amex travel insurance platinum cashback

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Benefits of the American Express Platinum Card

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

The Platinum Card® from American Express is like a flashy suitcase overflowing with premium benefits for your travel experience.

It has a $695 annual fee, yes, but it also comes with a slew of valuable benefits that can easily make up for that cost, assuming you'll use them. From travel credits and airport lounge access to purchase protections and exclusive services, this card is all about luxury.

Here are the benefits of The Platinum Card® from American Express :

» MORE: Complete card details for the American Express Platinum

Points: Rewards on spending

The Platinum Card® from American Express earns Membership Rewards points , which offer flexible redemption options that vary in value.

1. A jet-setting welcome offer

The introductory offer can take your travel further: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

» MORE: American Express card benefits you may not know you have

2. Big travel rewards

You earn ongoing Membership Rewards at the following rates:

5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on up to $500,000 spent per calendar year on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel.

5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.

2 points per dollar on other eligible travel expenses booked through American Express Travel.

1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Terms apply ( see rates and fees ).

» MORE: NerdWallet review of the American Express Platinum

3. AmEx Offers

As a cardholder, you’re eligible to earn additional rewards or rebates in the form of a statement credit when you activate AmEx Offers and use your card to shop with specific merchants. Terms may apply, so read the fine print carefully to ensure you can collect an offer. Enrollment is required.

Perks: Goodies that come with the card

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a long list of perks, most of which require you to use the card to qualify for them.

4. Up to $200 in annual credit for airline incidental fees

You can choose one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 per calendar year in statement credit when you enroll and charge incidental fees such as checked bags or in-flight refreshments to your card. Learn more about travel credits .

5. Up to $200 in Uber cash for rides

You’re automatically enrolled in Uber VIP status, which connects you with top-rated drivers. And you’ll get up to $15 monthly in Uber Cash for rides in the U.S. on your Uber account, plus a bonus of up to $35 in December. You must add your card as a payment method in the Uber app.

6. Up to $200 in annual hotel credit

You'll get a credit on prepaid bookings with American Express Travel at The Hotel Collection (two-night minimum required) or Fine Hotels + Resorts properties (more than 2,200 worldwide) when you pay with the card, up to $200 each calendar year.

7. Up to $300 Equinox credit

You'll get up to a $300 statement credit when you use the card to pay for an Equinox fitness club membership. Or it can be applied to Equinox+, an on-demand fitness app.

8. $300 SoulCycle credit

When you purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike, you'll receive a $300 statement credit. Enrollment is required, and you need to have an Equinox+ subscription to qualify.

9. Up to $240 in digital entertainment credit

This credit can be applied at $20 per month when using the card to pay for one of the following services: Peacock, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, up to $240 per calendar year. Enrollment is required.

10. $199 Clear credit

This annual credit covers the cost of Clear , which uses biometrics to let members bypass part of the security line at airports and stadiums in some cities.

11. Reimbursement of application fees for TSA Precheck or Global Entry

You get a statement credit either once every four years for Global Entry or once every 4.5 years for TSA Precheck. Learn more about TSA Precheck and Global Entry . TSA Precheck costs $85, while Global Entry costs $100.

12. Up to $100 in statement credits annually at Saks Fifth Avenue

Receive this amount annually for purchases made in-store or online with your card. Credits are divvied up in $50 increments; one from January through June, and the other from July through December. Enrollment is required.

13. Walmart+ Monthly Membership Credit

Use the card to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get reimbursed with statement credits for the full amount (up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes). Terms apply. A Walmart+ membership offers perks like free delivery on groceries, free shipping, savings on gas, returns from home and video streaming with Paramount+, among others.

Terms apply.

Lounge benefits

14. access to the american express global lounge collection at airports.

This portfolio includes Centurion Lounges , Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta only), Priority Pass Select , International American Express lounges, Airspace and Escape lounges. Enrollment required. Terms apply.

15. Centurion Lounge Complimentary Guest Access

Get complimentary guest access to a Centurion Lounge after spending $75,000 in eligible purchases in a calendar year. You can bring two guests per visit into locations of The Centurion Lounge in the U.S., Hong Kong International Airport and London Heathrow Airport. Terms apply.

Hotel-friendly benefits

16. upgrade to marriott bonvoy gold elite status.

You don’t have to do much work to earn this status. Simply enroll and you’ll be eligible for a 25% Marriott Bonvoy points bonus, an enhanced room at check-in (when available), 2 p.m. late checkout, free in-room Wi-Fi and more. Terms apply.

17. Upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold status

When you enroll in this status, you get room upgrades at select properties (when available), a complimentary fifth reward night on standard room reward stays of five nights or more, and 80% bonus points on all Hilton Honors base points. Terms apply.

18. Money-saving perks for stays booked through The Hotel Collection

If you book a stay of at least two consecutive nights with The Hotel Collection at over 600 properties, you can get a $100 hotel credit to spend on dining, spa and resort activities. You can also qualify for a room upgrade upon arrival depending on availability.

19. Complimentary benefits through Fine Hotels & Resorts

At over 1,300 properties, you can get a room upgrade (when available), daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout, noon check-in (when available), complimentary Wi-Fi and an amenity credit valued at $100.

20. Free shipping with ShopRunner

Get unlimited free two-day shipping and free return shipping on qualifying items when you sign up for a ShopRunner membership using your card. Enrollment required.

21. Concierge service

You have 24-hour access to assistants for personal, travel or card-related needs. The service is free, but fees may apply for costs incurred to fulfill your requests.

22. Low fares through the International Airline Program

You and your travel companions could earn savings on International First, Business and Premium Economy Class tickets on over 20 participating airlines when you book through American Express Travel.

23. Savings with the Cruise Privileges Program

Use your card to book cruises of five nights or longer through American Express Travel and get up to $300 in shipboard credit per stateroom. Additional perks include exclusive amenities that vary per cruise line and one extra Membership Rewards points per dollar spent.

24. Car Rental Privileges

Get complimentary premium status for car rental programs like Avis Preferred, National Car Rental Emerald Club and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards when you enroll in Car Rental Privileges. You’ll be eligible to receive upgrades, discounts and priority service for your next car rental at participating locations, depending on availability, when you pay with the card. Terms apply.

25. Deals through the Amex Auto Purchasing Program

You’re connected with eligible dealers that accept American Express. Dealers on the auto purchasing program's website accept your card for at least $2,000 and up to the full purchase price of the car. These same dealers also offer a Guaranteed Savings Certificate on your configured car and in-stock cars that align with your preferences. Terms apply.

26. An extra point when booking Platinum Destinations Vacations

Get one extra Membership Rewards point per dollar spent with your card on an eligible vacation package booked through the Platinum Travel Service.

27. Additional value through the InCircle rewards program

Enroll your card into InCircle, a Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman rewards program, and you can earn a $100 point card every time you earn 10,000 InCircle points. Points cards can be used to shop at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Last Call, Horchow and CUSP. Terms apply.

28. AmEx Carbon Emissions Tracker

Receive an estimate of your carbon emissions based on purchases made with the card, contribute monthly to carbon removal projects and get carbon reduction tips and information.

Access to unique experiences

29. the global dining access by resy.

Get access to exclusive reservations at popular restaurants, Priority Notify and a badge on your Resy profile that confirms membership to the Global Dining Access program.

30. Exclusive events

The “By Invitation Only” platform offers an open invitation to purchase tickets to exclusive events from sporting and fashion to dining, art and performances.

31. An open invitation to events with Membership Experiences

Get access to presale tickets, offers, special events and experiences in music, theater and sports, to name a few.

32. A better view with American Express Preferred Access

Get dibs on coveted seats and advance ticket sales for concerts, sports and entertainment events.

Benefits of the Alaska Airlines credit card

Benefits of the American Express Gold Card

Benefits of the American Express Green Card

Benefits of the Bank of America Travel Rewards card

Benefits of the Capital One Savor cards

Benefits of the Capital One Venture card

Benefits of the Capital One Quicksilver card

Benefits of the Capital One Platinum card

Benefits of the Chase Freedom Flex and Freedom Unlimited cards

Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card

Benefits of the Citi Costco credit card

Benefits of the Citi Custom Cash Card

Benefits of Citi Double Cash Card

Benefits of Delta Air Lines credit cards

Benefits of the Discover it Cash Back

Benefits of Marriott Bonvoy credit cards

Benefits of Southwest Airlines credit cards

Benefits of United Airlines credit cards

Benefits of the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card

Benefits of the Wells Fargo Autograph

Benefits of the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Convenient features

33. no foreign transaction fees.

The Platinum Card® from American Express doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, but you may experience limited merchant acceptance abroad. American Express cards aren’t as widely accepted internationally as Visa and Mastercard products. See NerdWallet’s best no foreign transaction fee cards.

34. Upgrade with points

Redeem Membership Rewards points for an airline ticket upgrade. The dollar amount of the upgrade will be charged to the card and points will be subtracted from your Membership Rewards to cover the expense as a credit. Terms apply.

35. No preset spending limit

The Platinum Card® from American Express doesn’t have a preset spending limit. You’ll still have a general limit, though, that fluctuates with changing factors such as your purchases and credit history. Regardless of how much you spend, you’ll have to pay it off in full every month.

36. A lower annual fee on additional cards

Add authorized users to your account and earn Membership Rewards points for all qualifying purchases made by additional card members. The annual fee is $195 for every additional card. Terms apply.

37. CreditSecure

Enroll in CreditSecure with the card to receive fraud assistance services and monitoring for your credit and identity. You’ll pay $1 for the first 30 days and $16.99 per month thereafter.

Protections

Retail and travel, 38. cell phone protection.

Get reimbursed after paying to fix or replace a lost or damaged cell phone , up to $800 per claim, with a limit of two approved claims per 12-month period. To qualify, you must pay for the cell phone bill with the card and pay a $50 deductible for each approved claim. Terms apply.

39. Purchase protection

This benefit protects qualifying purchases made with your card if they’re accidentally damaged, stolen or lost for up to 90 days from the purchase date. Coverage includes up to $10,000 per incident for up to a maximum of $50,000 per year. Learn more about purchase protection.

40. Return protection

If a merchant won’t take an item back within 90 days, American Express may refund you the value up to $300 item purchased with your card (for a maximum of $1,000) per year. The benefit doesn’t cover costs for shipping and handling. Learn more about return protection.

41. Extended warranty

Get up to an extra year added to an original manufacturer’s warranty of five years or less when you use the card to pay for qualifying purchases. Terms apply. Learn more about extended warranty protections.

42. Baggage insurance plan

If your luggage is lost, damaged or stolen, this plan covers you up to $2,000 for checked bags and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage. You have to pay for the entire fare with your card to be covered. Terms apply.

43. Car rental loss and damage insurance

This benefit offers secondary coverage for a rental car that is damaged or stolen. To qualify, you must pay for the rental car with your card and decline the collision damage waiver. Exclusions and terms apply. Learn more about rental car coverage provided via cards.

44. Premium Car Rental Protection

When you enroll and purchase Premium Car Rental Protection with the card and pay for rental charges with the card, you’ll be charged a flat rate per rental for up to 42 consecutive days and receive primary rental coverage. The flat rate also applies to rentals of eligible luxury cars, SUVs and pickup trucks. Terms apply.

45. Trip delay insurance

Pay for a round trip with the card and get covered if your trip is delayed by more than six hours for a qualifying reason. Trip delay insurance will reimburse certain expenses made with the card (up to $500 per trip) that result from the delay. Examples of expenses include meals, lodging, toiletries, medication and personal use items, to name a few. You’ll get a maximum of two claims per eligible card for every 12-month period.

46. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

When you purchase a round trip with the card and the trip is interrupted or canceled for a qualifying reason, the insurance will reimburse non-refundable expenses made with the card. Coverage applies on up to $10,000 per trip and up to $20,000 per eligible card per consecutive 12-month period. Terms apply.

Emergency services: Assistance 24 hours a day

47. premium global assist hotline.

If you’re traveling farther than 100 miles from home, American Express offers around-the-clock medical, legal, financial or other select emergency and assistance services. This benefit may also provide emergency medical transportation assistance. You may be responsible for any costs charged by third-party service providers.

More about the card

Complete card details for The Platinum Card® from American Express

NerdWallet review of The Platinum Card® from American Express

Cell phone protection

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 claims per eligible card account per 12 month period.

Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply.

Please visit Travel and Retail American Express Card Benefits | AmEx for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Purchase protection

Purchase protection 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.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Return protection

With return protection, you may return eligible purchases to American Express if the seller won't take them back up to 90 days from the date of purchase. American Express may refund the full purchase price excluding shipping and handling, up to $300 per item, up to a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year per card account, if you purchased it entirely with your eligible American Express® Card. Purchases must be made in the U.S. or its territories.

Extended warranty

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 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.

Baggage insurance plan

Baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip.  For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip.

Car rental loss and damage insurance

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.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car rental loss or damage coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Trip delay insurance

Up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and two claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

The maximum benefit amount for trip cancellation and interruption insurance is $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and benefit level varies by card.

Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit Travel and Retail American Express Card Benefits | AmEx for more details.

American Express® Gold Card

Access over $400 annually in benefits value with the American Express® Gold Card on eligible dining and travel purchases. Learn more here.

Find the right credit card for you.

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

The Platinum Card from American Express benefits guide

Advertiser disclosure.

We are an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Our goal is to help you make smarter financial decisions by providing you with interactive tools and financial calculators, publishing original and objective content, by enabling you to conduct research and compare information for free - so that you can make financial decisions with confidence.

Bankrate has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.

• Share this article on Facebook Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter Twitter
• Share this article on LinkedIn LinkedIn
• Share this article via email Email

• • Personal finance
• • Credit cards
• Connect with Margaret Wack on LinkedIn LinkedIn

• • Building credit
• • Credit card debt
• Get in contact with Liza Carrasquillo via Email Email

The Bankrate promise

At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation for how we make money . The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer.

At Bankrate, we have a mission to demystify the credit cards industry — regardless or where you are in your journey — and make it one you can navigate with confidence. Our team is full of a diverse range of experts from credit card pros to data analysts and, most importantly, people who shop for credit cards just like you. With this combination of expertise and perspectives, we keep close tabs on the credit card industry year-round to:

• Meet you wherever you are in your credit card journey to guide your information search and help you understand your options.
• Consistently provide up-to-date, reliable market information so you're well-equipped to make confident decisions.
• Reduce industry jargon so you get the clearest form of information possible, so you can make the right decision for you.

