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If you’re currently serving on active duty in the military or have served, we salute you. Serving in the military brings with it major responsibilities, associated family sacrifices, and even financial challenges.
The financial challenges of military families, specifically, came to the forefront years ago and resulted in the government passing key legislation to help alleviate and restrict some of the more burdening lending practices affecting military members.
The laws, applying to financial transactions such as vehicle leases, payday loans, mortgages, and housing rights, also had a significant impact on how credit card practices, including fees and interest rates, were administered.
While credit card issuers must follow the law as written, they are also free to go above and beyond to offer additional concessions.
American Express is one of the credit card issuers that has embraced the purpose of the law and extended benefits beyond what is required by the legislation.
The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best examples of a value-added card that offers active military members an opportunity to enjoy hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in complimentary benefits. Be sure to note that terms apply and enrollment may be required, so explore your American Express account to ensure you’re getting the most out of your benefits.
Here’s an overview of the benefits offered to active-duty military members with the American Express Platinum card. If you decide to apply, we advise taking a look at the credit score requirements of the Amex Platinum card before pulling your credit.
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 undoubtedly the #1 card for luxury travel benefits. From the best lounge access (of any card) to statement credits, to complimentary elite status, you can’t go wrong.
This card is undoubtedly the #1 card for luxury travel benefits. From the best lounge access (of any card) to statement credits, to complimentary elite status, you can’t go wrong.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.
Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.
Pros
The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges,Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per $1 spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per $1 spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment (airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit)
TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
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 with American Express Travel when you pay with 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, SiriusXM, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
$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: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
$189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
$100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 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.
$300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. 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.
A generous American Express welcome offer, a removal of the high annual fee (rates and fees), and statement credits for airline incidentals all result in extraordinary value for the active-duty military member.
The Value of the Amex Platinum Card’s Benefits for Active Military
Welcome Bonus Offer — Value Varies
Welcome offers vary but you can count on a value of at least 1 cent per Membership Reward point when redeeming those bonus points for travel. This translates to at least $600 in travel if the welcome offer is 60,000 points, $1,000 for 100,000 points, and so forth.
You may receive additional value by transferring your Membership Rewards to Amex airline partners, but you should earn at least 1 center per point in redemptions. For our latest valuation, check out our credit card and miles valuations, which are updated monthly.
Annual Fee — Value of $695 per Year
The annual fee of $695is not charged for active military members, spouses, domestic partners, and child dependents (as defined in 38 USC 101(4)) (rates and fees). This is a huge saving that American Express offers to military members as a thank you for your service.
Additional Exemption Fees for Active Military — Value Varies
In addition to the annual fee, American Express will also not charge late and returned payment fees, over-limit fees, and statement copy request fees for active-duty military.
Worldwide Airport Lounge Access — Value of $700 (Estimated)
There’s always a quiet place to relax, plus complimentary food and drink at the Centurion Lounge. Centurion Lounge JFK. Image Credit: James Larounis
One of the most valuable benefits of having the Amex Platinum card is worldwide lounge access to more than 1,400 properties. For travelers, including active military, this translates to having a comfortable place to relax, grab a beverage, and have a bite to eat — all for simply being a cardmember.
The cardholder, plus 2 guests, can enjoy complimentary access to these lounge networks:
Amex Centurion Lounge (Complimentary guest access is unlocked after spending $75,000 on purchases in a calendar year)
If we value a single Centurion Lounge visit at $50 (the cost of bringing a guest), you’d simply need to visit a Centurion Lounge 14 times a year to get that $700 in value. That’s 7 round trips, with visiting the lounge on both legs.
Authorized Users — Value of $195
Adding an authorized user to your Amex Platinum card normally costs $195 (rates and fees). This fee is not charged for the active-duty military cardholder.
Authorized users receive full airport lounge access privileges, making it easy to gain access for your entire family.
Enjoy an upgraded room with complimentary hotel elite status. Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria. Image Credit: Chris Hassan
It’s difficult to put a value on hotel elite status because the value you receive will depend on how frequently you stay at the associated hotel-branded property.
The Amex Platinum card comes with Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status and Hilton Honors Gold status upon enrollment. Having elite status instantly qualifies you for perks such as upgraded rooms, late checkout, free Wi-Fi, and bonus earnings.
