The Amex Platinum Card: Military Benefits & How to Apply

Table of Contents

1. Why the Amex Platinum Card is Best for Active Duty Members & Spouses
2. Amex Platinum Military Specific Benefits
3. How to Apply for the Amex Platinum Card
1. Step-by-Step Application Process
4. How Military Members Can Get Relief on Amex Platinum Fees
1. How to Apply for SCRA Benefits
2. MLA Eligibility for New Accounts
5. 4 Ways to Maximize Your American Express Platinum Card® Rewards
1. 1. Take Advantage of Lounge Access
2. 2. Use Your Annual Airline Fee Credit
3. 3. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on Travel
4. 4. Take Advantage of Uber Credits and VIP Status
6. How to Extend Amex Platinum Benefits to Military Spouses
1. Separate Cards for the Whole Family
7. Rewards Point Structure
8. Is the Amex Platinum Worth It for Military Servicemembers and Veterans?
9. Why The Platinum Card is a Must-Have for Military Members

Why the Amex Platinum Card is Best for Active Duty Members & Spouses

The American Express Platinum Card is packed with rewards for its members. And active-duty military members can benefit even more, thanks to the Military Lending Act (MLA) and Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

These protections mean you’re eligible for perks like interest rate caps and relief on fees, including annual membership fees, late fees, and returned payment fees.

With constant PCS moves, deployments, and unique financial challenges, finding the right credit card can feel overwhelming. The Amex Platinum stands out with premium benefits—like access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide and up to $200 in annual travel credits. Even if you’re no longer eligible for relief on fees under the MLA & SCRA, these perks still make it a great choice.

That’s why I highly recommend card_name to servicemembers, Veterans, and military families.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the Platinum Card’s military-specific benefits, how to apply, and some tips on taking advantage of its perks.

Looking to get started right away? View the simple application process here to take advantage of the Amex Platinum benefits today, or continue reading our full review below.

Amex Platinum Military Specific Benefits

card_name offers unique protections for military servicemembers through the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA). These include:

• Interest rate limits: Both the SCRA and MLA cap interest rates on eligible credit lines, though at different levels.
• Fee relief: This may include:
  • Annual membership fees
  • Late payment fees
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Fees for adding authorized users or cardholders

Covered borrowers include:

• Active duty service members in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard
• Reservists and National Guard members on active duty
• Military spouses and eligible dependents

The SCRA and MLA limit the interest rates on credit lines, though at different levels. They also include annual membership fees in their interest calculations. To comply with these regulations, American Express usually provides military relief on membership fees for eligible servicemembers.

It’s worth noting that American Express doesn’t guarantee military relief for all servicemembers. Eligible military personnel must apply for relief, and Amex evaluates each case individually.

How to Apply for the Amex Platinum Card

If you’re ready to take advantage of all the benefits The Platinum Card offers, here’s how you can apply. American Express will let you know if you’re approved first – without any impact to your credit score.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Start Your Application: Begin by following this link to learn more about the American Express Platinum Card. Click “Apply Now” to get started.
2. Choose Your Card Design: American Express offers a few unique designs for The Platinum Card, including the Classic Platinum Card, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu. Choose the design that fits your style.
3. Enter Your Personal Information: You’ll need to provide standard information such as your name, Social Security number, income, and address. Be sure to select “Military” as your income source if applicable.
4. Review the Terms and Conditions: Once you’ve filled out your personal information, you’ll be prompted to review the card’s terms and conditions. Ensure you understand the rewards program, interest rates, and applicable fees (though military protections will cover these for active-duty military members).
5. Submit Your Application: After reviewing everything, hit “Submit.” In many cases, you’ll receive an approval decision within minutes. However, if additional review is required, processing your application may take a few business days.
   • American Express will let you know if you’re approved without impacting your credit score. If you then choose to accept the Card, the information they provide to the credit bureau(s) may impact your credit score, just like with any other newly established line of credit.

How Military Members Can Get Relief on Amex Platinum Fees

To get relief on fees such as annual membership fees, late fees, and returned payment fees for the Amex Platinum card, you need to ensure you’re eligible for the protections under the MLA or SCRA.

