🌟 *TO CLARIFY:* If you cancel your Hilton Honors Aspire Card, you’ll lose Diamond Elite status at the end of the qualifying year. However, due to the status extensions during the pandemic, your status will remain active until the extension date expires.
Long shot idea I love your videos. Can make videos for credit card strategy. If you have time or willing to do it. I have 3 chase cards and plan to travel internationally 5-6 times a year wounde if I should apply for Amex platinum for all the benefits I.e priority pass , lounges etc..
I can see why you dropped the 2 cards. Big annual fees. I am curious though, do you remember how you spent all the points you earned on these cards? 300k points sounds like a lot
Dangg this card is getting me 2 free nights at the Waldorf Orlando for New Years! I’m a huge fan of the aspire but I appreciate your breakdown as to why you decided to cancel your aspire cards. If it doesn’t make sense for YOU then it’s not worth it! Great informative video Mark!
As soon as I saw this video was in my feed, my first thought was “ I wonder what the OTHER Mark thinks, this is basically his favorite card!” Glad you responded.
Personally Hilton has been good to my wife and I. I generally like that I know exactly what I’m getting with them. Even with a Hampton or Garden Inn, it’s usually clean and comfortable. Heaven forbid there’s been a problem they’ve made good on it.
Wow Mark, you definitely have some great points. I have the aspire I was just thinking about a strategy to get a 2nd. After watching this video I may have to let this info digest and rethink my overall Amex options. I’m starting to lose faith in both Hilton and Marriott.
Hey, have you found that Hilton has closed down almost all of its lounges in the US? I can't find any lounge in most US states, even ones that nerd wallet said existed only a few years ago. What is going on with Hilton?
Man, even now, someone at Amex is gutting their card programs. 150,000 gives you a two nights stay in a decent above normal hotel. Woo woo. Amex Hilton is just not much of a big deal compared to other bonuses out there. Things only get interesting when you get the aspire benefits now unless you travel a lot then the surpass comes into play.
I downgraded from Amex Platinum to a retention offer to Gold. I find the Platinum as restrictive as it is not worth it. Glad we are asking the right questions as we evaluate our strategies and card portfolios. Cards are after all just tools.
nice review mark. I do have marriot bonvoy and hyatt. hyatt really crush competitor for point values so I basically move all my chase point to hyatt to get most out of it
I've been diamond for almost a decade with my surpass. Tossing around the idea of picking up aspire for the certs and the resort credit. I don't fly super often, but I could see losing that fee. Trying to figure out if I should get the platinum.
Mark, I am a cash back right now. Actually it will probably be a long time for me to even get a credit card like that or even justify it. You have all the bases covered I think you made a great move. No need to keep a card if you don't use the credits or get value. Always appreciate the content you put out. Definitely entertaining and funny to watch. Lol. What are you focusing on in 2022 for the channel? Any other cards you going for or canceling? Appreciate everything.
I don't plan my credit card strategy far in advance, but there's a chance I may go for another Chase Ink business card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred 👍 In terms of the channel, you'll have to wait & see 😁🎬
Exactly!! Get cards that fit your lifestyle & spend. For example, I would love to get Amex Gold for flex value and metal card, but doesn’t fit my lifestyle. I cook home eat clean to stay lean and mean. Amex blue cash Preferred is perfect for me covers a lot of categories I use heavily, but it may not be for someone else.
Thanks for the video. FYI, if you select Delta for airline choice, you can buy a Delta GC (50 dollars), buy a ticket for less than the 250 (after GC is used), and you will get reimbursed. For example: 264 - 50 GC = 214 dollars. I was reimbursed the 214 after 2 days. So I basically only paid 50 for a 264 dollar ticket. Ofcourse it’s ideal to get as close to 250 as possible, but I still consider 214 reimbursement a win.
I mostly fly Hawaiian and United. Do you know the max of United Travel Bank credit that I can buy each time to get reimbursed? some DPs show 100 purchases work. But it is a little inconvenient. If i can buy 250 and get reimbursed, then it will be the best.
Great breakdown Mark. I am also considering cancelling my Hilton Aspire since I'm preferring Marriott more and more over Hilton properties almost everywhere I go.
Makes sense! No need for a premium Hilton card if you consistently stay at Marriott properties 👊 Downgrading is also an option to consider if you'd prefer to keep the account active.
I actually got the $250 credit twice this year $500 valid. I called and asked was a hotel covered they told me yea and it wasn’t but they still applied credit then I went to a resort in Mexico and they gave to me again!!! I love my Aspire card!!!!
There isn't a straightforward answer to that. On paper, the HH Aspire is likely a better overall value. However, I much prefer the Bonvoy Brilliant. It depends on which one gives you the most of what you want / value.
Thumbs Up and Great Info, I was thinking about getting aspire card next month but your 10 reason makes perfect sense to me and I would not benefit enough to justify AF thx.... that being said I already have Amex Platinum card and that gives me at least Gold Status
Hilton aspire card is great, I actually received some of their airline credit for using JetBlue upgrade seating. I tried the same thing with the platinum on delta upgrades, and get no credit. So i would keep the Hilton over the platinum for sure. I think their credits are easier to use than platinum
The Airline Fee Credit on the Platinum Card vs. Hilton Aspire cards function in exactly the same way. The credit gets triggered automatically by the computer algorithm, oftentimes if it's a small amount. If it didn't work, then chat w/ Amex to have them manually process it.
