The American Express Membership Rewards program is one of my all-time favorite programs because of its exceptional airline transfer partners, such as ANA, Iberia Avios, and Air Canada’s Aeroplan.
If you’re looking to earn Membership Rewards, Amex offers a great selection of credit cards, which I’ve ranked to help you decide better.
Piece of advice for frequent travelers – I suggest picking up either the personal or business Platinum Cards for the great airport lounge access and lots of extra points when booking flights.
Best for Airport Lounge Access: American Express Platinum Card® (review).
Best for Dining and U.S. Supermarkets: American Express® Gold Card (review).
Best for Everyday Spending: The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (review).
1. American Express Platinum Card®
Best for Airport Lounge Access
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
- 5x Points on Flights Booked Directly With Airlines (up to $500,000 in purchases each calendar year)
- Airport Lounge Access (Centurion, Delta Sky Club when flying Delta, Priority Pass™ , Escape, and Plaza Premium)
- $895 Annual Fee (Rates & Fees)
American Express Platinum Card® (review) offers the most comprehensive airport lounge network available, giving you access to premium Centurion Lounges plus thousands of other lounges worldwide. You can easily offset the card's large annual fee through generous credits for Uber, hotels, digital entertainment, Resy dining, and lifestyle brands like lululemon.
Earning Points: 5x on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel®, on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year; 5x points on on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com; 1x points on all other purchases.
Card Benefits:
- Airport Lounge Access to Eligible Cardmembers: American Express Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta and limited to 10 annual visits unless you spend $75,000 in a calendar year), Priority Pass with unlimited visits, Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and select Lufthansa Lounges (when flying a Lufthansa Group airline).
- Statement Credits: You can enjoy monthly and annual statement credits (enrollment required for most benefits; terms and conditions apply) for a wide range of services and merchants, including airline fees, Uber Cash, hotel bookings, digital entertainment, Walmart+, CLEAR+ membership, Equinox fitness club membership, and SoulCycle At-Home Bike purchases.
- Elite Status: Marriott Bonvoy Gold, Hilton Honors Gold, Hertz President's Circle, National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive, and Avis Preferred Plus.
- Travel Benefits: Trip delay insurance, trip cancellation insurance, secondary rental car insurance, and baggage insurance plan.
- Purchase Benefits: Extended warranty, purchase protection, return protection, and cell phone protection.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
2. American Express® Gold Card
Best for U.S. Supermarkets and Restaurants
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
- 4x Points at U.S. Supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x points)
- 4x Points at Restaurants Worldwide (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1x points)
- Up to $424 in Annual Credits
- $325 Annual Fee (Rates and Fees)
The American Express® Gold Card (review) is a great card for earning points at restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and flights booked directly with airlines. Cardholders can also enjoy up to $424 in annual credits and nice travel and purchase protections.
Earning Points: 5x points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ ; 4x points at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year (then 1x points); 4x points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year (then 1x points); 3x points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™ , or purchased directly from airlines; 2x points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com; 1x points on all other eligible purchases.
Benefits:
- $120 Dining Credit: Enroll and earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder.
- $120 Uber Cash: Get up to $10 monthly Uber Cash for U.S. Uber Eats orders and rides when you add your American Express Gold Card as a payment method. Your Uber Cash can be redeemed using any American Express card.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with this card at U.S. Dunkin' locations).
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $50 semiannually in statement credits after you enroll and pay with this card at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases).
- Other benefits: No foreign transaction fees, travel insurance (trip delay, baggage insurance, and secondary rental car), extended warranty, and return protection.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
3. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for Business Travelers
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (review) delivers premium travel benefits including extensive lounge access (access is limited to eligible card members) and valuable hotel elite status. This premium business card excels at making travel more luxurious, though you'll need to use multiple statement credits and travel perks to maximize its value.
Welcome Bonus: You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
Earn Rewards: 5x points for flights, prepaid hotels booked at AmexTravel.com; 2x points per dollar for purchases up to $2 million in spending per calendar year in these categories: purchases of $5,000 or more regardless of category, U.S. cloud service and software providers, U.S. construction materials and hardware suppliers, U.S. electronics retailers, and U.S. shipping providers; and 1x points on all other eligible purchases.
