA^® Secured Card American Express was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

There is no sign-up, application, or enrollment required for the Plan It^® feature for Amex Payment Flexibility.

Card	Welcome Offer	Annual Fee	Best For
Platinum Card^® from American Express	+ NEW BENEFITSAs High As 175,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.Platinum Card^® from American ExpressYou may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.	$895 (rates & fees)	Best for Travel and Lounges
American Express^® Gold Card	NEW OFFERAs High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.American Express^® Gold CardYou may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.	$325 (rates & fees)	Best for Earning Points
American Express^® Green Card	40,000 pointsAmerican Express^® Green CardEarn 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.	$150	Best Midtier Card for Travel
Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express	$250Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American ExpressEarn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.	$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 (rates & fees)	Best for Cash-Back
Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American Express	$200Blue Cash Everyday^® Card from American ExpressEarn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.	$0 (rates & fees)	Best Cash-Back Card With No Annual Fee
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express	ELEVATED WELCOME OFFER~~150,000~~ 200,000 pointsThe Business Platinum Card^® from American ExpressEarn ~~150,000~~ 200,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.	$895 (rates & fees)	Best Business Card for Travel and Lounges
American Express^® Business Gold Card	ELEVATED OFFER100,000 pointsAmerican Express^® Business Gold CardEarn 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.	$375 (rates & fees)	Best Business Card for Earning Points
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card*	$125 Amazon Gift CardAmazon Business Prime American Express CardEligible Prime Members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.	$0	Best Business Card for Amazon
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card	LIMITED TIME OFFER125,000 milesDelta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express CardEarn 125,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 10/29/2025.	$650 (rates & fees)	Best Premium Delta Card
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card	LIMITED TIME OFFER175,000 pointsHilton Honors American Express Aspire CardEarn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026.	$550 (rates & fees)	Best Premium Hilton Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card	100,000 pointsMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® CardEarn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.	$650 (rates & fees)	Best Premium Marriott Card