Car Rental Benefits and Elite Status — Value Varies
To ensure you’re getting the most of this benefit, dive into our guide on the Amex Platinum card’s car rental benefits.
Airline Incidental Credits — Value of $200
Use your card to purchase seat upgrades, baggage fees, and other airline incidentals and receive a statement credit, up to a maximum of $200 per year. It can be a little intimidating to know how to utilize your airline credit, but here’s a guide to maximizing your airline credit to ensure you get the most out of this benefit.
Uber Cash —Value of $200
You receive up to $15 in Uber Cash monthly, plus up to $20 bonus in December, for a total of up to $200 in Uber Cash per year. You can use this Uber Cash for U.S. Uber rides or U.S. Uber Eats orders for that month. You can even use this Uber Cash for multiple purchases — just remember that it doesn’t roll over month to month.
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit — Value of up to $100
Travel becomes so much easier when you breeze through immigration and customs. Pay for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee with your Amex Platinum card and receive a statement credit reimbursement once every 4 years for Global Entry or every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck. We suggest applying for Global Entry as it comes with TSA PreCheck.
Saks Fifth Avenue Statement Credit — Value of $100
Even if you don’t normally shop at Saks, it’s fun to splurge once or twice a year and use your shopping credit. Enroll via your online Amex Platinum card account and enjoy up to a $50 credit to be used between January and June and up to another $50 in credit to be used between July and December.
Entertainment Streaming Credit — Value of $240
Receive up to $20 per month in the form of statement credits upon enrollment after charging select streaming services to your card.
Equinox Credit — Value of $300
Get up to $300 back each year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your card after enrollment.
Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which require a minimum 2-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your card.
SoulCycle Credit — Value of $300
Get $300 in statement credits each time you buy a SoulCycle bike.
The Hotel Collection and Fine Hotels & Resorts — Value Varies
Splurge a little at The Hotel Collection and receive hotel credit of up to $100 to use for qualifying purchases when staying 2 consecutive nights. You’ll also receive an upgraded room at check-in.
Fine Hotels & Resorts steps it up a notch with even more benefits. A minimum stay is not required so you can enjoy these benefits even during a 1-night stay.
Additional Benefits of the Amex Platinum Card for Active Military
The Amex Platinum card comes with several additional benefits that could save you money.
Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance — Pay for your rental car with your Amex Platinum card, refuse the car rental agency’s collision damage waiver coverage, and have secondary car rental coverage for damage or theft. This coverage is secondary to other car insurance.
American Express Auto Purchasing Program — The program could save you thousands on your next vehicle purchase.
Extended Warranty — The U.S. manufacturer’s warranty is extended by 2 years for qualifying items with less than a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Purchase Protection — 120 days of protection (90 days for New York residents) is provided for damage, loss, or theft of qualifying items.
Cell Phone Protection — Receive up to $1,600 in cell phone protection (2 claims per year with up to $800 for each claim) against theft and damage. Each claim has a $50 deductible and your monthly phone bill should be paid with your Amex Platinum card to receive coverage.
This is not a complete list of additional card benefits and descriptions have been abbreviated. Full terms and conditions can be found in the Amex Platinum card guide to benefits.
Qualification and Requesting Benefits
Who Qualifies for Amex’s Active-duty Military Benefits
American Express lists the following qualified individuals who are eligible to receive benefits:
A member of the U.S. Armed Forces (any military branch) serving on active duty
Reserves called to active duty
National Guard member under active duty for more than 30 consecutive days
Commissioned Officer with the Public Health Service or NOAA
U.S. citizen serving with U.S. allied forces in war or military action
Spouse or child of an active-duty member of the Armed Forces as defined in 38 USC 101(4)
How to Apply for the Amex Platinum Card as a Military Member
Image Credit: American Express
Applying for the Amex Platinum card is simple — just click on the link in the card snapshot at the beginning of this article. You’ll need to enter your name as it appears on your military ID, your date of birth, address, telephone number, social security number, and income.
Under Income Source, you’ll want to select Military. American Express will then attempt to match your social security number to the DoD database and then apply the benefits automatically. If for any reason this does not happen automatically, you can request benefits after card approval.
