Amex Platinum New Benefits and Price Changes 2024

The American Express Platinum card has new travel benefits. There is also a new annual fee. This premium card offers many perks for travelers. We will explore all the changes in detail.

Many cardholders love the Amex Platinum. It provides airport lounge access and travel credits. The new changes make the card even better. But the price has gone up too. Let us look at what you get for your money.

New Travel Benefits Added to Amex Platinum

American Express added several new benefits. These make the card more valuable for travelers. The new perks include better lounge access and more credits.

Expanded Lounge Access

Cardholders now get access to more airport lounges. This includes Centurion Lounges and Escape Lounges. There are over 1,400 lounges worldwide. You can relax before your flight.

You can bring two guests for free. This is a great benefit for families. The lounges offer free food and drinks. They also have comfortable seating and Wi-Fi.

New Travel Credits

Amex added new annual travel credits. You get $200 for airline fees. This covers baggage fees and seat upgrades. You also get $200 for Uber rides.

There is a $100 credit for Saks Fifth Avenue. You can use it for shopping. These credits reset each year. They help offset the annual fee.

Enhanced Hotel Benefits

Cardholders get special perks at fine hotels. This includes room upgrades and free breakfast. You also get late checkout and hotel credits.

These benefits are available at over 1,100 hotels. You must book through Amex Travel. This ensures you get the best value.

Increased Annual Fee and Value Analysis

The annual fee for Amex Platinum is now $695. This is up from $550. But the new benefits add more value. Let us see if it is worth it.

Breaking Down the New Fee

The $695 fee may seem high. But the credits alone are worth $500. This includes airline, Uber, and Saks credits. You also get many other perks.

If you use all the credits, the net cost is $195. This is for all the premium benefits. It is a good deal for frequent travelers.

Comparing to Other Premium Cards

Other cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve have a $550 fee. But they offer different benefits. Amex has better lounge access. It also has more credits.

You should choose based on your spending habits. Amex is best for travel and dining. It also offers great customer service.

How to Maximize Your Amex Platinum Benefits

To get the most value, you need to use all benefits. Here are some tips to help you.

Using Travel Credits Effectively

Plan your airline fee credit use. Pay for baggage fees and seat selection. Use the Uber credit for rides to the airport.

The Saks credit can be used for gifts. Shop during sales to maximize value. Remember, credits reset each calendar year.

Taking Advantage of Lounge Access

Arrive early at the airport to enjoy lounges. Download the Amex app to find locations. Bring guests for free to share the experience.

Lounges are great for long layovers. They offer a quiet place to work or relax. Some even have showers and spas.

Real Examples of Benefit Usage

Here are some real ways people use Amex Platinum benefits.

Family Travel Example

The Smith family travels twice a year. They use the airline credit for baggage fees. This saves them $100 per trip.

They also use lounge access during layovers. The kids enjoy free snacks and drinks. The parents relax in comfortable chairs.

Business Travel Example

John travels for business monthly. He uses Uber credits for rides to meetings. He also uses the hotel benefits for upgrades.

The lounge access helps him work between flights. He values the Wi-Fi and quiet space. The credits cover most of his annual fee.

Statistics on Amex Platinum Usage

According to American Express, there are over 3 million Platinum cardholders. Many use the card for travel and dining.

A survey by NerdWallet shows that 70% of cardholders use all credits. This makes the card worth the fee for them.

Data from The Points Guy indicates that lounge visits have increased. This is due to expanded access.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Amex Platinum

Applying for the card is easy. Follow these steps.

1. Check your credit score. You need good credit.
2. Visit the American Express website.
3. Fill out the application form.
4. Submit your income information.
5. Wait for approval. It is often instant.
6. Activate your card when it arrives.
7. Start using benefits right away.

Practical Tips for New Cardholders

If you are new to Amex Platinum, here are some tips.

• Set up automatic payments for the annual fee.
• Enroll in all benefit programs online.
• Download the Amex app for easy access.
• Keep track of credit usage throughout the year.
• Use the card for travel purchases to earn points.

FAQ Section

What is the new annual fee for Amex Platinum?

The new annual fee is $695. It was increased from $550.

What are the new travel benefits?

New benefits include expanded lounge access and more credits. There is $200 for airline fees and $200 for Uber.

How do I use the airline fee credit?

You must select one airline each year. Then, fees paid to that airline are credited. This includes baggage and seat fees.

Can I bring guests to the lounges?

Yes, you can bring two guests for free. Additional guests may require a fee.

Is the card worth the new fee?

If you use all the credits, the net cost is $195. For frequent travelers, it is worth it.

How do I apply for the card?

You can apply online at the American Express website. You need a good credit score.

What happens if I do not use all credits?

Unused credits do not roll over. You lose them at the end of the year.

Conclusion

The Amex Platinum card has new benefits and a higher fee. The new perks include more lounge access and travel credits. These make the card valuable for frequent travelers.

If you use all the credits, the net cost is low. The card offers luxury travel experiences. It is a good choice for those who travel often.

Consider your spending habits before applying. Make sure you can use the benefits. Then, enjoy the premium perks of Amex Platinum.