Amex Marriott Bonvoy Card Benefits for Active-Duty U.S. Military Members [2024]

American Express does an excellent job of providing card benefits for active-duty military members. Since American Express also issues some of the best travel rewards cards, the added perk of military benefits results in some excellent card choices for servicemembers.

And, if you’re an active-duty servicemember who stays at Marriott properties, you’ll enjoy the same level of military benefits on American Express Marriott Bonvoy cards.

The foundation for military credit card benefits stems from the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act passed in 2003 (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act in 2006 (MLA). The laws set forth management requirements and fee relief for financial and credit transactions involving military members.

We’ll talk briefly about the acts, but our main focus today is how Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards and the American Express military benefits can add significant value for active-duty military members and their families.

How Do the SCRA and MLA Work?

Military members face several challenges during their service, some of which can be financial. The SCRA and MLA were passed to alleviate some of those financial burdens.

The laws initially applied to various financial transactions, including mortgages, car loans, and other installment loans. In 2017, credit card transactions were added.

The SCRA applies to credit granted to military members before their active-duty service, while the MLA applies to credit acquired during active duty.

The SCRA caps interest rates at 6% for credit cards acquired before active duty, and the MLA caps interest rates at 36% (including all credit card fees) on credit cards acquired during active duty.

How American Express Delivers SCRA and MLA Military Benefits

In addition to capping interest rates at 6% on credit cards acquired before active duty, American Express won’t charge the following fees for active-duty military members, their spouses, and eligible dependents for cards secured during active duty.

• Annual card fee
• Over-limit fees
• Late payment fees
• Returned payment fees
• Fees for statement copy requests.

Removal of the Annual Fee

One of the most significant benefits of Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards for active-duty servicemembers is the annual fee exemption. While this is true of personal cards, unlike most other card issuers, American Express won’t charge the annual fee on business cards.

Here are the annual fee savings you could realize as an active-duty military member:

Bottom Line:

American Express will remove the annual fees for personal and business cards for active-duty military members and eligible spouses/dependants.

Amex Marriott Bonvoy Welcome Offers Compared

A welcome offer is a unique opportunity to accumulate a large number of Marriott Bonvoy points in a short period of time. The welcome offer can be earned by meeting minimum spending requirements within a specific time period that starts as soon as you’re approved for a card.

Welcome offers vary, but you can count on an offer worth several free hotel nights, even when redeemed for luxury-level hotel properties.

You’ll want to check for the most recent welcome offer before applying. Here are the current welcome offers for Amex Marriott Bonvoy-branded cards:

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

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.

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 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 Offer

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

95,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$665

Annual Fee

$650

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

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 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $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.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy^® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: 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^®. 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 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.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 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.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $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

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

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 Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

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 Bevy™ American Express^® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

85,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$595

Annual Fee

$250

APR

19.99%-28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
• Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card.
• Marriott Bonvoy 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
• With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy^® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates.
• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card^® you can receive 15 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. Terms apply.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
• $250 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

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

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.

A great option for business owners who stay in Marriott hotels and want automatic elite status.

Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card

A great option for business owners who stay in Marriott hotels and want automatic elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 3 Free Night Awards, valued up to 50k points each for a total value of 150k points, after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

3 Free Night Awards

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,050

Annual Fee

$125

APR

19.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

Business travelers who opt for Marriott as their hotel chain of choice will definitely want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card. The card offers great benefits to cardholders like a complimentary hotel night once a year, complimentary Gold Elite status, and multiple point redemption options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x Marriott Bonvoy points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy^® program.
• 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Moderate annual fee of $125 (rates and fees)
• No premium perks like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• WELCOME OFFER: Earn 3 Free Night Awards after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Each Free Night Award has a redemption level up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points, for a total potential value of up to 150,000 points, at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees. Terms apply.
• Receive a 7% discount on eligible bookings as a benefit of being both a Marriott Bonvoy^® member & a Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card Member when you book directly with Marriott through an eligible channel for a participating property under the Amex Business Card Rate.
• 6x Marriott Bonvoy points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy^® program.
• 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
• 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
• Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Marriott Bonvoy Business^® American Express^® Card.
• Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

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

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Bottom Line:

Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards each come with a generous welcome offer that can be earned by meeting minimum spending requirements in the specified period after card approval.

Earning Potential

Referral Bonus Opportunities

One easy way to earn Marriott Bonvoy points is to refer a friend or family member for a Marriott Bonvoy-branded American Express card. For each approved referral, you’ll receive Marriott Bonvoy points. The amount can vary depending on whether there is a promotion, but generally, you can receive a maximum of 50,000 to 100,000 bonus points each year.

American Express is also unique in that when your friend uses your referral link, they can select from any of the offered American Express cards and you will receive the bonus, not just the same card from which you referred.