How To Request Benefits on an Existing Card
Image Credit: Amex
Applying to receive SCRA benefits, which includes the annual fee removal on your Amex Platinum card, is simple. Just log into your Amex Platinum card account online and select Account Services at the top of the page. Then select Credit Management and choose SCRA Benefits.
You can upload any requested information after answering a few questions.
Additionally, you can request benefits via the following methods:
Phone: Call 800-253-1720 from the U.S. or call 336-393-1111 collect from outside of the U.S.
Fax: Fax the required documents to 623-444-3000 and include your American Express account numbers
Mail: Mail documents with your account numbers to American Express, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, P.O. Box 981535, El Paso, TX 79998-1535
American Express will verify your information and then process the benefit, which can take up to several weeks.
The welcome bonus on the Amex Platinum card is earned after meeting minimum spending requirements within the first 3 months after card approval. For how to meet the minimum spending requirements, you may want to read our list of ideas — you’ll be surprised by a few.
Many of the benefits that come with the Amex Platinum card, such as Priority Pass Select membership, car rental privileges, and hotel elite status, require registration. You can register online by signing into your Amex Platinum card account and accessing the Benefits section.
Hot Tip: American Express issues over 60 credit/charge cards and does not charge all annual fees for active-duty military members.
Additional Recommended American Express Cards for Active Military
While American Express has several cards that do not charge an annual fee, active military members will receive the most value from those that do.
You’ll find greater earning potential, flexible redemption options, luxury travel benefits, shopping and travel protections, and much more on cards that charge higher annual fees.
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!
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.
5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
Statement credits on select purchases with your card
35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
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)
Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your 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 everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
$189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your 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.
5x earnings on prepaid hotels and flights booked via Amex Travel
1.5x earnings on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year)
Up to $200 airline incidental fee reimbursement each year
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 go-to card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants and those who want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points atU.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.
There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are a number of other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.
Pros
4x points per $1 at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
3x points per $1 on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
Up to $120 annual dining credit: up to $10 monthly statement credit when you pay with the Amex Gold card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations
Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash: get $10 monthly in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
$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.
$120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and 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, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
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.
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.
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Aspire card from American Express after you use your new card to make $4,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of card membership.
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
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 purchases
Complimentary Hilton Diamond status
$250 Hilton Resort statement credit
$250 airline fee credit
1 Free Weekend Night Award each cardmember anniversary
Priority Pass Select membership
$100 credit at Waldorf Astoria and Conrad properties
Cons
High annual fee of $450
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Aspire card from American Express after you use your new card to make $4,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of card membership. Plus, enjoy a free Weekend Night Reward within your first year and every year after renewal.
Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants.
Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your card.
Enjoy up to $250 in Hilton Resort Credits on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
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.
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
New: 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.
3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other purchases
Complimentary Delta Sky Club and Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 10 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.
Delta Status Boost
Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) Waiver
Annual Companion Certificate
Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
Free checked bags
20% back on inflight purchases
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Enjoy Delta Sky Club® access at no cost and bring up to two guests or immediate family at a rate of $50 per person per visit. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 10 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.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
Eligible 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.
Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Delta Sky Club access(Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 10 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.)
Annual companion ticket certificate
Free checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights
20% statement credit for inflight food and beverage purchases
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.
Earn two 85K Free Night Awards after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card in your first 6 months. Each award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Card Members could enjoy a value of up to $1,200 when redeeming each reward. Certain hotels have resort fees. Offer ends 11/1/2023.
$300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant 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®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
Marriott Brilliant 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 an 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 ($100) 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. Terms apply.
Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited access 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.
Bottom Line: The best credit cards for active military will be those that generally have high annual fees because they offer great card benefits and that high annual fee is not charged.
Final Thoughts
If you are anticipating entering active duty, currently on active duty, or know someone who is, consider sharing this information or taking advantage personally. The benefits offered by American Express for active military can potentially be worth thousands of dollars each year.
There are other credit card issuers who also offer credit card benefits to active-duty military personnel. To learn more about the best credit cards for active-duty military, start with our article that lists our favorites, including cards from other issuers.