At Bankrate, we focus on the points consumers care about most: rewards, welcome offers and bonuses, APR, and overall customer experience. Any issuers discussed on our site are vetted based on the value they provide to consumers at each of these levels. At each step of the way, we fact-check ourselves to prioritize accuracy so we can continue to be here for your every next.

Editorial integrity

Bankrate follows a strict editorial policy , so you can trust that we’re putting your interests first. Our award-winning editors and reporters create honest and accurate content to help you make the right financial decisions.

Key Principles

We value your trust. Our mission is to provide readers with accurate and unbiased information, and we have editorial standards in place to ensure that happens. Our editors and reporters thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate. We maintain a firewall between our advertisers and our editorial team. Our editorial team does not receive direct compensation from our advertisers.

Editorial Independence

Bankrate’s editorial team writes on behalf of YOU – the reader. Our goal is to give you the best advice to help you make smart personal finance decisions. We follow strict guidelines to ensure that our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. Our editorial team receives no direct compensation from advertisers, and our content is thoroughly fact-checked to ensure accuracy. So, whether you’re reading an article or a review, you can trust that you’re getting credible and dependable information.

How we make money

You have money questions. Bankrate has answers. Our experts have been helping you master your money for over four decades. We continually strive to provide consumers with the expert advice and tools needed to succeed throughout life’s financial journey.

Bankrate follows a strict editorial policy , so you can trust that our content is honest and accurate. Our award-winning editors and reporters create honest and accurate content to help you make the right financial decisions. The content created by our editorial staff is objective, factual, and not influenced by our advertisers.

We’re transparent about how we are able to bring quality content, competitive rates, and useful tools to you by explaining how we make money.

Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. We are compensated in exchange for placement of sponsored products and services, or by you clicking on certain links posted on our site. Therefore, this compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear within listing categories, except where prohibited by law for our mortgage, home equity and other home lending products. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and whether a product is offered in your area or at your self-selected credit score range, can also impact how and where products appear on this site. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, Bankrate does not include information about every financial or credit product or service.

Key takeaways

• While The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, the right cardholders can take advantage of the card’s big travel perks to make up for the cost.
• The Amex Platinum offers both airline and hotel benefits, including up to $200 in hotel credits and Global Lounge Collection access.
• Other travel benefits, like additional protections, premium car rental status and access to a Platinum Card Concierge, only add to the allure of this card.

If you’re looking for a luxury rewards credit card with plenty of perks, The Platinum Card® from American Express could be the right fit. While this card comes with a hefty annual fee , savvy cardholders can more than make up for the cost through a combination of rewards, hotel and airline credits and more.

Best suited for high spenders and frequent travelers, this travel credit card comes with plenty of additional perks and benefits for users, like access to airport lounges around the world and automatic Gold Elite status from Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.

Amex Platinum airline benefits

Here’s a breakdown of the Amex Platinum’s airline benefits:

Up to $200 in airline fee credits

In order to qualify for this perk, you’ll need to pre-select one qualifying airline. You’ll then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for airline incidentals like checked bags and in-flight refreshments. Keep in mind that this credit can’t be applied to the cost of a plane ticket itself or any seat upgrades.

Up to $189 in Clear Plus membership statement credits

You can get up to $189 in statement credits annually if you purchase a Clear Plus membership with your card, which helps you expedite the process of airport security.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application credit

Cardholders can receive a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck . The statement credit comes every four years for Global Entry and every four and a half years for TSA PreCheck.

Bankrate’s take: Global Entry, which is best for those who want to expedite their reentry into the U.S., includes free TSA PreCheck membership. If you often travel internationally, getting Global Entry would be a better deal.

Global Lounge Collection access

American Express provides unparalleled network lounge access when compared to other issuers. For a premium airport experience, cardholders get access to airport lounges across the world, including:  

• Amex Centurion Lounges
• Delta Sky Clubs (when you fly with Delta; access limitations apply)
• Priority Pass Select lounges
• International American Express Lounges

Trip delay insurance

The Platinum card also comes with trip delay insurance if you purchase a round-trip entirely with the card and your trip is delayed more than six hours. Amex Platinum cardholders can receive up to $500 per trip (up to two claims every 12 months) to cover the cost of expenses if their flight is delayed for a qualifying reason.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

If your trip is canceled, Amex will reimburse you up to $10,000 per trip or $20,000 per card (each year) in trip cancellation and interruption insurance .

Baggage insurance plan

If your baggage is damaged, lost or stolen, this perk will cover you for up to $2,000 for checked luggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on luggage.

Amex Platinum hotel benefits

While the Amex Platinum is more well-known for its flight perks, it also has a lot to offer when it comes to hotel perks. Here are some benefits:

Up to $200 in hotel credits

Cardholders can earn up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel . This requires a minimum two-night stay.

$100 credit on qualifying hotel purchases

Book at least a consecutive two-night stay with The Hotel Collection via Amex Travel and enjoy a $100 credit to use toward experiences like spa treatments or snorkeling at your resort, for example.

Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status

Cardholders get automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, which includes benefits like room upgrades and late checkouts.

Hilton Honors Gold status

The card also comes with Hilton Honors Gold status. Perks of this status include room upgrades, food and beverage credits and more.

Additional Amex Platinum travel benefits

Other reasons to love this top travel credit card include:

No foreign transaction fees

The Amex Platinum charges no foreign transaction fees , meaning you can use the card when traveling abroad without incurring any additional expenses.

Platinum Card Concierge

Need help planning your travels? Amex provides complimentary travel services through American Express Platinum Concierge, including helping cardholders with itineraries and customized recommendations. But you can also use this service for things like dinner reservations and securing tickets for events.

Premium car rental status

Cardholders can enjoy Amex Platinum rental car benefits like premium status at a number of major rental car companies, including Avis, Hertz and National Car Rental.

Car rental loss and damage insurance

With this card, you don’t need to pay extra for rental car insurance . Through this secondary coverage, you’re automatically protected against damage or theft of your rental vehicle.

Global Assist Hotline

When traveling more than 100 miles from home, cardholders have 24/7 access to medical, legal, financial or other select emergency coordination and assistance services.

Amex Platinum entertainment benefits

In addition to its travel benefits, the Amex Platinum also offers a range of shopping and entertainment perks.

Up to $240 in digital entertainment credits

With enrollment, cardholders can get up to $240 in statement credits (up to $20 each month) for entertainment-related purchases. These can include subscriptions to:

• The Wall Street Journal
• The New York Times

Up to $300 in eligible Equinox membership credits

Another Amex Platinum card benefit is an up to $300 statement credit annually for Equinox in-club or digital membership fees, including fees for:

• Equinox All Access
• Equinox Destination membership
• E by Equinox gyms

$300 SoulCycle credit

Enjoy a $300 credit for a single, eligible SoulCycle At-Home bike purchase. In order to qualify for this credit, you must make the purchase with your Platinum card through Amex’s provided link.

Up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits

Cardholders can get up to $100 in statement credits ($50 semi-annually) when they shop at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Up to $155 in Walmart+ credits

This credit covers the cost of a monthly Walmart+ membership when you pay with your Platinum card, meaning you’d get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes per month.

Up to $200 in Uber Cash

Amex Platinum cardholders receive $15 in Uber Cash for rides and deliveries every month (plus an extra $20 in December) (Terms Apply).

Complimentary ShopRunner access

Cardholders get a complimentary membership to the online shopping platform ShopRunner. This platform provides free 2-day shipping on eligible items and has a network of over 100 online stores with ShopRunner.

Additional Amex Platinum protection benefits

Your Amex Platinum can keep your purchases safe with the following benefits:

Cellphone protection

When you pay for your cellphone bill with your Amex Platinum, you can get reimbursed up to $800 (up to two claims per year) for damage or theft to your device. A $50 deductible applies to each claim.

Return protection

If you try to return an eligible item within 90 days from the date of purchase and the merchant won’t take it back, American Express may refund you up to $300 per item (excluding shipping and handling), with a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year for each account.

Purchase protection

New purchases are protected for up to 90 days if they’re lost, damaged or stolen. American Express purchase protection covers up to $10,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per year.

Extended warranty protection

The Amex Platinum allows you to extend your warranty protection for longer, matching the original warranty for up to an additional year. The warranty protection covers up to $10,000 per item and $50,000 per year.

Amex Platinum authorized user benefits

Amex Platinum cardholders can add an authorized user to their account for an annual fee of $195 per additional user.

While authorized users don’t get as many benefits as primary cardholders, some Amex Platinum authorized user benefits include airport lounge access, elite statuses with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors, various shopping, travel and entertainment credits and more. Our guide to Amex Platinum authorized user benefits covers this more in depth.

Maximizing the perks and benefits offered by the Amex Platinum

To get the most out of your Amex Platinum, follow these tips:

Take advantage of credits

The most important thing to keep in mind when maximizing Amex Platinum benefits is that you should take advantage of as many of the annual credits as you can in order to help offset the hefty annual fee.

Amex Platinum travel benefits, like the hotel and airline fee credits, are especially valuable since they’re relatively easy to qualify for if you travel often. Use as many of these credits as possible to make the most of the card — potential credits are worth up to $1,709, which more than covers the $695 annual fee.

Steer clear of unnecessary purchases

Cardholders shouldn’t feel obligated to sign up for pricey services like Equinox just because it comes with the card. If you find yourself spending more money than you otherwise would for a product that you don’t feel strongly about, it’s a good sign that the purchase isn’t worth the cost. That said, there are many credits (like those for digital entertainment services, Walmart+ and Uber) that make certain purchases essentially free.

Maximize rewards earnings

To maximize your rewards earnings, it’s a good idea to book all flights and hotels using this card. American Express Membership Rewards points are about 2.0 cents when transferred to a high-value travel partner, each according to Bankrate valuations .

In addition to redeeming them with a travel partner you can redeem them for statement credits, gift cards, loyalty programs and more — though we recommend trying to redeem them for options with the highest points value.

Claim freebies

The number of perks and benefits that come with this card can be overwhelming, but it’s worth spending time reviewing everything to make sure you take advantage of all the free stuff offered. Taking advantage of complimentary perks like airport lounge access, premium status at hotels and more can make your travel experience a little more luxurious, while shopping and entertainment credits can give you money back for purchases that you already make each month.

The bottom line

The Platinum Card from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, but it’s relatively easy for frequent travelers to recover that fee thanks to the card’s generous welcome bonus, impressive array of annual credits and various travel and purchase protections.

While there are a few extraneous benefits that the average cardholder may not end up taking advantage of, this card offers an impressive value and can certainly be worth it. If you’re looking for a luxury rewards credit card with great travel perks , the Amex Platinum won’t disappoint.

Capital One Venture X vs. Amex Platinum Card

Is the Amex Platinum worth the yearly fee?

The Platinum Card from American Express review: Unparalleled potential value, but at a premium

We are an independent publisher. Our reporters create honest, accurate, and objective content to help you make decisions. To support our work, we are paid for providing advertising services. Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks (such as a “Next” button) that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. The compensation we receive and other factors, such as your location, may impact what ads and links appear on our site, and how, where, and in what order ads and links appear. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, our site does not include information about every product or service that may be available to you. We strive to keep our information accurate and up-to-date, but some information may not be current. So, your actual offer terms from an advertiser may be different than the offer terms on this site. And the advertised offers may be subject to additional terms and conditions of the advertiser. All information is presented without any warranty or guarantee to you.

This page may include: credit card ads that we may be paid for (“advertiser listing”); and general information about credit card products (“editorial content”). Many, but not all, of the offers and clickable hyperlinks (such as a “Apply Now” button or “Learn More” button) that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. When you click on that hyperlink or button, you may be directed to the credit card issuer’s website where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer. Each advertiser is responsible for the accuracy and availability of its ad offer details, but we attempt to verify those offer details. We have partnerships with advertisers such as Brex, Capital One, Chase, Citi, Wells Fargo and Discover. We also include editorial content to educate consumers about financial products and services. Some of that content may also contain ads, including links to advertisers’ sites, and we may be paid on those ads or links.

For more information, please see How we make money .

How does the Amex Platinum’s travel insurance work?

Signing up for credit cards through partner links earns us a commission. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Here’s our full advertising policy: How we make money .

Update: One or more card offers in this post are no longer available. Check our  Hot Deals  for the latest offers.

American Express credit cards have emerged as one of the top card travel insurance options. After years of neglecting this aspect of their card benefits, they’re extremely competitive among other bank cards — particularly The Platinum Card® from American Express.

The Amex Platinum receives extra insurance less premium cards simply don’t have. Yes, it’s got a massive 100,000 point bonus after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening (read our post on common mistakes people make with Amex points to see how valuable they can be), but that’s a short-lived aspect of the card.

Let’s take a look at the Amex Platinum travel insurance — and learn how you can leverage the card for coverage on airfare, baggage, rental cars, and more. You can read our Amex Platinum review for a more well-rounded look at the card’s benefits.

Credit card travel protection benefits

When you pay for airfare with the best travel insurance credit cards , you can get automatic travel protection benefits at no extra charge. Chase and Amex offer fantastic features (while Citibank travel insurance is nonexistent, by the way).

Depending on the card, sometimes just paying the taxes and fees on an award flight will get you coverage. But the coverage you get can vary significantly by card. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Note: Amex stipulates that you must book with a “Common Carrier” to qualify for coverage. That just means you’ve booked an airline, a cruise ship, etc. You won’t be reimbursed if you book an under-the-table commute across Lake Okeechobee on your cousin’s fan boat.

Amex cards eligible for travel insurance

The best American Express cards are eligible for travel insurance. Here’s a table breaking down the most popular cards with the best coverage.

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (similar name but quite different from the regular Platinum card — read our Amex Business Platinum review )
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

The information for the Hilton Aspire card has been collected independently by Million Mile Secrets. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Here’s a list of the most popular cards with benefits a tier below the most premium cards:

• American Express® Gold Card
• American Express® Business Gold Card
• American Express® Green Card
• Business Green Rewards
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
• The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

These cards don’t come with trip cancellation or interruption, and they have lower reimbursement caps for coverages like trip delay and baggage protection.

The Amex Platinum benefits are top of the food chain. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Trip Interruption and Cancellation Insurance

With Amex Platinum Trip Cancellation Insurance, you’re are eligible for up to $10,000 per trip (with a maximum payout of $20,000 per 12-month period) for flight cancellations occurring due to a covered reason (such as inclement weather, jury duty, injury, illness, etc.). You must pay the full ticket with your card (award flight taxes and fees and Pay With Points tickets also eligible).