This is an excellent video. I didn’t realize the resort credit was so restrictive or I would have gotten this card. I think im going to get the Bonvoy Brilliant instead.
Currently the only hotel card I have is World of Hyatt paired with my CSP for transfer. I just got the C1 Venture X as my first luxury card and am considering another keeper hotel card. This is making me hesitant to look at Hilton. What do you recommend for hotel keeper cards that easily get their value?
@@MarkReese Awesome! Which do you prefer between those two? I don't have much experience with either honestly. I have the TSA credit for Venture X already, but I'm worried the Marriot five free nights might be hard to find if they limit it to lower point values.
@@sschwartz1488 - I'd get both, but if only one, I'd get Marriott because that's my #1 hotel chain. That said, it doesn't matter what I'd do, more important is that you get what you want. If you can use the 5 Free Night Award before they expire in 1 year, then that welcome offer is a phenomenal value. If you don't have travel plans within the next year, then go with IHG for the points rather than certificates.
It's never guaranteed. Those upgrade offers may be targeted to some people and not to others. If you get targeted, you may see an offer come through via email or in your online Amex account under Amex Offers and/or a pop-up banner or window.
Mark. Love the contents. I don't have any hotel cards yet, do you recommend Hilton Marriott Hyatt or IHG? How important is it to get the status? Which brand is the easiest to get status considering AF & other benefits? Is the Hilton diamond worth it when traveling domestically or only int'l? I've watched many videos comparing them but it's still hard to decide which one is better. And now with gm merging with Marriott, will this make it easier to status match with Marriott?
Your reasoning definitely makes sense to me. I really appreciate you sharing why this doesn’t fit with your strategy. Still a keeper card for me, but a few of your points hit home with me.
Does the blue cash Business card fit in with the Amex trifecta ? Just wondering what ur thoughts are thx 🙏 also watched ur video on show many you can have with Amex 5/ 10
Using the 'Amex Trifecta' term literally, no, the Blue Business Cash does not fit because it does not earn Membership Rewards points. True 'trifectas' (at least per my definition) must earn the same type of rewards so they can be combined together. That said, there's nothing wrong with using a different definition. If the Blue Business Cash fits into _your strategy,_ then go for it. It doesn't matter how you define it or what I'd personally do. Everybody's situation is different. So, what does matter is getting the cards that help you achieve your goals.
Great Video, Mark. I just started staying at Hilton hotel properties. I'm reviewing their 3 , 4 and 5 star hotel chains as well as resorts from now until next year. Before i apply for a Hilton CC, I'm testing how Hilton is taking care of customers.
Great video Mark!!! I guess I will not be getting the Aspire but the Ritz instead due to their flexible travel/incidental credit, are there other cards out there with travel credit not airline credit, thanks Mark!!!
I have just started getting hotel cards, and need to do the chase IHG premier and World of Hyatt first. After that it will be the AmEx bonvoy brilliant and Amex Hilton aspire card. Since I'm active military I don't pay any of these credit card fees so pretty much any card with an annual fee seems to be a wise financial decision. Just got the chase IHG premier and the world of Hyatt is next!
I have the Amex Hilton business card. I got the intro points from the business. Do you know if I can apply for the personal surpass and qual for the intro points?
I’m sure at one point I’ll get the aspire for the sub but I don’t see myself hanging onto it long-term . There’s not enough Hilton resorts I would want to stay at and I’ve been really happy with Hilton gold status that I get with their Biz card.
I got my Amex Surpass back in 2019, same as you, and I cancelled it after one year and now I am keeping my Gold status till 2023. It was insane value for the $95 AF, but I really wish that I chose the Aspire back then. For the about 50N I stayed with Hilton in the past 3 years, the diamond status will really elevated my experience further. Now I am at 4/24 with Marriott Platinum and Hyatt Globalist status. I am wondering which to get first: Chase IHG or Aspire. I plan to have around 5 stays this year for both Hilton and IHG...I primary stay in Asia. Thanks Mark.
Nice! Marriott Platinum + Hyatt Globalist are two of the best elite levels in the industry 🏆 Sounds to me like you'd get more value out of the HH Aspire. However, since you're at 5/24, consider getting both the IHG Premier (first) and then the HH Aspire (second).
Thanks Cedric. Amex doesn't prorate annual fees anymore. If you cancel within 30 days of the fee posting, it'll be fully refunded (which is what I did). Beyond 30 days, nothing is reimbursed.
Do you have to enroll to Hilton Honors program first before applying to The Hilton Honors Credit Card by American Express or you are automatically enrolled once you get approved for the card.
If you don't already have a Hilton Honors account, you'll be enrolled automatically. However, I personally prefer to sign up for loyalty programs first & add my number to the application.
