Credit card changing fortunes (COVID-19 Edition)

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Crystal ball showing credit card changing fortunes

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, travel related perks have lost value while the advantages of stay-at-home perks have grown.  I’ve long been interested in how external influences can change our perceived value of credit card perks (and I’ve written about the topic before), but I’ve never before seen such dramatic changes in credit card fortunes.

For this post, I selected a number of popular credit cards to look at.  Has the current situation made them more valuable or less?

To help answer this question, I referred to my COVID Credit Card Enhancements Ultimate Guide to remind myself which cards are offering enhanced stay-at-home perks during the pandemic.

Some of the most interesting trends, in my opinion, are where a card’s value has changed indirectly because the competition has gotten stronger or weaker.  For example, the Amex Gold card retains its great value for US Supermarket purchases but many other cards have temporarily gained supermarket bonuses.  As a result, I value the Gold card a bit less than before.

Amex Cards

Platinum cards

Trend Amex Platinum Cards
a green arrow pointing up Amex Platinum cards are loaded with high end travel perks that have become mostly worthless during the pandemic.  That said, Amex has more than made up for it with stay-at-home rebates that add up to huge savings.  The rebates are so good that you may want to sign up for a Platinum card today (or upgrade from a Green or Gold card).  See: Is it time to get an Amex Platinum Card?
Nov 2019 Trend: Mixed
“Amex devalued their Platinum cards (and other cards that offer Priority Pass) when they dropped Priority Pass restaurants.  On the other hand, the same cards increased in value with the addition of travel protections: trip interruption & cancellation, and trip delay.  The value of the latter was tempered by a reduction in purchase protections.  Overall, I think the changes are net negative.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: This card is absolutely loaded with high end perks. Depending upon your situation, those perks may be worth the annual fee or much more. Click here for our complete card review

$695 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 5X flights and prepaid hotels at AmexTravel.com ✦ 1.5X points per dollar on eligible purchases of $5000 or more (on up to $2 million of those purchases per year) ✦ 1.5x on US construction/hardware stores, US electronic goods, and US shipping ✦ 1X elsewhere ✦ Terms apply.
Base: 1X (1.55%)
Other: 1.5X (2.33%)
Card Info: Amex Pay Over Time Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Select one qualifying airline and receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for qualifying charges ✦ Up to $400 a year in statement credits for Dell purchases ($200, twice-yearly) ✦ Up to $120 in wireless services credits per year ($10 per month) ✦ Up to $120 Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee reimbursement.✦ Priority Pass membership (Lounges only) with 2 guests and other airport lounge benefits (Centurion and Delta) ✦ Rental car elite status ✦ Marriott Gold status ✦ Hilton Gold status. ✦ $199 CLEAR fee reimbursement annually ✦ 35% Airline Bonus: Get 35% points back after you Pay With Points for flights with your selected airline (or premium cabin with any airline). Enrollment required for select benefits
FM Mini Review: This card is absolutely loaded with high end perks. Depending upon your situation, those perks may be worth the annual fee or much more.

$695 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel ✦ 5X points for prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel
Base: 1X (1.55%)
Travel: 5X (7.75%)
Card Info: Amex Pay Over Time Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Up to $200 a year in statement credits for incidental fees at one qualifying airline per calendar year ✦ $200 prepaid hotel credit per calendar year valid on Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection bookings ✦ Up to $20 per month rebate for Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and/or The Wall Street Journal ✦ Up to $120 Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee reimbursement.✦ $15 monthly Uber or Uber Eats credit ($20 in December, use it or lose it each month) ✦ $199 CLEAR (R) Plus fee credit per calendar year ✦ $12.95 (+tax) monthly credit for Walmart+ monthly membership subscription credit when you pay with Platinum card ✦ Up to $100 in credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue (up to $50 in credits semi-annually) ✦ Priority Pass membership (Lounges only) with 2 guests and other airport lounge benefits (Centurion and Delta) ✦ Rental car elite status ✦ Marriott Gold status ✦ Hilton Honors Gold status Enrollement required for some benefits. Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)

Gold Card

Trend Amex Gold Card
a green and red arrows The Amex Gold Card didn’t need any enhancements for it to be a great card during the pandemic.  It already offered great earnings for grocery (4X at US Supermarkets, up to $25K spend/year, then 1X) and dining (4X worldwide).  And the card’s $10 per month dining credit has arguably become more useful than ever before since it can be used for food delivery from GrubHub or bulk items through Boxed.  One negative is that the card’s $100 airline fee credit is harder than ever to earn.  Despite the airline fee issue, I would have given the Gold card an “up” trend, but for one thing: the competition has improved.  For a few months anyway, many Chase and Amex cards offer great grocery earnings.  So, overall, I see the trend as mixed for the Gold Card.
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: This card offers an awesome return on US supermarket and worldwide dining spend, putting it at or near the top-of-class in both categories. Dining credits and Uber / Uber Eats credits go a long way towards reducing the sting of this card's annual fee.

$325 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X points for flights booked with airlines or on amextravel.com ✦ 4x points at US Supermarkets (up to $25K in purchases, then 1x) ✦ 4x at restaurants worldwide ✦ 1X points on other purchases. Terms apply. (Rates & Fees)
Base: 1X (1.55%)
Travel: 3X (4.65%)
Dine: 4X (6.2%)
Grocery: 4X (6.2%)
Card Info: Amex Pay Over Time Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Up to $10 in statement credits monthly with participating dining partners (Goldbelly, Wine.com, Five Guys, Seamless/Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory) ✦ $10 monthly Uber or Uber Eats credit (use it or lose it each month - must select Amex card as payment method to redeem) ✦ $100 hotel credit on qualifying charges on stays of 2 nights or longer, plus a room upgrade upon arrival, if available with The Hotel Collection at americanexpress.com/hc ✦ Enrollment required for select benefits.

