Best American Express Credit Cards for 2026: Find the Right Card for You
Editor’s pick
Editor’s pick
American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card is our top pick because it combines high earnings in everyday spending categories (like at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide) with high-value travel perks and statement credits.
Key takeaways
- American Express’ suite of cards offers products that appeal to all types of consumers from everyday shoppers to VIP travelers to hotel and airline brand loyalists.
- Some Amex cards offer cash back across various spending categories, while other cards earn Membership Rewards that have flexible redemption, including transferability to airline and hotel partners.
- Amex also offers co-branded hotel and airline cards that earn loyalty points or miles, as well as business cards to help small business owners earn points, miles or cash back on business purchases.
- (Winner) Best American Express card overall: American Express® Gold Card
- Best American Express travel card: American Express Platinum Card®
- Best American Express business card: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best American Express card for cash back: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Best American Express card for 0% APR and balance transfer: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express (see rates & fees)
- Best American Express hotel card: Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express
- Best American Express cash back* business card: The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
- Best American Express airline miles cards: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
8 Top American Express Cards
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
American Express® Gold Card*
|
Best overall
|
$325 | 1X - 4X points
| As high as 100,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| |
American Express Platinum Card®*
|
Travel card
|
$895 | 5X points
| As high as 175,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| |
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
|
Business card
|
$895 | 1X - 5X points
| 200,000 points
Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
| |
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express*
|
Best cash back card
|
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. | 1% - 6% cash back
| As High As $300 statement credit
You may be eligible for as high as $300 cash back after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.
| |
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express*
|
Best 0% APR and balance transfer card
|
$0 | 1% - 3% cash back
| As High As $200 statement credit
You may be eligible for as high as $200 cash back after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in the first 6 months. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Cash back is received as Reward Dollars, redeemable for statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout. Terms Apply.
| |
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
|
Best hotel card
|
$550 | 3X - 14X points
| 175,000 points
Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points
with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026.
| |
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card*
|
Best business cash back
|
No annual fee | 1% - 2% cash back
Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%
| $250 statement credit
Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
| |
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
|
Best airline miles card
|
$650 | 1X - 3X miles
| 100,000 miles
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases with your new Card, and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card, both within your first 6 months. Ends 04/01/2026.
|
Methodology: How we chose our picks of best American Express cards
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best American Express cards. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate the rewards earned for the average cardholder using Bureau of Labor Statistics data and an annual spend of $20,000, minus the annual fee. This value includes sign-up bonuses and annual bonuses (including annual free night certificates). We look at the average rewards earned over two years to balance out a card’s ongoing value with its first-year value.
We consider how easy the rewards are to use, looking at factors like expiration dates, minimum redemption thresholds, blackout dates and the availability of flexible redemption options like travel statement credits and cash back.
We also compare a card’s benefits — such as purchase protections, travel protections, elite status benefits and travel credits — against benefits from other cards.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best Amex rewards card. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
Winner: Best overall
American Express® Gold Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Rewards on everyday spending meets VIP perks and credits
- Earn elevated rewards at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide
- Large welcome offer
- More than $500 in annual perks and credits (terms apply, enrollment may be required)
- Points can be transferred to 20 airline and hotel partners
- Monthly credits can be difficult to use
- Points have limited value when redeemed for statement credits or gift cards
- High variable APR means you won’t want to carry a balance
- No airport lounge access
The American Express® Gold Card is your best option for earning Membership Rewards points for free travel. That’s because it earns a stellar 4x points at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per calendar year) and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year). Points can be transferred to 20 airline and hotel loyalty programs, making them very valuable.
By utilizing the card’s statement credits, you can fully offset the $325 annual fee (terms apply, enrollment may be required). Plus, the American Express® Gold Card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, meaning you won’t have to pay more to use the card outside of the U.S.
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- 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 get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $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. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $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.
- Terms Apply.