Trip Delay Insurance

If your trip is delayed more than six hours for a covered reason, you’ll get up to $500 for reasonable expenses (think meals, lodging, toiletries, etc.). Again, you must purchase your trip in full with your Amex Platinum — and paying taxes & fees on award flights or Pay With Points qualifies you for coverage.

Here are some examples of eligible reasons for which Amex will compensate you:

• Equipment failure (the plane wheels fall off, the engine won’t start, etc.)
• Inclement weather
• You lose your travel documents
• Your flight is hijacked

Note that this insurance is valid for round-trip flights only . However, the Amex Platinum benefits guide states:

The period of round-trip travel may consist of roundtrip, one-way, or combinations of roundtrip and one-way tickets with Common Carrier(s).

Rental Car Insurance

The Amex Platinum comes with secondary rental car insurance. That basically means that if your rental car is damaged or stolen, it’ll cover you for any expenses that remain after your personal insurance pays for everything that it covers. Or, if you purchased rental car insurance from the rental agency, Amex Platinum insurance will scoop up the remaining costs that it won’t cover.

However , you can enroll for free in the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection program , and that does offer primary rental car insurance. You’ll pay ~$25 (~$18 for California residents, ~$16 for Florida residents) per rental for up to 42 consecutive rental days (30 consecutive rental days for Washington State cardholders). If you’re renting for a few days, this is definitely worth purchasing.

Unless you’ve got any one of the best credit cards for car rentals . These come with primary rental car insurance for free.

Lost, Damaged, and Stolen Baggage Insurance

The Amex Platinum comes with various coverages in the event that your baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged by the common carrier:

• Up to $2,000 per person per trip for loss of checked baggage
• Up to $3,000 per person per trip for loss of carry-on baggage
• Up to $250 per person per trip for loss of high risk items (i.e. jewelry & electronics)
• Cap of $10,000 per trip for everyone on your itinerary.

High-risk items such as jewelry, electronic equipment, sports equipment, etc., are capped at $1,000 in total coverage. For things like cash, medical items, and contact lenses, you won’t be covered at all.

Delayed Baggage Insurance

Some cards will reimburse you in the event that your checked bags are delayed by more than six hours. If you arrive at your destination and your stuff doesn’t show up, you can go to the store and buy things to tide you over until your bag finally arrives (toiletries, clothes, and the like).

American Express completely ignores this fantastic feature. The Amex Platinum gives you none of this coverage. But read our post on the best credit card for baggage delay coverage to find a good one. This has saved me $500+ on a single trip in the past.

Premium Global Assist

 When you are at least 100 miles from home, you can call the Amex Platinum Premium Global Assist to help solve pretty much any hardship. For example:

• You can call for help finding a lost item — including luggage. Amex will pester the airline until you are satisfied
• You can tell Amex to contact a friend or family member during your trip if you can’t reach them yourself
• If you lose your wallet, you can tell Amex to cancel all your credit cards
• If you need emergency evacuation, Amex will arrange everything

Note that Amex may be able to cover your emergency expenses and transportation if you’re in an area with sub-par treatment.

Plus, if you’re in the trenches of your trip planning, they can help you iron out the tedious details. They’ll help you understand travel etiquette in the country you’re visiting, if there are any shots that are required/recommended, and tell you if you need any special visas for your trip. 

There are plenty of other things they can do, too. Their number is 1-800-345-2639.

FAQ: Things to consider with trip protection benefits

Because travel coverage is not the same across all cards, you’ll want to use the card that is best for your personal situation. Here are a few things that might factor into which card you use to pay for travel.

Will your airline elite status help if there’s a flight delay or cancellation?

Having airline elite status comes with perks that can help if you pay with a card like the Amex Platinum, which doesn’t have trip delay or cancellation insurance.

For example, some airlines offer passengers with elite status free same-day standby flights, so if your flight is delayed, you could switch to another flight without having to worry about filing a claim for a trip delay.

Similarly, if your flight is canceled, having elite status might give you a higher priority to get a seat on the next available flight. But consider if you’re traveling to a remote destination or region with unpredictable weather that it’s wise to pay with best travel insurance credit cards . If all flights are delayed or canceled, you could end up paying out of pocket for hotel rooms and necessary expenses. Having a card that gets you reimbursed is a great benefit.

Did you book an expensive cruise or tour?

Having trip interruption or cancellation insurance from a credit card can come in handy should you have to cancel an expensive trip for an eligible reason. For example, let’s say you pay for a family cruise to Alaska, but are unable to go due to a last-minute illness. If you paid with the Amex Platinum, it’s possible to get a refund for your trip up to a certain limit.

I recommend reading the terms and conditions of your card’s trip protection benefits before paying for a vacation. It’s important to know who is covered, the claims process, and the reasons you’re eligible to get a refund.

Do you have third-party travel insurance?

Many purchase travel insurance through a third-party company to cover trip delays, cancellations, and other unforeseen events. You can often bundle these coverages with a supplemental medical travel policy, which can be helpful if you’re traveling outside the U.S.

There are great resources on the web to research travel insurance policies . Keep in mind, travel insurance plans and coverage amounts can differ widely — but purchasing a third-party plan can be helpful for folks who don’t pay for a trip with a card that comes with these benefits.

Bottom line

When you pay for a trip with Amex Platinum, you’ll receive trip delay insurance, as well as trip cancellation and interruption. These insurances make the card even more enticing to use for your travel, as you’ll earn 5x Amex Membership Rewards points on airfare purchased directly from airlines or from Amex Travel . Read our post on the best ways to use Amex points to see why that’s such a big deal.

This isn’t even counting the other great perks that come with the card, like Amex purchase protection and a gigantic welcome bonus worth potentially thousands in travel. Line this card’s virtues against the wall and it’s easy to see why the American Express Platinu m card is worth it .

Have you used any of the Amex Platinum travel insurance? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments. And subscribe to our newsletter for more credit card travel techniques.

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.

Joseph Hostetler

Joseph Hostetler is a full-time writer for Million Mile Secrets, covering miles and points tips and tricks, as well as helpful travel-related news and deals. He has also authored and edited for The Points Guy.

More Topics

Credit Cards

Join the Discussion!

You May Also Like

BonusTracker: Best credit card bonus offers

June 14, 2021 4

Best Hilton credit cards: Improved weekend night certificates, earning rates and more

June 12, 2021 2

Our Favorite Partner Cards

Popular posts.

Everything you need to know about Amex’s Premium Global Assistance and trip insurance benefits

Update : Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Although perks like unparalleled airport lounge access , an up to $200 annual airline credit , up to $200 annual prepaid hotel statement credit and up to $200 annual Uber credit (for U.S. services) may seem like the most valuable benefits of The Platinum Card® from American Express, there are a number of lesser-known perks the card offers . Among them are Premium Global Assist and trip insurance . (Enrollment required.)

These protections are separate from perks like baggage insurance — they assist with more severe issues like emergency medical transportation and unforeseen trip cancellations. While we all hope never to have to use these benefits, they're worth familiarizing yourself with , as they can save you a ton of money and aggravation if you are in a time of need.

Want more credit card news and advice from TPG? Sign up for our daily newsletter .

Amex cards that offer Premium Global Assist and trip insurance

All Amex cards have access to Amex's Global Assist Hotline, but trip insurance benefits are reserved for the higher-end cards. For the most protection, you'll need Amex's premium cards:

• The Platinum Card from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• American Express Corporate Platinum Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• American Express Centurion Card
• American Express Business Centurion Card

The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex, Amex Corporate Platinum, Amex Centurion and Amex Business Centurion cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Which is the best American Express credit card for you?

What is the Premium Global Assist Hotline?

Whenever you're traveling on a trip of 90 days or less and that is 100 miles or more from home, you have access to Amex's Premium Global Assist Hotline.

This 24/7 hotline can help you with everything from customs information and destination guides to unexpected issues you may encounter during your trip, such as arranging emergency medical transportation, medical prescription replacement, missing luggage assistance and legal assistance. For example, TPG reader Joseph was able to get tremendous value from the Global Assist Hotline during a trip to New Zealand when both of his children got sick and he needed help finding reputable medical facilities nearby.

While most services the hotline coordinates for you are at your own expense, there are some benefits available to Platinum and Centurion cardholders at no cost. They include emergency medical transportation and evacuation — if the Amex physician or local physician decides that it is medically necessary and advisable due to inadequacy of local facilities — and repatriation of mortal remains.

There are some important exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions and refusal of permission by local authorities, so you'll want to read the full terms and benefits guide (warning: PDF link) for your card. Also, note that the coverage is only for the cost of evacuation, not the actual medical care.

Related: What's covered by credit card travel accident and emergency evacuation insurance?

What's covered by trip insurance?

Amex offers two types of trip insurance benefits: trip delay insurance and trip cancellation and interruption insurance . They're pretty self-explanatory, but here's what you need to know.

With the trip delay insurance provided by the cards listed above, you'll be reimbursed for unexpected expenses — such as meals, lodging, and personal-use items — if your trip is delayed by more than six hours due to a covered reason. You're covered up to $500 per trip so long as you booked round-trip flights and paid entirely with an eligible card (if you paid taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay With Points tickets, that is also covered).

Amex defines round-trip tickets as travel consisting of "roundtrip, one-way, or combinations of roundtrip or one-way tickets." So, for example, an itinerary bringing a covered traveler from New York to Los Angeles, then back from San Francisco to New York would qualify.

Some of Amex's mid-tier cards offer trip delay protection as well, but only for delays of more than 12 hours, with reimbursement of only up to $300.

Related: Your guide to Amex's travel insurance coverage

On the other hand, trip cancellation and interruption insurance provide reimbursement for covered expenses when you are forced to cancel or cut a covered trip short for an eligible reason. If you qualify, you may receive reimbursement of non-refundable travel expenses of up to $10,000 per trip, with a maximum of up to $20,000 per eligible account for each consecutive 12-month period.

Related: Comparing built-in travel insurance with the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum

Covered reasons for canceled trips include inclement weather, terrorist action, call to jury duty, or sudden illness or injury to you or an eligible traveler. Again, you must book "round-trip" travel, paid for entirely using your eligible card, to be covered.

Here's a sampling of what's not covered by trip cancellation/interruption insurance. Notably, avoiding outbreaks generally isn't covered . You'll likely only get coverage in connection with COVID-19 if you contract the virus or a physician requires you to quarantine for health reasons related to COVID-19 on or before the departure of your trip.

• Pre-existing conditions.
• The eligible traveler's suicide, attempted suicide or intentionally self-inflicted injury.
• A declared or undeclared war.
• Mental or emotional disorders, unless hospitalized.
• The eligible traveler's participation in a sporting activity for which he or she receives a salary or prize money.
• The eligible traveler being intoxicated at the time of an accident. Intoxication is defined by the laws of the jurisdiction where such accident occurs.
• The eligible traveler being under the influence of any narcotic or other controlled substance at the time of an accident, unless the narcotic or other controlled substance is taken and used as prescribed by a physician.
• The eligible traveler's commission or attempted commission of any illegal or criminal act, including but not limited to any felony.
• The eligible traveler parachuting from an aircraft.
• The eligible traveler engaging or participating in a motorized vehicular race or speed contest.
• Dental treatment, except as a result of accidental bodily injury to sound, natural teeth.
• Any non-emergency treatment or surgery, along with any routine physical examinations.
• Hearing aids, eye glasses or contact lenses.
• One-way travel that does not have a return destination.
• A counterfeit scheduled airline or train ticket, or a scheduled airline or train ticket which is charged to a fraudulently issued or fraudulently used eligible card.
• Any occurrence while the eligible traveler is incarcerated.
• Loss due to intentional acts by the eligible traveler.
• Financial insolvency of a travel agency, tour operator or travel supplier.
• Any expenses that are not authorized and reimbursable by the eligible traveler's employer if the eligible traveler makes the purchases with a commercial card.

Related: TPG's comprehensive guide to independent travel insurance — including coronavirus coverage

Bottom line

Lesser-known benefits such as Premium Global Assist Hotline and trip insurance can be lifesavers. Whether you're planning a winter getaway or taking a post-pandemic family vacation to New Zealand like TPG reader Joseph, hopefully, this post has given you some peace of mind that your Amex Platinum Card will help save the day in case anything goes wrong. Just be sure to review your card's benefit guide very carefully for the full list of terms and conditions.

Official application link: Amex Platinum with a 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.

• Best Extended Auto Warranty
• Best Used Car Warranty
• Best Car Warranty Companies
• CarShield Reviews
• Best Auto Loan Rates
• Average Auto Loan Interest Rates
• Best Auto Refinance Rates
• Bad Credit Auto Loans
• Best Auto Shipping Companies
• How To Ship a Car
• Car Shipping Cost Calculator
• Montway Auto Transport Review
• Best Car Buying Apps
• Best Sites To Sell a Car
• CarMax Review
• Carvana Review (July 2024)
• Best LLC Service
• Best Registered Agent Service
• Best Trademark Service
• Best Online Legal Services
• Best Accounting Software
• Best Receipt Scanner Apps
• Best Free Accounting Software
• Best Online Bookkeeping Services
• Best Mileage Tracker Apps
• Best Business Expense Tracker Apps
• Best CRMs for Small Business
• Best CRM Software
• Best CRM for Real Estate
• Best Marketing CRM
• Best CRM for Sales
• Best SEO Services
• Best Mass Texting Services
• Best Email Marketing Software
• Best SEO Software
• Best HR Software
• Best Payroll Services
• Best Global Payroll Services 2024
• Best Payroll Software for Accountants in 2024
• Best HR Outsourcing Services
• Best HRIS Software
• Best Free Time Tracking Apps
• Best Project Management Software
• Best Construction Project Management Software
• Best Task Management Software
• Free Project Management Software
• Best Personal Loans
• Best Fast Personal Loans
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans
• Best Personal Loans for Fair Credit
• HOME EQUITY
• Best Home Equity Loan Rates
• Best Home Equity Loans
• Best Checking Accounts
• Best Online Checking Accounts
• Best Online Banks
• Bank Account Bonuses
• Best High-Yield Savings Accounts
• Best Savings Accounts
• Average Savings Account Interest Rate
• Money Market Accounts
• Best CD Rates
• Best 3-Month CD Rates
• Best 6-Month CD Rates
• Best 1-Year CD Rates
• Best 5-Year CD Rates
• Best Hearing Aids
• Best OTC Hearing Aids
• Most Affordable Hearing Aids
• Eargo Hearing Aids Review
• Best Medical Alert Systems
• Best Medical Alert Watches
• Best Medical Alert Necklaces
• Are Medical Alert Systems Covered by Insurance?
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Online Therapy Platforms That Take Insurance
• Best Online Psychiatrist Platforms
• BetterHelp Review
• Best Mattress
• Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
• Best Mattress for Back Pain
• Best Adjustable Beds
• Best Home Warranty Companies
• Best Home Appliance Insurance
• American Home Shield Review
• Liberty Home Guard Review
• Best Moving Companies
• Best Interstate Moving Companies
• Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
• Cheap Moving Companies
• Best Window Brands
• Cheap Window Replacement
• Window Replacement Cost
• Best Gutter Guards
• Gutter Installation Costs
• Best Solar Companies
• Best Solar Panels
• How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
• Solar Calculator
• Texas Electricity Companies
• Texas Electricity Rates
• Best Car Insurance Companies
• Cheapest Car Insurance Companies
• Compare Car Insurance Quotes
• Best Car Insurance for New Drivers
• Best Pet Insurance
• Cheapest Pet Insurance
• Pet Insurance Cost
• Pet Insurance in Texas
• Pet Wellness Plans
• Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
• Best Life Insurance
• Best Term Life Insurance
• Best Whole Life Insurance
• Term vs. Whole Life Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance Companies
• Best Homeowners Insurance Companies
• Best Renters Insurance Companies
• Best Motorcycle Insurance
• Cheapest Homeowners Insurance
• Cheapest Renters Insurance
• Travel Medical Insurance

MarketWatch Guides is a reviews and recommendations team, independent of the MarketWatch newsroom. We might earn a commission from links in this content.  Learn More

American Express Travel Insurance (2024 Guide)

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Kelly Larson is a senior editor with 14 years of experience creating and optimizing data-driven, reader-focused digital content. Kelly enjoys running and exploring the outdoors with his sons.

Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the best travel insurance companies

• AmEx offers travel insurance policies for single-trips to card holders
• The perks include trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage delay and car rental collision coverage, which can protect you before and during your travels booked with a qualifying Amex card.
• Travel insurance policies vary depending on the credit card

Our Thoughts on American Express Travel Insurance

American Express offers complimentary travel benefits through qualifying Amex cards when you purchase trip expenses using your card. Benefits include trip cancellation, trip interruption, trip delay, baggage coverage, car rental and collision protection and global assist hotline services to cardholders, family members and traveling companions. American Express also offers standard travel insurance policies that non-cardholders can purchase.

We appreciate how American Express offers a unique travel benefit with car rental collision damage. Based on our research, this coverage isn’t typically included with a standard travel insurance policy. We also like how Amex’s Premium Global Assist Hotline may offer emergency medical transport and repatriation services at no cost to the cardholder. However, like most other credit cards, you will be subject to an annual fee that’s dependent on your card. In addition, not all Amex cards offer the same maximum amount of free travel benefits.

If you currently have an Amex card with travel insurance perks, we recommend comparing its travel coverage with standard plans offered by competitors. To help you choose the travel protection that best fits you, consider your unique needs when deciding on coverage.

American Express Travel Insurance vs. Amex Credit Card Complimentary Travel Insurance

In addition to its complimentary travel insurance perks offered through various credit cards, American Express offers standalone policies for purchase. Note that you can purchase the company’s travel insurance policies even if you don’t have an American Express card. You’ll find four different plans and a custom plan option, making it easy to tailor coverage to suit a variety of travelers.

Amex complimentary travel insurance benefits are best for travelers who already hold an American Express card, as they come at no extra cost to cardholders. Depending on your specific Amex card, benefits can include baggage, car rental loss and damage, trip delay, trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency hotline benefits. Some cards, such as the Platinum and Centurion Card, may offer all available benefits. Other Amex cards may only provide one or two. Unlike Amex’s standalone travel insurance policies, its baked-in benefits for cardholders don’t include emergency medical coverage.

How To Qualify for American Express Travel Insurance

Qualifying for American Express travel insurance benefits as an Amex card member is simple. However, you will need to visit the American Express retail and travel benefits page to learn if your exact card offers any travel insurance benefits. Various personal, business and corporate Amex cards qualify for travel insurance benefits, which we’ll detail further in this article.

If you own an Amex card with travel insurance benefits, you must book any nonrefundable travel expenses using your Amex card to qualify for reimbursement. Travelers eligible for these benefits include cardholders, family members and traveling companions who purchase a covered trip using an eligible card. If you’d like more coverage than American Express offers through its travel insurance benefits, the company provides “top-up options,” which are additional coverage limits available for purchase.

If you don’t own an Amex card, you can still apply for travel coverage through Amex Travel Insurance. You can get a free policy quote online through the American Express webpage or by calling customer service and speaking with a representative.

How Does Amex Travel Insurance Work?

American Express travel insurance benefits provide various protections for qualifying cardholders, offering coverage for trip cancellation, baggage delay, car rental collision and more. Amex cardholders also receive 24/7 Global Assist Hotline or Premium Global Assist Hotline services, which provide travel and emergency assistance services if you need help during covered travels.

American Express notes that it doesn’t administer all travel benefits associated with qualifying Amex cards. New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company, covers trip delay, cancellation and interruption benefits. AMEX Assurance Company, a subsidiary of American Express, provides car rental loss, damage coverage and baggage insurance. American Express states that coverage is subject to certain terms, conditions and limitations, with coverage considered secondary to any primary coverages you may have through other companies associated with your travels.

American Express Credit Card Travel Insurance Benefits

Many American Express credit cards come with various travel insurance benefits when you book and pay for your trip expenses using your Amex card. Unlike the travel insurance policies sold through American Express, these benefits are accessible to cardholders for qualifying trips. 

The following sections offer a closer look at these coverages, including what they entail, monetary limits and which Amex cards offer each coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses in two scenarios: if you need to cancel your trip for a reason covered under your policy, and if you need to cut your vacation short and return home for a covered situation. This benefit applies to all eligible travelers if you pay for your travel expenses (including flights and cruises ) using a qualifying Amex card. Note that if you book a trip with Amex Membership Reward Points, you’ll also be eligible for reimbursement.

The maximum reimbursement for trip cancellations and interruptions is the same across all Amex cards with this travel benefit. You’ll receive up to $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive months. American Express considers this coverage secondary, meaning any other applicable insurance or benefits provided through your travel supplier will apply before Amex coverage.

American Express lists accidental injuries, illnesses, acts of terrorism, unpostponable jury duty, military orders and more to be covered reasons for trip cancellation or interruption. We encourage you to carefully read through your Amex card’s specific policy terms to ensure you understand what scenarios are included and excluded from coverage.

The following Amex cards offer trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits:

• Centurion ® Card from American Express
• The Platinum Card ®
• Corporate Platinum Card ®
• The American Express Platinum Card ® for Schwab
• The Platinum Card ® from American Express for Goldman Sachs
• The Platinum Card ® from American Express for Morgan Stanley
• Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Credit Card
• HIlton Honors American Express Aspire Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ™ American Express ® Card
• Business Centurion ® Card from American Express
• Business Platinum Card ®
• Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve for Business Credit Card
• The Corporate Centurion ® Card from American Express

Trip delay insurance coverage provides protection when your plane, bus, train or other type of transport experiences a delay. This benefit can extend to hotel rooms, meals and other necessities while you wait for your travels to resume. Covered delays accepted by American Express include delays caused by weather, lost or stolen passports, carrier equipment failure and more. Intentional acts by the traveler are excluded from this coverage.

There are 20 different Amex cards that offer trip delay insurance. American Express determines reimbursement rates by the Amex card you hold, but the allotted claims frequency remains the same across all applicable cards — two claims per 12-month period. You must notify the administrator of your claim within 60 days of your covered loss. Cards that provide $500 per covered trip and a delay threshold requirement of six hours include:

• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Cards that provide $300 per covered trip and a delay threshold requirement of 12 hours include:

• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy ™ American Express ® Card
• American Express ® Gold Card
• American Express ® Green Card
• Platinum Delta SkyMiles ® Credit Card
• American Express ® Business Gold Card
• Platinum Delta SkyMiles ® Business Credit Card

Baggage Delay or Loss

Baggage coverage can reimburse you for items in your travel bags if they are lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during transit. Most travel insurance companies offer plans that include this coverage, but coverage limits vary between providers. If you plan on traveling with expensive items in your luggage, you may want to consider a baggage insurance policy with high delay and loss limits.

Each Amex card offering baggage delay or loss coverage has a combined maximum payout of $3,000 per person. Carry-on baggage, checked luggage and high-end items may have different maximum limits depending on your Amex card. Regardless of your card and its limits, you must file a claim within 30 days of baggage loss.

Car Rental Collision Damage

Car rental collision damage coverage is a unique protection, as not all travel insurance providers offer it. It can cover any damage from a collision or theft incurred on a rental vehicle if you pay for the entire rental using your Amex card. Note that you need to forgo the car rental insurance offered by the rental company. Over 60 different Amex cards offer car rental loss and damage insurance, with varying reimbursement maximums depending on your card.

American Express offers two tiers of car rental loss and damage insurance: Tier 1 offers $50,000 in total coverage, and Tier 2 offers $75,000. This Amex travel benefit also provides accidental death and dismemberment, accidental injury and car rental personal property coverage for Tier 2 cards. Exclusions include drivers not named “authorized drivers” on your rental agreement, rentals lasting longer than 30 days and more.

Global Assist and Premium Global Assist Hotlines

American Express provides Global Assist and Premium Global Assist Hotlines to 73 different cards. Each type of assistance is available 24/7 to cardholders, but the assistance you qualify for depends on your card.

Global Assist Hotline services can help you prepare for your trip before leaving by offering information on customs, foreign exchange rates, passport and visa information and more. You can also benefit from lost passport or travel document replacement assistance, translation services, medical assistance and more. Note that while these services are free of charge, charges associated with third-party referrals will be your responsibility as a cardholder.

The American Express Premium Global Assist Hotline offers the same services as Global Assist, with a few extra perks. While Global Assist will provide administrative services for emergency medical transportation and repatriation of mortal remains, Premium Global Assist may offer the actual services — at no cost to the cardholder — depending on eligibility. It can also assist with medical financial coordination, which standard Global Assist doesn’t offer.

To qualify for Global Assist and Premium Global Assist benefits, you must be a cardmember in good standing with a trip originating from your U.S. billing address within the past 90 days. In addition, you must be traveling more than 100 miles from your home address. If you’re traveling to Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea or Crimea, you are ineligible for these assistance services.

Cards that provide Premium Global Assist include:

• Platinum Card ® from American Express
• Business Platinum Card ®  
• Corporate Centurion ® Card from American Express
• Corporate Platinum ® Card

American Express Travel Insurance Plans

Amex cardholders and non-cardholders alike can purchase Amex Travel Insurance plans. Similar to standard plans from providers like Seven Corners and Trawick International , these plans cover emergency medical services, trip cancellations, trip interruptions, lost or delayed baggage and more. Some coverages are also offered through Amex travel benefits, while others are unique to the company’s travel insurance policies.

Purchasing a plan is straightforward — you can either use the quote tool provided on the American Express website or contact a customer service representative for assistance. When shopping, you’ll have your choice of four plans — Basic, Silver, Gold and Platinum — in addition to a custom plan option. The next few sections provide more information on the coverage provided through American Express travel insurance policies.

Global Medical Protection

Global medical protection provides medical, dental, evacuation and repatriation coverage up to a fixed amount. Emergency medical and dental coverage is valid for the first 60 days of your trip. Emergency evacuation benefits cover the cost and help arrange emergency transportation to a capable medical facility. It also covers the cost of a visitor’s transport to a covered person’s bedside if hospitalization lasts more than five days.

Travel Accident Protection

Travel accident protection provides coverage for an accident resulting in death or dismemberment at any point during your trip, from the moment you leave home to the moment you arrive back. This coverage isn’t available with the American Express Basic travel insurance plan but comes with a Silver, Gold or Platinum plan.

24-Hour Travel Assistance

This benefit comes with every travel insurance policy purchased through American Express. It provides worldwide access to a 14-hour hotline that offers travel support before and during your trip. American Express also provides this benefit through Amex prepaid, reloadable cards.

Benefits Included With Amex Credit Card Coverage

Several coverages provided through an American Express Travel Insurance plan are also perks with qualifying Amex credit cards. However, coverage limits will vary. Whether you purchase a policy or use your Amex travel perks, it’s important to understand the limitations and restrictions outlined for each coverage.

Trip cancellation and interruption benefits can reimburse nonrefundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip before it starts or if it’s interrupted for a covered reason outlined in your policy. Coverage limits for each plan are as follows:

• Basic : Up to $1,000 in trip cancellation and interruption coverage
• Silver : Up to 100% of trip costs for cancellation and interruption coverage
• Gold : Up to 100% of trip costs for cancellation and 150% for interruption coverage
• Platinum : Up to 100% of trip costs for cancellation and 150% for interruption coverage

Global Baggage Protection

Global baggage protection offers reimbursement for lost, damaged or stolen baggage. This applies to checked baggage, carry-on baggage, or baggage on your hotel or cruise property. If your baggage is delayed, you can receive reimbursement for essential items you need replaced. Coverage limits for each plan include:

• Basic : Up to $250 for baggage loss and up to $100 for a 24-hour delay
• Silver : Up to $500 for baggage loss and up to $300 for a 6-hour delay
• Gold : Up to $1,000 for baggage loss and up to $300 for a 6-hour delay
• Platinum : Up to $2,500 for baggage loss and up to $500 for a 3-hour delay

Global Trip Delay

Global trip delay coverage protects delayed travel, covering lodging, meals and other necessary expenses. Covered travel scenarios include overbooked flights, missed flight connections and delayed or canceled flights . Included coverage limits are:

• Basic : Not included
• Silver : Up to $150 per day, maximum of $500 per trip
• Gold : Up to $150 per day, maximum of $750 per trip
• Platinum : Up to $300 per day, maximum of $1,000 per trip

How To File a Travel Insurance Claim With American Express

If you’ve purchased an American Express Travel Insurance policy and need to file a claim, you can contact your administrator in three ways. You can use the claims phone number or address found in your Certificate of Insurance/Policy or the claims portal through the American Express website. If you cannot locate your Certificate of Insurance or Policy, you can email the company to request an additional copy.