Good analysis, as i just got a hilton surpass card. I like that you do not worry about cancelling cards as it pertains to your credit score. Thoughts? Also, do you tend to cancel more cards on the business side bc it does not affect your personal credit?
I always stay at luxury locations at least once or twice a year to treat myself. This card is irreplaceable for me unless otherwise. Still waiting to be targeted for upgrades since I have the lower tier cards
@@kevindo3365 - There's not a way to request them. But they've been known to appear via email, as an Amex Offer, and as banners in your online account. I recommend checking the desktop version of your account throughout 2022 👍
@@MarkReese 1. What about VX's Turo benefit? 2. Are the primary & secondary car insurances worth it? 3. Do most card points lose value with dynamic, platform pricing? 4. Do December signups pay a 2nd renewal AF in Jan? 5. If VX travel sucks (no domestic), which hotel partner is the best? I've read VX has poor customer service, rarely have the flights they advertise, and overprice their hotel offerings. Apart from typical reviews, I'd love to hear your honest take on the 'technical costs' of credit card services. You're the only guy that gave honest energy with video like this. Keep it up! No one wants to get stranded overseas with a headache. Which are cars have benefits that are easist to use? Thx.
@@Ricocase - I simply don't recommend cards like that. You won't hear me say, "This card is amazing and everyone needs it right now because I think it's great and you should too." So regarding the Turo benefit...I've already used it 3x and love it. But would you use it? That's up to you. Are the rental car insurances worth it? That depends. I've never used them, so I could argue 'no.' Others have used them and saved hundreds, so to them, they'd argue 'yes.' There's also no best hotel transfer partner, or airline transfer partner, or lounge network, etc. I think the Hilton Honors Aspire card is one of, if not the #1 best hotel credit card ever made (in its current form). However, I canceled mine and don't want it again right now. Why? It doesn't fit my wants / needs. But that doesn't mean someone else shouldn't get it. Credit cards are like clothing & accessories. People dress in different ways according to what they like. -------- - No, December card signups do not pay another annual fee in January. You pay 1 annual fee per year, and that year is based on _cardmember year,_ not calendar year. - Most credit card points lose value over time and are a bad investment. The worst culprits are airline miles & hotel points. The 'best' are bank points (Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, etc.) that have a guaranteed flat-rate value and also access to transfer partners.
@@MarkReese yes, by best transfer partner, I meant VX. My mistake. Vx seems to have non-domestic airlines and unpopular hotel transfer partners, e.g. Wyndham and Radisson. Even if I VX to gather Turo points, I'm curious about which VX partner offered the best return by point value. Lastly, that math seemed like VX offer, among others, is net $0 for new members. e.g. If VX charges at least 3 to 5% merchant fees on 4k... & a $400 annual fee, what's $750 (75k miles at 0.01 cents/mile) in points truly worth?
@@Ricocase - Same answer. There's no 'best transfer partner' with Capital One. It's possible to get great value, average value, and bad value all with the same partner. I'd recommend watching this video about how transfer partners work: ruclips.net/video/ae1WayyrwnE/видео.html Merchant fees do not affect point valuations.
Hey Mark I already have AmEx Plat & Gold and not a highly frequent traveler (mostly job related travels and 3 week annual vacation) I found that AmEx plat is not particularly strong for hotel values. Is there any recommended hotel card to pair with the AmEx (not aspirational travel or but more focus on availability & convenience) or I should go for csp and use chase points on Hyatt (already have CFU)?
On the whole, the CSP will likely be one of the best choices 👍 The ability to use Chase points at 1.25¢ per point for hotels is fantastic, and the transfer partner opportunity with Hyatt is also among the best in the industry. Hotel credit cards, in general, are best if you want perks / benefits / status.
@@MarkReese Thanks a lot for the clarification. I was thinking about AmEx Green or cancel plat for CSR but thinking that it’s less stressful for me to carry Cards with most of AF offset by benefits/perks
@@MarkReese In addition I always think it will be helpful if you can do a video to analysis CSP/CSR for booking hotels through portal vs booking through hotel apps
I have an impression that approval rate for American Express Cards with annual fees are higher than no annual fees that's based on my personal experience.
How does the upgrade bonus points work? I've had the Hilton Honors for almost a year now and i want to apply for the Hilton Surpass! Should i apply for the card now? Or should i wait for an upgrade offer and then apply for the Surpass and will i get the points twice? Can you please Clarify. Thank you so much :)
Upgrade bonuses are targeted & not guaranteed. They may appear via mail, email, or within your Amex online account as an Amex Offer / pop-up / banner. I recommend applying directly for Amex cards first because you can only get a welcome bonus if you have not ever had the card before. Then see if you get targeted for upgrade offers in the future.
Hey Mark! Love the channel! I just got my first AMEX card in years about a month go, the BCP. I have about 100 nights booked for work next year, mostly all Hilton. I am already Diamond status. My question is do I get this card, or opt for a charge card and get the points? It looks like the Green card offers the best “ booked through the hotel” rewards and not through the portal. As always, thanks for your help!
@@MarkReese To get the best “bang for my buck” since I don’t have any travel cards at this time. I would like to stay in the AMEX group though. I know the Platinum is great, but I can’t book my travel through their portal due to job restrictions.