Best American Express travel card
American Express Platinum Card®*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: As high as 175,000 points
- Large welcome offer
- Generous rewards on flights purchased through Amex Travel or directly with airlines
- Hotel elite status (enrollment required)
- Access to the Global Lounge Collection®
- Over $2,000 in annual statement credits can more than offset the annual fee (enrollment may be required)
- Points can be transferred to 20 airline and hotel partners
- High annual fee
- Monthly statement credits may be hard to utilize
- 1X earning rate on most purchases
The American Express Platinum Card® is considered to be among the best premium travel cards for frequent travelers, especially those who book many flights. Eligible card members get access to the Global Lounge Collection®, complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold and Marriott Bonvoy® Gold status (enrollment required) and over $2,000 in annual travel and shopping statement credits, which can make it worth the fee.
Travel credits include an annual hotel credit, an annual airline fee credit*, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit* and an annual CLEAR+ membership credit (subject to auto-renewal). Other benefits include a digital entertainment credit* and several valuable shopping credits.
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges.* As of 07/2025.
- $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
- $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
- $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® to make eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you.
- $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
- Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®.* Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- $895 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
Best American Express business card
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn 200,000 points
- Substantial welcome offer
- Earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
- Access to a large airport lounge network, including Delta Sky Club® and Centurion® lounges
- Over $3,000 in potential statement credits annually (after meeting qualifying spend thresholds)
- Points can be transferred to 20 airline and hotel partners
- Significant minimum spending required to earn welcome offer
- High annual fee
- Limited bonus earnings
The travel benefits and statement credits on The Business Platinum Card® from American Express make it a must-have for traveling small business owners. The card includes access to the Amex Global Lounge Collection®, airline fee credit*, hotel elite status with Marriott and Hilton*, a CLEAR® Plus credit* (subject to auto-renewal) and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit (terms apply).
Transfer points to 20 airline and hotel partners or through Amex Travel. Even better, you can sometimes earn a bonus on your point transfers to boost the value of your redemptions.
- Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
- See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
- Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
- Make the Business Platinum Card® work even harder for you. Hilton for Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Gift cards are not an eligible purchase. Benefit enrollment required.
- Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
- Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
- Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
- Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
- Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
- Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
- 1X points on other eligible purchases
- $895 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Best American Express card for cash back
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: As High As $300 statement credit
- Earn up to 6% cash back* on U.S. supermarket purchases (up to $6,000 in purchases yearly. then 1%), and select streaming subscriptions
- Earn 3% cash back* on transit and at eligible U.S. gas stations
- Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Annual statement credits for a streaming subscription purchase (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal)
- Annual fee: ($0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.)
- Spending limits on supermarket bonus category caps earning potential
- Foreign transaction fees
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a cash back-earning powerhouse, especially for families with big grocery bills. You’ll get one of the highest rates you can find for U.S. supermarket purchases: Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
If you time the card opening for when you have a large purchase to make, you’ll get an intro APR of 0% on purchases for 12 months, followed by an APR of 19.49%-28.49% Variable.
- Apply and find out your welcome offer. As High As $300 cash back* after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply, and if approved: 1. Find out your offer amount 2. Accept the Card with your offer 3. Spend $3,000 in 6 months 4. Receive the cash back. *Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
- Plan It®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
- Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in eligible purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at eligible U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) purchases and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Terms Apply.
Best American Express card for 0% APR and balance transfer
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Intro APR: 0% on balance transfers for 15 months and 0% on purchases for 15 months, followed by an APR of 19.49%-28.49% Variable
- Generous welcome offer for a $0 annual fee
- Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Earn 3% cash back* at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retail purchases and U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
- Generous monthly credit for a subscription streaming purchase (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal)
- Bonus cash back* limited to $6,000 in purchases per category per year
- Foreign transaction fees
The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express doubles as a high-value $0-annual-fee cash back* card and a top card for financing balance transfers and new purchases. It’s also an excellent card that offers elevated earning rates on groceries, gas and more. Plus, cardmembers get purchase protection1, another premium benefit, and monthly credits for select streaming service purchases (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal).