During your travels, keep track of any receipts, police reports, medical bills and other documents you might need to provide in the event of a claim. The exact documents required will depend on the benefit for which you’re filing a claim. American Express directs policyholders to your Certificate of Insurance/Policy for specific information. Still, it also notes that the company’s claims department will share the documents needed to validate your claim. Note that American Express outlines specific time requirements for filing a claim within your policy, with requirements varying by coverage.

Should You Get an American Express Credit Card For Travel Insurance?

Signing up for an American Express credit card for travel insurance benefits is a personal decision, but it’s not your only option. You can purchase a policy through American Express Travel Insurance or another standard insurer, such as Travelex or Faye , without taking on the responsibility of a new credit card. Benefits offered through Amex travel perks or their standard travel insurance policies may not suit your coverage needs, as the company lacks cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage and other protections provided by other insurers.

If you already have an Amex card and feel the travel perks provided satisfy your needs, booking your vacation with your card is all you need to do to enjoy these benefits. However, whether you have an American Express card or another card with travel insurance perks, we encourage you to gather multiple quotes while considering your travel needs, budget and expectations before purchasing a policy. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does american express travel insurance cover family members.

Yes, American Express travel benefits can provide coverage for cardholders, family members and traveling companions who purchase a covered trip using an eligible card. American Express Travel Insurance policies cover travelers enrolled when you buy your plan.

How long do you have to claim American Express travel insurance?

American Express outlines specific time requirements for filing a claim within your policy, but these time requirements vary by coverage type. Consult your policy documents or contact a customer service representative for more information on claim time constraints.

What trip cancellation reasons are covered?

Trip cancellation reasons covered under an American Express Travel Insurance policy include unexpected sickness or injury of the covered person or family member, adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, labor disputes or strikes affecting travel services, or the unexpected job termination of a covered person.

Do I need separate travel insurance if I have a credit card?

If you have a credit card offering travel insurance benefits and are satisfied with the coverage, you may not need a separate travel insurance policy. However, if you’d prefer higher coverage limits or specialty protections like CFAR coverage or an adventure sports waiver, it may be worth gathering quotes from reputable travel insurance providers.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides. com .

MarketWatch Guides may receive compensation from companies that appear on this page.
The compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear, but it does not influence the recommendations the editorial team provides. Not all companies, products, or offers were reviewed.

• Credit Cards
• Best Business Credit Cards For Travel In Canada

The Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive payment from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This comes from two main sources.

First , we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The payments we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market.

Second , we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles. These “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor.

While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof.

Best Business Credit Cards For Travel In Canada For August 2024

Updated: Aug 22, 2024, 12:31am

Fact Checked

If you’re an entrepreneur who often travels for business, you know how fast travel expenses can add up—and how fast they can eat away at your hard-earned money. Thankfully, strategically using business credit cards designed for travel can reduce travel costs and give you unique perks to leverage in your business, such as inviting a client to a top-tier airport lounge. Here are the best cards we’ve found for on-the-go business owners.

Featured Partner Offers

CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business Plus Card

Td aeroplan visa business card, cibc aventura visa card for business, cibc aeroplan visa business card, cibc aventura visa card for business plus, scotia momentum for business visa card, business platinum card® from american express, american express® aeroplan®* business reserve card, scotiabank passport visa infinite business card, bmo air miles world elite business mastercard, here’s a summary of best business credit cards for travel in canada for august 2024, methodology, complete guide to best business credit cards for travel, frequently asked questions (faqs).

• Best Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Cash Back Credit Cards
• Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards
• Best Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards
• Best Aeroplan Credit Cards

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

On TD’s Website

Welcome Bonus

Up to $2,700 in value† including up to 75,000 Aeroplan points†

Regular APR (Purchases) / Regular APR (Cash Advances)

20.99% / 22.99%

American Express Cobalt® Card

On American Express’s Secure Website

Up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points

$155.88 ($12.99 per month)

Regular APR

MBNA True Line® Mastercard®

On MBNA’s Website

12.99% / 24.99%

Best For Welcome Bonus Points and Perks

60,000 Aeroplan Points

$120 (waived in the first year)

19.99% (variable)

Besides its generous welcome bonus of 60,000 Aeroplan points and other travel vouchers, the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business Plus Card has the annual fee rebated for the first year and comes with a bevy of insurance coverage types.

• 60,000 Aeroplan Points as a welcome bonus.
• 2 points per dollar on Air Canada purchases.
• Earn extra points with Air Canada partners.
• $50 annual fee for each additional card.
• Does not include travel medical insurance.
• Earn up to 60,000 Aeroplan Points (10,000 on your first purchase, 20,000 when you spend $3,000 in the first four months and 30,000 when you spend $35,000 in the first year).
• $120 annual fee (waived for the first year).
• Complimentary Maple Leaf Lounge access for new cardholders ($100 value).
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent with Air Canada.
• Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on travel, transportation, dining and services like shipping, internet, cable and phone.
• Earn 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
• Collect bonus points when shopping with Aeroplan partners and the Aeroplan eStore.
• Free first checked bag for primary cardholders, secondary cardholders and up to 8 travel companions on Air Canada flights.
• Preferred pricing on Air Canada flights booked using Aeroplan Points.
• Receive 1 Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge pass for every $10,000 in eligible purchases (up to 4 passes per year).
• Collect 1,000 status qualifying miles and 1 status qualifying segment for Aeroplan Elite Status on every $5,000 spent on eligible purchases.
• Includes built-in travel insurance for trip cancellations and interruptions, flight and baggage delays, lost or damaged luggage, car rental collision loss/damage and common carrier accident insurance.
• 90-day purchase protection and an extended manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases.

Best For Spend Management Tools

Td® aeroplan® visa* business card.

Up to 50,000 Aeroplan points

14.99% / 22.99%

The TD Aeroplan Visa Business Card has a host of insurance coverage, including up to $2 million in out-of-province medical coverage. Cardholders can also save on car rental costs with Budget and Avis and have access to the TD Card Management Tool, which allows them to better track their business expenses and apply spending limits.

• High earn rate, especially on essential categories for business.
• Travel perks like travel insurance and priority check-in and boarding.
• $149 annual fee
• Limited travel benefits compared to other premium cards.
• Limited acceptance outside of Aeroplan and Air Canada partners.
• Earn up to $1,150 in value† including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points, no annual fee for the first year, and additional travel benefits†. Must apply by September 5, 2023.
• Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card†.
• Earn an additional 20,000 Aeroplan points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months of account opening†.
• Plus, earn up to 10,000 Aeroplan points by setting up new recurring bill payments (maximum two)†.
• Get an annual fee rebate for the first year for the primary cardholder and 2 additional cardholders†.
• Enroll for NEXUS and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate†.
• Share free first checked bags and get access to Maple Leaf Lounges†.
• Earn 2 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada® including Air Canada Vacations®.
• Earn 1.5 points for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases for travel, dining and select business categories such as shipping, internet, cable and phone services made on your Card.
• Earn 1 point for every dollar you spend on all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Earn 50% more points at Starbucks when you link your TD card with your Starbucks® Rewards account.
• This offer is not available to residents of Quebec.
• † Terms and conditions apply.

Best For High Earning Potential

Cibc aventura® visa* card for business.

Up to 70,000 Aventura points

19.99% (fixed) or 12.99%-18.99% (variable) / 21.99% (fixed) or 14.50%-21.50% (variable)

In addition to earning cardholders nearly $500 per year, the CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business has wider rewards categories than other offerings—you can earn 1.5 Aeroplan points per dollar on parking or toll payments, for instance.

• 1.5 points per dollar on travel, gas and transportation.
• 8 types of insurance included.
• Aventura Points cover full airfare, fees and taxes.
• $35,000 minimum income requirement.
• Additional fees for lower interest rates.
• Collect up to 70,000 Aventura Points in the first year (20,000 points on the first purchase, 10,000 points on the first purchase within 4 months, and 40,000 points after spending $35,000 or more during the first year).
• Plus, get a one-time annual fee rebate (of at least $120) for the Primary Cardholder and Authorized Users (three at $50 each): up to $270 value.
• Earn 2 points for every dollar spent on travel with the CIBC Rewards Centre.
• Earn 1.5 points per dollar on travel, gas and transportation services (capped at $80,000 in annual spending).
• Earn 1 point per dollar for all other purchases.
• Pool points between business and personal accounts.
• Use Aventura Points to cover the full cost of airfare, taxes and fees.
• Travel benefits cover common carrier insurance, car rental collision loss/damage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, flight delays and baggage insurance.
• One year extended warranty and 90 days of purchase protection for loss, damage and theft.

Best For Low Purchase Interest Rates

$180 (waived in the first year)

12.99%-18.99% (variable)

The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business Card allows cardholders to earn solid rewards from common business expenses, netting up to $430 per year.

• 60,000 Aeroplan Points for new cardholders.
• 12.99% low interest option.
• Collect bonus points with Aeroplan partners.
• $180 annual fee.
• Get 10,000 Aeroplan Points on your first purchase, 20,000 points for spending $3,000 in the first four months and 30,000 bonus points after spending $35,000 during the first year.
• One-time annual fee rebate for the primary cardholder and up to three authorized users.
• Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on shipping, cable, internet, phone services, travel and dining.
• Collect points twice with Aeroplan partners and online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
• Free first checked bag for primary cardholders, authorized users and up to 8 travel companions for all Air Canada flights.
• Earn up to 4 Maple Leaf Lounge guest passes per year (1 pass for every $10,000 in eligible spending).
• Receive 1,000 status qualifying miles and 1 status qualifying segment for every $5,000 in eligible purchases.
• Insurance protection for trip cancellation and interruption, flight and baggage delay, common carrier accidents, purchase security, extended warranty and rental car collision loss/damage.

Best For Car Rental Savings

60,000 Aventura Points

With the ability to pool points between your personal and business accounts, the CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business Plus gets you earning points faster. The card also has strong earning potential for fuel, EV charging and transportation purchases.

• Transfer Aventura Points between accounts.
• Add up to 15 secondary cardholders.
• Apply points as credit card payments.
• $80,000 spending cap on fuel, travel and transportation rewards.
• No travel medical insurance.
• Collect 25,000 Aventura Points on your first purchase and 35,000 points when you spend $35,000 in the first year.
• One-time annual fee rebate of $120 for primary cardholders and $50 for additional cardholders.
• Earn 2 points per dollar on travel purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre.
• Earn 1.5 points for every dollar spent on fuel, travel and transportation services up to $80,000 in annual purchases.
• Use Aventura Points to help pay down your credit card balance.
• Transfer Aventura Points between business and personal accounts.
• Access personalized travel booking and trip planning with no booking fees.
• Travel benefits include trip cancellation, trip interruption, flight and baggage delays, lost or damaged luggage, car rental collision loss/damage and $500,000 in common carrier accident insurance.
• 90 days of purchase security and up to 12 months of extended warranty protection.

Best For Cash-Back Rewards

2.99% on balance transfers for six months

$79 (waived in the first year)

Rather than earning points, the Scotia Momentum for Business Visa Card earns 3% cash back on gas, dining and office supply purchases, making it ideal for business owners who often travel by vehicle.

• 2.99% introductory interest rate.
• Lower than average $79 annual fee which is waived the first year.
• 25 interest-free days.
• 3% cash back capped at $50,000.
• Limited travel insurance.
• 2.99% interest rate on balance transfers for the first six months (19.99% after that).
• 25-day interest-free grace period on new purchases.
• Earn 3% cash back on fuel, dining, office supplies and recurring bills (up to $50,000 annually).
• Earn 1% cash back on everyday purchases.
• $1 million in emergency medical coverage for trips over eight days.
• $65,000 rental car collision loss/damage insurance.
• Includes 90-day purchase security and a one year extended warranty.
• $150,000 unsecured credit limit.

Best For Long Interest-free Periods

Up to 120,000 Membership Rewards® points

30% 'Due In Full' balance, 21.99%-28.99% (flexible payment option)

With a substantial welcome bonus of 120,000 Membership Points and the ability to earn over $800 in statement credits through strategic purchases, the Business Platinum Card from American Express is an impressive option for business owners.

• Up to 120,000 Membership Rewards Points as a welcome bonus
• Comprehensive travel insurance
• Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs
• Charge card and flexible payment options available†
• $799 annual fee
• Interest rate is 30% on the Due In Full balance
• Variable interest rate can go up to 28.99% on the flexible payment option
• Redefine what you’ll experience and discover with Platinum
• Earn up to 120,000 bonus Membership Rewards® points
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you charge $15,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 40,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership.
• That’s up to $1,200 in statement credit that can be reinvested in your business
• Earn points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
• Earn 1.25 Membership Rewards points for virtually every $1 in purchases and get the most out of your business expenses
• Enjoy an exceptional line-up of rewards redemption options for you and your business, including travel, dining, entertainment, gift cards, merchandise, and more with Membership Rewards program.
• Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs, including one-to-one to Aeroplan®* and Avios.
• Bolster your business with up to $820 in annual business and travel statement credits Enroll your eligible Card and earn up to $500 in business statement credits on qualifying purchases with Dell and Indeed.
• Enroll and earn up to $120 in eligible Wireless Credits each year.
• Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit each year of your Cardmembership
• Unlock spending power and payment flexibility with a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere
• Enjoy financial flexibility with no pre-set spending limit on purchases. With this Card, your purchasing power adjusts dynamically with your Card usage, and can grow over time, as long as you make your payments on time and maintain a good credit history.
• Maximize your cash flow with up to 55 interest free days so you can keep more cash on hand when you need it most.
• Pay for business expenses over time with Flexible Payment Option.
• This charge card has both Due in Full and Flexible Payment Option balances. All Due in Full balances must be paid each month. Interest rate of 30% applies to each delinquent Due in Full Charge. This rate is effective from the day the account is opened. The Preferred rate of 21.99% applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance. If you have 2 separate Missed Payments in a 12 month period, the Flexible Payment Option rate for your account will be 25.99%. If you have 3 or more separate Missed Payments in a 12 month period, the Flexible Payment Option rate will be 28.99%. These rates are effective from the day the Flexible Payment Option is first available on your account.
• Extend payment solutions with Supplementary Cards for your employees.
• Enjoy special benefits for you and your business.
• Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection which unlocks access to over 1300 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience.
• Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport, including access to the Pearson Priority Security Lane and discount on parking.
• Get access to discounted base fares for you and your travel companions when you book through the International Airline Program.
• Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average total value of $600 USD* at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts .
• Upgrade your stay with premium status at leading hotel brands like Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
• Enjoy access to specialty services and events, preferential treatment, and a dedicated Concierge team. Access a $100 CAD credit for NEXUS every 4 years with your Card membership
• Access comprehensive insurance coverage for your travel needs.
• Access Out of Province/Country Emergency Medical Insurance (for under age 65), even if you don’t charge your tickets and travel arrangements to your Business Platinum Card.
• Access Trip Cancellation Insurance, Trip Interruption Insurance, Travel Emergency Assistance, and up to $500,000 Travel Accident Insurance when you fully charge your tickets and travel arrangements to your Business Platinum Card.
• Plus, access Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance, Flight Delay Insurance, and Baggage Delay Insurance when you fully charge your airline tickets to your Business Platinum Card.
• Save money when travelling with complimentary Car Rental Theft and Damage Insurance Access coverage that can protect your business purchases when you charge the full price of eligible items to your Business Platinum Card
• Protect your eligible purchases against accidental physical damage and theft for up to 90 days with Purchase Protection® Plan
• Double the manufacturer’s original warranty up to one additional year with Buyer’s Assurance® Protection Plan
• Equip your business with Mobile Device Insurance
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Best For Earning Rewards Through Hotel Stays

Up to 90,000 Aeroplan Points

Complete with extra benefits and insurance coverage, like out-of-country medical coverage, employee card misuse protection and car rental theft and damage coverage, the American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card offers entrepreneurs more bang for their buck.