For the Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, the benefit 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 Extended Warranty benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, -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 Platinum Card® from American Express, 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 Cell Phone Protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, 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. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here. For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here. For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here. For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.
Featured Image Credit: Upgraded Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, American Express does not charge credit card fees for active-duty military members.
Fees that are eligible include annual membership fees, over-limit fees, late payment fees, returned payment fees, and statement copy request fees.
Yes, you can have more than 1 American Express card. You can have as many as 5 American Express cards, but keep in mind there are other card issuers you may want to consider, such as Chase.
Chase has a 5/24 rule that you cannot have acquired more than 5 credit cards in the past 24 months and get approved for one of their cards.
Also, if you do apply for more than 1 American Express card, there is a limit of 2 within a 90-day period so space out your applications accordingly.
Yes. American Express does not charge fees for the spouse of an active-duty member of the Armed Forces.
You can call the number on the back of your card, go online to your credit card account, fax in your information, or mail it in.
The easiest way is to call 800-253-1720 to start the process. You can also log in to your Amex Platinum card account online, select Account Services, then Credit Management, then SCRA Benefits.
Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.
Disclaimer: Any comments listed below are not from the bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them. No responsibility will be taken by the bank advertiser for these comments.
22 comments
Randi Perry
February 25, 2020
Hi there. I went through the credit card offers checking tool you have linked and I am pre-approved for the 100,000 bonus points for the amex platinum card! My question is, if my husband is the one in the active duty military if we’re both on the card but I’m the one applying, will they still wave the $550 annual fee? Thanks in advance. So happy I found your site!
The card would need to be issued in his name in order for the annual fee to be waived. If you add him as an authorized user then it may still be eligible, but you would need to contact American Express directly to see if they will allow it.
Thanks for reading!
Gary
February 28, 2021
Do you have to “recertify” every year with your status or once you have completed it once you are good for life, or the duration that you keep the card active?
Hi Gary. Initially, you must first pay the annual fee and once Amex has certified your active duty, the fee is refunded. You will continue to have the fee waived as long as you are on active duty. According to American Express, it will review your account on a periodic basis with the Department of Defense. If you are no longer on active duty, Amex will send you a letter giving you 45 days’ notice that it will no longer waive the fee.
Maria Workman
March 14, 2021
Are new American Express cards eligible for waived fees for USPHS members?
Hi Maria. According to American Express “Commissioned Officers with the Public Health Service or NOAA” qualify under the MLA for waived fees on new cards. Thank you for your service.
Maria
May 11, 2021
Christine,
USPHS and NOAA fall under SCRA only so we do not qualify for the waived fee.
Thanks, Maria
Bryan
March 25, 2021
I just requested this and was denied. The response:
“To support the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces, we are handling your account referenced above in accordance with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides for a maximum annual interest rate of 6% per year on loans you received before starting active military duty. Our records indicate your account was opened during the active duty time period. Therefore, this account is not eligible for relief under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.”
Hi Bryan and thank you for your service. The SCRA, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, applies to debt incurred PRIOR to active duty. The MLA (Military Lending Act) applies during active duty. Try calling Amex using the number on the back of your card to make your request.
sonny juan
July 04, 2021
Are authorized user fees also waived, like the main cardholder fee?
Hi Anthony. A U.S. Foreign Service member is not specifically listed as qualifying status for the fee waiver. However, you may want to contact Amex (800-253-1720) to ask about your specific situation.
hyun
June 02, 2022
FYI, The American Express Hilton Aspire no longer waves annual fees for active-duty military personnel. I had the card, and got my first annual fee waived, but this year I got charged with the annual fee again. When I disputed the charge, I got a letter from the American express that now if you are not deemed eligible for SCRA or if the fee was billed outside a period of SCRA eligible active duty, the individual is responsible for paying the annual membership fee.
Hello Hyun. The fee waiver is still posted on the American Express website, under the SCRA for credit acquired prior to active duty and under the MLA for credit acquired during active duty. Not sure of your specific situation but Amex uses an automated system to verify eligibility, perhaps you can call in and verify your eligibility. Thank you very much for your service.