You also get an intro APR of 0% on purchases for 15 months and 0% on balance transfers for 15 months, followed by an APR of 19.49%-28.49% Variable.
- Apply and find out your welcome offer. As High As $200 cash back* after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply, and if approved: 1. Find out your offer amount 2. Accept the Card with your offer 3. Spend $2,000 in 6 months 4. Receive the cash back. *Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- No Annual Fee.
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.49%-28.49%.
- Plan It®: Buy now, pay later with Plan It. Split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee so you don’t have the pressure of paying all at once. Simply select the purchase in your online account or the American Express® App to see your plan options. Plus, you’ll still earn rewards on purchases the way you usually do.
- Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, 3% cash back on U.S. online retail purchases, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, on eligible purchases for each category on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit and at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to a $7 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Stream.ESPN.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.
- Terms Apply.
Best American Express hotel card
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn 175,000 points
- Top-tier Hilton Honors™ Diamond elite status just for carrying the card (enrollment required)
- Earn 14x points on eligible Hilton purchases
- More than $600 in travel credits can more than offset the annual fee (enrollment required for some)
- Get an annual free night reward redeemable at almost any Hilton property worldwide
- Steep $550 annual fee
- Points are inflated
- Rewards are limited to Hilton
- Resort credit (semi-annual) and flight credit (quarterly; enrollment required) require frequent purchases
The Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express stands out among hotel cards in offering top-tier elite status just for carrying the card. In addition, Hilton fans earn 14x points on eligible Hilton purchases and receive an annual free night redeemable at almost any Hilton property worldwide.
The card offers hundreds of dollars in annual Hilton resort credits and annual flight credits (enrollment required) — and if fully utilized, these credits more than offset the card’s significant annual fee. However, they’re divided up into two semi-annual resort credits and four quarterly flight credits, making it harder to take full advantage of them.
- 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio worldwide
- 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and at U.S. restaurants
- 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Diamond status (enrollment required)
- One Free Night Reward in your first year of Card Membership and every year upon Card renewal
- Up to $400 Hilton Resort credit (up to $200 semi-annually)
- Up to $200 flight credit (up to $50 per quarter, enrollment required)
- Up to $209 CLEAR credit (enrollment required)
- $100 on-property credit at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts when booking the exclusive Aspire Card package
- National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® Status (enrollment required)
- Access to 24/7 American Express concierge
- No foreign transaction fees
- Terms apply
Best American Express cash back business card
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit
- No annual fee
- Earn up to 2% cash back* on purchases
- Intro APR on purchases
- Flexible credit limit
- Purchase protection1 and extended warranty1 to protect your purchases
- 2% earning rate limited to the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year, then 1%*
- No balance transfer 0% APR offer
- Foreign transaction fees
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card lets you earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%*. That’s a great earning rate for a card that charges no annual fee. However, that modest spending cap means this card is best suited for small businesses with modest spending.
Plus, it can help small businesses stretch their budgets by financing purchases during the intro APR period. It offers an intro APR of 0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening (followed by a 16.74% - 26.74% Variable APR).
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 16.74% - 26.74%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on the first $50,000 of purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- The amount you can spend above your credit limit is flexible, so it adapts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors. Just remember, the amount you can spend with Expanded Buying Power is not unlimited.
- No Annual Fee
Best American Express airline miles cards
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 miles
- Complimentary Centurion® Lounge and Delta Sky Club® access when flying Delta and use your card
- Get a $2,500 MQD Headstart toward Medallion® elite status each Medallion® Qualification Year
- Free first checked bag on Delta flights
- Earn a Companion Certificate each year after renewal*
- Massive $650 annual fee
- Sky Club® access limited to 15 visits per year
- Monthly statement credits for Resy and rideshare services can be hard to utilize (enrollment required for both)
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the most premium card in Amex’s Delta card lineup, offering access to Delta Sky Club® and Amex Centurion® Lounges when you fly Delta. You can stretch your Delta SkyMiles further with a 15% discount on Delta-operated flights (terms apply). Plus, get a Companion Certificate each year after card renewal (baggage charges and other restrictions apply).