• Earn up to 90,000 Aeroplan Points in the first 13 months
• Priority airport services
• $599 annual fee
• Low earn rates on everyday purchases
• Earn 65,000 Aeroplan points after spending $10,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
• Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,500 in purchases in month 13.
• Earn Aeroplan points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
• Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations®*, 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals.
• Earn 1.25 points for every $1 spent on everything else.
• Make the most out of a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business – anytime and anywhere.
• Leverage your cash flow with the option of carrying a balance or paying in full each month.
• Control employee expenses plus track and accumulate points on your account with Employee Cards, so you have an opportunity to maximize the points you earn.
• Unlock business travel possibilities to make every work trip one to look forward to.
• Access more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges around the globe. That means an oasis of comfort before your flight—regardless of your choice of airline or cabin class.
• Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™ for you and a guest, and Air Canada Café™; in North America, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance®* flight
• Enjoy Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding, and Priority Baggage Handling when you fly with Air Canada, together with up to eight companions
• Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date; your Pass entitles you to buy an accompanying Air Canada economy class ticket for a companion at a fixed base fare from $99 to a maximum of $599 CAD (plus taxes, fees, charges, and surcharges)
• Stay focused on getting where you need to go. Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when NEXUS application or renewal fees are charged to your Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
• Pay with your American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card and present your Aeroplan Membership Card at over 170 Aeroplan partner brands and 120 online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore to earn points twice
• If you’re departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport, enjoy the benefits of being an American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Cardmember. Get more from your travel experience with access to Pearson Priority Security Lane, Complimentary Valet Service, 15% discount on parking rates, and 15% discount on Car Care Services
• Roll over any unallocated Aeroplan Elite™ Status Qualifying Miles and unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels.
• Enjoy priority access to the standby list and eUpgrades. Get prioritized on the standby waitlist for an Air Canada flight and higher priority when you request an eUpgrade
• Earn 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and 1 Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 in eligible net purchases charged to your Card
• Book flight reward tickets for even fewer points with Air Canada. In addition to flights, you can also redeem for hotel stays, car rentals, vacation packages, merchandise and more
• Unlock two-car-class rental upgrades, expedited service, dedicated phone line, and more with complimentary upgrade to Avis President’s Club
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment

Best For Flexible Rewards for Business Purchases

40,000 Scene Points

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card earns 1.5 Scene+ points for every dollar used towards business purchases, making it a very flexible asset for Canadian business owners. The card also comes with no foreign transaction fees .

• Welcome bonus of 40,000 Scene+ Points.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• $100,000 liability protection.
• $199 annual fee.
• No first year fee waiver.
• Limited earning potential.
• Collect 30,000 Scene+ Points for spending $5,000 in the first three months and 10,000 bonus points after spending $60,000 in the first year.
• Earn 1.5 points per dollar on eligible business purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees on purchases made online or outside of Canada.
• 6 complimentary lounge visits per year when you fly for business.
• $199 annual fee (no first year fee waiver).
• Applicants must earn $500,000 in annual sales revenue, $60,000 in annual personal income, $100,000 in annual household income, have $250,000 in assets or spend $30,000 in annual credit card expenses.
• Purchase security for 90 days and extended warranty protection for one year.
• Save up to 25% on Avis car rentals at participating locations.
• Includes access to Visa Infinite concierge, luxury hotel collection, dining series and wine country program.
• Travel benefits cover emergency medical care, trip cancellation, trip interruption, flight and baggage delays, lost or stolen luggage, common carrier accidents, rental car collision loss/damage and hotel burglary.
• $100,000 liability protection per card for unauthorized purchases.

Best For Earning Air Miles Rewards

3,000 Air Miles

$149 (waived in the first year)

In addition to saving seven cents per litre for fuel at Shell stations and access to comprehensive travel insurance, the BMO AIR MILES World Elite Business Mastercard also gives business owners five free virtual care visits with Canadian doctors through Maple. Because, let’s face it, it’s hard to take a sick day being self-employed.

• Get up to 22 additional cards.
• Automatic rebates from select merchants.
• Limited benefits for employees.
• Get 3,000 Air Miles for spending $5,000 within the first 90 days.
• 1 Mile for every $12 purchase.
• 4 Miles for every $12 purchase from Air Miles partners.
• 5 free virtual visits on Maple on-demand healthcare.
• Add up to 22 supplementary cards for employees ($50 annual fee per card).
• Airport lounge access for only $32 USD ($43.42 CAD) per person.
• Automatic rebates of 1% to 25% from qualifying merchants with the Mastercard Easy Savings Program.
• Travel protection for car rental collision damage or loss, trip cancellations or interruptions, baggage delays and common carrier accidents.
• Forbes Advisor estimates a rewards value of $94.71 in annual earnings based on average Canadian spending, with the annual fee factored in.

When determining a rating for individual credit cards, the Forbes Advisor Canada editorial team factors in an exhaustive list of data points. With business credit cards for travel, the scoring model used takes into account factors such as, but not limited to, cash-back rates and categories, fees, welcome bonuses, and other rewards and features. We also adjust our scoring based on card components that might have more value for business travellers. Keep in mind, what may be best for some people might not be right for you. Conduct informed research before deciding which cards will best help you achieve your financial goals.

The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business Plus Card is a premium business card with a healthy welcome bonus and extra perks for new cardholders.

Rewards: Earn 2 points per dollar spent with Air Canada, 1.5 points per dollar spent on travel, transportation, dining and business services and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 60,000 points. Receive 10,000 Aeroplan Points after your first eligible purchase, an additional 20,000 Aeroplan Points when you spend $10,000 or more in the first four monthly periods and 30,000 more Aeroplan Points when you spend $40,000 or more in the first year.

Annual Fee:  $120 (rebated in the first year)

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: In addition to its welcome bonus, cardholders get a free checked bag for two travellers and a free visit to a Maple Leaf airport lounge. Though the card has many types of insurance coverage, emergency medical insurance is not included. ———————————————————————————-

TD’s Aeroplan Visa Business Card offers business owners a strong earning rate and a myriad of travel insurance perks, including $2 million in emergency medical coverage.

Rewards: Earn 2 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®, including Air Canada Vacations®. Earn 1.5 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases for travel, dining, and select business categories like shipping, internet costs and phone services made on your card. Earn 1 point for every dollar you spend on all other eligible purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 60,000 Aeroplan points.  Get 10,000 Aeroplan Points after making your first purchase, another 45,000 Aeroplan Points if you spend at least $2,500 per month during the first year, and another 5,000 points if you spend $5,000 on eligible mobile wallet purchases within the first 90 days of receiving the card.

Annual Fee:  $149

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: In addition to emergency medical coverage, mobile device insurance , and a variety of other travel coverage benefits, cardholders earn 50% more Starbucks rewards and have access to TD’s card management tool. That said, the annual fee is slightly higher than comparable products. ———————————————————————————-

The CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business is a great fit for business owners who travel by vehicle more frequently than by plane, as some of its highest earning categories are fuel and EV charging purchases.

Rewards: Collect 2 points per dollar spent on travel purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre, 1.5 points for every dollar spent on fuel, travel (including cruise ship purchases) and transportation services—like parking fees—and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 70,000 Aventura Points. Earn 30,000 Aventura Points on your first purchase within four months of ownership and 40,000 more Aventura Points if you spend $35,000 or more in the first year.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card’s high earnings rates on fuel, transportation (such as taxis), parking fees and hotels make it perfect for business owners who commute by car more than by plane. In addition, the card also comes with a host of useful travel insurance benefits and perks. ———————————————————————————-

With its high earning potential on shipping costs, internet bills, dining purchases and transportation, CIBC’s Aeroplan Visa Business Card is perfect for everyday business owners who aren’t necessarily avid travellers.

Rewards: Earn 2 points per dollar spent with Air Canada, 1.5 points per dollar spent on shipping, cable, internet, phone services, travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 60,000 Aeroplan points. Get 10,000 Aeroplan Points on your first purchase, 20,000 points for spending $10,000 in the first four months and 30,000 bonus points after spending $40,000 during the first year.

Annual Fee:  $180 (waived in the first year)

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card can earn large amounts of points for standard business purchases like internet and phone services, and with one of the lowest interest rates on the market, it’s a solid pick for everyday entrepreneurs. But, the $35,000 annual income requirements may dissuade brand-new business owners. ———————————————————————————-

The CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Business Plus allows cardholders to pool their personal Aventura Points and business rewards, helping them rack up rewards faster.

Rewards: Through the CIBC Rewards Centre, collect 2 points for every dollar spent on travel purchases, 1.5 points for every dollar spent on fuel, travel and transportation services, and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 70,000 Aventura points. Get 30,000 Aventura Points when you make your first purchase within four months and an extra 40,000 Aventura Points when you spend $35,000 or more in the first year.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Cardholders can earn rewards quickly with high earning rates on common travel expenses like airline, gas and other transportation purchases and the ability to pool points with personal accounts. ———————————————————————————-

The Scotia Momentum for Business Visa Card earns respectable cash back at a rate of 3% on standard business purchases like office expenses, and it comes with a suite of travel insurance benefits.

Rewards: Collect 3% cash back on fuel, dining, office supplies and recurring bills and 1% on all other everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer: 2.99% interest rate on balance transfers for the first six months (22.99% after that).

Annual Fee:  $79

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Scotia’s travel business card offers a winning combination of good earning potential, a low annual fee and low interest rates on balance transfers for the first six months. However, compared to other cards in this niche, its welcome bonus falls a bit flat. ———————————————————————————-

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers travel insurance, business perks and employee card misuse protection.

Rewards: Earn 1.25 Membership Points per dollar spent on all purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 120,000 Membership points. Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 in the first three months. Plus, earn 40,000 points after making an additional purchase between 14 and 17 months of card membership.

Annual Fee:  $799

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Amex’s top-of-the-line business card stands out. It has no preset spending limit, up to 55 days of no interest and the ability to earn hundreds of dollars in statement credits per year with standard business purchases. Though the annual fee is very steep at first glance, the card’s earning potential, travel coverage, business coverage, and other perks outweigh the cost—if you have the budget. ———————————————————————————-

Though it comes with a high annual fee, the American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card still nets business owners positive earnings each year—if they travel heavily and make use of its various travel perks.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar on Air Canada purchases, 2 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals and 1.25 points per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 90,000 points. Receive 65,000 Aeroplan points after spending $10,500 in purchases within the first 3 months, plus earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points after spending $3,500 in purchases in month 13.

Annual Fee:  $599

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: In addition to generating 3 Aeroplan Points per dollar on Air Canada purchases, this card also comes with a complete package of travel insurance, including emergency medical coverage, baggage, car rental theft and damage coverage, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance. Keep in mind, however, that American Express is not as widely accepted as other credit card networks. ———————————————————————————-

With no foreign transaction fees, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card helps business owners earn even more when they travel out of the country.

Rewards: Earn 1.5 Scene+ points per dollar on eligible business purchases.

Welcome Offer: Up to 40,000 Scene+ points. Collect 30,000 Scene+ Points on $5,000 in eligible purchases made in the first three months and 10,000 bonus points after spending $60,000 during the first year.

Annual Fee: $199

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Scotia’s no-foreign-fees card comes with six complimentary airport lounge visits per year, access to Visa’s Infinite Concierge program and a flexible rewards system whereby Scene+ points can be redeemed for various items and credits. ———————————————————————————-

Business owners can earn Air Miles at a decent rate and access fuel discounts and free lounge visits with the BMO Air Miles World Elite Business Mastercard.

Rewards: Earn one Air Mile per dollar you spend and earn four times the Air Miles on purchases made at Air Miles partners.

Welcome Offer: Earn 3,000 Air Miles when you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases in the first three months of owning the card.

Annual Fee: $149 (waived in the first year)

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Cardholders get a unique perk by owning this card: five free tele-visits with a Canadian doctor through Maple. They can also set up 22 additional cards for employees and earn automatic rebates by making purchases at qualifying merchants.

We’ve given you the best business credit cards for travel, but that doesn’t mean you necessarily know how they work—or how to choose the best one among these options. We break down the basics of business credit cards and how to choose one that fits your needs.

What Is a Business Credit Card?

Unlike personal credit cards, business credit cards are like a revolving line of credit for your business and are not for personal expenses. They can separate your personal and business expenses, which helps bookkeeping go smoothly. Employees can also use business credit cards —similar to having an additional authorized user with a personal card—but can have safeguards in place to prevent unnecessary or malicious spending.

How Do Business Credit Cards Work?

Business credit cards work similarly to personal credit cards, though notable differences exist. For one, business credit cards contribute to your business credit report, which lenders use to evaluate your trustworthiness for other financial products. But, your personal credit score is typically also used by lenders, too.

Business credit cards also allow cardholders to add employees as authorized users, unlike personal credit cards that only allow a few additional cards. This allows for greater earning potential, so long as each employee using the card spends on purchases that earn rewards, such as fuel.

Many business credit cards also offer much higher spending caps—or no spending caps at all—given that businesses almost always have higher annual spending than individuals or families. The reward categories are also quite different, with common business expenses usually earning the most rewards, rather than common personal expenses like restaurant, transportation or flight purchases. That said, business travel credit cards usually overlap quite a bit in rewards categories compared to personal travel credit cards .

