American Express® Gold Rewards Card review
Jun 6, 2025
While we adhere to strict editorial guidelines, partners on this page may provide us earnings.
Overall rating
First year value
$680
Get this card if you:
- are a frequent traveller who wants to earn flexible rewards
- want a great welcome bonus and rewards on everyday spending
- want great travel perks and comprehensive travel insurance
At a glance
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card is a travel credit card that allows cardholders to earn points on everyday purchases, with accelerated rates for categories such as gas, groceries, and travel. These points can be flexibly redeemed for travel bookings, merchandise, or transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, offering versatility for those seeking to maximize rewards on routine expenditures.
Highlights
$680
First year value
up to 60,000 points
Welcome bonus
$250
Annual fee
1 free additional card ($50 for additional cards)
Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash advance APR
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended credit score
Quick overview of the American Express Gold credit card
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card charges an annual fee of $250. But the card provides a generous welcome bonus: Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points*., which could offset the annual fee.
If you value flexible rewards that can transfer to other popular loyalty programs, such as Air Canada’s Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy—the Amex Membership Rewards® are as limber as a Yoga instructor. However, if your destinations often take you abroad, its 2.5% foreign transaction fee may be a deterrent.
Who is the Amex Gold card best for?
- Frequent travelers: Perfect for those who value travel perks and don’t mind paying an annual fee for premium benefits. Take advantage of top-notch travel benefits like hotel partnerships and airline rewards without being locked into a single program.
- Rewards collectors: Ideal if you prefer straightforward point collection without dealing with complex earn categories.
- Those who like loyalty programs: Enjoy the freedom of using Membership Rewards® points across multiple loyalty programs, including Aeroplan, Air France, British Airways, Hilton, and Marriott.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Generous welcome bonus of up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points.
- Convertibility of Member Rewards® points to popular airline and hotel loyalty programs (e.g. Aeroplan, Marriott).
- Earn two points per dollar on travel, gas, grocery and drugstore purchases.
- $100 annual travel credit when booking through American Express® Travel online.
- Built-in travel medical insurance and trip coverage.
Cons
- $250 annual fee.
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee.
- Travel medical insurance only covers those under age 65.
Welcome bonus
Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points*
-
One free additional Gold Rewards Card ($50 annual for any extra)
- Earn 2 Membership Rewards points on travel, including eligible flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more
- Earn 2 Membership Rewards points on gas, grocery and drugstore purchases in Canada
- Earn an additional 1x point when booking travel through the American Express Travel website
- Earn 1x point on everything else
Here's how you can use the points earned through the Amex Gold Card:
-
Travel: Easily book flights, hotels stays and other travel needs through the American Express Travel portal. You can also transfer your points to Amex’s airline and hotel partners, often for greater value (such as Delta, British Airways, or Marriott Bonvoy). We recommend these redemption options for the best dollar value.
- Statement credits: Redeem points for statement credits, though this option generally provides a lower value per point compared to travel or gift cards.
- Gift cards: You can access a variety of gift cards (for dining, retail, etc.) through the Amex rewards portal.
- Access to Priority Pass enrollment and worldwide airport lounges.
- 4 complimentary Canadian Plaza Premium Lounge entries per calendar year.
- Convertibility of points to loyalty programs like Aeroplan, Avios and Marriott Bonvoy.
- 1 free additional card ($50 for additional cards)
To access this coverage, any bookings must be wholly charged to your American Express® Gold Rewards Card.
- Out of province/country emergency medical insurance: Up to $5 million for eligible expenses for primary cardholders under 65 for the first 15 consecutive days.
- Travel accident insurance: Up to $500,000 for accidental death and dismemberment for the primary cardmember (your spouse and children can also be covered).
- Trip cancellation insurance: Up to $1,500 per insured person per trip.
- Trip interruption insurance: Up to $1,500 per insured person per trip should your trip be interrupted or delayed for a covered reason.
- Flight delay insurance: Up to $500 (included with baggage delay insurance) for necessary and reasonable accommodations, restaurant expenses and toiletries purchases within 48 hours.
- Hotel burglary insurance: Up to $500 in coverage against the loss of personal items if your accommodation is burglarized (also check your home insurance coverage for more).
- Lost or stolen baggage insurance: Up to $500 per trip max for any loss or damage to your checked-in or carry-on baggage.
- Car rental theft and damage insurance: Up to $85,000 for collision damage and loss damage (you must decline car rental coverage).
