Last updated Jul. 25, 2024 by Okechukwu Nkemdirim
The American Express Platinum Card, colloquially known as the Amex Platinum, is renowned for its luxury benefits, impressive rewards structure, and top-notch customer service. For active duty military members, the Amex Platinum offers unparalleled value. Thanks to unique benefits tailored to those serving in uniform, this card stands out as an outstanding financial tool for active duty military personnel. Here’s an in-depth look at why the Amex Platinum Card is a fantastic choice for active duty military members.
1. Annual Fee Waiver
One of the standout reasons why the Amex Platinum is so attractive to active duty military members is the annual fee waiver. Typically, the Amex Platinum carries a hefty annual fee of $695 (as of 2023). However, American Express waives this fee for active duty military members, thanks to provisions of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA).
This waiver allows service members to access all the premium benefits of the card without the financial burden of the high annual fee. This fee waiver alone can save military families hundreds of dollars each year.
2. Rewards Program
The Amex Platinum Card offers a lucrative rewards program:
- 5x Membership Rewards Points on Flights: Earn 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel.
- 5x Membership Rewards Points on Prepaid Hotels: Earn 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.
- 1x Membership Rewards Point on Other Purchases: Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
These points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more, providing flexibility in how military members use their rewards. The high earning rate on travel-related purchases is particularly beneficial for those who frequently travel for official duties or vacations.
3. Travel Benefits
Active duty military members often travel extensively, whether for duty assignments or personal leisure. The Amex Platinum Card offers several travel benefits that make these journeys more enjoyable and affordable:
- Up to $200 Airline Fee Credit: Receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by the airline of your choice.
- Global Lounge Collection: Gain access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including Amex’s Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass Select lounges.
- Fine Hotels & Resorts Program: Enjoy exclusive benefits at luxurious hotels, such as late checkout, complimentary breakfast, and room upgrades.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credit: Get reimbursed for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, expediting airport security processes.
4. Additional Lifestyle Benefits
Apart from travel perks, the Amex Platinum Card offers a range of lifestyle benefits that cater to diverse interests:
- Up to $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy monthly credits for Uber rides or Uber Eats orders.
- Up to $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get monthly credits for select streaming services and digital entertainment subscriptions.
- Up to $300 Equinox Credit: Receive monthly credits toward Equinox memberships or digital fitness subscriptions.
5. Purchase Protection and Insurance
The Amex Platinum Card provides several protections and insurance offerings that can give military families peace of mind:
- Return Protection: Offers refund for eligible items that a merchant won’t accept for return within 90 days.
- Purchase Protection: Covers eligible purchases against accidental damage or theft for up to 120 days.
- Extended Warranty: Extends the original manufacturer’s warranty by up to an additional year on eligible purchases.
These protections are particularly valuable given the frequent relocations and lifestyle changes that come with military service.
✓ Short Answer
The Amex Platinum Card is a stellar financial tool for active duty military members due to its annual fee waiver, lucrative rewards program, extensive travel benefits, valuable lifestyle perks, and comprehensive purchase protections.
6. Exclusive Access and Experiences
American Express often provides cardholders with exclusive access to events such as concerts, sporting events, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These can add significant value and enrich the lives of military members and their families by offering unique opportunities to create lasting memories.
7. 24/7 Customer Service
Active duty military personnel can also benefit from Amex’s exceptional customer service. Amex offers 24/7 customer service and has a reputation for handling customer inquiries and issues promptly and effectively. This service can be particularly useful for military members who may be stationed in different time zones and need around-the-clock assistance.
FAQs
Q: How do I qualify for the Amex Platinum’s annual fee waiver?
A: Active duty military members and their spouses can qualify for the annual fee waiver under the SCRA and MLA. You need to ensure your military status is reported to Amex, which they usually verify through databases, but you might need to provide additional documentation.
Q: Can military veterans get the annual fee waiver?
A: The annual fee waiver primarily applies to active duty members. Veterans who are not currently serving generally do not qualify for the waiver.
Q: Does the fee waiver apply to other Amex cards?
A: Yes, other American Express cards also offer annual fee waivers for active duty military personnel. However, the benefits specific to each card may vary.
Q: Are there any downsides to the Amex Platinum Card for active duty military?
A: The Amex Platinum Card is generally a great financial tool for active duty military members due to the benefits and fee waiver. However, the high-value benefits are primarily geared toward travel and luxury spending, which may not suit everyone’s lifestyle.
Q: Do I need to reapply for the fee waiver each year?
A: No, once you qualify for the fee waiver, it should automatically apply each year as long as you remain on active duty. However, it’s a good idea to periodically check with Amex to ensure your military status is properly recorded.
Q: Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
A: While the annual fee is waived, there might be other fees associated with specific services or foreign transactions. It’s important to read the terms and understand all charges that may apply.
Q: How do I make the most of the rewards program?
A: Maximizing the rewards program involves using the card for purchases that earn higher reward rates, such as flights and travel-related expenses. Additionally, exploring redemption options through the Amex Membership Rewards portal can provide more value.
In conclusion, the Amex Platinum Card is highly beneficial for active duty military members, offering a combination of valuable rewards, extensive travel benefits, lifestyle perks, and comprehensive purchase protections, all while waiving the annual fee. This makes the card an exceptional financial tool for service members looking to maximize their benefits and enhance their financial well-being.