The good news is that American Express automatically checks your Military Lending Act (MLA) eligibility when you apply for The Platinum Card while on active duty, so there’s no need to request relief upfront.

However, if you’re already a cardholder, you can still apply for relief through the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).

How to Apply for SCRA Benefits

If you opened your American Express Platinum Card before joining active duty, you’ll need to submit a request for SCRA relief.

The easiest way to apply is online, but you can also apply via phone, fax, or mail.

• Online: Log in to your American Express account and submit your active-duty orders through the Document Center. You will receive a status update within two billing cycles.
• Phone: Call the number on the back of your card or reach American Express at 1-800-253-1720 to submit a request.
• Fax: Send your active-duty orders and account number to 623-444-3000.
• Mail: Mail your documents, including active-duty orders and American Express account numbers, to:

American Express

Attn: Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

PO Box 981535

El Paso, TX 79998-1535

MLA Eligibility for New Accounts

For military members who open The Platinum Card while on active duty, the MLA protections will automatically apply to the $695 annual membership fee, late fees, and returned payment fees. This relief applies as long as you remain on active duty, and American Express will periodically review your status to ensure you continue to qualify.

If your status changes, Amex will notify you 45 days in advance before the fee is reinstated.

In my experience, maintaining up-to-date information with the Department of Defense ensures a smooth process.

4 Ways to Maximize Your American Express Platinum Card® Rewards

The Platinum Card is packed with rewards and perks, but knowing how to fully maximize these benefits will ensure you get the most out of it.

Here are a few strategies I’ve used over the years to ensure I’m getting the best value.

1. Take Advantage of Lounge Access

As someone who travels frequently, I can’t stress enough how valuable the Global Lounge Collection access has been.

Whether you’re at a busy airport waiting for a delayed flight or traveling internationally, having access to over 1,400 lounges means you can relax, grab a bite to eat, or catch up on work in peace.

• Centurion Lounges: These lounges are exclusive to American Express cardholders and offer complimentary food, drinks, and a quiet space.
• Priority Pass: This network offers access to lounges worldwide, including major hubs in the U.S. and overseas.

Whenever I’m traveling for leave or on PCS orders, I make sure to plan my layovers at airports with lounges. It’s a perk that makes flying so much more enjoyable.

2. Use Your Annual Airline Fee Credit

Each year, you’ll receive up to $200 in statement credits for incidental airline fees, such as checked baggage, seat upgrades, or in-flight refreshments. Make sure you’ve selected your preferred airline in your American Express account to activate this credit.

I’ve used this credit every year to offset the cost of traveling with my family, and it’s one of the most straightforward ways to save money on trips.

3. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on Travel

If you frequently book flights or hotels, make sure you’re doing so through American Express Travel. Amex Travel partners include:

• North America:
  • Aeromexico
  • Air Canada
  • Delta
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • JetBlue
• Europe:
  • Aer Lingus
  • Alitalia
  • British Airways
  • Flying Blue (Air France / KLM)
  • Iberia
• Asia:
  • All Nippon Airways (ANA)
  • Cathay Pacific (Asia Miles)
  • Singapore Airlines
• Middle East:
  • El Al
  • Emirates
  • Etihad
• Australia and Oceania:
  • Quantas
• Hotels:
  • Choice Hotels
  • Hilton Honors
  • Marriott Bonvoy

You’ll earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on these bookings, which can quickly add up, especially if you travel regularly.

Here’s a tip: I’ve found that transferring my points to airline and hotel partners like Delta, Hilton, and Marriott often provides the best redemption value.

Whether you’re booking a vacation flight or a hotel for PCS, these points are worth a lot.

4. Take Advantage of Uber Credits and VIP Status

Military members and their families can get up to $200 annually in Uber credits just for using their Platinum Card.

These credits are delivered as Uber Cash ($15 per month and $35 in December), and they can be used for Uber rides or Uber Eats orders.

Even if you’re not a frequent Uber rider, the credits can come in handy for ordering food during a busy PCS or deployment.

