Amex Gold Card Benefits for Active-Duty U.S. Military Members

Serving on active duty in the U.S. military comes with a lot of sacrifices, including potential financial challenges. But there are ways to save money and create value for your military household with benefits such as those offered to military members by the American Express^® Gold Card.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) established in 2003, and the Military Lending Act (MLA) established in 2006, have helped make financial transactions less costly for service members. These relief acts help reduce financial burdens and provide consumer credit protection for qualifying military members who have secured credit prior to, or during, military service.

Some credit card issuers not only adhere to the requirements of these acts but expand the benefits to include eliminating fees on select credit cards.

Because American Express is one of those card issuers, we’re looking at military benefits for the popular Amex Gold card today. We’ll share how the card earns rewards, some of your options at redemption time, and benefits that could be helpful for active-duty military members.

How Do the SCRA and MLA Acts Work?

The SCRA applies to credit established prior to active duty and provides a cap of a 6% interest rate, including fees, on many financial obligations incurred prior to military service.

The MLA applies to credit established during military service and limits interest to 36% Military Annual Percentage Rate (MAPR) on certain loans and credit products. While 36% may seem high, the MLA applies to a variety of loans including payday loans, which are known to have high interest rates. The 36% includes all fees, credit insurance premiums, and finance charges.

Credit card issuer American Express, while adhering closely to the requirements of these acts, goes beyond the mandatory fundamentals as eligible active military members won’t be charged the annual fee, and other fees, on select credit card products.

The absence of annual fees can offer significant savings for a military member while providing a long list of valuable benefits.

Let’s look at a snapshot of the Amex Gold card and the benefits you’ll realize as an active-military cardholder. No doubt, the Amex Gold is one of the best credit cards for military members, and unlike a traditional card with a set limit, there is no preset spending limit, so the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.

Amex Gold Card Overview

American Express^® Gold 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.

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 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 Offer

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$325

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

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

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year. 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.
• $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.
• $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.
• 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

With a generous welcome offer that jumpstarts your earnings and ongoing bonus earnings for everyday purchases, the Amex Gold card makes it easy to earn a lot of rewards quickly. You’ll also receive statement credits for qualifying dining purchases and Uber Cash each month.

The card doesn’t charge any foreign transaction fees, making it a great card to have in your wallet when traveling outside of the U.S. (rates & fees).

Earning Potential ($3,000+ in Value!)

Now that you have a snapshot of the key benefits of the Amex Gold card, let’s look closer at the potential value each benefit could provide an active military household. We’ll include an estimated value, when possible, of what the benefit might provide to a military member’s household.

Welcome Offer ($600+Value)

Welcome offers can change, so be sure to check for current offers in the table above prior to applying.

The value of the welcome offer you receive can vary depending on how you redeem your rewards. However, you can count on a value of 1 cent per Membership Rewards point when redeeming for flights via AmexTravel.com. A 60,000-point welcome offer, for example, would translate into $600 worth of eligible travel when redeemed via AmexTravel.com. A 90,000-point welcome offer provides $900 in travel.

You can also transfer Membership Rewards points to Amex transfer partners to redeem for free hotel nights and award flight tickets. Transferring points can result in potentially better value for your rewards points.

Everyday Purchases ($1,000 Value)

With the Amex Gold card, you’ll receive 4x Membership Rewards points on everyday purchases such as U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases each calendar year, then 1x), including commissaries coding as grocery stores. In addition, dining purchases worldwide (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1x points), including take-out and delivery, also receive 4x Membership Rewards points.

If you were to spend $25,000 each year in these bonus categories, you would earn 100,000 Membership Rewards points worth approximately $1,000 when redeemed via AmexTravel.com and even more potential value when transferring to hotel and airline partners.

Flight Purchases ($90 Value)

On flights purchased directly from the airline or via AmexTravel.com, you’ll receive 3x bonus earnings and 2x earnings for other qualifying travel via AmexTravel.com. For example, just $3,000 worth of qualifying flights would earn 9,000 Membership Rewards points.

Travel Benefits

Access to Hotel and Airline Partner Transfers (Value Varies)

While it’s difficult to put a defined value on the ability to transfer Membership Rewards points to travel partners, this redemption option is potentially the most valuable. While redeeming Membership Rewards via AmexTravel.com for 1 cent in value is an option, transferring points to hotel and airline partners for free hotel nights or award flight tickets could yield much greater results.

Access to American Express Hotel Collection Benefits ($100 Value)

Book a prepaid stay of 2 nights or more with The Hotel Collection via AmexTravel.com and receive hotel benefits that include daily breakfast for 2, an upgraded room (when available), early check-in/late checkout (when available), and a $100 on-site amenity.

Car Rental Loss and Damage Waiver ($100 Value)

Reserve and pay for your entire car rental with your card, decline the agency’s CDW/LDW coverage, and receive secondary coverage for damage and theft. Secondary means that any other applicable insurance must be accessed first. You’ll also have access to purchase Premium Protection which is primary for a low price ($12.95 to $24.95) that covers the entire rental period.