- Extended warranty coverage: Automatically extended the manufacturer’s original warranty for up to 1 year under the Buyer’s Assurance® Protection Plan from Amex.
- Purchase protection: Up to 90 days from the date of purchase for any accidental damage or theft.
Extras
- $50 NEXUS◊ statement credit towards NEXUS application or renewal fees.
- Available in gold or rose gold colour.
What people have to say about this card
On Reddit, users have mixed opinions about the American Express® Gold Rewards Card. Some praise its rewards system and flexibility, while others are concerned about the annual fee and foreign transaction charges. One user, a frequent traveller, mentioned how the card's benefits, especially the lounge access, have been invaluable during their trips. Another user highlighted the excellent customer service they received from American Express®. However, some users felt that the card might not be the best option for those who primarily travel outside of Canada due to the foreign transaction fees.
How the Amex Gold Card compares
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card offers a balanced mix of travel benefits without being overly expensive. Here's how it stacks up against three competitors:
The Scotiabank Gold Amex, with a $120 annual fee and no foreign transaction fee, is appealing. It rewards users with Scene+ points, especially beneficial for those shopping at Sobeys or Safeway.
The Amex Gold asks for twice as much in an annual fee and nearly double for any additional cards.
So, is it worth it?
While both Welcome Bonuses are relatively the same in terms of cash value, the Scotiabank Gold American Express® earns 6x Scene+™ on every $1 spent in Canada on groceries, dining and entertainment. Amex MR points are worth about the same as Scene+ points when booking travel, however, if you transfer your Amex MR points to one of their 20 airline and hotel partners (e.g. Aeroplan, Marriott), each point can be worth up to double, or nearly triple the value. So, if travel is your game, the Amex may win this battle.
Disclosures:
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
up to 45,000 points†
Welcome Bonus
$1,582
First Year Value
$732
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn up to $850 in welcome offers, first year rewards and savings value, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points.† Expires Jul 01, 2026
Get this card if you...
- want exclusive travel benefits like no foreign exchange fees
- need comprehensive travel insurance benefits
- want to access exclusive Amex offers
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$120
Annual Fee
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card is a rewards credit card that offers accelerated earn rates on categories such as groceries, dining, and entertainment. It also provides benefits like no foreign transaction fees and comprehensive travel insurance, making it suitable for both everyday spending and international use.
Eligibility
Very Good (671 - 739)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
- Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
- Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
- Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
- Relatively low-value welcome bonus
- $120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
- Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
0.00%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards Scene+
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
4x
Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$1,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
3
Emergency medical insurance over 65 days
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$1,000
Hotel burglary insurance
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn up to $850* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points. Here's how:
$450 in travel rewards (45,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Gold American Express Card clients who spend $2,000 within the first 3 months (to earn 25,000 points) and who spend $7,500 within the first 12 months (to earn an additional 20,000 points);
$58 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average annual foreign spend per account over the last 24 months (save the 2.5% foreign transaction fee markup typically charged by other card issuers);
$386 in first year point earn potential (38,500 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual spend per account over the last 24 months with an average spend of 30% in 6X, 5X and 3X accelerator categories.
Potential First Year Value = up to $894 (rounded down to $850)
To qualify for these offers make sure to apply for and open a new Scotiabank Gold American Express credit card account (“Account”) between January 2, 2026 and July 1, 2026.
*Savings and reward potential in first 12 months includes welcome offer value, first year point earn potential and foreign transaction fee savings as of November 4, 2025.
See terms and conditions for full details.
Rates, fees and other information are effective as of October 31, 2025. Subject to change.
Our Take
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card is a rewards credit card that offers accelerated earn rates on categories such as groceries, dining, and entertainment. It also provides benefits like no foreign transaction fees and comprehensive travel insurance, making it suitable for both everyday spending and international use.
Eligibility
Very Good (671 - 739)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
- Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
- Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
- Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
- Relatively low-value welcome bonus
- $120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
- Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Annual Interest Rates
20.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$120
Annual Fee
0.00%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards Scene+
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
4x
Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$1,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
3
Emergency medical insurance over 65 days
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$1,000
Hotel burglary insurance
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn up to $850* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points. Here's how:
$450 in travel rewards (45,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Gold American Express Card clients who spend $2,000 within the first 3 months (to earn 25,000 points) and who spend $7,500 within the first 12 months (to earn an additional 20,000 points);
$58 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average annual foreign spend per account over the last 24 months (save the 2.5% foreign transaction fee markup typically charged by other card issuers);
$386 in first year point earn potential (38,500 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual spend per account over the last 24 months with an average spend of 30% in 6X, 5X and 3X accelerator categories.