Card Benefits:
- Statement Credits: You'll earn numerous statement credits including $250 for Adobe purchases after spending $600, up to $200 for airline incidentals, up to $219 for Clear+ membership, up to $1,150 for Dell purchases ($150 in credits plus $1,000 after spending $5,000), up to $300 ChatGPT Business credit (subject to auto-renewal), Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit, up to $200 for Hilton purchases ($50 quarterly with required Hilton for Business membership; gift cards excluded), up to $600 for Fine Hotels & Resorts and Hotel Collection bookings ($300 biannually with minimum two-night stays required for Hotel Collection), up to $360 for Indeed hiring services ($90 quarterly), and up to $120 for wireless telephone services ($10 monthly from any U.S. provider).
- Airport Lounge Access: American Express Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club when flying Delta (limited to 10 annual visits unless you spend $75,000 in a calendar year), Priority Pass, Escape Lounges, and Select Lufthansa Lounge when flying Lufthansa Group airlines. (Access is limited to eligible Card Members)
- Elite Status: Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold, Hertz's President's Circle, National Emerald Club Executive, and Avis Preferred Plus.
- Other Benefits: No preset spending limit, baggage insurance plan, trip cancellation and delay insurance, secondary rental car insurance, no foreign transaction fees, extended warranty, return protection, purchase protection, and cell phone protection.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
4. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Best for Everyday Spending
- Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
- 2 Points Per Dollar on the First $50,000 in Purchases Each Calendar Year (1x Points thereafter)
- 0.0% Intro APR on purchases for the first 12 months. After that, 16.74% - 28.49% APR. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- No Annual Fee (rates & fees)
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (review) offers a strong 2x Membership Rewards points on the first $50,000 in purchases annually, making it an excellent no-annual-fee (rates & fees) option for small business owners. This card provides good value for everyday spending and access to Amex's 20+ transfer partners, though it does have foreign transaction fees.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
Earning Points: 2 American Express Membership Rewards points per dollar on the first $50,000 spent on the card annually (then 1 point per dollar).
Card Benefits: Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, Expanded Buying Power, and 0% Intro APR for 12 months on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, after that a 16.74% - 28.49% APR applies.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
5. American Express® Business Gold Card
Best for Flexible Rewards
The American Express® Business Gold Card (review) offers tailored rewards, earning 4x points in your top two spending categories each billing cycle from a list of six options (capped at $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year). With up to $845 in annual statement credits and valuable redemption options through Membership Rewards transfer partners, this card can be a powerful earning tool for many businesses.
Welcome Bonus: You may be eligible for as high as 200,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $15,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
Earning Points: 4x points in your top two categories each billing cycle up to $150,000 in combined purchases at 4x points (then 1x points) in the following purchase categories: US gas stations, US restaurants, US advertising in select media, transit and rideshare, monthly US wireless telephone services charges made directly with wireless service provider, U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers; 3x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™; and 1x points on all other eligible purchases.
Card Benefits: Up to $20 monthly credit upon enrollment when you use your card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx (through 10/01/2026), Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores; Walmart+ credit, ChatGPT Business credit, Squarespace credit, no present spending limit, trip delay insurance, baggage insurance plan, secondary rental car insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
6. American Express® Green Card
Budget Travel Card
The American Express® Green Card (review) offers generous 3x points on travel and dining, plus vannual credits for CLEAR and LoungeBuddy. This versatile mid-tier card is ideal for frequent travelers who want to maximize rewards on everyday spending categories.
(All information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Deals Points and has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.)
Welcome Bonus: Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 within the first 6 months.
Earning Points: 3x points on restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the US), travel (including flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, etc.), and transit (including tolls, parking, and rideshare); 1x points on all other eligible purchases.
Card Benefits: Annual $199 CLEAR Plus Credit, annual $100 LoungeBuddy credit, no preset spending limit, trip delay insurance, baggage insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty.
Transfer Partners: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico (1:1.6), Air Canada Aeroplan, ANA, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways, Cathay Pacific (5:4), Choice Privileges, Delta, Emirates (5:4), Air France–KLM Flying Blue, Hilton (1:2), Iberia, JetBlue (1:0.8), Marriott, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic.