@@redheadfred7763 - The *best return,* on average, will be the HH Aspire Card, but the points are a lot less flexible. 14X Hilton points = 7% return. 3X Amex points = 3% - 6% return (avg.) The *more flexible* point currency will be Amex points (significantly more redemption options). Amex points also have greater upside potential if maximized, so those 3X Amex points _could yield_ a 9%+ return. I usually use hotel cards for hotel stays, but that does not mean I'm getting the best return possible. There isn't an objectively right answer here. It's based on what you value / want.
@@MarkReese Thank you very much for your advice. That’s where I’m at as well. With 100+ nights of projected Hilton hotel travel next year, I think I’m going to go the Aspire route and take advantage of the higher point yield along with the free nights for a premium personal family vacation. Happy New Year!
Great video Mark! Since you're more focus on cash back, what credit cards do you use or plan to use in the future for each category (Dining, Grocery, catch all, etc.)?
I've been using an Amex setup for the past couple years, and plan to stick with it for the foreseeable future: - Schwab Platinum Card - Gold Card - Green Card - Blue Business Plus
Very great job on the details. I want the Amex Marriott Brilliant and the Amex Hilton Aspire. But I already have five Amex credit cards - Macy’s Amex, Delta Gold SkyMiles Amex, Hilton Honors Amex w/no annual fee, Marriott Bonvoy Amex business card, and Amex Credit One Bank card. Do you recommend I close two/three of these current cards to get the Amex Brilliant and Amex Hilton Aspire? If so which two/three to close? Amex has me capped at five max credit cards. Or you recommend other hotel cards? I already have the Amex Platinum card.
Neither the Macy's nor the Credit One card count towards your 5-card maximum. They are not issued by Amex, rather, Amex is acting like Visa/Mastercard in those situations as a payment processor only.
@@DuncanIII1973 - No & no. Personal cards cannot be changed into business cards. Also, doing product changes means no welcome bonus ✌️ An exception would be if you receive a targeted offer specifically for an _upgrade bonus._
Idk the Chase Marriott card sounds great too! As a SUB you get 3 free nights and 10x on gas stations and restaurants for the first 6 months also a free anniversary night for less that $100 per year. Over $1000 in value IMO as a sub for $95 AF. Have the plat for status. Can’t get the bonvoy card because I’m above 5/24 but the outsized value from it is incredible!
@@MarkReese I ask because I am starting to travel more for work again and really should have a hotel rewards card. Family has Marriott card and business seems to like Marriott, but I've generally found the Hilton properties to be better. Which between the Bonvoy Brilliant and Hilton Aspire would you recommend as a FIRST hotel rewards card?
@@hooviebear - Get the one that corresponds to the hotel chain at which you'll stay in the most each year. That way it'll act as a big point multiplier to earn free nights faster & provide you with the benefits you'll use most often.
@@MarkReese Thank you! The practical answer is probably Marriott, but I've found Hilton to be nicer and I'm concerned about the changes to the Marriott program. Are you familiar with the changing point structure?
I'm not quite ready to get rid of the Aspire .. not until I'm through with my Hilton Vacations since there are alto more Wellcome bonus on the table for me... I think the Aspire is worth keeping for the room upgrade. How to you get the card upgrade offers ? ... in-app or by make or calling in ? I actually never receive an offer to upgrade my Amexes unless I didn't have the higher tier already. Is it possible to get the Wellcome bonus for for the same card as the business version if you have the personal one already ?
The upgrade offers are targeted and come & go throughout the year. Keep an eye out on your email inbox and inside your Amex account via desktop. They could appear as a banner at the top of the page, an Amex offer, or a pop-up window. Generally you cannot get the _welcome bonus_ for the same card more than once (exception is if the Offer Terms do not have the standard 'lifetime language.'). However, you _can_ get an _upgrade bonus_ on a card even if you've already gotten a _welcome bonus_ prior (those are different). If you have personal Hilton cards, you can also get the business Hilton card with a bonus.
@@MarkReese Great tip.. I will have to check why i didn't get any Amex Hilton H offers since 2020 .. must have unsubscribed from NL or accidentally blocked it..
@@MarkReese ... and great ! Just wanted to make sure Personal and business is not the same since the First and Last name usually also appears on the actual card .. One more question : Do you think when having the Aspire and Surpass, they will give you the welcome bonus for the NO Annual fee Hilton Honers Card ?
I now you should get the bonus for a card you didn't have yet, but not sure about going backwards down the letter? I have referred somebody to a Hilton Card and they were not eligible for the bonus even though they only had the Amex Delta Gold
Very well articulated reasons to justify account closures, but I'm left with one lingering question. lol What type of retention offers did they try to throw at you?! hahaha I'm happy for you, sir. Diversify the portfolio and build on it. Thanks to you, Mark P, Wallers Wallet and a few others, I pulled the trigger on a targeted welcome offer. It went through instantly. Wanna talk about me geeking out? lol Anyhow ~ Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card ~ Without you guys saying and stressing out easy it is to qualify I honestly never would have tried. Thank you so very much! Happy end of 2021 and Happy New Year 2022, dear sir. Thank you for all you do.
