Amex Platinum benefits continue to evolve, with American Express adding more value to its flagship premium card. The Platinum Card has long been a favorite for frequent travelers and luxury spenders, but recent updates in 2025 have changed the game—bringing new perks, higher annual credits, and expanded lifestyle offerings. With these enhancements, cardmembers can now unlock over $3,500 in yearly value, provided they take full advantage of the available benefits.
Table of Contents
Annual Fee Increase and Why It Matters
The annual fee for the Platinum Card has risen from $695 to $895. While this is a significant jump, American Express has introduced additional perks to offset the cost. The changes are designed to ensure that cardholders who maximize their benefits can still receive far more in value than they pay in fees.
Expanded Travel Credits
Travel remains the cornerstone of Amex Platinum benefits. New adjustments mean that frequent travelers have even more opportunities to save.
- Hotel Credit: Now offers up to $600 annually, divided into two $300 credits every six months, for bookings made through Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection.
- Airline Fee Credit: Still provides reimbursement for incidental airline charges, like baggage fees and seat upgrades.
- Airport Lounge Access: Continued unlimited entry into Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass locations, and select partner lounges around the globe.
These travel perks alone can justify the annual fee for those who travel often.
Dining and Food Perks
American Express has expanded food-related credits, making the Platinum Card more appealing to those who enjoy dining out.
- Resy Dining Credit: Cardholders now receive $400 annually, split across quarters, to use at eligible restaurants.
- Uber Cash: Members continue to receive up to $200 per year, which can be applied to Uber rides or Uber Eats orders.
- Global Dining Access: Complimentary access to exclusive reservations at some of the world’s top restaurants through Resy’s premium service.
Digital Entertainment Credits
Entertainment has become a key focus for Amex Platinum benefits. The digital entertainment credit has increased from $240 to $300 annually, covering popular streaming and content platforms. Eligible services include premium video platforms, music streaming, and even online publications, depending on region.
Lifestyle & Wellness Benefits
A significant part of the new Platinum refresh is centered on lifestyle perks.
- Lululemon Credit: Up to $300 annually for apparel and accessories.
- Wellness Devices: Credits available for purchases like the Oura Ring or similar fitness and health wearables.
- Saks Fifth Avenue Credit: Continues to provide up to $100 annually, split between two $50 credits.
These additions ensure the card appeals not just to travelers but also to those invested in health, fitness, and fashion.
Exclusive Shopping Perks
Shopping protections are another area where the Platinum Card stands out. Cardholders benefit from:
- Extended Warranty Protection on eligible purchases.
- Purchase Protection, covering accidental damage or theft within the first 90 days.
- Return Protection, where Amex may accept returns on eligible items when the retailer does not.
These benefits provide peace of mind for big-ticket purchases, especially electronics and luxury goods.
Premium Concierge & Services
The Amex Platinum concierge service remains one of the most valued perks. It assists with everything from hard-to-get restaurant reservations to event tickets. Additional benefits include:
- Fine Hotels & Resorts Program: Exclusive offers such as daily breakfast for two, late checkout, and complimentary upgrades when available.
- Car Rental Privileges: Premium status with Hertz, Avis, and National Car Rental, often including discounts and upgrades.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Essential for international travelers.
Membership Rewards Points
Earning Membership Rewards points remains a core benefit:
- 5X Points on Flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.
- 5X Points on Hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- 1X Point per dollar on other eligible purchases.
Points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners, making them incredibly versatile for frequent travelers.
New Card Design
For 2025, American Express has also refreshed the physical design of the Platinum Card. Cardmembers can now select from a high-gloss mirrored finish or the traditional metal design. This update reflects the luxury image Amex continues to cultivate for the Platinum brand.
Who Should Consider the Platinum Card?
The updated Amex Platinum benefits make the card ideal for:
- Frequent travelers who use hotels, flights, and lounges regularly.
- Foodies and dining enthusiasts who can maximize quarterly restaurant credits.
- Lifestyle-driven cardholders who value wellness, fashion, and exclusive experiences.
However, those who don’t travel often or who live in areas with limited access to eligible restaurants or wellness partners may find it harder to maximize the full value of the card.
How to Maximize Your Amex Platinum Benefits
To get the most from the card:
- Use All Credits: Set reminders to redeem bi-annual and quarterly benefits.
- Book Through Amex Travel: Leverage 5X points and additional perks.
- Enroll in Offers: Some credits require activation, so be sure to register.
- Track Spending: Ensure your purchases align with credits offered to avoid wasted value.
- Plan Travel Strategically: Use the hotel and airline credits when travel demand and costs are highest.
Potential Drawbacks
While Amex Platinum benefits are extensive, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- High Annual Fee: At $895, it’s among the most expensive personal cards.
- Geographic Limitations: Some perks, such as Resy dining credits, may not be useful if you live outside major metro areas.
- Breakage Risk: If you forget to use credits, the card’s value diminishes quickly.
Final Thoughts
The refreshed Amex Platinum benefits package makes the card more rewarding than ever for travelers, food lovers, and lifestyle enthusiasts. With enhanced credits, broader partner options, and a bold new card design, the Platinum Card continues to set the standard for premium credit cards.
That said, the higher annual fee means cardholders must actively use the perks to extract full value. For the right person, the benefits far outweigh the cost—but for casual users, the card may feel overpriced.
Are you planning to keep or apply for the Platinum Card under its new structure? Share your perspective and let others know how you plan to maximize the updates.