Green Card

Trend Amex Green Card
a green and red arrows Under COVID-19, the card’s CLEAR rebate and Lounge Buddy credit have become temporarily worthless to most of us.  On the other hand, Amex has thrown in a $10 monthly rebate (through December) for cell phone service payments.  While that’s not enough to make the card trend upward, it’s enough to avoid a down arrow.
Nov 2019 Trend: UP
“Until recently, the Amex Green card had no purpose other than as a relatively cheap downgrade from the Amex Platinum card.  Now, in exchange for an increased annual fee (which has jumped from $95 to $150), Amex has thrown in solid bonus earnings (3X dining and travel) and a couple of valuable perks (most noteworthy is the annual $100 CLEAR rebate).  Read more here: Amex Green takes on Chase Sapphire Reserve with narrow miss.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: This card is worth considering as your go-to travel card, but only if you value its CLEAR and Lounge Buddy credits. Also note that Amex cards continue to have limited acceptance in many international destinations. Click here for our complete card review

$150 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 3X on travel & transit (including flights, hotels, taxis, and rideshares) ✦ 3X dining ✦ 1X points on other purchases. Terms apply. See
Base: 1X (1.55%)
Travel: 3X (4.65%)
Dine: 3X (4.65%)
Card Info: Amex Pay Over Time Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: $199 CLEAR credit annually Terms Apply.

Hilton Cards

Trend Hilton Credit Cards
a green arrow pointing up

Things are looking pretty good for Hilton cardholders! May through July, Aspire & Surpass cardholders earn 12X points per dollar at grocery stores.  Even better, free nights that can be earned with the Aspire, Surpass, or Business card have become more valuable.  Free nights earned through end of year are now valid any day of the week instead of just weekends.  And free nights issued from May 1 to December 31 2020 will be valid for 24 months from the date of issuance (previously 12 months).  Further, the Aspire card’s $250 resort credit can now be earned through purchases at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery, from June to August 2020.  Sure, the Aspire card’s travel benefits and airline fee credits are less valuable for now, but I’d argue that the other enhancements more than make up for those negatives.

See: Is it time to get an Amex Hilton Card?

Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: This card is loaded with valuable perks that are more than worth the card's annual fee if you stay in Hilton resorts at least twice per year.

$550 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 14X Hilton spend ✦ 7X US restaurants, flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, select car rental companies ✦ 3X on all other eligible purchases ✦ Terms & Limitations Apply.
Base: 3X (1.44%)
Travel: 7X (3.36%)
Dine: 7X (3.36%)
Brand: 14X (6.72%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Additional free night awards after $30K and $60K spend in calendar year
Noteworthy perks: ✦Annual Free Night Reward every year upon renewal ✦ Free Diamond Status ✦ Up to $400 Hilton Resort Credit per calendar year ($200 semi-annually) ✦ $200 Flight Credit ($50 per quarter for purchases directly with airlines or via Amex Travel) ✦ $199 CLEAR (R) Plus fee credit per calendar year ✦ $100 on-property credit w/ Aspire Card package ✦ Terms Apply. See Rates & Fees
FM Mini Review: Easy way to secure Hilton Gold status (which offers free breakfast among other perks). Those who want Diamond status may be better off with the Aspire card.

$150 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 12X Hilton spend ✦ 6X U.S. restaurants, US Supermarkets, and US gas stations ✦ 4X U.S. Online Retail Purchases ✦ 3X on all other eligible purchases
Base: 3X (1.44%)
Dine: 6X (2.88%)
Gas: 6X (2.88%)
Grocery: 6X (2.88%)
Shop: 4X (1.92%)
Brand: 12X (5.76%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus:
✦ Free night award after $15K spend in calendar year ✦ Diamond elite status with $40K calendar year spend ✦ Terms apply
Noteworthy perks: Free Gold status. Diamond status w/ $40K spend. ✦ Up to $200 in Hilton credits ($50 per quarter) ✦ Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
FM Mini Review: Easy way to secure Hilton Gold status (which offers free breakfast among other perks). Amex business cards do not count towards 5/24 status so will not hurt chances of applying for Chase cards.

$195 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 12X Hilton spend ✦ 5X on other eligible purchases (on the first $100K in purchases per calendar year, 3X thereafter).
Base: 3X (1.44%)
Brand: 12X (5.76%)
Other: 5X (2.4%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Diamond elite status with $40K calendar year spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status. Diamond status w/ $40K spend. ✦ Up to $240 in annual credits for Hilton purchases (Up to $60 per quarter) ✦ Complimentary National Car Rental(R) Emerald Club Executive(R) status (enroll through the link on your American Express online account) ✦ Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
FM Mini Review: This card isn't particularly rewarding, but it's good to keep primarily for targeted Amex upgrade offers to the Surpass card.

No Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 7X Hilton eligible Hilton purchases ✦ 5X US restaurants, US Supermarkets, and US gas stations ✦ 3X on all other eligible purchases
Base: 3X (1.44%)
Dine: 5X (2.4%)
Gas: 5X (2.4%)
Grocery: 5X (2.4%)
Brand: 7X (3.36%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Gold elite status with $20K calendar year spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Free Silver status; Gold status with $20K spend. ✦ Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)

Marriott Cards from Amex

Trend Amex Marriott Credit Cards
a green and red arrows

May through July 2020, Marriott Bonvoy and Bonvoy Brilliant cards earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $7,500 in eligible purchases.  Further, June through August, purchases at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery, now qualify toward the $300 Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant statement credit benefit.

These temporary enhancements are nice, but they don’t go as far as Hilton towards making the cards more valuable.  Ultimately I think that Marriott offered enough here to keep the status quo.  If these Marriott cards were right for you before, they’re probably still worth keeping.  And if you didn’t want a Marriott card before, I don’t see any reason to get one now.

Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Earning rate: 6X Marriott ✦ 2X on all other eligible purchases
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Marriott Gold Elite with $30K annual spend (note this threshold will increase to $35K on January 1, 2019)
Noteworthy perks: 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card account anniversary up to 35K points (subject to resort fees) ✦ Receive free premium internet at Marriott properties.
FM Mini Review: Decent ultra-premium option for Marriott fans, especially those aiming for lifetime status tiers

$650 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X airfare -on flights booked directly with airlines; 3X restaurants worldwide, 6X Marriott; 2X on all other eligible purchases
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Travel: 3X (2.1%)
Dine: 3X (2.1%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Annual Choice Award with $60K calendar year spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ 85K Free Night Award each year upon renewal ✦ $300 dining credit per membership year ($25/mo) ✦ Platinum Elite status ✦ 25 elite nights credit ✦ Priority Pass membership (Lounges only) with 2 guests ✦ Global Entry fee credit ✦ Free premium internet at Marriott properties Note: Enrollment required for some benefits.

$125 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 6x at Marriott Bonvoy properties ✦ 4x at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased from U.S. suppliers and on U.S. purchases for shipping ✦ 2x on all other eligible purchases. Terms Apply. (Rates & Fees)
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Dine: 4X (2.8%)
Gas: 4X (2.8%)
Phone: 4X (2.8%)
Biz: 4X (2.8%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Amex Credit Card issued by Amex. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn an additional 35k free night certificate (can be topped-up with up to 15k additional points, subject to resort fees) after you spend $60K on purchases in a calendar year
Noteworthy perks: Complimentary Marriott Gold elite status ✦ 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year ✦ 35k Free Night Award every year after card renewal (subject to resort fees) ✦ Complimentary premium Internet access at Marriott properties ✦ Terms Apply (Rates & Fees)

Delta Cards

Trend Delta Credit Cards
a red arrow pointing down Most Delta credit cards are valuable because of the travel perks they provide.  Amex has thrown us a bone by giving us 4X at US supermarkets May through July, but in my opinion that’s not enough to make up for the fact that benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, and lounge access (Delta Reserve only) are useless until travel resumes.  Luckily Delta has extended the expiration dates of companion tickets and travel vouchers so things aren’t completely hopeless.  Overall, though, I think that Amex and Delta should have done more to keep their cardholders happy.
Nov 2019 Trend: MIXED
“Delta has announced huge changes coming to their Amex Delta card portfolio starting Jan 30, 2020.  Here’s my summary of trends:

  • Delta Blue (fee free): Trends up as Amex drops FX fees and offers 2X at restaurants worldwide.
  • Delta Gold Cards (Consumer & Business): Trend up. The Gold cards benefit from new bonus categories and a $100 flight credit with $10K spend. The biggest loss is that spend on this card no longer counts towards an MQD waiver (which you need only if you’re trying for elite status).
  • Delta Platinum Cards (Consumer & Business): Trend down. Annual fee goes up from $195 to $250.  Miles Boost is replaced with Status Boost and so we no longer earn bonus miles with high spend.  New bonus categories mean that the changes may be a net positive for some.
  • Delta Reserve Cards (Consumer & Business): Trend is mixed. On the positive side, the cards gain Centurion Lounge access, 2 SkyClub guest passes per year, additional status boost thresholds, and free upgrades for non-elites.  On the negative side, the annual fee jumps up to $550, and Miles Boost is replaced with Status Boost so we no longer earn bonus miles.”

Chase Cards

Sapphire Reserve

Trend Sapphire Reserve
a red arrow pointing down

Earlier this year Chase increased the Sapphire Reserve card’s annual fee to $550 (from $450) and added DoorDash food delivery and Lyft rideshare benefits.  Even without the COVID-19 situation, I saw these changes as a net negative for most people.  But now a number of the Sapphire Reserve card’s best features have become temporarily useless: best-in-class ultra-premium travel protections, Priority Pass Select.  And, of course, the card’s Lyft ridesharing perks have lost their value as well.

To make up for these things, Chase has offered $100 statement credits to those who were recently charged $550 to renew their membership.  They’re also giving Sapphire Reserve cardholders 5X points per dollar at grocery stores in May and June on up to $1500 spend per month.  Both of these changes are nice, but in my opinion they do not make up for the value lost to cardholders during the pandemic.

See also: Is the $550 Sapphire Reserve worth keeping? Here’s how to decide.

