What Makes the Amex Platinum Card So Exclusive?
The American Express Platinum Card is often called the gold standard of premium credit cards. With luxury travel perks, lounge access, and concierge services, it’s a favorite among frequent flyers. But it all starts with one big question: Is the Amex Platinum card hard to get?
✈️ Is the Amex Platinum Card Hard to Get?
Yes—and no. Approval depends on:
- Excellent credit (usually 720+)
- Strong income and spending habits
- Existing relationship with American Express
Though not impossible, applicants need solid financial standing to get past the initial screen.
💼 Is the Amex Platinum a “Rich Person’s Card”?
Yes, in certain respects. It includes:
- An annual fee of $695
- High-end incentives for heavy spenders
- Luxurious perks like access to the Centurion Lounge
Nevertheless, the value of the card when benefits are fully utilized makes it worthwhile for many professionals, not just the extremely wealthy.
💵 How Much Does the Amex Platinum Cost?
- Annual fee: $695
- Foreign transaction fee: $0
- Earning rate: 5× Membership Rewards points on flights & prepaid hotel bookings
Though pricey upfront, the card’s benefits (like $200 Uber credits and $200 airline fee credits) often exceed the cost—for those who unlock them.
What You’ll Get: Perks and Benefits
- Airport Lounge Access
- Complimentary access to Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass lounges
- Travel Credits
- Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits
- $200 in Uber Cash for rides or eats
- Up to $189 in airline ancillary credits (airline fee credit, Clear, etc.)
- Global Entry / TSA Pre Check
- Statement credit for application fees every 4 years
- Elite Status & Hotel Perks
- Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
- Concierge & Protection
- 24/7 concierge service
- Trip delay/cancellation insurance and extended warranty protection
Who Should Apply?
- Frequent travelers: Get optimal value from lounge access, hotel elite status, and credits
- Big spenders: Earn accelerated rewards from airfare, hotels, and pre-paid global services
- Travel professionals: Perfect for business owners or high-income individuals
If you travel often and are comfortable using the benefits, the card can pay for itself.
⚖️ Is the Amex Platinum Worth It?
Yes, provided you optimize its advantages, but only if you:
- Take a trip at least once every three months.
- Utilize airline credits and elite status.
- Take advantage of travel protections and lounge access.
However, the high yearly cost probably outweighs the advantages if you’re a casual user.
Is it difficult to obtain the Amex Platinum card?
It’s a little exclusive. Strong income, excellent credit (720+), and perhaps a previous connection to American Express are usually requirements.
Is the Amex Platinum a credit card used by the wealthy?
Sort of. The card targets frequent travelers and higher-income individuals—yet many mid-career professionals also find it valuable when they fully use the perks.
How much does the Amex Platinum cost?
The annual fee is $695, but that includes up to $600 in various annual credits—minimizing out-of-pocket cost if used smartly.
🎁 Extra Advice: Make the Most of Amex Platinum Benefits
- Unlock all of your travel credits and create reminders to use them annually.
- Use annual lounge access to support fees.
- Spend money on hotels and flights to accrue a lot of Membership Rewards points.
- Before applying, check your credit score because poor credit makes it difficult to get approved.
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