If you refer just 3 people, you could potentially earn 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points — enough for a weekend getaway.

Spending on the Cards

You’ll earn well when using your Marriott Bonvoy card for spending at Marriott Bonvoy properties, but you’ll also earn on everyday spending.

Here are all the ways you can earn Marriott Bonvoy bonus points on Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards:

As you’ll notice, each card earns 6x points at Marriott properties, but these are just base earnings. You’ll earn additional points with each property stay plus bonus earnings for having Marriott Bonvoy elite status, which comes complimentary with each card. We’ll talk more about Marriott Bonvoy-specific card benefits shortly.

In addition to earning on Marriott purchases, bonus earning categories differ by card. The best card for earning will depend on your actual spending mix.

Bottom Line:

Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards earn 6x points at participating Marriott properties. Additionally, each card offers its specific mix of bonus-earning categories. All Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards earn 2x points on all other purchases.

Redemption Options

If you’re a fan of Marriott, earning Marriott Bonvoy points to redeem for hotel nights can open up new opportunities to offset the expense of your next family vacation.

You’ll have several options when it’s time to redeem your hard-earned Marriott Bonvoy points.

Free Hotel Nights

The best value (and perhaps the most fun) is to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel nights. One of the best options is to book a stay where you receive the fifth award night free. For example, if a hotel costs 20,000 points per night, you will pay 80,000 points for 5 nights versus 100,000. It’s a great way to make your rewards go further.

You can also redeem your points for award nights that start at 5,000 points. You’ll pay much more for luxury hotel properties and stays during peak times.

Transfer to Airline Partners

Although redeeming your Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel nights can deliver the best value for your rewards points, transferring your points to airlines to purchase award flights is an additional redemption option.

Most transfer options are offered with a ratio of 3:1, Marriott Bonvoy points to airline frequent flyer miles. If you transfer at least 60,000 points, you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus with most partners. This means that transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points would generally equal 25,000 miles.

Additional Redemption Options

Additional redemption options include gift cards, merchandise, Marriott Bonvoy Moments experiences, TSA PreCheck fees, car rentals, or charitable donations. Note that some options may result in poor value for your reward points.

Hot Tip:

The Marriot Bonvoy Brilliant card has an annual statement credit for eligible restaurant purchases of up to $300 (enrollment required). You’ll earn 3x points on every restaurant purchase, plus a statement credit of up to $25 each month for a total of $300 in a calendar year.

Marriott Bonvoy-Specific Benefits

Marriott Bonvoy benefits are key reasons for securing an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card. Free night certificates, complimentary Marriott Bonvoy elite status with corresponding benefits, and bonus earnings at Marriott properties all provide significant value.

Here are the Marriott Bonvoy-centric benefits you can expect with your card.

Free Hotel Night Certificate

One of the most valuable benefits of Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards is the free night certificates. Free night certificates can be worth various amounts depending on the card and can be issued after card renewal or when spending thresholds are met each year.

Here are the free night certificates you can expect on each card:

Hot Tip:

For creative ideas on using your Marriott Bonvoy free night certificates, we’ve put together a list that will trigger your wanderlust. Here are some of the best properties for redeeming your Marriott free night certificates.

A Faster Path to Elite Status

Each Amex Marriott Bonvoy card comes with complimentary Marriott Bonvoy elite status. In addition, each card provides Elite Night Credits that count toward even higher elite status.

Elite status can include benefits such as upgraded rooms, bonus earnings on stays, early check-in/late checkout, complimentary breakfast, lounge access, and more.

Here’s a summary of the levels of elite status granted with each card and the number of Elite Night Credits you can expect.

Elite Night Credits can be accumulated from a maximum of 1 personal and 1 business card. For example, if you had the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, you would receive a total of 40 nights toward elite status (25+15).

Additional Elite Night Credits can be earned by staying at Marriott properties. Here are the total number of Elite Night Credits you’ll need for each Marriott Bonvoy elite status level:

To learn more about the benefits at each level of Marriott Bonvoy elite status, our in-depth article explains in detail.

Additional Bonus Earnings on Marriott Stays

You’ll receive up to 50% in additional bonus earnings when using an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card due to the complimentary Platinum Elite status that comes with the card.

With the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, you’ll earn an additional 1,000 bonus points on every eligible Marriott stay when paying with your card.

Discounted Hotel Rates

The Marriott Bonvoy Business card offers a 7% discount, available at booking, on all participating Marriott hotel stays. You must log in to your online Marriott Bonvoy account to receive the discount when making the reservation.

Bottom Line:

Marriott Bonvoy benefits that can come with Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards include free night certificates, elite status with related benefits, additional bonus earnings on stays, and discounted hotel rates.

