How to Apply for your American Express Platinum Card
The American Express Platinum Card is designed for individuals seeking premium travel and lifestyle benefits. Some of the standout perks include access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, £300 in dining credits, and gold elite status with top hotel chains like Marriot Bonvoy.
The card also offers comprehensive travel insurance and other high-end services, such as Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits, which include late check-out and room upgrades when available.
This card carries a £650 annual fee, which can be offset by its extensive benefits. Cardholders earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent, with double points on travel booked through American Express.
Additionally, it provides valuable perks for frequent travelers, such as car rental privileges and exclusive access to luxury experiences. However, it also includes a 2.99% foreign exchange fee for non-sterling purchases.
American Express Platinum Card Benefits
The American Express Platinum Card offers a wide range of benefits, especially suited for those who travel frequently or enjoy luxury experiences.
While it comes with a hefty annual fee, the various perks and services can provide substantial value if used effectively.
Below are some of the key benefits of this card, each detailed to help you understand the value they offer.
Global Lounge Access
One of the most significant perks of the Platinum Card is access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection.
This benefit grants cardholders complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This can elevate your travel experience, providing a comfortable space to relax before flights, often with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages.
Fine Hotels & Resorts Program
The Platinum Card includes access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts Program, which offers exclusive benefits at over 1,500 luxury hotels worldwide.
These benefits include guaranteed late check-out, daily breakfast for two, room upgrades upon availability, and a unique property benefit valued at an average of £600 per stay.
This program adds tremendous value for those who frequently stay in high-end hotels.
£300 Annual Dining Credit
Cardholders receive up to £300 in dining credits annually. This benefit is split into £150 for use at restaurants in the UK and another £150 for international dining.
You can use this credit at participating restaurants without any minimum spend, and it resets every calendar year, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of dining experiences.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance
The card includes comprehensive travel insurance for both the cardholder and their family. This insurance covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, travel delays, and lost or stolen belongings.
Hotel Elite Status
With the Platinum Card, you automatically receive elite status at major hotel chains, including Gold status in Marriott Bonvoy.
That status offers additional benefits such as room upgrades, bonus points on stays, and free breakfast, enhancing your experience when staying at these hotels.
£100 Harvey Nichols Credit
Another valuable perk is the £100 annual credit for Harvey Nichols, split into two £50 credits for the first and second half of the year.
You can use this credit online or in-store at this luxury department store, making it a great way to offset part of the card’s annual fee if you shop there regularly.
What You Should Have to Apply
To Apply for this card you should meet the eligibility criteria, see below:
- I am 18 years old or older.
- I have an active current account with a UK bank or building society.
- I have a permanent residential address in the UK.
- I have no history of bad debt or defaults.
- I understand that I will not be eligible for any Welcome Bonus if I currently hold or have held any personal American Express cards enrolled in the Membership Rewards program within the past 24 months.
About American Express UK
American Express (Amex) has a long history, both globally and in the UK. Founded in the United States in 1850 by Henry Wells, William G. Fargo, and John Butterfield, Amex originally focused on express delivery services.
Over time, it shifted towards financial services, becoming well-known for its charge cards, traveler’s cheques, and credit cards.
In the UK, American Express has been operational for over 60 years, having launched its first Sterling card in the UK in 1963.
Since then, it has grown to offer a wide range of financial products, including premium credit cards like the Platinum Card. Globally, American Express is recognized as one of the largest financial service providers, known for its extensive global payments network and customer service.
Who is the American Express Platinum Card for?
The American Express Platinum Card in the UK is primarily aimed at frequent travelers and individuals who seek luxury benefits and services.
This card is ideal for those who can take full advantage of its premium travel perks, such as access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally, comprehensive travel insurance, and elite status at major hotel chains like Marriot Bonvoy. It is designed for people who value travel-related privileges, dining credits, and exclusive lifestyle experiences.
The card’s £650 annual fee may be justified by those who regularly utilize its extensive range of services and benefits.
Step by Step to Apply for the American Express Platinum Card
To apply for the American Express Platinum Card in the UK, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official American Express Platinum Card UK page to begin the application process.
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet the requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, a UK resident, and have a good credit history.
- Complete the Online Application: The application process is entirely online and takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. You’ll need to provide personal details such as income information and your bank account details.
- Submit and Await Approval: After completing the form, submit it for review. American Express may run a credit check before making a decision. If approved, you’ll receive your card by mail.
American Express Platinum Card Pros and Cons
The American Express Platinum Card offers a variety of perks but also comes with significant costs.
Here is a breakdown of the main positives and negatives associated with the card:
Pros
- Comprehensive Travel Benefits: Cardholders get access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This is ideal for frequent travelers seeking comfort and convenience during their trips.
- Generous Welcome Bonus: New members can earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points after spending £6,000 in the first three months. These points can be transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs, potentially worth £200 or more.
- £300 Annual Dining Credit: Cardholders receive £150 to spend at UK restaurants and another £150 for international dining. This credit resets each calendar year, adding substantial value.
- Hotel Elite Status: The card grants automatic Gold status in hotel programs like Marriot Bonvoy, offering perks like room upgrades and free breakfasts
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is included for the cardholder and family members, covering trips up to 90 days.
- Harvey Nichols Credit: You also receive £100 annually to spend at Harvey Nichols, split into two £50 credits.
Cons
- High Annual Fee: The card comes with a £650 annual fee, which might be prohibitive for those who don’t fully utilize the benefits.
- Foreign Exchange Fees: Non-sterling transactions are charged at a 2.99% fee, making it costly to use abroad unless you take advantage of the travel-related perks.
- Interest Rates: The card has a high interest rate of 31% APR on purchases, and a 704.6% APR variable representative rate when factoring in fees, so carrying a balance can be expensive.
How to Activate the American Express Platinum Card
To activate your American Express Platinum Card after receiving it, you have three options:
- Online Activation: Visit the official American Express activation page. Enter your card details, including your card number and the four-digit security code on the front of the card. Follow the prompts to complete the activation process.
- Via Phone: Call the number provided on the back of your card. You will need to provide your card number and some personal information to verify your identity.
- Mobile App: Download the American Express App from the App Store or Google Play. Once installed, you can activate your card by scanning it or entering the details manually.
Fees and Tariffs
The American Express Platinum Card comes with several key fees that prospective cardholders should be aware of:
- Annual Fee: The card carries a £650 annual fee, which is charged yearly.
- Interest Rate: The card has a 31.0% APR variable for purchases.
- Representative APR: When factoring in the annual fee, the card’s representative APR is 704.6% variable based on an assumed credit limit of £1,200.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: For purchases made in non-sterling currencies, there is a 2.99% fee, making it expensive to use abroad without proper planning.
- Cash Advance Fee: When withdrawing cash, you will be charged a 3% fee (minimum £3).
- Late Payment Fee: If you miss a payment, you may incur a late payment fee of £12.
Customer Service
If you need assistance with your American Express Platinum Card in the UK, there are several ways to contact their customer service:
- Phone Support:
- Within the UK: You can call the dedicated Platinum Card helpline at 0800 917 8054, available 24/7 for any queries related to your card.
- From abroad: Reach out to the UK support team at +44 (0)1293 820 925 if you are traveling internationally.
- Online Chat: You can also initiate a live chat with a Customer Care Professional by logging into your account on the American Express UK website.
- Official Website: For general information or to manage your card, visit the American Express Platinum UK page.
- Mobile App: You can manage your card, make payments, and get customer support via the American Express Mobile App.
These resources ensure that you can access support for your card at any time, whether you’re at home or abroad.