The card also gives you a boost toward Delta Medallion® elite status through a $2,500 MQD Headstart each Medallion® Qualification Year and MQD Boost of $1 MQD per $10 in purchases charged to your card. Medallion® elites get upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion® tier, while cardmembers without elite status get added to the upgrade list.
- Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members receive 15 Visits per Medallion® Year to the Delta Sky Club® when flying Delta and can unlock an unlimited number of Visits after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you’ll receive four One-Time Guest Passes each Medallion Year so you can share the experience with family and friends when traveling Delta together.
- Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge in the U.S. and select international locations (as set forth on the Centurion Lounge Website), Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge in the U.S. (see the Centurion Lounge Website for more information on Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge availability), and Escape Lounges when flying on a Delta flight booked with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. § To access Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 90 minutes of their departing flight (including layovers). To access The Centurion® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 3 hours of their departing flight. Effective July 8, 2026, during a layover, Card Members must arrive within 5 hours of the connecting flight.
- Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
- Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
- $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 Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- $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.
What LendingTree editors have to say
“My husband and I use the American Express® Gold Card and the American Express Platinum Card® interchangeably to maximize our rewards earning potential and to take advantage of premium travel perks. For example, we use the American Express® Gold Card to earn a higher rewards rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, and the American Express Platinum Card® to gain airport lounge access, book hotel stays through AmexTravel.com and receive the annual travel credits.”
–Tracy Brackman, senior editor at LendingTree
“I love the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express. It’s the only card I have with an annual fee, and I think it’s the best card for everyday expenses. I get a very high cash back* rate at U.S. supermarkets and on select U.S. streaming services, along with a solid rate on public transit and ride share apps. On top of that, I get a credit that I use for Hulu/Disney+ that nearly covers the cost of the annual fee**.”
– Sarah Fisher, deputy editor at LendingTree
**Enrollment required, terms apply.
What’s the best Amex card for you?
Choose the best American Express card for your spending style. First, decide if you want a credit card that earns flexible travel rewards, loyalty points from a specific hotel chain or airline, or cash back. Then, consider if an entry-level no-annual-fee card is best for you, or if paying a fee is worth it for more premium rewards and benefits.
American Express Membership Rewards® cards
American Express issues the following consumer and small business cards that earn Membership Rewards points:
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
American Express Platinum Card®*
|
$895 | 5X points
| As high as 175,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| ||
|
American Express® Gold Card*
|
$325 | 1X - 4X points
| As high as 100,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| ||
American Express® Green Card*
|
$150 | 1X - 3X points
| 40,000 points
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
| ||
|
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
|
$895 | 1X - 5X points
| 200,000 points
Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
| ||
American Express® Business Gold Card*
|
$375 | 1X - 4X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
| ||
Business Green Rewards Card from American Express*
|
N/A | $95 | 1X points
Earn one Membership Rewards® point for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases
| 15,000 points
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Green Rewards Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership
| |
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express*
|
No annual fee | 1X - 2X points
| 15,000 points
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
|
Delta Amex cards
If you’re a frequent flyer and a Delta loyalist, a co-branded Delta card from Amex that earns SkyMiles could also unlock lots of airline-related perks and discounts. There are four card options from which to choose, depending on the type of travel and spending you do:
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card*
|
$0 | 1X - 2X miles
| 10,000 miles
Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
| ||
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card*
|
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. | 1X - 2X miles
| 70,000 miles
Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases with your new Card, and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card, both within your first 6 months. Ends 04/01/2026.
| ||
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card*
|
$350 | 1X - 3X miles
| 80,000 miles
Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases with your new Card, and an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $2,000 in purchases on the Card, both within your first 6 months. Ends 04/01/2026.
| ||
|
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
|
$650 | 1X - 3X miles
| 100,000 miles
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases with your new Card, and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card, both within your first 6 months. Ends 04/01/2026.