Travel Protection and Benefits Comparison

Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards have several useful travel protections and benefits.

Before we expand on the details of each one, let’s look at a summary of how the cards compare.

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance

All Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards come with secondary car rental insurance. Secondary coverage means that you must first file a claim with any other auto insurance that might apply.

To activate coverage, reserve and pay for your rental car with your card, and decline the rental agency’s CDW/LDW coverage to receive protection for damage or theft of the rental vehicle.

You’ll also have the option to purchase Premium Protection, which includes primary car rental coverage, for just 1 low price that covers the entire rental period, up to 42 consecutive days.

Rates for Premium Protection coverage range from $12.25 to $24.95 for the entire rental period, depending on the level of coverage selected and your state of residence.

Trip Delay Insurance

If your trip is delayed for more than 6 hours for covered reasons, you could receive up to $500 per trip with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card. The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card will provide up to $300 per trip for delays of over 12 hours. There is a limited of 2 claims per 12-month period. The Marriott Bonvoy Business card does not offer trip delay coverage.

Baggage Insurance Plan

With the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, you could receive a combined maximum of up to $3,000 for carry-on and checked bags and up to $2,000 for just checked luggage if your bags are lost or stolen. Coverage with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business card is up to $1,250 for carry-on and up to $500 for checked bags.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Reimbursement

Pay for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application or renewal fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and receive a statement credit for the amount of the fee. Statement credits are valid for 1 fee every 4 years for Global Entry or every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck.

Priority Pass Select Membership

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card has worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 locations (enrollment required). Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership also includes access for 2 additional guests.

Bottom Line:

Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards come with several useful travel protections and benefits. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card offers the best collection with car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay, baggage insurance, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement, and Priority Pass Select membership.

Comparing Shopping Protection and Benefits

Shopping protections can provide coverage if something should go wrong with an eligible purchase. Benefits can save you money or help you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points.

Here is a summary of key shopping protections and benefits you’ll find on our featured cards, followed by details of each one.

Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty

Purchase an eligible item with any of the 3 featured Amex Marriott Bonvoy cards and receive coverage for damage or theft for up to 90 days from the date of purchase. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card provide protection for up to $10,000 per eligible item, up to $50,000 per card. The Marriott Bonvoy Business card has a limit of $1,000 per eligible item, $50,000 per card.

Eligible items purchased with any Amex Marriott Bonvoy card with manufacturer’s warranties of 5 years or less will receive 1 additional year of protection with Amex extended warranty coverage.

Return Protection

If a merchant does not accept the return of an eligible item purchased with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card within 90 days of the purchase date, you could receive up to $300 per item, up to $1,000 per calendar year.

Cell Phone Protection

Pay for your monthly cell phone bill with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card and receive coverage for theft or damage of up to $800 per claim. There is an up to $50 deductible per claim and a maximum of 2 claims per 12-month period.

Amex Offers

Amex Offers can save you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars annually. Simply log in to your online Marriott Bonvoy card account and select from retail and service provider offers. Then, make the required purchase to receive a statement credit or additional Marriott Bonvoy points.

Qualification and Requesting Benefits

Before applying for an Amex Marriott Bonvoy-branded card, you’ll want to ensure you qualify for military benefits, meet the card requirements, and then follow up to request benefits.

Here’s how to get the process started and ultimately receive your benefits.

Who Qualifies for Amex Military Benefits

Before applying for any credit card offering military benefits, it’s best to ensure you meet the card issuer’s qualifications.

Here are the general requirements for American Express SCRA/MLA benefits:

• An active-duty full-time military member or reserve member of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
• A National Guard member who has been on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days
• A commissioned officer of NOAA or the Public Health Service
• A U.S. citizen serving in the U.S. allied forces during war or military action

Additionally, American Express won’t charge fees for spouses and eligible dependents (as defined in 38 USC 101(4).

For credit cards acquired before active duty but after September 20, 2017, the SCRA will apply. For cards acquired during active duty, the MLA will apply.

How To Apply for Amex Marriott Bonvoy Cards as an Active-Duty Military Member

Once you’ve determined you’re qualified for American Express military benefits, you can apply for your preferred card.

Before you do, here are some tips for applying for an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card:

• Verify Your Active-Duty Status Record — American Express will use the Department of Defense database to verify your active-duty status and the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) for eligible dependants. Check these databases via the MLA website to verify your records reflect your, or your dependent’s, status.
• Check Your Credit Score — You’ll need a good to excellent credit score to be approved for an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card. While this is generally considered a score of 670 or above, we recommend a score of 700+ to increase your chances of approval.
• Review American Express Card Approval Rules — American Express generally limits the number of cards you can have to 5 cards, including business cards. You’ll want to review the rules before applying if you have other Amex cards.
• Application Information — Be sure to select the Military as your source of income, as this can trigger military benefits automatically after verification (but not always).