Nov 2019 Trend: UP
“The Sapphire Reserve card hasn’t changed, but changes to other ultra premium cards has made this one more valuable.  Chase already had the best ultra-premium travel protections, but Citi used to be a close second with their Prestige card.  That changed dramatically when Citi dropped their travel protections altogether.  Meanwhile, Amex Platinum cards may have become more interesting when Amex added modest travel protections, but Amex also devalued their Priority Pass membership.  Taken together, these changes to competitor cards has cemented the Sapphire Reserve’s place as the best all around travel card.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: Excellent all-around card for frequent traveler. Best when paired with no-fee Chase Freedom Flex, no-fee Freedom Unlimited & no-fee Chase Ink Cash Click here for our complete card review

$550 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 10X hotels & car rentals booked through Chase Travel℠ ✦ 10X Chase Dining ✦ 5X flights booked through Chase ✦ 3X Travel and Dining ✦ 10X Lyft (through March 2025)
Base: 1X (1.5%)
Travel: 3X (4.5%)
Dine: 3X (4.5%)
Other: 10X (15%)
Card Info: Visa Infinite issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: $300 Annual Travel Credit ✦ Points worth 1.5 cents each towards travel when booked through the Chase Travel(SM) Portal✦ Transfer points to airline & hotel partners ✦ Primary auto rental collision damage waiver ✦ Priority Pass Select lounge access ✦ Access Sapphire Lounges for yourself and 2 guests for free ✦ Access select Air Canada Maple Leaf lounges when flying Star Alliance ✦ Up to $120 Global Entry fee credit ✦ Free DashPass through 2027

Ritz

Trend Ritz Card
a red arrow pointing down The Ritz card is one of the many cards in Chase’s lineup that earn bonus points at grocery stores.  In this case, you’ll earn 6X on up to $5K total spend from May through July.  And, since the Ritz card offers the same great travel protections as the Sapphire Reserve and better Priority Pass membership, the Ritz card becomes more of a keeper whenever the Sapphire Reserve becomes less so.  I would have given the Ritz card an up arrow, but for a couple of problems:
1) Chase hasn’t done anything to make the card’s $300 in airline fee credits easier to earn during the pandemic.
2) In January, the Ritz card lost its Visa Infinite Discount Air benefit ($100 off domestic round-trip travel for two).
Nov 2019 Trend: UP
“Following the massive devaluation of the CNB Crystal Visa Infinite card, the Ritz card is the last card standing to offer the Visa Infinite Discount Air Benefit ($100 off domestic round trip flights for 2) and Priority Pass with unlimited guests.  The only way to get this card today is to first have a Chase Marriott Bonvoy consumer card and to ask for an upgrade.  The Ritz card also includes the same excellent travel protections as found on the Sapphire Reserve card.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: While the card is pricey, the annual free night, plus $300 in ariline fee credits, plus other perks make this card a keeper.

$450 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 6X Ritz & Marriott.✦ 3X airline tickets purchased directly with the airline, at car rental agencies and at restaurants ✦ 2X everywhere else
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Travel: 3X (2.1%)
Dine: 3X (2.1%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa Infinite issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: $75K spend per calendar year for Platinum elite status
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Annual 85K hotel certificate upon renewal ✦ 3 club level upgrades. $100 hotel credit for each 2 night or longer stay ✦ Priority Pass Select with unlimited guests ✦ Access Sapphire Lounges for yourself and unlimited guests for free ✦ $300 annual credit for airline incidentals ✦ Automatic Gold Status

Marriott Cards from Chase

Trend Chase Marriott Credit Cards
a green and red arrows

May through July 2020, all Chase Marriott cards, including business cards, earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points at supermarkets on up to $5,000 in eligible purchases.

This temporary grocery benefit is nice, but it’s hardly a game changer.  Ultimately I think that it may be just enough to keep the status quo.  If these Marriott cards were right for you before, they’re probably still worth keeping.  And if you didn’t want a Marriott card before, I don’t see any reason to get one now.

Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)

$85 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 2X airline, car rental, & restaurants ✦ 5X Marriott.
Base: 1X (0.7%)
Travel: 2X (1.4%)
Dine: 2X (1.4%)
Brand: 5X (3.5%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: 1 credit towards elite status for every $3,000 in purchases
Noteworthy perks: ✦ 15 night credit towards elite status every year upon account anniversary ✦ Free category 1-5 certificate each year upon renewal

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 6X Marriott Bonvoy ✦ 3X gas stations, grocery stores, and dining on up to $6K in combined purchases each year ✦ 2X everywhere else
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Dine: 3X (2.1%)
Gas: 3X (2.1%)
Grocery: 3X (2.1%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn Gold status when you spend $35K each year ✦ 1 Elite Night Credit towards elite status for every $5K spent
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Annual free night certificate for 1 night at a hotel redemption level up to 35K ✦ Automatic Silver status ✦ 15 nights of elite credit each year ✦ 1 Elite Night Credit for every $5K spent
FM Mini Review: The best use for this card is probably to downgrade from the Ritz or Boundless card to avoid the annual fee. That way, you can always upgrade again when you need the annual free night or other perks

No Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 3X Marriott Bonvoy ✦ 2X grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable and phone services ✦ 1X everywhere else
Base: 1X (0.7%)
Grocery: 2X (1.4%)
Phone: 2X (1.4%)
Brand: 3X (2.1%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Automatic Silver status ✦ 5 nights of elite credit each year

$99 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 6X Marriott ✦ 4X dining, internet, cable and phone service ✦ 4X gas stations and shipping ✦ 2X everywhere else.
Base: 2X (1.4%)
Gas: 4X (2.8%)
Phone: 4X (2.8%)
Biz: 4X (2.8%)
Brand: 6X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa Signature Business issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: 35K free night award each year upon renewal ✦ Gold status ✦ 15 elite night credits each calendar year ✦ Free in-room premium internet ✦ 7% discount off the standard rate for a standard room at participating hotels when you book direct (Terms and Conditions apply)

Airline Cards from Chase

Trend Chase Airline Credit Cards: United, Southwest, British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus
a red arrow pointing down

In May and June 2020, all Chase airline cards except the United Club Infinite card earn 3X miles at supermarkets on up to $1,500 spend per month.  The United Club Infinite card earns 5X miles on up to $1,500 spend per month for those same two months.