|
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best Delta credit cards
Hilton Amex cards
Hotel cards could help you earn free night stays and other amenities, as well as move up in the ranks of the chain’s loyalty program. If you’re a Hilton loyalist, consider one of these three Amex co-branded cards that earns Hilton Honors Bonus Points:
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hilton Honors American Express Card*
|
$0 | 3X - 7X points
| 70,000 points
Earn 70,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4/15/2026.
| ||
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*
|
$150 | 3X - 12X points
| 130,000 points
Earn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4/15/2026.
| ||
|
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
|
$550 | 3X - 14X points
| 175,000 points
Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points
with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/14/2026.
| ||
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card*
|
$195 | 3X - 12X points
| 175,000 points
Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $8,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card in the first six months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/15/2026.
|
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best Hilton credit cards
Marriott Amex cards
If you prefer staying at Marriott properties, earning Marriott Bonvoy bonus points with one of Amex’s co-branded cards can give you significant value. They come with generous welcome offers and automatic upgraded Elite Status:
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card*
|
$250 | 2X - 18.5X points
| 85,000 points
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
| ||
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*
|
$650 | 2X - 21X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
| ||
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card*
|
$125 | 2X - 6X points
| 3 Free Night Awards
Earn 3 Free Night Awards after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in eligible purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Each Free Night Award has a redemption level up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points, for a total potential value of up to 150,000 points, at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
|
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best Marriott credit cards
How American Express rewards work
You earn Amex points by making eligible purchases with an American Express Membership Rewards® card. These points can be redeemed for a wide variety of redemptions, including transfers to 20 airline and hotel partners and booking travel with Amex Travel. Each redemption option has a different point value — ranging from 0.6 cents per point for statement credits to 1 cent per point when redeemed for Amex Travel or certain gift card redemptions. Point transfers to airline and hotel partners generally offer the highest value return for your Membership Rewards points.
Points earned from eligible American Express cards are automatically pooled into one account.
You don’t need to manually transfer them between accounts as you need to do with Chase points. And if you have a small business, the Membership Rewards points from your linked personal and business cards also pool into one account.
Membership Rewards redemption options
- Transfer strategically to the right travel partner: ~2 cents
- Get a flight, hotel, car rental, vacation package or cruise through the Membership Rewards portal: 0.7 – 1 cent
- Use Amex points on Amazon.com: 0.7 cent
- Redeem points for gift cards: 0.5 – 1 cents
- Redeem points for statement credits: 0.6 cents
- Buy merchandise with points: 0.5 cents
- Donate points to charity: 1 cent
American Express travel partners
American Express Membership Rewards® can be transferred to 20 airline and hotel partner programs — including Delta SkyMiles, JetBlue TrueBlue, Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy. Points transfer to most partners on a 1:1 basis, but not all miles and points are equally valuable. In some cases, you’ll receive a much higher value by selecting one transfer partner over another.
American Express offers periodic transfer promotions, which allow you to receive bonus rewards when transferring to select partners. These bonuses can stretch your Membership Rewards further, reducing the number of points you need to transfer to book an award flight or hotel reservation.
However, keep in mind that point transfers are permanent. Once you transfer points to a partner, you cannot reverse that transfer.