If you were to rent a vehicle for just 1 week each year, decline a CDW/LDW coverage costing $20 per day and purchase Premium Protection instead, you could have primary coverage and save approximately $100 on that rental. Terms and conditions apply.

Shopping Protection Perks (Value Varies)

Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty (Value Varies)

Purchase an eligible item with your card and receive purchase protection for up to 120 days of coverage for damage or theft from the date of purchase.

An extended warranty is provided for items purchased with your card that have manufacturer warranties of 5 years or less. The warranty will be extended for up to 2 additional years.

Shopping Advantages

Uber Cash ($120 Value)

Add your Amex Gold card as your payment method within your Uber account and receive $10 each month in Uber Cash deposited into your account, up to $120 each calendar year. Uber Cash can be used for Uber rides and Uber Eats in the U.S.

Dining Statement Credits ($304 Value)

Each month, you could receive statement credits of up to $10, for a maximum of up to $120 in statement credits each year, for qualifying dining purchases. Eligible dining redemptions include Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Wine.com, Goldbelly, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.

Additionally, the most recent statement credits include a $100 annual Resy statement credit ($50 semi-annually), redeemable at any U.S. Resy restaurant and other eligible Resy purchases and an $84 Dunkin’ annual statement credit ($7/month), redeemable at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.

Amex Offers ($100+ Value)

Amex Offers can save you hundreds of dollars a year. Log in to your online card account and browse through up to 100 offers that can save you money or earn you more points when you make a purchase with the selected retailer or service provider.

American Express Auto Purchasing Program ($500 Value)

If you can use this benefit, it is possible to save on your new car purchase. You’ll receive special pricing from participating dealers, up to $2,000 in post-purchase benefits, and the opportunity to pay for $2,000 or more of your car purchase with your card.

No Foreign Transaction Fees ($30 Value)

If you make $1,000 in foreign transactions each year, you’ll save the 3% transaction fees, or $30 (rates & fees).

Bottom Line: For the right cardholder, the Amex Gold card can offer potentially hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in benefits. 

No Annual Fee ($325 Value)

American Express won’t charge the annual fee for eligible active-duty military members, but also for their spouse, children, and qualifying dependents. We’ll talk more about eligibility shortly, but those family members and dependents who may also qualify.

Qualification for Amex’s Active-Duty Military Benefits

The first step to receiving SCRA or MLA benefits with American Express is to review the qualifications. You’ll also need to verify your status and request benefits. Here’s how to get the process started.

• An active-duty member of any military branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
• Active-duty reserves
• National Guard active-duty for more than 30 consecutive days
• A commissioned officer of a PHS or NOAA
• In war or in military action, a U.S. citizen serving with the U.S. allied forces
• The spouse of an active-duty military member when there is joint credit extended

You can confirm your active-duty status via the MLA database, and also the status of your spouse or dependents. This is the same source American Express uses to confirm eligibility.

Once you’ve determined you qualify for SCRA or MLA American Express benefits, you can apply for the American Express card of your choice. Once approved for the card, you can request benefits.

How To Request Amex Military Benefits

After card approval, you’ll have several options for requesting benefits.

American Express makes it easy to request SRCA or MLA benefits. Once you’ve been approved for the Amex Gold card, for example, you’ll want to log in to your online account, select Account Services, either Credit Management or Payment & Credit Options, then SCRA Benefits.

You can also utilize these methods to request benefits.

• CALL 800-253-1720 or outside the U.S. call 336-393-1111 (collect)
• FAX the documents to 623-444-3000 along with your American Express card numbers
• MAIL to American Express, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, P.O. Box 981535, El Paso, TX 79998-1535

Allow several weeks for American Express to verify your eligibility and process your documents.

Bottom Line: Whether you’re looking for relief based on the SCRA or MLA, check the qualifications closely, verify your status, apply for the card you prefer, wait for card approval, then contact the card issuer to request the associated SCRA or MLA benefits. 

Everything Else You Need To Know

You’ll need good to excellent credit to qualify for the Amex Gold card. Generally, this means a score of more than 670 plus good credit history.

Like most card issuers, American Express has limits on the maximum number of cards you can have at 1 time. You can hold up to 4 credit cards and 10 charge cards simultaneously, including both business and personal cards.

American Express, unlike many other card issuers, will forgo fees on business credit cards as well as personal cards for qualifying active-duty military.

In most cases, you will pay the annual fee after card approval and be reimbursed once American Express has verified your eligibility. However, it is possible your status could be verified prior to the annual fee showing up on your statement.