In my opinion the grocery bonus is not enough to make up for the fact that benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, and lounge access (United Club Infinite Card) are useless until travel resumes.

Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: Good choice for a nice intro bonus. Award rebate makes the card a keeper if you frequently book awards from the US to Europe.

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X British Airways. Iberia, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL ✦ 2X hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel ✦ 1X elsewhere
Base: 1X (1.09%)
Travel: 2X (2.18%)
Brand: 3X (3.27%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together companion Ticket good for two years.
Noteworthy perks: Up to $600 per year in award fee rebates ✦ 10% off BA flights originating in the US. ✦ No foreign transaction fees
FM Mini Review: Good choice for a nice intro bonus. Unless you fly Iberia often or intend to go for the big spend bonus, though, I don't see it as a compelling card to keep past the first year.

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X British Airways. Iberia, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL ✦ 2X hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel ✦ 1X elsewhere
Base: 1X (1.09%)
Travel: 2X (2.18%)
Brand: 3X (3.27%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your Iberia Visa card, you’ll earn a discount voucher good for $1,000 to use toward two tickets on the same flight
Noteworthy perks: 10% off on Iberia flights when you use your Iberia Visa to purchase at iberia.com/Chase10 ✦ No foreign transaction fees
FM Mini Review: Good choice for a nice intro bonus. Unless you intend to go for the big spend bonus, though, I don't see it as a compelling card to keep past the first year.

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X British Airways. Iberia, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL ✦ 2X hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel ✦ 1X elsewhere
Base: 1X (1.09%)
Travel: 2X (2.18%)
Brand: 3X (3.27%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your Aer Lingus Visa card, you’ll earn an economy class companion ticket good for 1 year.
Noteworthy perks: Priority Boarding on Aer Lingus flights departing from and returning to the US from Ireland ✦ No foreign transaction fees.
FM Mini Review: This card can be great for its new cardmember bonus, but its ongoing perks are worth the annual fee only if fully used each year.

$69 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 2X local transit and commuting, including rideshare ✦ 2X internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming ✦ 2X Southwest
Base: 1X (1.4%)
Travel: 2X (2.8%)
Phone: 2X (2.8%)
Brand: 2X (2.8%)
Card Info: Visa Signature or Platinum issued by Chase. This card imposes foreign transaction fees.
Big spend bonus: If you earn 135,000 points in one calendar year, you'll get a companion pass good for the rest of that calendar year and all of the next year.
Noteworthy perks: 3000 bonus points each year upon card renewal. 2 EarlyBird Check-Ins each year. 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year

$99 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X Southwest ✦ 2X Rapid Rewards(R) hotel and car partners ✦ 2X rideshare ✦ 1X on all other purchases.
Base: 1X (1.4%)
Travel: 2X (2.8%)
Brand: 3X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: If you earn 135,000 points in one calendar year, you'll get a companion pass good for the rest of that calendar year and all of the next year ✦ Earn 1,500 TQPs for each $5,000 spent in purchases annually.
Noteworthy perks: 6000 bonus points each year upon card renewal. 2 EarlyBird Check-Ins each year. 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year.

$199 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 4X Southwest ✦ 3X Rapid Rewards(R) hotel and car partners ✦ 2X rideshare ✦ 2X social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services ✦ 1X on all other purchases.
Base: 1X (1.4%)
Travel: 3X (4.2%)
Phone: 2X (2.8%)
Biz: 2X (2.8%)
Brand: 4X (5.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: If you earn 135,000 points in one calendar year, you'll get a companion pass good for the rest of that calendar year and all of the next year ✦ Earn 1,500 TQPs for each $5K in purchases
Noteworthy perks: 9000 bonus points each year upon card renewal ✦ 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available ✦ Global Entry or TSA Pre✔ Fee Credit ✦ Up to 365 Inflight WiFi Credits ✦ 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year.
FM Mini Review: The combination of 6,000 points plus 2 EarlyBird Checkins each year make this card a keeper for those who fly Southwest often.

$99 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X Southwest ✦ 2X Rapid Rewards(R) hotel and car partners ✦ 2X local transit and rideshare ✦ 2X internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming ✦ 1X on all other purchases.
Base: 1X (1.4%)
Travel: 2X (2.8%)
Brand: 3X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa Signature or Platinum issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: If you earn 135,000 points in one calendar year, you'll get a companion pass good for the rest of that calendar year and all of the next year ✦ Earn 1,500 TQPs for each $5K in purchases
Noteworthy perks: 6000 bonus points each year upon card renewal. 2 EarlyBird Check-Ins each year. 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year ✦ 25% back on in-flight drinks, Wi-Fi, messaging, and movies.
FM Mini Review: Great for frequent Southwest flyers - this card could easily be a long-term keeper.