Potential First Year Value = up to $894 (rounded down to $850)
To qualify for these offers make sure to apply for and open a new Scotiabank Gold American Express credit card account (“Account”) between January 2, 2026 and July 1, 2026.
*Savings and reward potential in first 12 months includes welcome offer value, first year point earn potential and foreign transaction fee savings as of November 4, 2025.
See terms and conditions for full details.
Rates, fees and other information are effective as of October 31, 2025. Subject to change.
Both the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card and the Amex Gold Card are excellent options for travelers, with the key difference often coming down to Aeroplan points versus Membership Rewards points. Membership Rewards points stand out for their flexibility, allowing you to transfer them to Aeroplan or other travel loyalty programs. The TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card has a lower annual fee, especially with its first-year rebate, while the Amex Gold has a higher fee but offers added benefits, such as a free additional card.
In terms of welcome bonuses, TD provides strong upfront value with Aeroplan points, while the Amex Gold rewards you with Membership Rewards points for meeting monthly spending thresholds. When it comes to earning rewards, the TD card focuses on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases, while the Amex Gold provides more versatility with higher points on both travel and everyday purchases.
Insurance coverage depends on your priorities. Amex offers higher emergency medical coverage but for a shorter duration, while TD provides extended coverage for longer trips. If you value flexibility in how you redeem points and are comfortable with a higher annual fee, the Amex Gold is an excellent choice. However, for those who prefer a lower fee and dedicated Aeroplan perks, the TD card is a strong contender.
If you can handle the $250 annual fee (with the annual travel credit), the winner here is the Amex for the extra intangible benefits like the flexibility of points (including transferring to Aeroplan at 1:1)
Disclosures:
To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders while this offer is in effect.
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available to residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
up to 40,000 pts†
Welcome Bonus
$486
First Year Value
$0
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Up to $1,350 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† could be yours. Plus, receive an annual fee rebate for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply.
Get this card if you...
- want to quickly rack up Aeroplan points
- need comprehensive travel insurance benefits
- value a great welcome offer
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$139
Annual Fee
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Our Take
The TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card is a travel rewards credit card designed for frequent Air Canada travelers, offering elevated Aeroplan points on eligible gas, grocery, travel, and dining purchases. Cardholders benefit from perks such as a NEXUS application fee rebate†, a complimentary first checked bag for the primary cardholder and up to eight companions on Air Canada flights†, and access to select airport lounges†; however, the card carries an annual fee and requires a minimum personal or household income for eligibility.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- The card has a high earn rate for Aeroplan Points, generating 1.5 points† per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
- Insurance offered includes coverage in the categories that travellers need, and is generally better than its Aeroplan peers at a similar annual fee level.
Cons
- No airport lounge membership or free lounge access.
- Aeroplan points can’t be redeemed for flights outside the Star Alliance network, nor can they be redeemed for cash credit. This makes them less flexible than some competing travel rewards programs.
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$139
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards Aeroplan
1.5 points†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1 point†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
2x
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
50%
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account†. Conditions apply.
1
Apply for the NEXUS program and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†. Additional Cardholders can also take advantage of this NEXUS program application fee rebate.
1st
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$2,500
Hotel burglary insurance
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Up to $1,350 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† could be yours. Plus, receive an annual fee rebate for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply.
Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of Account opening†
Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
Apply for the NEXUS program and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†.
Plus, share free first checked bags with up to 8 travel companions†
Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†.
To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders while this offer is in effect.
Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated.
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
Our Take
The TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card is a travel rewards credit card designed for frequent Air Canada travelers, offering elevated Aeroplan points on eligible gas, grocery, travel, and dining purchases. Cardholders benefit from perks such as a NEXUS application fee rebate†, a complimentary first checked bag for the primary cardholder and up to eight companions on Air Canada flights†, and access to select airport lounges†; however, the card carries an annual fee and requires a minimum personal or household income for eligibility.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Pros
- The card has a high earn rate for Aeroplan Points, generating 1.5 points† per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
- Insurance offered includes coverage in the categories that travellers need, and is generally better than its Aeroplan peers at a similar annual fee level.