Benefits and Drawbacks of Business Travel Credit Cards

Though the perks of business credit cards might seem appealing, it’s important to consider the potential cons as well. Here’s a quick review of both the pluses and minuses of these types of cards.

• Access to more capital. Business cards in general give you greater access to capital than standard personal credit cards, with some having six-figure spending limits—or no pre-set spending limits at all.
• Extensive benefits. Compared to standard business credit cards, travel cards typically come with more perks such as insurance coverage, access to lounges, travel companion vouchers and more. You can use these benefits to impress potential clients or save a few bucks flying an employee across the country.
• Non-taxable rewards. As an employer and not an employee, your credit card rewards from travel cards—including cash back—are not taxable, saving you much more. But, be careful with employees redeeming points for themselves—that may be considered a taxable event.
• High annual fees. Because travel business cards come with more perks, they also come with higher annual fees—some cards cost nearly $800 per year to keep. That can put a dent in your earnings.
• Incentivize spending, not saving. Though they have impressive rewards, travel cards can incentivize users to spend to earn more rewards, netting them an overall loss due to unnecessary spending. This con can be especially apparent when cards have rewards programs that offer perks for purchasing items with specific vendors. If your business wouldn’t have purchased items from that vendor in the first place, you might be using your card unnecessarily.
• Employee misuse. Though rare, because employees can use business travel cards, there is the potential for malicious spending.

How To Choose a Business Credit Card for Travel

• Decide which rewards you want. There are many options to choose from between cash back, Air Miles, Aventura Points, Aeroplan Points and Membership Points. First, decide which reward type best suits your travel needs and then get further details. For example, if you fly almost exclusively with Air Canada, you’ll probably want to use an Aeroplan-based card .
• Orient your spending with a card’s rewards categories. Before settling on a specific card, review your financials. Review how much you spend per month in common business categories like transportation, gas, office supplies and internet charges. Then, choose a card whose highest earning categories match your highest spending areas.
• Compare the fine print. Depending on your business model, you might want extra perks such as lounge access to host clients or a travel companion voucher to surprise a staff member. Only some cards offer these features, so read all the fine print you can.
• Check fees. Even if a rewards card has great earning potential, its rewards can be stunted by a high annual fee or foreign transaction fees . Ensure you know all the costs of a business travel card before applying.

Business Credit Cards: Travel or Cash Back?

Deciding between a cash-back card or a travel rewards card really comes down to how your business uses each reward type. For example: Will you get the most benefit from travel insurance coverage and lounge access or more cash to purchase additional assets?

Related: Best Business Cash-Back Credit Cards in Canada

How To Get the Most Out of Your Business Credit Card

Squeezing the most value out of your business credit card truly comes down to one salient point: Can your everyday spending match the credit card’s highest-earning rewards categories? If you get a business credit card to gain exclusive rewards by spending outside of your usual categories, you’ll be spending money you likely didn’t need to in the first place. This will mitigate—or even negate—any value you would have gotten from the card. Take time to understand your spending habits before applying for a business credit card, then reap the rewards afterward.

What is the best business credit card for Air Miles?

According to our research, the BMO Air Miles World Elite Mastercard is the best business credit card for earning Air Miles.

What is better, a business credit card for cash back or travel?

Using a travel card over a cash-back card depends on how you run your business. If you travel often to meet clients or fly employees around the country, a travel card is likely your best fit—you’ll get the most value from travel insurance and rewards. But if you don’t travel as often and most of your business expenses are related to everyday purchases (e.g. gas, office supplies or internet), a cash-back card will likely give you more value in the long term.

Which no-annual-fee credit card is good for business travel?

Out of all the best business credit cards Forbes Advisor ranked, none of them had no annual fees—but many had annual fee rebates and waivers for the first year. However, if you’re stuck using a no-annual-fee business credit card , the BMO AIR MILES No-Fee Business Mastercard is an option.

Brett Surbey is a corporate paralegal and writer based out of Alberta. His work has appeared in Publishers Weekly, Thrive Insider, and various academic journals. He lives with his wife and two children.

7 of the best cards to pair with the Amex Gold

The American Express® Gold Card is a card we can't live without .

It earns 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; 1 point per dollar after) and dining at restaurants and 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly or through Amex Travel .

The card also comes with up to $10 in monthly dining credits on eligible purchases at participating restaurants and up to $120 in annual Uber Cash credits (which can be used for Uber or Uber Eats) for U.S. customers. The card must be added to Uber account to receive the Uber Cash benefit, and enrollment is required for select benefits.

But even though it's a great card on its own, it also pairs well with other rewards cards to build a more well-rounded card strategy.

Today, we're reviewing a few cards that pair well with the Amex Gold .

Supercharge your Membership Rewards balance

The first cards you should consider pairing with the Amex Gold are other Membership Rewards points-earning cards. Amex allows you to pool your points into one Membership Rewards account, meaning you can earn across multiple cards and cash in for one fantastic redemption.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 5 points per dollar on airfare purchased directly from the airline or through Amex Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.

If you are a frequent traveler looking to upgrade your experiences, the Amex Platinum could be a great choice to add to your wallet alongside the Amex Gold. You'll earn more on eligible airfare and hotels and get a stellar lineup of travel perks , including lounge access , elite status with both Marriott and Hilton and hundreds of dollars in assorted statement credits. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

For more details, check out our full Amex Platinum review .

Apply here: Amex Platinum Card

Amex cash back options

There are plenty of good reasons to have a cash-back card in your wallet . Cash-back is the ultimate flexible rewards currency, and these options will help you earn bonus cash back in categories the Amex Gold misses.

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

Welcome bonus: Earn $200 back after you spend $2,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.

Annual fee: $0 (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 3% cash back at on groceries at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%), U.S. online shopping (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%) and at U.S. gas stations (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%) and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

The Blue Cash Everyday is a great option for frequent online shoppers as this card earns elevated cash back on websites that generally don't fall into bonus categories. The cash back this card earns can be redeemed as a statement credit.

For more details, check out our full review of the Blue Cash Everyday card .

Apply here: Amex Blue Cash Everyday

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Welcome bonus: Earn a statement credit for $250 after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee, $95 after (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%) and select streaming services, 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

The Blue Cash Preferred often flies under the radar, but it's a solid cash back card, especially for grocery shopping and gas purchases. The cash back you earn with this card comes as reward dollars that can be applied as a statement credit.

For more details, check out our full review of the Blue Cash Preferred card .

Apply here: Amex Blue Cash Preferred

Rack up points or miles with an Amex travel partner

If you are loyal to one of the hotels or airlines that are a Membership Rewards transfer partner , like Delta SkyMiles or Hilton Honors , a cobranded card could be a great way to supplement your earning potential.

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Welcome bonus: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership. Offer ends March 27.

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 2 points per dollar on eligible Delta, restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Those who live near a Delta hub or regularly fly with the airline might be interested in a Delta cobranded credit card that helps you earn bonus miles on flights and gives you some nice airline benefits. Delta is one of Amex's transfer partners, which makes using your Amex Gold to supplement your Delta earnings for redemptions easy.

The Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex is a great choice for casual flyers and those who don't want to add a high annual fee to their wallet. Still, Delta's other credit cards are also excellent choices for those who want help to hit elite status with the airline.

For more details, check out our full review of the Delta SkyMiles Gold .

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex Card

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Welcome bonus: Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the card within the first six months of card membership. Offer ends April 17.

Annual fee: $150 annual fee (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 12 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at Hilton hotels; 6 points per dollar spent at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations; 4 points per dollar on U.S. online retail purchases; and 3 points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

If you are loyal to Hilton Hotels when you travel, having a Hilton credit card in your wallet may be a good idea. The card comes with complimentary Gold status (though you can earn Diamond status when you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your card in a calendar year), a free night award after spending $15,000 each calendar year and more. Enrollment required for select benefits.

It's a solid card to pair with your Amex Gold because it earns in one of the categories the Amex Gold misses — like Hilton hotel stays, online shopping and gas stations— and you can transfer Membership Rewards to Hilton Honors to help you top off your Hilton account for redemptions.

For more details, check out our full review of the Hilton Honors Surpass .

Apply here: Hilton Honors Surpass Credit Card

Stock up on other types of points

Of course, there is also value in having cards that earn entirely different currencies in your wallet to maximize your redemption options across the board. Here are some options to diversify the points and miles you're earning.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95

Rewards rate: Earn 3 points per dollar on dining purchases and 2 points per dollar on a generous definition of travel purchases. Earn 5 points per dollar on Lyft through March 2025 and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

At face value, you may wonder why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a good card to pair with the Amex Gold, considering it earns 2 points per dollar on travel and 3 points on dining — two categories that overlap with the Amex Gold. But Chase defines travel broadly , which makes this card a great choice for travel spending that isn't flights booked directly through the airline or Amex Travel. Chase is also more generous than Amex in defining 'dining ,' which includes most bars.

And when it comes to earning diversified points, Amex and Chase both offer the most valuable flexible rewards currencies on the market. They also both come with a unique set of redemption options, so it makes sense to have both in your wallet.

For more details, check out our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred .

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95 (see rates and fees )

Rewards rate: Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase and 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel .

If you want a catch-all card for your non-bonus spending, it doesn't get much better than the Capital One Venture. You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, making it a great choice for purchases that don't earn bonus rewards on your Amex Gold.

When it comes time to redeem your miles, you can choose a simple fixed-value redemption option for broader travel purchases or transfer your miles to any of Capital One's 15-plus hotel and airline partners .

For more details, check out our full review of the Capital One Venture Card .

Apply here: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bottom line

The Amex Gold is a solid card on its own — but it's even better as part of a complementary card pair. Choose from any of the options listed here or a different card that works well with your lifestyle and spending habits, like

And if you haven't added the Amex Gold to your wallet yet, now is a great time to apply and earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new card within the first six months of card membership.

Apply here: American Express Gold Card

For rates and fees of the Amex Blue Cash Everyday, click here .

For rates and fees of the Amex Blue Cash Preferred, click here .

For rates and fees of the Amex Gold card, click here .

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, click here .

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Gold card, click here .

For rates and fees of the Hilton Surpass card, click here .

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

• Credit Cards

American Express Travel Insurance Coverage Review – Is It Worth It?

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

323 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 98 U.S. States Visited: 45

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

41 Published Articles 3365 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Director of Operations & Compliance

6 Published Articles 1199 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 10 U.S. States Visited: 20

Table of Contents

Why purchase travel insurance, travel insurance and covid-19, american express travel insurance options, additional information, how american express travel insurance compares, the value of travel insurance comparison sites, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

We frequently discuss the travel insurance coverages that are offered complimentary on most credit cards . We do so because these benefits, especially the long list of travel insurance coverages on premium cards, can save you money, offer peace of mind during your travels, and provide help if something goes wrong.

These complimentary coverages are useful and can offer more than adequate coverage for most trips. However, if you’re investing in an expensive trip or 1 that involves multiple travel providers, purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy is a prudent move. You’d also want a travel insurance policy if your trip has a complicated itinerary or if you’re anxious about the possibility of having to cancel any portion of the journey.

Additionally, it’s imperative that if you’re worried about having medical coverage while traveling, you’d want to purchase a travel insurance policy that provides medical coverage.

Fortunately, travel insurance is widely available, reasonably affordable, and simple to secure. There are several reputable travel insurance companies , highly-rated by financial rating organizations such as AM Best , that offer nearly endless options from which to choose.

American Express Travel Insurance , underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company, is one of those highly-respected, highly-rated, established companies offering comprehensive travel insurance solutions.

Join us while we check out the types of policies the company offers, any limitations of which to be aware, and additional options for protecting your next trip appropriately.

Travel insurance can help you avoid losing the investment you made when booking your trip, reimburse you for covered expenses should your trip be disrupted due to a covered event, or pay for emergency medical services.

Policies are designed to cover disruption due to the reasons listed in the policy you purchased. These reasons consist of events that are unforeseen and unexpected.

Here are a few situations where travel insurance could cover your loss:

• You or a covered family member become ill and you must cancel your trip. Trip insurance can cover prepaid non-reimbursable expenses.
• You are injured in an accident during your trip and need to be evacuated to a hospital by air ambulance.
• You become ill during your trip and must return home versus continuing on your journey.
• Your flight is delayed or canceled and you must stay at a hotel and incur expenses for lodging and incidentals.

Whether you should purchase travel insurance or not is a personal decision. If losing your trip investment or having to pay for extra expenses if the trip is disrupted makes you uncomfortable or would present a financial burden, then you should purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

If worrying about having to cancel your trip or having it disrupted during your journey is an issue, purchasing a travel insurance policy will definitely deliver some peace of mind, both prior to and during your trip.

For more tips on buying travel insurance in general, you’ll find valuable information in our guide to buying the best travel insurance .

Bottom Line: The longer, more expensive, and more complicated your trip, the greater the need for a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

When you purchase travel insurance and your trip is canceled, you expect to have coverage. However, not all cancellations are covered — only those specifically listed in your policy.

Once COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, it became a known event and therefore is not covered on travel insurance policies. While it’s reasonable to want to cancel your trip due to fear of COVID-19, canceling a trip due to the fear of any illness is not a covered reason on any travel insurance policy.

There is also no coverage for canceling a trip due to a U.S. State Department announcement warning of COVID-19 in a particular area.

In order to have coverage for voluntary trip cancellations, you would need to purchase “Cancel for Any Reason Insurance” (CFAR) . CFAR is not a stand-alone insurance policy — it is an add-on coverage you select when you purchase a travel insurance policy or coverage you may be able to add to a travel insurance policy after purchase, within an initially specified timeframe.

CFAR insurance is expensive, does not cover the entire cost of your trip, and not all companies sell the coverage, including American Express Travel Insurance.

Additionally, there is a small window of time when you are able to purchase the coverage, including during your initial purchase or up to 10 to 21 days after the purchase, depending on the company.

While American Express Travel Insurance does not cover trip cancellation due to fear of contracting COVID-19, there may be coverage in certain circumstances. For example, if you become sick with the virus and have to cancel your trip as a result, you may have coverage under trip cancellation insurance.

Additionally, if you become ill with the virus during your travels, you may have coverage under Travel Medical Protection. Terms and conditions apply.