No retention offers needed, I wanted to free up an 'Amex slot' to get a cash back card and was unwilling to cancel any others ✌️ Congrats on your approval for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum biz card! Great to hear you're enjoying (and learning from) all the great CC channels out there 😃👊
@@MarkReese Well, yea I understood the reason for canceling both; I just didn't know if they tried to dangle a carrot at you was all. Thank you so much, Mark. Now! I get to have fun and "struggle" with deciding to keep the Delta Gold or downgrade to Blue or close. 😂 I was kind of shocked instant approval. The moment it went to, "Add authorized users," I knew I was in. Haha
Mark, sad that we are no longer Hilton Aspire brothers 😂. Based on your 10 reasons why you canceled it make sense that you canceled. I wasn’t aware of how restrictive the $250 is. I need to check my already booked Hilton stays for 2022 to see if any of the properties will trigger the $250 credit. Thank you for providing the link in the description. Anyway, you made the right decision for you. Hey, we are still Amex Platinum and C1 Venture X brothers 😎. Cheers 🍻!
@@MarkReese Dang it!!! None of the Hilton properties I have reservation in 2022 will trigger the $250 Hotel credit. I should have done my research before booking. I wasn’t aware of how restrictive this credit is. I better get a good retention offer next year when the AF hits!
@@MarkReese it was my fault for not being aware of the rules (only resorts). I already compiled my list of eligible resorts for my preference locations to make sure that I use the $250 credit in 2023 and subsequent years. I’ll take the hit in 2022 but never again after that!! I may even give the $250 credit to my sister in Puerto Rico for her to use it in 2022 (to do this I know I have to add her as authorize user). Cheers brother 🍻!
@@Leoprieto74 - Good that you're aware of how to use it next time 👊 Good luck on that retention offer; sounds like a good request to make since you weren't able to get the value you wanted.
That SUB structure is crap. It's 150K points for $2K spend, but the last 50K are locked behind $10K of spend. 150K for $2K is still pretty good, but trying to hunt that last 50K isn't really worth it.
@@aggrodkreg4321 i got denied by capital one venture x 3 times already.. have a slot for 5/24 for this or do you recommend something else like maybe aeroplan
In general, I'm not a fan of "earn up to" offers. For the HH Surpass, the first part of 150K points for $2K spend is great. Those points are worth about $750 on average, so if you spend exactly $2K, then that'd be a 37.5% return (crazy good) 😎👌 The second part of 50K points after spending a total of $10K is not that great. That's an extra $8K spend for an extra 50K points. Since those points are worth about $250 on average, that'd be a 3.1% return. Good if that were just for general spend, but not great for a welcome bonus. If I wanted the HH Surpass, I'd probably do the first half of the bonus (spend $2K and get 150K points), but not the second half ✌️ (An exception would be if I had a 5-figure tax payment. Then I'd put that expense on the card, earn the extra 50K points, PLUS that Weekend Night Reward after spending $15K) 💯 All that make sense?
@@MarkReese yep i think i ll do that bc nothing else good right now and this seems to be better than aeroplan.. otherwise its 6 mo of abstinence for capitalone. i do have to spend 20k right now for a big item (not gonna be around in 5-6 mo)
Every card has benefits you won't use. Listing these to pump up the count is silly. But if you do add the ones you know you'll use and they exceed the annual fee, then keeping the card is reasonable. I myself use the free night (currently not restricted to weekends), the $250 airfare credit (which I can use for airfare on my local airline), and the $250 resort credit. So I've gotten over $700 of value each of the last two years. My travel plans are different from Reese's. If I could get a targeted upgrade offer I'd get a second Aspire.
I can see your point and if I was in your situation all things being equal I would probably do the same. But the situation that I'm currently in is different than yours and I can get value out a lot of those points that you cannot get value out of or shall I say it wasn't worth it to you. Thanks for the video it was very informative
For sure! On paper (i.e. objectively), it's probably the best hotel credit card available. From one person to another (i.e. subjectively), the value will vary, but to many people it's still the best hotel credit card available 😃 I may get it again myself at some point.
It's all about strategy and knowing what works best for you at the time. I need my FICO to come up then I can complete the Chase trifecta. Then get the Amex Hilton Surpass or Amex Hilton Business card for the signup bonus. Then get the Amex Hilton Aspire card for the signup bonus. At the end of all the apps I'll be at 4/24 in case I want to add one more Chase card to complete the quadfecta.
Mark, do you know of any loopholes to use the $250 resort credit? There is no way I will be able to stay at one of the Hilton resorts to trigger this credit.
This card is so underrated for its price. The only reason I feel like you canceled is because you have so many other cards that have the same benefits. Cannibalism if you will 😂. That weekend night alone with no cap is worth it almost alone.
After watching more of these videos, I continue to see people really do over complicate things in their life. I got a Citi DoubleCash years ago and haven't looked back. Use it for everything instead of spreading my spending out over 5 credit cards. The 2% back will outwork almost any card and I don't have to book through special websites, no fee's, etc. Want an airline credit? Cool, I just got a $250 one for free with my spending this past year. What am I missing? Seems to be all smoke and mirrors. I've really tried to find another card over the years, but none of them ever seem worth it.