Additional Amex Card Recommendations for Active-Duty Military

American Express issues over 60 cards, many with high annual fees that have the potential to be exempt for active-duty military members. Here is a sampling of the cards we recommend for some of the best value to active-duty military 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)

Read Full Review

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.¤
• 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 Military

• 5x Membership Rewards points on flights (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year) and prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel.com
• Worldwide access to over 1,400 lounge properties, including Centurion Lounges
• Hotel and rental car program elite status and benefits
• Up to $200 airline incidentals statement credit
• Up to $240 digital entertainment statement credit, up to $20 each month
• Up to $200 statement credit and benefits at The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts
• Up to $100 per year in statement credits for Saks Fifth Avenue purchases; $50 credit January-June, $50 July-December
• $199 CLEAR statement credit,
• Up to $120 application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, as of October 1, 2024
• Up to $155 each year for Walmart+ credit toward monthly membership
• Annual fee exemption (rates & fees)

These are just some of the benefits offered by the Amex Platinum card. As one of the best cards available for active military members, the Amex Platinum card features a long list of premium benefits. Learn more about the overall value of Amex Platinum card benefits for military in our related article.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

ELEVATED OFFER

The Business 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.

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

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 Offer

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

150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

18.74% - 27.74% 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 Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

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

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.74% - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Why We Like This Card for Active Military

• 5x Membership Rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel.com
• 1,5x Membership Rewards points on purchases of $5,000 or more, and on select business purchases (up to $2,000,000 in purchases each calendar year)
• Worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 properties
• Up to $200 in statement credits for airline incidental purchases
• Up to $400 in statement credits for Dell Technology purchases; up to $200 January-June and up to $200 July-December
• Up to $120 in statement credits, $10 each month, for wireless service purchases
• Up to $120 application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, as of October 1, 2024
• Hotel and car rental loyalty program elite status and car rental benefits
• 35% rebate when using points to book select flights via AmexTravel.com
• Annual fee exemption (rates & fees)

If you have a side business and can make use of the benefits provided by the Amex Business Platinum card, you’ll want to know more about all the card’s benefits.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire 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.

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.

All information about Hilton Honors American Express Aspire 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.

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 Offer

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership

175,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

20.99% - 29.99% 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 information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

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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 select travel and at U.S. restaurants
• 3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

• High annual fee of $550

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
• Earn 14x Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible travel purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
• Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Earn 3x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for other eligible purchases on your card
• Enjoy up to $400 in Hilton Resort Credits (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually) on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Enjoy complimentary Diamond status
• $550 annual fee

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Why We Like This Card for Active Military

• The only hotel-branded card offering top elite status — Hilton Honors Diamond
• Annual free night reward certificate
• 14x Hilton Honors points at Hilton properties when paying with your card
• Up to $400 annual Hilton resort credit
• Up to $200 airline statement credit
• Annual fee exemption

The Hilton Aspire card is one of the best hotel loyalty program cards. Top-level elite status, a free hotel night each year, statement credits, and elevated earnings make the card an excellent choice for military members who stay at Hilton properties.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve 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.

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 Offer

Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$840

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% 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 Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its lounge access, status boost, 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

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Card Highlights

• Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club^® when you fly Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
• Receive four Delta Sky Club^® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• $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 Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• $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: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

Why We Like This Card for Active Military

• Delta Sky Club access when traveling with Delta and 2 1-time passes for guests each year. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
• Flight benefits such as a free checked bag and priority boarding
• Main Cabin companion flight certificate each year for domestic, Mexico, Caribbean, or Central America travel
• A 20% statement credit on inflight food and beverage purchases
• 3x SkyMiles on Delta purchases
• Faster path to Delta elite status by spending on the card
• Annual fee exemption (rates & fees)

Active-duty military members will appreciate having a free checked bag and access to the Delta Sky Club when flying on Delta. The welcome offer and companion certificate can also help secure flights for family members.

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

20.24%-29.24% 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.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Why We Like This Card for Active Military

• Free hotel night certificate worth up to 85,000 points each card anniversary
• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
• 6x Marriott Bonvoy points at Marriott properties
• 3x Marriott Bonvoy points at U.S. restaurants
• Priority Pass Select membership with access to over 1,400 properties worldwide (enrollment required)
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck reimbursement
• Annual fee exemption (rates & fees)

If Marriott is your brand of choice, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card can deliver valuable benefits such as elevated earnings, Marriott Bonvoy elite status, reward hotel nights, airport lounge access, and more.

Bottom Line: The best American Express cards for active-duty military members will be those that have the highest fees and largest collection of associated benefits. For our recommendations of some of the additional best American Express cards for active military, you’ll want to check out our related article. 

Final Thoughts

If you can use the associated benefits any card has to offer without having to pay an annual fee, it makes sense to take advantage of the opportunity. It’s important to manage the card wisely, however, by paying the entire balance each statement period. Not doing so negates any benefits you may receive due to incurring interest charges.

American Express offers an excellent selection of cards that can provide valuable benefits to a military household. The best card for you specifically will be the one that matches your spending mix, has redemption options that make sense for you, and offers benefits that provide value for your situation.

For the purchase protection benefit of the Amex Gold card, this 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 extended warranty benefit of the Amex Gold 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.