7. Amex EveryDay® Preferred
The Amex EveryDay® Preferred (review) offers bonus rewards at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations, with a 50% points bonus when you make 30+ transactions per billing cycle. While it provides decent everyday earning potential, the card lacks premium benefits to fully justify its annual fee.
(All information about the Amex Everyday Preferred has been collected independently by Deals Points and has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.)
Welcome Bonus: Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards Points After Spending $2,000 in the First 6 Months.
Earning Rewards: 3x points at U.S. Supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (1x thereafter); 2x points at U.S. gas stations; and 1x points on all other eligible purchases. Additionally, if you make 30 transactions using the card in a billing period, you will receive a 50% points bonus.
Card Benefits: Secondary rental car insurance, return protection, and 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months after account opening, after that a 17.74% to 27.74% Variable APR applies.
8. Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card (review) provides access to the Membership Rewards program without an annual fee. It offers bonus points at U.S. supermarkets and a 20% points boost for frequent use, making it a good entry-level option for travel rewards beginners.
(All information about the Amex Everyday has been collected independently by Deals Points and has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.)
Welcome Bonus: Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® Points after Spending $2,000 in your first 6 months.
Earning Rewards: 2x points U.S. Supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1x points); 1x points on all other eligible purchases. Additionally, if you use your card at least 20 times in a month, you will receiver a 20% points bonus.
Card Benefits: Secondary rental car insurance and 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfer, after that a 18.24% to 29.24% Variable APR applies.
Redeeming Amex Membership Rewards Points
American Express Membership Rewards points shine brightest when you transfer them to airline and hotel partners. You can also book travel through Amex Travel at 1 cent per point, but transfers usually deliver far more value.
You can transfer Membership Rewards points to 16 airline partners: Aer Lingus AerClub, Aeromexico Rewards, Air Canada Aeroplan, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, ANA Mileage Club, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways Club, Cathay, Delta SkyMiles, Emirates Skywards, Iberia Club, JetBlue TrueBlue, Qantas Frequent Flyer, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Singapore KrisFlyer, and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
Three hotel partners round out the list: Choice Privileges, Hilton Honors, and Marriott Bonvoy.
Most transfers are 1:1, but a few aren't. Aeromexico transfers at 1:1.6, Cathay and Emirates at 5:4, JetBlue at 250:200, and Hilton at 1:2.
These partners span all three major airline alliances, so you can reach almost any route worldwide.
A few standout redemptions worth chasing:
- Fly Iberia business class to Madrid from 40,500 Avios each way on off-peak dates.
- Book Singapore's business or suites class on ultra-long-haul flights through KrisFlyer.
- Reach Europe on Flying Blue from 60,000 miles, with monthly Promo Rewards trimming prices further.
- Fly Qatar Airways' Qsuites from North America starting at 70,000 Avios.
- Book United Polaris business class to Europe for 50,000 miles through ANA.
Just confirm your award space before you move any points, since every transfer is irreversible.
Choosing the Right American Express Card for You
Deciding on the most suitable American Express card hinges on your lifestyle and spending habits, particularly if you’re inclined towards travel. The Membership Rewards program, while rich in travel perks like lounge access, primarily benefits those who travel frequently. For those who fit this profile and aim to maximize their points, here are some recommendations:
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For Travel Enthusiasts: American Express Platinum Card® (review) offers substantial value through its travel credits and perks, justifying its large annual fee for frequent travelers. Business owners might lean towards The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (review).
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For a Versatile Option: The American Express® Gold Card (review) is an excellent alternative for those hesitant about the Platinum cards’ annual fees. It effectively bridges travel and everyday spending, offering bonuses on flights, dining, and U.S. supermarket purchases.
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For Non-Category Spending: The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (review) is a smart addition to your collection, offering a 2x point bonus on everyday purchases that fall outside other bonus categories (up to $50,000 in spending per year).
An additional factor to consider is the timing of your application. American Express enforces a one-time policy for earning introductory offers on each card, making it crucial to apply when the introductory bonuses are particularly high to maximize your rewards.
In summary, selecting the right American Express card requires a balance of understanding your spending patterns, travel frequency, and the potential value of card perks and rewards.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, please click here. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
For rates and fees of The Blue Business Plus® Credit Card from American Express, please click here. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Business Gold Card, please click here. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
For the rates and fees of the American Express® Green Card, please click here.