Hey Matthew - that Citi Double Cash Card is great! 💯 Using a variety of cards only makes sense if you're in the maximization game (mostly for travel). It's really about travel cards that have transfer partners, which can yield a 6%...8%...12%...or greater return. That's how people turn a $5,000 vacation into a $500 one.
JUST started getting hotel cards, and need to do the chase IHG premier and World of Hyatt first. After that it will be the AmEx bonvoy brilliant and Amex Hilton aspire card. Also active military I don't pay any of these credit card fees so pretty much any card with an annual fee seems to be a wise financial decision. Just got the chase IHG premier and the world of Hyatt is next!
Im listening to your post. You have a incomplete understanding of the card. You can sum it up with i dont go to hiltons. Then ya. Dont get the card. We are plus $1500 in credit use in first 6 months of the year with the aspire The breakfest credit alone was enough to pay the AF in 6 months use. The air credit has use that works in a way you didnt mention.
I can afford it. Even if the card were $50 ... or $0 ... I still wouldn't get it right now. Why would I pay $450 (now $550) for a 'benefits package' I don't want?
🌟 *TO CLARIFY:* If you cancel your Hilton Honors Aspire Card, you’ll lose Diamond Elite status at the end of the qualifying year. However, due to the status extensions during the pandemic, your status will remain active until the extension date expires.
Long shot idea I love your videos. Can make videos for credit card strategy. If you have time or willing to do it. I have 3 chase cards and plan to travel internationally 5-6 times a year wounde if I should apply for Amex platinum for all the benefits I.e priority pass , lounges etc..
@@BlazeTomBay - Make sure that the destinations you plan to visit have lounges that you want to visit.
You’ll be back LOL
@@thetruthhurtsu 😂
I can see why you dropped the 2 cards. Big annual fees. I am curious though, do you remember how you spent all the points you earned on these cards? 300k points sounds like a lot
Dangg this card is getting me 2 free nights at the Waldorf Orlando for New Years! I’m a huge fan of the aspire but I appreciate your breakdown as to why you decided to cancel your aspire cards. If it doesn’t make sense for YOU then it’s not worth it! Great informative video Mark!
Same here. Hope to run into you there Mark!
Exactly right man 👊 Enjoy that stay at the WA Orlando! 🎉
As soon as I saw this video was in my feed, my first thought was “ I wonder what the OTHER Mark thinks, this is basically his favorite card!” Glad you responded.
@@electroduval831 - Haha yep! I used to be all-in on the HH Aspire, but then the fallout occurred 😁
Personally Hilton has been good to my wife and I. I generally like that I know exactly what I’m getting with them. Even with a Hampton or Garden Inn, it’s usually clean and comfortable. Heaven forbid there’s been a problem they’ve made good on it.
Wow Mark, you definitely have some great points. I have the aspire I was just thinking about a strategy to get a 2nd. After watching this video I may have to let this info digest and rethink my overall Amex options. I’m starting to lose faith in both Hilton and Marriott.
While I still believe the HH Aspire is the greatest-value hotel card _objectively on paper,_ the subjective value to each person is more important ✌️
Hey, have you found that Hilton has closed down almost all of its lounges in the US? I can't find any lounge in most US states, even ones that nerd wallet said existed only a few years ago. What is going on with Hilton?
No info on that.
Man, even now, someone at Amex is gutting their card programs.
150,000 gives you a two nights stay in a decent above normal hotel.
Woo woo. Amex Hilton is just not much of a big deal compared to other bonuses out there.
Things only get interesting when you get the aspire benefits now unless you travel a lot then the surpass comes into play.
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Excellent information Mark. Thank you…
💯👍
Love how honest you were
Thanks Claudia!
Loved the presentation style! Hope to see more videos like this in the future. I like every video before it even starts to play
Thanks Julian! More videos on the way 🎬
I downgraded from Amex Platinum to a retention offer to Gold. I find the Platinum as restrictive as it is not worth it. Glad we are asking the right questions as we evaluate our strategies and card portfolios. Cards are after all just tools.
Good move, and I agree, Amex has a lot of restrictions across some of their cards that make them frustrating to use.
Retention offer to gold?
I definitely did not know that AMEX usually caps credit cards at 4 to 5 per person. That is definitely good info to know, thank you!
😃👍
nice review mark. I do have marriot bonvoy and hyatt. hyatt really crush competitor for point values so I basically move all my chase point to hyatt to get most out of it
Hyatt is an awesome partner 🏆
I've been diamond for almost a decade with my surpass. Tossing around the idea of picking up aspire for the certs and the resort credit. I don't fly super often, but I could see losing that fee. Trying to figure out if I should get the platinum.
👍
Great background and hope you have Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Cheers
Thanks Quy! To you as well 💯
Mark,
I am a cash back right now. Actually it will probably be a long time for me to even get a credit card like that or even justify it. You have all the bases covered I think you made a great move. No need to keep a card if you don't use the credits or get value. Always appreciate the content you put out. Definitely entertaining and funny to watch. Lol. What are you focusing on in 2022 for the channel? Any other cards you going for or canceling? Appreciate everything.
