American Express Platinum Card®

The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the most talked-about cards in the points and miles world — and for good reason. But let me be honest with you: this card takes work.

At $895, the Platinum is often called a "coupon book" and that's a fair description. The value is absolutely there, but you have to actively use the credits to get it back. If you're the kind of person who will set up every credit, use the Uber Cash monthly, take advantage of the dining credits, and actually shop at lululemon or use the digital entertainment credit — this card can absolutely justify itself. I did it, and I used almost everything when I had it.

The credits on this card go well beyond what most people realize. Beyond the Uber Cash and airline fee credit, you're also looking at up to $300 in lululemon statement credits ($75/quarter at U.S. lululemon stores), up to $300 in digital entertainment statement credits ($25/month covering services like Disney+, Hulu, and Peacock), up to $400 in Resy dining statement credits ($100/quarter), and up to $600 in hotel statement credits at Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection. When you add it all up the potential value far exceeds the $895 annual fee — but only if you're actively using everything.

The Centurion Lounge access is a game changer for frequent travelers. If you spend a lot of time in airports, having a quiet place to eat, drink, and decompress before a flight is genuinely priceless. Just know that bringing guests now comes at an additional fee, so this benefit is most valuable for solo travelers. You'll also get 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits per year when flying on an eligible Delta flight.

One thing I love that doesn't get talked about enough: the upgrade offer. If you already hold the Amex Gold, keep an eye out for a targeted upgrade offer to the Platinum. It's a great way to get into this card without an additional hard pull on your credit or adding to your 5/24 count.
Note: The Platinum Card® from American Express allows you to carry a balance with interest for certain charges, but not all. To receive the Uber Cash benefit you must have downloaded the latest version of the Uber App and your eligible The Platinum Card® from American Express must be a method of payment on your Uber account. The Amex benefit may only be used in the United States.

My recommendation for most people: start with the Amex Gold and then consider the Platinum when you're ready. Don't jump in until you're confident you'll use the credits — at $895 a year, leaving benefits on the table is an expensive mistake.

Welcome offers on The Platinum Card® from American Express are displayed as "as high as" a certain amount rather than a fixed number. You won't know your exact offer until you apply — but your credit score won't be impacted until you accept the card.

Offers on this card change frequently and vary significantly by applicant. We have seen offers as high as 175,000 points for select cardholders. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for the maximum offer amount.

My advice: don't apply at a weak offer. Be patient, watch for elevated offers, and check referral links before applying. Given the $895 annual fee, a strong welcome offer is essential to making year one worthwhile.