Athena
June 21, 2022
The site info differs from the info on here. On the Amex site it says the annual fee for this yard is only 250, and to get into the skyclub you still have to pay $39 per person. Purchase points differ as well. May gives a disclaimer or put an “as of” this date, here is what you get with the card.
I believe you have confused the Amex Delta Platinum card, which has a $250 annual fee, with the standard Amex Platinum card, which has a $695 annual fee. These are 2 seperate card products and they are quite different. Here is a comparion of the two.
Emily
July 14, 2022
I have been an Amex card holder for over 20yrs. My last three years I have applied the SCRA because my spouse is active duty. The first year went fine, but every year since has been a fight. I will be cancelling my Amex Platinum. They keep charging the annual fee. When we call to correct this, they say it takes 6 months for a refund! Then the refund never comes. Then they refuse to refund the money. Be careful with them. It’s not an easy process and they are inefficient with refunds. Alot of their representatives are not knowledgeable with SCRA and will tell you the wrong things or deny benefits you are owed. This has been a headache. I have switched to Chase Sapphire and the experience has been much better.
MJ
September 11, 2022
Can my spouse use the other benefits like Uber Cash because it shows authorize users cannot use it?
Hi MJ. Authorized users do not receive statement credit benefits such as Uber credits or Saks Fifth Avenue credits. These are only available to the primary cardholder. This article will give you more information on Amex Platinum card authorized user benefits, however, if you are active-duty military, your wife is eligible for her own primary card with its own statement credits. That would likely be the better route.
Michael DeSelle
February 17, 2023
I am a AMEX cardmember since 2007. I was a member of the LA Army National Guard for 29 years in a drilling status (which means I did not work for the military full time, but attended month “drills” at a military unit). During this time I spent 15 months on active duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and I also spent 18 months on active duty working for the US Embassy in Belize. I recently transferred from the LA Army National Guard to the US Army Reserves, where I am currently a member of the 412th Theatre Engineer Command attending monthly drills as part of military obligation. Does the above information qualify me for AMEX Platinum Military Benefits?
Hi Michael. First, thank you for serving. According to American Express, only Reserves called to active duty or National Guard members under active duty for more than 30 consecutive days qualify for fee waivers. However, you can contact American Express via at 800-253-1720 to ask about your specific situation.
Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!
Email needed if you'd like comment updates. It will NOT be published.
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
![Amex Platinum Military Benefits for Active Duty Members – $695 Fee Not Charged [September 2023]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Amex-Platinum-Upgraded-Points-LLC-24-Large.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1420&height=650&fit=crop)
22 comments
Randi Perry
February 25, 2020
Hi there. I went through the credit card offers checking tool you have linked and I am pre-approved for the 100,000 bonus points for the amex platinum card! My question is, if my husband is the one in the active duty military if we’re both on the card but I’m the one applying, will they still wave the $550 annual fee? Thanks in advance. So happy I found your site!
Jarrod West
February 26, 2020
Hi Randi,
The card would need to be issued in his name in order for the annual fee to be waived. If you add him as an authorized user then it may still be eligible, but you would need to contact American Express directly to see if they will allow it.
Thanks for reading!
Gary
February 28, 2021
Do you have to “recertify” every year with your status or once you have completed it once you are good for life, or the duration that you keep the card active?
Christine Krzyszton
February 28, 2021
Hi Gary. Initially, you must first pay the annual fee and once Amex has certified your active duty, the fee is refunded. You will continue to have the fee waived as long as you are on active duty. According to American Express, it will review your account on a periodic basis with the Department of Defense. If you are no longer on active duty, Amex will send you a letter giving you 45 days’ notice that it will no longer waive the fee.
Maria Workman
March 14, 2021
Are new American Express cards eligible for waived fees for USPHS members?
Christine Krzyszton
March 14, 2021
Hi Maria. According to American Express “Commissioned Officers with the Public Health Service or NOAA” qualify under the MLA for waived fees on new cards. Thank you for your service.
Maria
May 11, 2021
Christine,
USPHS and NOAA fall under SCRA only so we do not qualify for the waived fee.
Thanks, Maria
Bryan
March 25, 2021
I just requested this and was denied. The response:
“To support the men and women who serve in the United States Armed Forces, we are handling your account referenced above in accordance with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides for a maximum annual interest rate of 6% per year on loans you received before starting active military duty. Our records indicate your account was opened during the active duty time period. Therefore, this account is not eligible for relief under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.”
