is amex platinum worth it?

Is AMEX Platinum worth it? I love the AMEX Platinum, but that is because it fits my needs.

The credit card comes with a hefty $695 fee annually. When you use the benefits that come with the card, it practically pays for itself. If it doesn’t fit your needs and you are not using the benefits, then it is probably not for you.

We all know there are many credit cards to choose from, so take a close look at what is available before applying and running that credit check.

So, is Amex Platinum worth it FOR YOU? Here are some AMEX Platinum benefits:

#1 TSA Pre-check and Global Entry Fee Credits

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are U.S. government programs designed to expedite security and customs processes for travelers.

  • Reimbursement: Amex Platinum cardholders are eligible for a statement credit that covers the application fee for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
    • TSA PreCheck: $85 application fee (credit once every 4.5 years).
    • Global Entry: $120 application fee (credit once every 4 years).
    • Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, most frequent travelers opt for Global Entry to get both benefits.
  • How It Works:
    • Charge the application fee for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to your Amex Platinum card.
    • The card will automatically reimburse the full fee as a statement credit within 4-6 weeks.

#2 Lounge Access

The American Express Platinum Card offers one of the most extensive and premium lounge access programs in the travel industry. Here’s a detailed overview of the lounge access benefits available to Platinum cardholders:

1. The Centurion® Lounge

  • Exclusive Access: Amex Platinum cardholders have complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounges, which are known for their upscale amenities.
  • Locations: These lounges are located in select major U.S. and international airports, such as New York (JFK), Miami (MIA), Dallas (DFW), San Francisco (SFO), and others.
  • Features:
    • Gourmet food from renowned chefs.
    • Premium cocktails, wine, and coffee.
    • High-speed Wi-Fi.
    • Spa services (available at select locations).
    • Dedicated workspaces and shower suites.
  • Guest Policy: Cardholders can bring two guests at no additional cost. Starting in February 2025, a $50 guest fee will apply unless the cardholder has spent $75,000 or more on the card in the previous calendar year.

2. Priority Pass™ Select

  • Global Access: With Priority Pass Select membership, Amex Platinum cardholders gain access to over 1,300 airport lounges in more than 140 countries around the world.
  • How to Use: Once enrolled, cardholders receive a Priority Pass membership card, which must be presented for lounge entry.
  • Features: Complimentary food and beverages, comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers.
  • Guest Policy: Typically allows the cardholder to bring two guests for free. Some lounges may have different policies.

3. Delta Sky Club®

  • Eligibility: Amex Platinum cardholders flying on Delta Airlines (same-day ticket required) have access to Delta Sky Clubs.
  • Features: Snacks, premium drinks, Wi-Fi, workspaces, and sometimes showers.
  • Guest Policy: Guests can accompany the cardholder for a fee ($50 per guest, per visit).

4. Plaza Premium Lounges

  • Global Access: Amex Platinum cardholders also enjoy access to Plaza Premium Lounges, a network of independent airport lounges worldwide.
  • Features: High-quality food and beverages, comfortable seating, showers, and business facilities.
  • Guest Policy: Generally, two guests are allowed free of charge, but policies vary by location.

5. Airspace Lounges

  • Complimentary access is provided to Airspace Lounges, which offer amenities like snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and workspaces.

6. Escape Lounges – The Centurion® Studio Partner

  • Amex Platinum cardholders have access to Escape Lounges in various U.S. airports.
  • Features: Similar to Centurion lounges, Escape Lounges provide premium food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
  • Guest Policy: Two guests can enter for free.

Summary of Lounge Access

  • Lounge Networks: Access to The Centurion Lounge, Priority Pass Select, Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta), Plaza Premium Lounges, Airspace Lounges, and Escape Lounges.
  • Amenities: Gourmet food, premium drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, workspaces, and sometimes spa services.
  • Guest Policy: Typically, two guests are allowed free of charge in most lounges, but some lounges (like Delta Sky Club) may charge a fee for guests.

Why This is Valuable

  • The Amex Platinum Card offers one of the most comprehensive lounge access programs, making it ideal for frequent travelers seeking a premium airport experience.
  • The cardholder can relax, dine, or work in comfort, significantly enhancing the overall travel experience.

#3 Hotel Benefits and Credits

The American Express Platinum Card offers a wide range of hotel benefits and credits that cater to luxury travelers. These perks enhance the experience of staying at top-tier hotels and help cardholders maximize their rewards. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Fine Hotels & Resorts Program (FHR)

  • Overview: The Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program includes over 1,000 luxury properties around the world, providing Platinum cardholders with exclusive benefits when booking through American Express Travel.
  • Benefits:
    1. Room Upgrade: Upon arrival, when available.
    2. Daily Breakfast for Two: Complimentary full breakfast during your stay.
    3. Guaranteed 4 PM Late Checkout: Allows for a more relaxed departure.
    4. Noon Check-In: Subject to availability upon arrival.
    5. Complimentary Wi-Fi: High-speed internet at no additional charge.
    6. Experience Credit: A special amenity valued at $100 or more, such as spa treatments or dining credits, depending on the property.
  • Value: These benefits can add hundreds of dollars in value to each stay, making the FHR program a key perk for luxury travelers.

2. The Hotel Collection

  • Overview: The Hotel Collection includes a curated list of premium properties worldwide. When you book a stay of two consecutive nights or more through American Express Travel, cardholders receive additional perks.
  • Benefits:
    1. Room Upgrade: Upon arrival, if available.
    2. $100 Hotel Credit: Applied toward qualifying dining, spa, or resort activities during the stay.
  • Note: The Hotel Collection benefits are more modest compared to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program but still offer excellent value for shorter stays or at properties not included in FHR.

3. Hilton Honors Gold Status

  • Automatic Status: Amex Platinum cardholders receive Hilton Honors Gold status without needing to meet the usual stay or point requirements.
  • Benefits of Gold Status:
    1. Room Upgrades: Eligible for room upgrades, based on availability (up to Executive Room level).
    2. Complimentary Breakfast: Daily breakfast for you and a guest at most Hilton properties.
    3. Late Checkout: Based on availability.
    4. Faster Points Earning: 80% bonus points on eligible stays.
    5. 5th Night Free: When booking reward stays using Hilton Honors points.

4. Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status

  • Automatic Status: Platinum cardholders also enjoy Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, which comes with a range of benefits.
  • Benefits of Gold Elite Status:
    1. Room Upgrades: Complimentary upgrades to enhanced rooms, based on availability.
    2. 2 PM Late Checkout: Subject to availability, allowing you to extend your stay without extra fees.
    3. Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free internet access at participating properties.
    4. Bonus Points: 25% more points earned on Marriott Bonvoy stays.
    5. Welcome Gift: Choice of points or an amenity upon check-in.