Bottom Line: Travel insurance does not cover canceled trips due to fear of getting COVID-19 or a government declaration that a specific destination is unsafe. Cancel for Any Reason Insurance must be purchased to cover these voluntary cancellations. 

American Express offers you 2 options when it comes to purchasing travel insurance. You can select a package policy that includes several types of coverages in 1 plan or you can build your own travel insurance plan and select just the coverages that are important to you.

Coverage is worldwide except for where it would violate U.S. trade or economic sanctions. All permanent U.S. residents are eligible to purchase travel insurance with American Express.

Package Policy Options

American Express Travel Insurance offers 4 levels of travel insurance package policy plans — a Basic Plan, Silver Plan, Gold Plan, and Platinum Plan. Each has its own levels of coverage and associated premium cost.

Let’s take a look at the package policy offerings and pricing. We chose a week-long trip for a 40-year old that cost $3,000. Prices ranged from $59 to $208 to cover the entire trip.

With package policies, you can expect to find the following coverages. The limits of coverage differ based on the policy plan you select.

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption — Receive reimbursement for prepaid non-refundable expenses due to cancellation for covered reasons and additional costs if your trip is disrupted, also for covered reasons.
• Global Medical Protection — Receive worldwide emergency medical and dental coverage for the first 60 days of your trip and access to emergency evacuation/repatriation services.
• Travel Accident Protection — Receive coverage for accidental death/dismemberment from the time you leave on your trip until the time you arrive home.
• Global Baggage Protection — Coverage varies from $250 to $2,500 for lost luggage depending on the level selected. Baggage delay coverage starts from 3- to over 24-hour delays, depending on the policy plan selected.
• Global Trip Delay — Receive up to $300 per day, $1,000 per trip, depending on the level of coverage selected. Coverage is valid for delayed/canceled flights or involuntary-denied boarding.
• 24-Hour Travel Assistance — Have global access to planning and emergency assistance before and during your trip.

Bottom Line: American Express Travel Insurance offers 4 different levels of package policies, each comprising a collection of coverages most travelers look for. The plan you select and the level of coverage limits chosen determine the amount of the premium cost. 

Custom Select Coverage Options

If some of the coverages in the package plan are not important to you, you can select only the coverage(s) you want and pay accordingly. Perhaps, for example, you have a need for just medical coverage while traveling abroad. You have the option to select just that coverage.

This example shows the levels of coverage available and the associated premium costs. The Gold Plan selected offers up to $100,000 in emergency medical, up to $750 in emergency dental, and up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation/repatriation. The price of this plan would be $32 for the entire trip.

Bottom Line: Having the option to select only the coverages you want allows you to save money by not paying for coverages you don’t need. This is a key benefit of purchasing travel insurance through American Express Travel Insurance. Few travel insurance companies offer the option to purchase stand-alone travel medical coverage. 

Pricing By Age

Like most travel insurance companies, American Express Travel Insurance prices its products within age brackets. The price for coverage is the same for everyone in that specific age bracket.

Based on dozens of quotes obtained, pricing brackets were determined to be as follows:

• Age 17 to 40
• Age 41 to 65
• Age 66 to 70
• Age 70 to 80
• Age 81 or over

Knowing this upfront can help you determine if you’re at the beginning of the highest price bracket or the end. For example, if you are 40 years old, you’re going to pay less than a 41-year-old in the next pricing bracket but the same as a 17-year-old.

If you’re a senior and want to learn more about purchasing travel insurance in your 60s, 70s, and beyond , the tips in our article will help guide you in the right direction.

Bottom Line: Knowing a travel insurance company’s age pricing brackets can help you determine which company offers you the best value for your money.

Cancellations and Changes

Here is some information you should know about cancellations and changes to an American Express Travel Insurance policy.

• You can change or modify your policy prior to your trip.
• You can request a full refund within 14 days after receiving your policy documents. Some restrictions vary by state.
• If you have purchased American Express Travel Insurance and your trip was canceled due to COVID-19, you may qualify for a policy refund . Contact AMEX Assurance Company for details at [email protected]. Terms apply.
• Once your trip is completed, you cannot request a refund.

Hot Tip: Due to the overall decrease in travel, many travel insurance companies now allow you to cancel your travel insurance and receive a full refund or extend your policy without extra charges. 

To Other Travel Insurance Companies

When comparing other package policies to American Express Travel Insurance, the company’s premiums came up higher overall for this specific trip and traveler (1-week trip, 40-year-old, total value $3,000).

The first policy above with Assistance USA for $77, for example, has coverages similar to the Silver Amex plan which has a premium of $133. The coverage on the $102 Assistance USA plan above compares more with the Amex Gold plan at $157.

Prices will vary considerably based on the types of coverages selected, age, and limits of each coverage. We used policy comparison websites and found similar but not identical policies. With so many different coverage options, it’s difficult to compare apples to apples.

This is a very limited comparison — your results will be different based on your specific details. The most important factors to consider are that you’re purchasing from a highly-rated company, the coverages are a match for your needs, and the premium is one with which you’re comfortable paying.

To Credit Card Travel Insurance

The travel insurance coverages that comes complimentary on your credit card can serve to provide coverage for some trips. For example, if you book a domestic round-trip flight, a hotel, and a rental car, you may have sufficient coverages on your credit card to cover that trip.

Credit card travel insurance coverage, however, is not a replacement for a comprehensive travel insurance policy , for these reasons:

• Most credit card travel insurance coverage is secondary and in excess of other coverage you might have. You’ll normally be working with 2 (or more) entities to get your claim resolved.
• Credit card travel insurance is administered by a third party, not by the issuing financial institution, thus making the claims process potentially redundant and complicated.
• You generally won’t find medical coverage on a credit card. The Platinum Card ® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® offer emergency medical evacuation and there is a small medical benefit on the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.
• Coverage limits are set on credit card travel insurance. Travel insurance policies can offer higher limit options.
• Credit card travel insurances have requirements such as purchasing the trip with the associated credit card.
• Additional coverages can be added to travel insurance policies such as CFAR insurance, a preexisting conditions waiver, and other benefits not available with credit cards.

Bottom Line: While the travel insurance coverages that come with credit cards may be sufficient to cover a simple trip where there is no large investment at stake, these coverages are by no means a replacement for a comprehensive travel insurance policy. 

Because travel insurance is widely available and quite competitive, you may find drastic differences in the price you’ll pay between companies and policy offerings. Selecting a company is not difficult as there are dozens of reputable, highly financially-rated, established companies, but comparing policies is essential for getting the best value for your money.

One way to easily compare pricing and coverages is to utilize a travel insurance comparison site to narrow down the appropriate options for your situation.

Here are some of the most popular, easy-to-use comparison sites that only feature highly financially-rated travel insurance companies.

TravelInsurance.com

• Coverage is available instantly
• The comparison tool is easy to use
• The company has a “best price guarantee”

InsureMyTrip

• Calls are handled by licensed agents
• The website contains educational information for understanding travel insurance coverages and policies
• Features nearly 2 dozen companies

SquareMouth

• Compare 90 different policies from over 20 different companies
• Customer service receives high accolades
• Over 86,000 reviews

Bottom Line: Utilizing a travel insurance comparison website can help you quickly narrow your choices to policies that fit your needs and your budget. 

There is no doubt that American Express is a financially-stable, established, and well-respected travel insurance company.

One of the company’s strengths is that it offers the consumer the ability to purchase needed coverages separately , such as medical insurance for an international trip. The premiums for such coverage are also very competitively priced. This could be a huge plus if you are not interested in duplicating credit card travel insurance coverages or in having just secondary or excess coverage.

One downside, especially in today’s environment, is that American Express Travel Insurance does not sell CFAR insurance. If this is important to you, you should attempt to find the coverage elsewhere by using comparison sites.

Another downside that may or may not be important is that American Express Travel Insurance does not sell annual or multi-trip policies. You must purchase a new policy for each individual trip.

Also, like several other travel insurance companies, high-risk adventurous activities may not be covered with American Express Travel Insurance. You might look to a company specializing in insuring these activities such as World Nomads .

If you want to make sure you’re purchasing from an established company and have specific coverages you’re more interested in than others, American Express Travel Insurance is a solid decision . For package travel insurance policies, you might be able to realize modest savings by shopping around, but you won’t go wrong with the company selection of choosing American Express Travel Insurance.

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

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.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Card Accounts

Business Accounts

Other Accounts and Payments

Tools and Support

Personal Cards

Business Credit Cards

Corporate Programs

Personal Savings

Personal Checking and Loans

Business Banking

Book And Manage Travel

Travel Inspiration

Business Travel

Services and Support

Benefits and Offers

Manage Membership

Business Services

Checking & Payment Products

Funding Products

Merchant Services

6 Min Read | Last updated: June 12, 2024

American Express Cash Back Cards: How Reward Dollars Work

American Express offers three cash back credit cards. Explore each card’s unique benefits, from cash back percentages to welcome offers and more.

At-A-Glance

American Express offers three distinct cash back credit cards so new Card Members can best align cash back and rewards-earning potential to their spending style.

At Amex, cash back is earned in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed for statement credits, with no redemption minimum.

Whether you’d prefer to earn up to 6% cash back in certain spending categories or would rather pay no annual fee, Amex has a cash back Card for you.

Credit card holders tend to prefer cash back rewards over points or miles, possibly due to how simple – and flexible –  cash back credit cards  can be, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 1  After all, who wouldn’t want to earn a little money by spending money on everyday purchases?  

To meet the demand for cash back, American Express offers these three cash back credit cards, each with its own unique benefits and welcome offers:

• The American Express Cash Magnet ®  Card.
• The Blue Cash Everyday ®  Card from American Express.
• The Blue Cash Preferred ®  Card from American Express.

Here’s what you need to know about American Express’ cash back Cards, from earning points and redeeming Reward Dollars to taking advantage of welcome offers. Terms apply to all benefits for the  credit cards  listed below and all offers listed are subject to change.

How Does American Express Cash Back Work?

Cash back is a credit card rewards benefit that lets you earn back a small percentage of each eligible purchase made with the Card, often redeemed as a statement credit. The amount of cash back you earn typically ranges anywhere from 1%–3% of the transaction. But some cards, like  Blue Cash Preferred , offer up to 6% cash back on certain spending categories. Cash back is earned in the form of Reward Dollars, which accumulate until you decide to redeem some or all of them.

American Express’ Three Cash Back Credit Cards

To earn Reward Dollars from American Express, you’ll want to choose one of the three American Express cash back credit cards that’s the right match for your spending style.

Blue Cash Everyday  is a tiered cash back Card that offers benefits in specific spending categories like supermarkets and gas stations, with no annual fee. 2   As for cash back earning rates, Blue Cash Everyday will get you:

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 in yearly purchases (then 1%).
• 3% cash back at U.S. online retailers, on up to $6,000 in yearly purchases (then 1%).
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 in yearly purchases (then 1%).
• 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Beyond cash back, Blue Cash Everyday Card Members can also get:

• $84 Disney Bundle Credit:  Get a $7 monthly statement credit (up to $84 back annually) after using your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday Card to spend $9.99 or more each month on a subscription (subject to auto-renewal) to the Disney Bundle. Valid only at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com in the U.S. 2
• $180 Home Chef Credit:  Get up to $15 in statement credits monthly for online purchases made with meal kit delivery service, Home Chef, on your Blue Cash Everyday Card (up to $180 in statement credits annually). Enrollment required. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Subscription subject to auto-renewal. 2

Blue Cash Preferred  offers even more cash back rewards in certain spending categories. For example, let’s say you want to supercharge the rewards you get from supermarket and gas expenses – all while getting cash back for your streaming service subscriptions. This could be the right card for you. As for cash back percentages, Blue Cash Preferred offers:

• 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 in purchases per year.
• 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% cash back on transit, including tolls, parking, trains, buses, and more. 4

The Cash Magnet Card  is a straightforward Card with unlimited cash back benefits on all purchases – and no annual fee. 5  With Cash Magnet, you can earn a $200 welcome bonus after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases on the Card during the first six months of Card Membership, in the form of a statement credit. For cash back, Cash Magnet offers:

• 1.5% cash back on all eligible purchases, with no spending limit.

If you’re a shopper who prefers simplicity when it comes to earning rewards – and tend to make regular purchases in a variety of spending categories – this Card might be right for you.

How to Redeem American Express Cash Back Rewards

To redeem Reward Dollars:

• Log into your American Express account and click “Use Reward Dollars.”
• Enter the amount of Reward Dollars you’d like to use as a credit toward your next statement balance and the credit will usually appear within three days.
• Note that the statement credit will not apply to the “minimum payment due” portion of your balance.

You can also use cash back* when shopping at Amazon.com:

• Go to www.amazon.com/amexcashback to complete your registration.
• Follow the instructions to link your Card Account to your Amazon.com account.
• Shop now and use cash back* at checkout to cover all or part of your purchases at Amazon.com.
• *Note that cash back refers to Reward Dollars earned on your Card.  

And remember: As long as your Card’s account is in good standing – i.e., not canceled or past due – your Reward Dollars will never expire. They’ll be ready to redeem whenever you are.

The Takeaway

Cash back credit cards offer a way to earn cash rewards for everyday purchases you’d likely be making anyway – it’s like getting a small rebate for every eligible purchase you make. American Express offers three cash back credit cards, each with its own unique benefits and offers to match your spending preferences – whether you’re buying groceries for a large family, spending on gas for a long commute, or using online streaming services.

Show Article Sources

1 The Consumer Credit Card Market , Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection

2 For more on Rates and Fees for the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express, click here .

3 For more on Rates and Fees for the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here .

4 For more on Offer & Benefit Terms for the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here .

5 For more on Rates and Fees for the American Express Cash Magnet ® Card, click here .

Megan Doyle  is a business technology writer and researcher whose work focuses on financial services and cross-cultural diversity and inclusion.

All Credit Intel  content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express. 

Related Articles

What Is Cash Back and How Does it Work?

Cash back credit cards have become so popular that there are many to choose from. Learning how they work can help you find the options that are right for you.

Tell me more

Types of Credit Cards: Understanding the Differences

Learn more about the different credit card types and categories out there, such as: travel, balance transfer, rewards, business, and more.

Earning Rewards and Cash Back While Shopping Online

Web and smartphone apps can earn you shopping rewards and cash back when you spend online, in addition to your credit card rewards. Here’s a look at this growing trend.

The material made available for you on this website, Credit Intel , is for informational purposes only and intended for U.S. residents and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.

Shop All American Express Credit Cards

Reward Points

No Annual Fee

0% Intro APR

Low Interest