On October 24, American Express finally announced their release of a revamped Green card. Easily among the most iconic cards in American Express’ history, the new card carries a refreshed look, new benefits, and is made from recycled plastic; a play on the “green” component of the card itself.
This card complements the benefits offered by the Gold and Platinum cards, and offers an overlap benefit with the Gold card when it comes to dining for those that don’t need the groceries reward.
The Green Card carries an annual fee of $150, but issues $200 in annual credits, $100 in additional annual credits in the first year, and a reward bonus between 30,000-45,000 membership reward points (worth $600-900 when considering the $0.02/point valuation) making it a no-brainer to try out for the first year.
As a card holder, you receive 3X points (6% back) on all travel, including hotels, rideshare, taxis and airfare. You also receive the same benefit on restaurants. In its first year, the Green card is offering a $100 credit on AWAY Luggage which sells premium luggage and is gaining popularity in the travel market. Ongoing, the card offers an annual $100 credit for CLEAR memberships, as well as an annual $100 Loungebuddy credit that allows you to purchase day passes at some airport lounges you don’t otherwise have access to.
As a reminder, if you already have the Platinum and Gold cards, you’re earning these travel benefits each year:
- 10% back on airfare
- 8% back on groceries
- 8% back on restaurants
- Gold Membership with Marriott and Hilton
- Priority Pass and Centurion lounge access
- $300 airline incidental reimbursements
With the Green card, you would also earn 6% back on all remaining travel expenses and pay for your annual CLEAR membership! As a reminder, by signing up for a free Delta SkyMiles account, you can receive an annual CLEAR membership for only $99. Even if you don’t use the $100 credits for AWAY luggage or Loungebuddy day passes, you will pay for the remaining annual fee not offset by credits after spending $70/month on travel (hotels, transit, Uber, Lyft, etc.).
I’m excited to add this card to my arsenal in order to maximize my earning potential on everyday spending. As always, credit card rewards are only valuable if you earn them on spending you would otherwise do, and always pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Interested in the Green card? Use my referral link and we’ll both be rewarded.