$149 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X Southwest ✦ 2X Rapid Rewards(R) hotel and car partners ✦ 2X local transit and rideshare ✦ 2X internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming ✦ 1X on all other purchases.
Base: 1X (1.4%)
Travel: 2X (2.8%)
Phone: 2X (2.8%)
Brand: 3X (4.2%)
Card Info: Visa Signature or Platinum issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: If you earn 135,000 points in one calendar year, you'll get a companion pass good for the rest of that calendar year and all of the next year ✦ Earn 1,500 TQPs for each $5K in purchases
Noteworthy perks: ✦ 7,500 anniversary points each year ✦ $75 Southwest annual travel credit ✦ Four A1-15 boardings every year ✦ 25% back on in-flight drinks, Wi-Fi, messaging, and movies. ✦ 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each year
FM Mini Review: Decent perks such as enhanced access to United saver level economy awards makes this a keeper for some.

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99
Earning rate: 2X at restaurants including eligible delivery services , gas stations, and office supply stores ✦ 2X United ✦ 2X on local transit and commuting, including taxicabs, mass transit, tolls, and ride share services
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Dine: 2X (2.6%)
Gas: 2X (2.6%)
Office: 2X (2.6%)
Other: 2X (2.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: $100 annual United travel credit after 7 United flight purchases greater than $100 ✦ Earn up to 1,000 PQPs per year: 25 PQPs per $500 spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Improved economy saver award availability ✦ Unlocks complimentary elite upgrades on award tickets ✦ Free first checked bag ✦ Priority boarding ✦ No foreign exchange fees ✦ 2 United Club passes per year at anniversary ✦ Free DashPass for one year (must activate by 12/31/27) ✦ Primary auto rental collision damage waiver ✦ 5,000 bonus miles at anniversary when you have this card and also a personal Chase United credit card. ✦ 25% back as a statement credit on United in-flight and Club Premium drink purchases
FM Mini Review: While pricey, the Chase United Club Infinite Card is a great choice for those who want a United club membership and other perks like a 10% discount on saver awards. .

$525 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 4X United ✦ 2X dining & travel
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Travel: 2X (2.6%)
Dine: 2X (2.6%)
Brand: 4X (5.2%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn up to 10,000 PQPs per calendar year: 25 PQPs per $500 spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ United Club membership ✦ Unlocks complimentary elite upgrades on award tickets, including companions on the same reservation ✦ 10% discount on saver level economy awards within the continental US and Canada ✦ Up to $100 for Global Entry, TSA Precheck or Nexus fee credit ✦ Priority check-in, security screening, baggage handling, and boarding ✦ Free 1st and 2nd checked bags ✦ Hertz President's Circle Elite Status ✦ Primary auto rental collision damage waiver
FM Mini Review: While pricey, the Chase United MileagePlus® Club Business Card is a great choice for those who want a United club membership

$450 Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 2X United ✦ 1.5X everywhere else
Base: 1.5X (1.95%)
Brand: 2X (2.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn up to 1,000 PQPs per calendar year: 25 PQPs per $500 spend
Noteworthy perks: United Club membership ✦ Unlocks complimentary elite upgrades on award tickets ✦ Priority check-in, security screening, baggage handling, and boarding ✦ Get one year of complimentary Dash Pass (Must activate by 12/31/27) ✦ Free 1st and 2nd checked bags ✦ Primary auto rental collision damage waiver ✦ Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® President's Circle®
FM Mini Review: Decent perks such as enhanced access to United saver level economy awards makes this a keeper for some.

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
Earning rate: 2X United ✦ 2X restaurants ✦ 2X on hotel stays
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Travel: 2X (2.6%)
Dine: 2X (2.6%)
Brand: 2X (2.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn up to 1,000 PQPs per calendar year: 25 PQPs per $500 spend
Noteworthy perks: ✦ Improved economy saver award availability ✦ Free first checked bag for primary cardholder and one travel companion when you pay with the card ✦ Unlocks complimentary elite upgrades on award tickets ✦ Priority boarding ✦ No foreign exchange fees ✦ 2 United Club passes per year on you anniversary ✦ One year of complimentary Dash Pass (Must activate by 12/31/27) ✦ Primary auto rental collision damage waiver ✦ Up to $120 Global Entry,TSA Pre-check or Nexus credit ✦ 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card

$250 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X United ✦ 2X restaurants including eligible delivery services ✦ 2X on all other travel ✦ 2X select streaming
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Travel: 2X (2.6%)
Dine: 2X (2.6%)
Brand: 3X (3.9%)
Other: 2X (2.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Earn up to 6,000 PQPs per calendar year: 25 PQPs per $500 spend
Noteworthy perks: Up to $125 in statement credits for United purchases each cardmember year - terms apply ✦ Two 5K award flight rebates per cardmember year ✦ First and second checked bag free for cardholder and one companion when you purchase your tickets with the card and include your Mileage Plus number ✦ Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus reimbursement ✦ 25% back on United inflight or Club Premium drink purchases

No Annual Fee
Earning rate: 2X United ✦ 2X gas stations ✦ 2X local transit and commuting
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Gas: 2X (2.6%)
Brand: 2X (2.6%)
Other: 2X (2.6%)
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Improved economy saver award availability (only when downgraded from a card with an annual fee) ✦ No foreign exchange fees ✦ 25% back on United in-flight and Club Premium drink purchases
FM Mini Review: Great card for regular or frequent Air Canada flyers