You may be approved immediately for the card, or American Express may need more time to review your application.

You may also receive military benefits automatically after approval if American Express successfully validates your active-duty status via the government database using your Social Security number.

How To Request Benefits (Do This After You’re Approved)

Once you’ve been approved for an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card, you may automatically receive a confirmation that you’ll receive military benefits on your account.

If, for any reason, you do not, you can request benefits via your online card account under the Account Services option. Select either Credit Management or Payment & Credit Options, then SCRA Benefits.

• Call American Express at 800-253-1720, or if outside the U.S., call 336-393-1111 (collect)
• FAX your request, along with supporting documents and account numbers to American Express at 623-444-3000
• Mail your request and supporting information to American Express, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, P.O. Box 981535, El Paso, TX, 79998-1535

It can take several weeks for American Express to verify your status and process your request for benefits.

Generally, you’ll need to pay the initial annual fee and wait for American Express to reimburse you after validating your status. However, it is possible that the validation can happen based on your application, and benefits could be granted automatically.

Alternate Recommendations

Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, you could find tremendous value with The Platinum Card^® from American Express. The annual fee exemption as an active-duty military member makes the card a premier choice for service members.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

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.

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.

The 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 Offer

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

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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)

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 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 including 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 1,400 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)

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Card Highlights

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

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Why We Like this Card for Active-Duty Military

• $695 annual fee exemption (rates & fees)
• Generous welcome offer
• Complimentary worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 locations, including the Centurion Lounge network, Priority Pass (enrollment required), and Delta Sky Club
• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors Gold Elite status (enrollment required)
• Up to $200 in statement credits for airline incidental purchases (enrollment required)
• Cell phone protection

This is just a sampling of benefits from the Amex Platinum card. You can learn more about all of the Amex Platinum card’s benefits for active-duty military members in our detailed article on the topic.

Final Thoughts

Securing an Amex Marriott Bonvoy card if you’re an active-duty military member can be a solid economic choice. You’ll earn award hotel nights faster, add comfort to your stays, enjoy statement credits for specific purchases, and receive benefits you can actually use.

You’ll also want to check out the additional Marriott Bonvoy-branded credit cards and travel rewards credit cards that may provide good value for active-duty members who stay at Marriott properties

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For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. 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.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for eligible persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a common carrier vehicle ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible account. Coverage can be provided for up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus). For New York State residents, there is a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit for all covered persons per covered trip. 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.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for eligible persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a common carrier vehicle ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible account. Coverage can be provided for up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus). For New York State residents, there is a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit for all covered persons per covered trip. 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.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. geographic restrictions apply. 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. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. geographic restrictions apply. 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. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, car rental loss and damage insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the commercial car rental company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. geographic restrictions apply. 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. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, the maximum benefit amount for trip cancellation and interruption insurance is $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip delay insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip delay insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, up to $300 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 12 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the trip delay insurance benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, up to $300 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 12 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

For the extended warranty benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, when an American Express^® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. 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.

For the extended warranty benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, when an American Express^® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. 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.

For the extended warranty benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, when an American Express^® card member charges a covered purchase to an eligible card, extended warranty can provide up to one extra year added to the original manufacturer’s warranty. Applies to warranties of five (5) years or less. Coverage is up to the actual amount charged to your card for the item up to a maximum of $10,000; not to exceed $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. 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.

For the purchase protection benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, purchase protection is an embedded benefit of your card membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect covered purchases made on your eligible card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the covered purchase date. The coverage is limited up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Coverage limits apply. 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.

For the purchase protection benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card, purchase protection is an embedded benefit of your card membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect covered purchases made on your eligible card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the covered purchase date. The coverage is limited up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. Coverage limits apply. 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.

For the purchase protection benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, when an American Express^® card member charges a covered purchase with their eligible card, purchase protection can help protect their covered purchases for up to 90 days from the covered purchase date if it is stolen or accidentally damaged. The coverage is limited up to $1,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per card member account per calendar year. 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.

For the return protection benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, with return protection, you may return eligible purchases to American Express if the seller won’t take them back up to 90 days from the date of purchase. American Express may refund the full purchase price excluding shipping and handling, up to $300 per item, up to a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year per Card account, if you purchased it entirely with your eligible American Express^® Card. Purchases must be made in the U.S. or its territories. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

For the cell phone protection benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, coverage for a stolen or damaged eligible cellular wireless telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per eligible card account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per eligible card account per 12-month period. 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 cell phone protection benefit of the Amex Platinum card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.