How to Extend Amex Platinum Benefits to Military Spouses

One of the most valuable aspects of The Platinum Card is that military spouses can be added as authorized users without paying the usual $175 fee for additional cards.

As an authorized user, your spouse will have access to many of the same benefits, including airport lounges, elite hotel status, and travel insurance protections.

Separate Cards for the Whole Family

By adding your spouse as an authorized user, you can share the perks of the Platinum Card while managing finances together. Each authorized user receives their own card, so whether you’re on deployment or stationed at a different base, your spouse can still make purchases and earn rewards independently.

It’s a great way to maximize the card’s value for your entire family, especially if you frequently travel or have different day-to-day expenses.

Rewards Point Structure

Every time you spend your Platinum Card, you earn points. For every dollar you spend, you’ll earn one point. You can redeem them for cash, but you can also redeem them for travel on the Amex travel portal, or transfer them to one of American Express’s airline or hotel partners.

You can also redeem your points for gift cards and online shopping, but you typically get less than a penny per point. However, you may receive a penny per point when you redeem travel, or more if you redeem it with an American Express travel partner.

If you’re strategic about redeeming rewards points, they can be worth more than the standard cash from cashback credit cards.

There are also a few ways to rack up points faster:

• Add an authorized user to your credit card. When more than one user spends money on the card, the points add up faster
• Take advantage of American Express membership rewards offers. If you go to the “Amex Offers” tab in your American Express app or your online account, you’ll see “Amex Offers,” which are targeted and limited in duration and can add multiple points.
• Use Rakuten. You get points using Rakuten, a cashback website and shopping app. You’ll receive one membership rewards point for every 1% cash back you earn, and you’ll still earn your regular points through your American Express credit card.

Your points don’t expire unless you close your card account with points still left in it, you return a purchase or you make a late payment.

Is the Amex Platinum Worth It for Military Servicemembers and Veterans?

You might wonder if the card is worth it for Veterans or those no longer on active duty.

While military members on active duty benefit from the military protections on the annual fee, Veterans and retirees will need to decide whether the $695 annual fee makes sense for their travel habits and financial goals.

For those who travel frequently or enjoy premium experiences, the value of the Platinum Card can far exceed the annual fee. Between the $200 airline fee credit, $200 Uber credits, and $200 in hotel credits, the card effectively pays for itself if you make use of these benefits.

However, if you rarely travel or don’t see yourself using the perks regularly, it may not be the best fit.

Why The Platinum Card is a Must-Have for Military Members

After years of using The Platinum Card, I can confidently say it’s one of the best financial tools available to military servicemembers. Between the annual fee relief, premium travel perks, and generous rewards program, this card is designed to help you get the most out of your military lifestyle.

From navigating PCS moves to traveling with your family, the benefits of The Platinum Card are hard to beat. And with the MLA and SCRA protections, you can enjoy all of these perks without worrying about the usual fee.

I highly recommend this card for military members who want to maximize their travel rewards and take advantage of luxury benefits.

Changelog

• November 2024
  • Authorized User Fee Increase: The annual fee for adding authorized users increased from $175 for up to three users to $195 per user.
• July 2023
  • Welcome Offer Adjustment: The spending requirement for the welcome bonus increased from $6,000 to $8,000 within the first six months to earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points.
• July 2021
  • Annual Fee Increase: The annual fee was raised from $550 to $695.
  • New Benefits Introduced:
    • $200 Hotel Credit: Annual statement credit for prepaid bookings with American Express Travel at Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection properties.
    • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Up to $20 monthly statement credits for eligible subscriptions, including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, and The New York Times.
    • $300 Equinox Credit: Annual credit for eligible Equinox fitness club memberships or the Equinox+ app.
    • $179 CLEAR® Credit: Annual credit covering the cost of CLEAR® membership for expedited airport security screening.
• April 2021
  • Cell Phone Protection Added: Coverage for stolen or damaged cell phones, with up to two approved claims per 12-month period, a maximum of $800 per claim, and a $50 deductible per claim.

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