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X Air Canada ✦ 3X grocery stores ✦ 3X dining ✦ 500 bonus points with each $2K calendar month spend, up to $6K spend per month (1,500 points max) ✦ 1X everywhere else
Base: 1X (1.3%)
Dine: 3X (3.9%)
Grocery: 3X (3.9%)
Brand: 3X (3.9%)
Card Info: Mastercard World Elite issued by Chase. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Big spend bonus: Renew 25K status w/ $15K spend ✦ Status Boost w/ $50K spend ✦ Priority Reward w/ $100K, $250K, $500K, or $750K spend ✦ Free award companion for rest of calendar year and all of next with $1Million spend
Noteworthy perks: Discounted award pricing ✦ Free checked bag ✦ $100 credit for NEXUS, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every 4 years ✦ Carbon offsets on Air Canada awards ✦ Pay Yourself Back for travel at 1.25 cents per point, up to 50K points per year ✦ 10% bonus when transferring Ultimate Rewards to Aeroplan (25K max bonus/year)

Citi Cards

Prestige

Trend Citi Prestige
a green and red arrows Between May and December this year, purchases at Supermarkets and Restaurants (including takeout) count toward the card’s $250 Travel Credit benefit.  This makes it easier than ever to maximize this perk.  On the other hand, the Prestige card’s travel benefits (such as Priority Pass lounge access) aren’t getting much use these days.
Nov 2019 Trend: DOWN
“When Citi first announced major changes to the Prestige card, including ruining the 4th Night Free benefit, I saw more good than bad in those changes.  The ability to earn 5X transferable points for travel & dining on a card with excellent travel protections was insanely great.  But now that Citi has dropped nearly all travel & purchase protections, I can’t justify using this card for travel.  Is 5X dining enough to make this card a keeper?  Probably not.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: The Prestige card's best in class 5X rewards for dining, airfare, and travel agencies is hard to beat. Sadly, this travel card doesn't provide any travel protections.

$495 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 5X airfare, dining, and travel agencies ✦ 3X hotels and cruise line ✦ 1X everywhere else
Base: 1X (1.45%)
Travel: 5X (7.25%)
Dine: 5X (7.25%)
Card Info: Mastercard World Elite issued by Citi. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: $250 travel rebate per calendar year ✦ Free lounge access: Citi Properietary Lounges; and Priority Pass Select with free guests ✦ $100 Global Entry application fee credit ✦ 4th night free hotel benefit

Premier

Trend Citi Premier
a green arrow pointing up In April we learned about significant changes that are in the works for the Citi’s $95 Premier card.  Starting August 23rd, the card will have the following category bonuses: 3X at grocery stores (prev 1X), 3X at restaurants (prev 2X), 3X for air travel, hotels, and travel agencies (previously 3X for all travel), 3X at gas stations (unchanged), and 1X for entertainment (previously 2X). Those changes are mostly good.  On the other hand, as of April 10, 2021, cardholders will no longer be able to redeem points for 1.25 cents each for travel.  Still, in my opinion, the ability to earn 3X at grocery stores is a huge win that outweighs the 1.25 loss.  And it makes the Premier an even better key component of Citi’s awesome trio: Double Cash, Premier, and Rewards+.
Nov 2019 Trend: UP
“Other than losing travel & purchase protections, the Citi Premier card hasn’t changed much.  It still offers solid bonus categories: 3X for travel and at gas stations; and 2X for dining and entertainment.  The $95 Premier card benefits from the falling fortunes of the $495 Prestige card and the rising fortunes of the fee-free Citi Double Cash.  You still need the Premier or Prestige card to retain the ability to transfer ThankYou points to airline partners and the Premier card is a much cheaper option for doing so.  Also, while the Prestige lost its ability to buy airfare at better than 1 cent per point value, the Premier retains its ability to purchase any travel booked through the ThankYou portal at 1.25 cents per point value.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: Very strong earnings for spend. Excellent bonus categories. Points transferable to select airlines. Recommend pairing this card with Citi Double Cash and Citi Rewards+. Click here for our complete card review

$95 Annual Fee
Earning rate: 3X grocery ✦ 3X dining ✦ 3X gas stations & EV charging ✦ 3X flights, hotels, travel agencies ✦ 10X hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through Citi Travel℠
Base: 1X (1.45%)
Travel: 3X (4.35%)
Dine: 3X (4.35%)
Gas: 3X (4.35%)
Grocery: 3X (4.35%)
Card Info: Mastercard World Elite issued by Citi. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: Transfer points to airline partners ✦ $100 Annual Hotel Savings Benefit ($100 off a $500+ hotel stay, excluding taxes and fees, when booked through Citi Travel) ✦ Travel protections

Double Cash

Trend Citi Double Cash
a green arrow pointing up

The Citi Double Cash card is a unique hybrid.  On the one hand, it’s a solid fee-free 2% everywhere cash back card.  On the other hand, its capability of converting cash rewards to Citi ThankYou points makes the card an awesome choice for anyone wanting to earn additional transferable points (which can be transferred to airline miles 1 to 1).

I gave the Double Cash an up arrow because, for many, it makes more sense to earn cash back than points during the current recession.  But unlike any other cash back card, with Double Cash you always have the option of getting more value from your rewards by converting to points and then to miles (when paired with the Citi Premier or Prestige card).

For more, see: Citi Double Cash Complete Guide.