I don't plan my credit card strategy far in advance, but there's a chance I may go for another Chase Ink business card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred 👍 In terms of the channel, you'll have to wait & see 😁🎬
@@MarkReese oh nice man secretive. I know it will be great or better then what you have already done always appreciate the content and videos.
@@jeremymoore450 - It sure will 😎👊
Exactly!! Get cards that fit your lifestyle & spend. For example, I would love to get Amex Gold for flex value and metal card, but doesn’t fit my lifestyle. I cook home eat clean to stay lean and mean. Amex blue cash Preferred is perfect for me covers a lot of categories I use heavily, but it may not be for someone else.
Well said! Amex BCP is incredible for groceries 🏆
Thanks for the video. FYI, if you select Delta for airline choice, you can buy a Delta GC (50 dollars), buy a ticket for less than the 250 (after GC is used), and you will get reimbursed. For example: 264 - 50 GC = 214 dollars. I was reimbursed the 214 after 2 days. So I basically only paid 50 for a 264 dollar ticket. Ofcourse it’s ideal to get as close to 250 as possible, but I still consider 214 reimbursement a win.
Awesome data point, thanks! ✈️
@@MarkReese Ofcourse! Keep the content coming!
@@BryNMai1971 😎🎬👊
I mostly fly Hawaiian and United. Do you know the max of United Travel Bank credit that I can buy each time to get reimbursed? some DPs show 100 purchases work. But it is a little inconvenient. If i can buy 250 and get reimbursed, then it will be the best.
Great breakdown Mark. I am also considering cancelling my Hilton Aspire since I'm preferring Marriott more and more over Hilton properties almost everywhere I go.
Makes sense! No need for a premium Hilton card if you consistently stay at Marriott properties 👊 Downgrading is also an option to consider if you'd prefer to keep the account active.
I actually got the $250 credit twice this year $500 valid. I called and asked was a hotel covered they told me yea and it wasn’t but they still applied credit then I went to a resort in Mexico and they gave to me again!!! I love my Aspire card!!!!
THAT is awesome! 🎉 Congrats on the double dip, Lene!
Do you think the marriot brilliant is better than the Hilton aspire
There isn't a straightforward answer to that.
On paper, the HH Aspire is likely a better overall value.
However, I much prefer the Bonvoy Brilliant.
It depends on which one gives you the most of what you want / value.
Do the points pool together between the personal Hilton and the business Hilton cards?
Yes 👍
Thumbs Up and Great Info, I was thinking about getting aspire card next month but your 10 reason makes perfect sense to me and I would not benefit enough to justify AF thx.... that being said I already have Amex Platinum card and that gives me at least Gold Status
Glad the video helped!
Hilton aspire card is great, I actually received some of their airline credit for using JetBlue upgrade seating. I tried the same thing with the platinum on delta upgrades, and get no credit. So i would keep the Hilton over the platinum for sure. I think their credits are easier to use than platinum
The Airline Fee Credit on the Platinum Card vs. Hilton Aspire cards function in exactly the same way. The credit gets triggered automatically by the computer algorithm, oftentimes if it's a small amount. If it didn't work, then chat w/ Amex to have them manually process it.
I'm confused. It can't be used on Hilton hotels only Hilton resorts?
Are you asking about the card? A specific benefit? Rewards?
This is an excellent video. I didn’t realize the resort credit was so restrictive or I would have gotten this card. I think im going to get the Bonvoy Brilliant instead.
Glad it was helpful! 👊
How have you liked the bonvoy card?
Thanks for the different perspective~
Of course 👊
Currently the only hotel card I have is World of Hyatt paired with my CSP for transfer. I just got the C1 Venture X as my first luxury card and am considering another keeper hotel card. This is making me hesitant to look at Hilton. What do you recommend for hotel keeper cards that easily get their value?
If you're under 5/24, look at other hotel cards from Chase (e.g. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless, IHG Premier, IHG Premier Business).
@@MarkReese
Awesome! Which do you prefer between those two? I don't have much experience with either honestly. I have the TSA credit for Venture X already, but I'm worried the Marriot five free nights might be hard to find if they limit it to lower point values.
@@sschwartz1488 - I'd get both, but if only one, I'd get Marriott because that's my #1 hotel chain. That said, it doesn't matter what I'd do, more important is that you get what you want. If you can use the 5 Free Night Award before they expire in 1 year, then that welcome offer is a phenomenal value. If you don't have travel plans within the next year, then go with IHG for the points rather than certificates.
How to upgrade no-fee Hilton card to aspire card with 150000points?
It's never guaranteed. Those upgrade offers may be targeted to some people and not to others. If you get targeted, you may see an offer come through via email or in your online Amex account under Amex Offers and/or a pop-up banner or window.
Mark. Love the contents. I don't have any hotel cards yet, do you recommend Hilton Marriott Hyatt or IHG?
How important is it to get the status? Which brand is the easiest to get status considering AF & other benefits? Is the Hilton diamond worth it when traveling domestically or only int'l? I've watched many videos comparing them but it's still hard to decide which one is better. And now with gm merging with Marriott, will this make it easier to status match with Marriott?