Cons
- No airport lounge membership or free lounge access.
- Aeroplan points can’t be redeemed for flights outside the Star Alliance network, nor can they be redeemed for cash credit. This makes them less flexible than some competing travel rewards programs.
Annual Interest Rates
21.99%
Purchase
22.99%
Cash Advance
22.99%
Balance Transfer
Fees
$139
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
Rewards Aeroplan
1.5 points†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1 point†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
2x
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
50%
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account†. Conditions apply.
1
Apply for the NEXUS program and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†. Additional Cardholders can also take advantage of this NEXUS program application fee rebate.
1st
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
Insurance Benefits
$1,000
Mobile device insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$2,500
Hotel burglary insurance
$65,000
Rental car insurance amount
Up to $1,350 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† could be yours. Plus, receive an annual fee rebate for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply.
Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of Account opening†
Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
Apply for the NEXUS program and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†.
Plus, share free first checked bags with up to 8 travel companions†
Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†.
To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders while this offer is in effect.
Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated.
†Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button. Sponsored Content.
The Platinum Card®, with its $799 annual fee, may put you off immediately. However, they give you a which brings the cost closer to $399. They also throw in a $100 NEXUS◊ statement credit and you can Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands.
At the airport, you also unlock unlimited access to the Priority Pass lounge collection of more than 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. If you’re a high net worth individual, who travels often and enjoys the finer things in life, consider The Platinum. But know, to truly unlock its full benefits, it requires expensive tastes.
Disclosures:
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
up to 100,000 points
Welcome Bonus
$471
First Year Value
$0
Annual Value
Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points* - that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away.
Get this card if you...
- are a frequent traveler who wants luxury perks like lounge access
- want to rack up rewards quickly
- want great travel insurance, perks and concierge services
Annual Fee & Annual Interest Rates
$799
Annual Fee
21.99% - 29.99%
Purchase
Our Take
The American Express Platinum Card® is a premium travel rewards credit card offering elevated Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases, with a substantial welcome bonus for new cardholders. Cardholders enjoy exclusive benefits such as access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide† through the American Express Global Lounge Collection™, comprehensive travel insurance, and personalized concierge services.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
- Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide†
- Annual statement credits: $200 annual travel credit, $200 annual dining credit
- Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
- Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
- High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
- The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
- Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Annual Interest Rates
21.99% - 29.99%
Purchase
30%
Penalty
Fees
$799
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$45
Return Penalty
Rewards Membership Rewards
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
Insurance Benefits
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$1,000
Hotel burglary insurance
$85,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points - that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away! Here's how:
New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership
Terms and Conditions Apply.
Our Take
The American Express Platinum Card® is a premium travel rewards credit card offering elevated Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases, with a substantial welcome bonus for new cardholders. Cardholders enjoy exclusive benefits such as access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide† through the American Express Global Lounge Collection™, comprehensive travel insurance, and personalized concierge services.
Eligibility
Excellent (740+)
Recommended Credit Score
Pros
- Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
- Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide†
- Annual statement credits: $200 annual travel credit, $200 annual dining credit
- Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
- Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
- High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
- The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
- Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Annual Interest Rates
21.99% - 29.99%
Purchase
30%
Penalty
Fees
$799
Annual Fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction
$45
Return Penalty
Rewards Membership Rewards
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1
additional point on Amex Travel Online for eligible hotel or car rental bookings
Insurance Benefits
$5,000,000
Emergency medical insurance amount
$500,000
Travel accident insurance amount
$1,000
Hotel burglary insurance
$85,000
Rental car insurance amount
Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points - that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away! Here's how:
New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership
Terms and Conditions Apply.
Is the Amex Gold worth it?
The American Express® Gold Rewards Card offers a good balance of rewards and benefits for its annual fee.
Its flexibility in point conversion and generous welcome bonus make it appealing. It holds its own against common competitors, especially if you value diverse loyalty program options. We recommend this card for frequent travellers and those who spend regularly on everyday expenses and want less math and more travel.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Amex Gold credit card:
• You must be a Canadian resident and at least 18 years old to apply.
• You must have a very good to excellent credit score (typically 700 or higher).
Disclosures:
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures. American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. Conditions apply. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Tyler Wade
Personal finance content strategist & writer
Tyler Wade has worked in personal finance for over 5 years writing for brands like Ratehub, Forbes, KOHO, and now Money.ca.
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“The nature of compound interest is that it behaves like a snowball"
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