| Transfer partner | Airline alliance | Point transfer ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Aer Lingus | None | 1,000:1,000 |
| AeroMexico | SkyTeam | 1,000:1,600 |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | Star Alliance | 1,000:1,000 |
| Air France/KLM | SkyTeam | 1,000:1,000 |
| ANA Mileage Club | Star Alliance | 1,000:1,000 |
| Cathay Pacific Miles | oneworld | 1,000:1,000 |
| Avianca | Star Alliance | 1,000:1,000 |
| British Airways | oneworld | 1,000:1,000 |
| Delta Air Lines | SkyTeam | 1,000:1,000 |
| Emirates | None | 1,000:1,000 |
| Etihad | None | 1,000:1,000 |
| Iberia Plus | oneworld | 1,000:1,000 |
| JetBlue | None | 250:200 |
| Qantas | oneworld | 500:500 |
| Qatar Airways | oneworld | 1,000:1,000 |
| Singapore Airlines | Star Alliance | 1,000:1,000 |
| Virgin Atlantic | SkyTeam | 1,000:1,000 |
| Choice Privileges | N/A | 1,000:1,000 |
| Hilton Honors | N/A | 1,000:2,000 |
| Marriott Bonvoy | N/A | 1,000:1,000 |
Other American Express benefits
Amex Offers
Amex Offers are limited-time promotions with select merchants in which cardmembers can earn statement credits on purchases, but they must activate the offer. For example, you might get $10 back if you spend $100 with a particular restaurant chain. These offers change all the time, so you’ll have to pay attention and opt in to ones that may benefit you in order to take advantage.
Pay It Plan It®
American Express offers two alternative payment options to help cardmembers manage their balances. Pay It® lets you set up small payments throughout the month on transactions that are less than $100. Eligible purchases are marked with a “Pay It®” icon.
Plan It® gives you the option of selecting up to 10 qualifying purchases (marked “Plan It®”) of $100 or more, and dividing up that total into a fixed payment plan. You may be offered up to three different plan length options with fixed fees. Once those transactions are moved to a plan, they are not charged interest. Your fixed plan payment is then added to your monthly minimum amount due.
How to get an American Express card
When you’re ready to apply for an American Express credit card, use these tips to increase your approval odds.
- Check your credit score.
It can be difficult to qualify for an American Express card if your credit score is below 660. You may not want to apply and risk getting declined if your score is too low. You can check your score with LendingTree Spring. - Boost your credit.
If your credit score is too low for the American Express card you want, take steps to increase your score. Paying down balances is a quick way to lower your utilization and can help boost your score. - Gather your personal information.
You’ll need your personal information, such as date of birth, Social Security number and income, to apply for an American Express card. Assemble this information before applying so you can quickly complete your application. - Get preapproved.
Applicants can use the American Express prequalified offers tool to see which card they are preapproved for. Preapproval doesn’t affect your credit score unless you finalize your application. - Use the welcome offer qualification tool.
One of the greatest benefits of applying for a new Amex card is earning a welcome offer. American Express has a welcome offer qualification tool that warns applicants if they’re ineligible for a bonus on the card for which they are applying.
How many American Express cards can you have?
Many American Express cardholders report being limited to five credit cards at one time. Corporate cards are not included in this total.
If you apply for a new American Express credit card and are at the limit, you could be declined for the new card. As an alternative, you may ask Amex’s reconsideration department to close an existing card in order to get approved for the new card.
Where is American Express accepted?
Frequently asked questions
No, American Express does not currently offer a secured credit card. Instead, customers can purchase American Express prepaid gift cards if they’re unable to qualify for one of its credit cards.
The minimum credit score needed to be approved for an American Express credit card varies based on which card you’re applying for.
Generally, American Express requires that you have good to excellent credit to be approved for one of its credit cards. If you have bad credit, you can use one of its prepaid card products while you are rebuilding your credit score with a credit-building card or a secured credit card.
American Express no longer offers cards that are officially considered charge cards. Some American Express cards have no preset limit but require cardholders to pay their balance in full each month, though you can carry a balance for some purchases that qualify for special financing with these cards. The amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history. Other American Express cards, like the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, are credit cards with standard APRs on purchases (see rates & fees).
Some American Express cards offer rental car and travel protections2. These benefits are typically offered by travel-focused cards, such as the American Express Platinum Card®, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Coverage and limits vary by card.
The American Express Platinum Card® offers car rental loss and damage insurance3 if you use your card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver (CDW). However, note that this is secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage.
2. 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.
3. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
*Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
The information related to the American Express® Gold Card, American Express Platinum Card®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, American Express® Green Card, American Express® Business Gold Card, Business Green Rewards Card from American Express, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card and Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