Christine Krzyszton
March 26, 2021
Hi Bryan and thank you for your service. The SCRA, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, applies to debt incurred PRIOR to active duty. The MLA (Military Lending Act) applies during active duty. Try calling Amex using the number on the back of your card to make your request.
sonny juan
July 04, 2021
Are authorized user fees also waived, like the main cardholder fee?
Christine Krzyszton
July 06, 2021
Hi Sonny. Yes, the fee to add authorized users is waived for the active military cardholder.
Anthony M
July 27, 2021
Does AMEX offer the same Platinum Card fee waiver for members of the US Foreign Service?
Christine Krzyszton
July 27, 2021
Hi Anthony. A U.S. Foreign Service member is not specifically listed as qualifying status for the fee waiver. However, you may want to contact Amex (800-253-1720) to ask about your specific situation.
hyun
June 02, 2022
FYI, The American Express Hilton Aspire no longer waves annual fees for active-duty military personnel. I had the card, and got my first annual fee waived, but this year I got charged with the annual fee again. When I disputed the charge, I got a letter from the American express that now if you are not deemed eligible for SCRA or if the fee was billed outside a period of SCRA eligible active duty, the individual is responsible for paying the annual membership fee.
Christine Krzyszton
June 03, 2022
Hello Hyun. The fee waiver is still posted on the American Express website, under the SCRA for credit acquired prior to active duty and under the MLA for credit acquired during active duty. Not sure of your specific situation but Amex uses an automated system to verify eligibility, perhaps you can call in and verify your eligibility. Thank you very much for your service.
Athena
June 21, 2022
The site info differs from the info on here. On the Amex site it says the annual fee for this yard is only 250, and to get into the skyclub you still have to pay $39 per person. Purchase points differ as well. May gives a disclaimer or put an “as of” this date, here is what you get with the card.
Jarrod West
June 21, 2022
Hi Athena,
I believe you have confused the Amex Delta Platinum card, which has a $250 annual fee, with the standard Amex Platinum card, which has a $695 annual fee. These are 2 seperate card products and they are quite different. Here is a comparion of the two.
Emily
July 14, 2022
I have been an Amex card holder for over 20yrs. My last three years I have applied the SCRA because my spouse is active duty. The first year went fine, but every year since has been a fight. I will be cancelling my Amex Platinum. They keep charging the annual fee. When we call to correct this, they say it takes 6 months for a refund! Then the refund never comes. Then they refuse to refund the money. Be careful with them. It’s not an easy process and they are inefficient with refunds. Alot of their representatives are not knowledgeable with SCRA and will tell you the wrong things or deny benefits you are owed. This has been a headache. I have switched to Chase Sapphire and the experience has been much better.
MJ
September 11, 2022
Can my spouse use the other benefits like Uber Cash because it shows authorize users cannot use it?
Christine Krzyszton
September 12, 2022
Hi MJ. Authorized users do not receive statement credit benefits such as Uber credits or Saks Fifth Avenue credits. These are only available to the primary cardholder. This article will give you more information on Amex Platinum card authorized user benefits, however, if you are active-duty military, your wife is eligible for her own primary card with its own statement credits. That would likely be the better route.
Michael DeSelle
February 17, 2023
I am a AMEX cardmember since 2007. I was a member of the LA Army National Guard for 29 years in a drilling status (which means I did not work for the military full time, but attended month “drills” at a military unit). During this time I spent 15 months on active duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, and I also spent 18 months on active duty working for the US Embassy in Belize. I recently transferred from the LA Army National Guard to the US Army Reserves, where I am currently a member of the 412th Theatre Engineer Command attending monthly drills as part of military obligation. Does the above information qualify me for AMEX Platinum Military Benefits?
Christine Krzyszton
February 18, 2023
Hi Michael. First, thank you for serving. According to American Express, only Reserves called to active duty or National Guard members under active duty for more than 30 consecutive days qualify for fee waivers. However, you can contact American Express via at 800-253-1720 to ask about your specific situation.
Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!
Email needed if you'd like comment updates. It will NOT be published.
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