Nov 2019 Trend: UP (WAY UP)
“The fee-free Double Cash card’s stock went up, way up, when it gained the ability to transfer cash back to ThankYou points. Now, you can earn 2X points per dollar, uncapped.  And as long as you or a trusted friend or family member has a Prestige or Premier card, you can transfer those points to valuable airline programs.  Of course, adding to the rising value here is the fact that Citi ThankYou points are transferable to Turkish Miles & Smiles which can be used to book flights to Hawaii for only 7.5K points one-way!See our Double Cash Complete Guide for more.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)
FM Mini Review: 2X rewards for all spend with no annual fee makes this card a winner. Earn 2X everywhere and redeem for the equivalent of 2% cash back or 2X ThankYou points. Pair with the Premier or Prestige card to make points transferrable to airlines. Click here for our complete card review

No Annual Fee
Earning rate: 2% cash back everywhere (1% cash back for each purchase + 1% when paying your credit card bill for that purchase). ✦ For a limited time: Earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi TravelSM Portal through 12/31/24.
Base: 2X (2.9%)
Card Info: Mastercard World Elite issued by Citi. This card imposes foreign transaction fees.
Noteworthy perks: 1X when you make a purchase + 1X when you pay for those purchases

Costco Anywhere Visa

Trend Costco Anywhere Visa
a red arrow pointing down

The Costco Anywhere Visa is a really good fee-free rewards card, especially when paired with a 2% cash back everywhere card.  However, Costco rewards can be redeemed only once per year.  The cardholder receives a rewards certificate on or shortly after their February statement closing date.  Then, the cardholder must go in-person to Costco to exchange the certificate for cash or merchandise.

This once per year thing is an awful policy.  That hasn’t changed.  What has changed is that the policy seems to me to be even more awful when viewed in light of the current pandemic and economic recession.  Come on Costco, give cardholders their rewards whenever they want them, and let them cash them out online.

Nov 2019 Trend: UP
“The Costco Anywhere Visa hasn’t changed.  It was already an excellent cash back card.  What has changed is that the Uber Visa card is now practically useless.”
Card Name w Details & Review (no offer)

No Annual Fee
Earning rate: ✦ 4% gas and EV charging (up to $7K spend / year) ✦ 3% restaurant & travel; 2% Costco ✦ 1% everywhere else
Base: 1%
Travel: 3%
Dine: 3%
Gas: 4%
Card Info: Visa Signature issued by Citi. This card has no foreign currency conversion fees.
Noteworthy perks: No annual fee with paid Costco membership

 

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stvr

Problem with Citi Prestige is I bet many of us used the $250 travel credit by now because it’s so incredibly simple to use

Jan W

An Amex rep I chatted with said Gift Cards will NOT count toward the $250 restaurant credit for Hilton Aspire. Since my AF hit May 12 and I’ve not taken advantage of the $250 resort credit, I plan to spend $250 on restaurants before I (probably) downgrade by June 12. Anyone else have DPs on restaurant GCs?

Randy

Has usbank altitude offered anything? Their travel benefits have been nerfed now too

Rob

Ritz card should probably be a down arrow overall. You forgot to factor in that the $300 travel credit is now impossible to use and Chase hasn’t made any of the accommodations Amex has made to be able to use it on grocery instead. So it’s essentially a $300 higher annual fee for those of us who always made sure to use that credit on airline incidentals.

Mary Jane's

I agree even though I will probably still keep it.

Pam

I agree, Rob. 6x grocery spend for 3 months is hardly enough to keep the RC card off the chopping block.

Bryce

Agree. My af us coming up and I called in to see if there was anything they could offer. Nothing at all. This’ll be a hard one for me to keep.

Nick Reyes

More difficult to use than usual? For sure. But if you’re booking any 2021 travel, it’s not necessarily impossible to use. I’ve used some of mine, and this reminds me I need to add a DP to our page on that.

Rob

Well, I’m not booking any travel for 2021 as of yet, but still, the major categories where this incidental credit usually gets used up on for me are things like lounge fees, wifi & change fees. Even if travelling in 2021, you won’t pay for the lounge or wifi until you are travelling in 2021, and most airlines aren’t charging change fees. I’m sure you can use some of the credit on award booking fees now, but it’ll be mighty hard to use up $300 of credit on $5.60 award booking fees…at least for me.

A K

Has there been any anecdotal information regarding how different cards or issuers have handled chargebacks from merchants unwilling to give refunds during the pandemic? Many people in our crowd have booked travel starting mid-March 2020 and, therefore, I would argue that if one of the above stands out as most willing to stand behind their customers, in this respect, should earn our continued loyalty.

Geoff

Two data points with regard to international travel: I have an airline (Delta) that cancelled my flight home and still hasn’t given me a refund, and a vendor that won’t respond to my request for a refund on a Tourism Bus Pass that was useless because of COVID restrictions. Amex Business Plat and Amex Green, respectively, and Amex was great, once I gave them some documentation in the form of forwarded emails, about refunding both. I think Amex customer service in general is great; they sort of have to be, given their greater dependence (as opposed to Chase, and Citi) on credit cards.

Michael

Thanks for the overview.

With regards to the AMEX Hilton Aspire Card, you indicated that the $250 resort credit could temporarily be applied towards purchases at US restaurants. However, the email I received from them did not mention the US restriction. Did I miss that somewhere?

As for the Citi Double Dash, I think it should be noted that there is a 3% foreign exchange fee with this card.