I cannot answer any of those questions objectively. They're all based on personal preference.
Your reasoning definitely makes sense to me. I really appreciate you sharing why this doesn’t fit with your strategy. Still a keeper card for me, but a few of your points hit home with me.
Glad it shed some light into my thought process 👊😃
Does the blue cash Business card fit in with the Amex trifecta ? Just wondering what ur thoughts are thx 🙏 also watched ur video on show many you can have with Amex 5/ 10
Using the 'Amex Trifecta' term literally, no, the Blue Business Cash does not fit because it does not earn Membership Rewards points. True 'trifectas' (at least per my definition) must earn the same type of rewards so they can be combined together.
That said, there's nothing wrong with using a different definition. If the Blue Business Cash fits into _your strategy,_ then go for it.
It doesn't matter how you define it or what I'd personally do.
Everybody's situation is different. So, what does matter is getting the cards that help you achieve your goals.
Great Video, Mark. I just started staying at Hilton hotel properties. I'm reviewing their 3 , 4 and 5 star hotel chains as well as resorts from now until next year. Before i apply for a Hilton CC, I'm testing how Hilton is taking care of customers.
Great approach 👍
Where can i see your report?
@TheCWWshow Im not creating one. It just for my own personal satisfaction.
@@mikebell958 gotcha did you like them?
@@thecwwshow8036 I like the embasy suites from the lower level. Im going to try their luxury hotels in Vegas soon.
Great video Mark!!! I guess I will not be getting the Aspire but the Ritz instead due to their flexible travel/incidental credit, are there other cards out there with travel credit not airline credit, thanks Mark!!!
Cards that have a broader 'travel' credit include:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve (all travel)
- Capital One Venture X (portal travel)
- Citi Prestige Card (all travel, card discontinued)
- U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve (all travel)
- HSBC Elite Credit Card (portal travel, spend requirements involved)
I have just started getting hotel cards, and need to do the chase IHG premier and World of Hyatt first. After that it will be the AmEx bonvoy brilliant and Amex Hilton aspire card.
Since I'm active military I don't pay any of these credit card fees so pretty much any card with an annual fee seems to be a wise financial decision.
Just got the chase IHG premier and the world of Hyatt is next!
Congrats! Keep racking up those hotel cards for those free nights! 👊
I have the Amex Hilton business card. I got the intro points from the business. Do you know if I can apply for the personal surpass and qual for the intro points?
Yes you can 👍
I'm glad to hear your main points, for me the card makes sense but I can see how it wouldn't for everyone.
Glad the card works for you!
I’m sure at one point I’ll get the aspire for the sub but I don’t see myself hanging onto it long-term . There’s not enough Hilton resorts I would want to stay at and I’ve been really happy with Hilton gold status that I get with their Biz card.
Hilton Gold = great value 👌
I got my Amex Surpass back in 2019, same as you, and I cancelled it after one year and now I am keeping my Gold status till 2023. It was insane value for the $95 AF, but I really wish that I chose the Aspire back then. For the about 50N I stayed with Hilton in the past 3 years, the diamond status will really elevated my experience further. Now I am at 4/24 with Marriott Platinum and Hyatt Globalist status. I am wondering which to get first: Chase IHG or Aspire. I plan to have around 5 stays this year for both Hilton and IHG...I primary stay in Asia. Thanks Mark.
Nice! Marriott Platinum + Hyatt Globalist are two of the best elite levels in the industry 🏆 Sounds to me like you'd get more value out of the HH Aspire. However, since you're at 5/24, consider getting both the IHG Premier (first) and then the HH Aspire (second).
Great video! Did Amex give you a prorated amount of your annual fees back?
Thanks Cedric. Amex doesn't prorate annual fees anymore. If you cancel within 30 days of the fee posting, it'll be fully refunded (which is what I did). Beyond 30 days, nothing is reimbursed.
Do you have to enroll to Hilton Honors program first before applying to The Hilton Honors Credit Card by American Express or you are automatically enrolled once you get approved for the card.
If you don't already have a Hilton Honors account, you'll be enrolled automatically. However, I personally prefer to sign up for loyalty programs first & add my number to the application.
@@MarkReese Thank you for the tip.
@@ayamaikarim 👍
Because they closed down all the executive lounges, I bet.
I outlined 10 reasons in the video, and that was not one of them.
Good analysis, as i just got a hilton surpass card. I like that you do not worry about cancelling cards as it pertains to your credit score. Thoughts? Also, do you tend to cancel more cards on the business side bc it does not affect your personal credit?
Here's a video about canceling cards: ruclips.net/video/UcWqixdQk30/видео.html
I always stay at luxury locations at least once or twice a year to treat myself. This card is irreplaceable for me unless otherwise. Still waiting to be targeted for upgrades since I have the lower tier cards
Great! Hope ya get a targeted upgrade offer 😃👊
@@MarkReese any chance we can request these upgrade offers my man? I want 3 aspires in the future lmao
@@kevindo3365 - There's not a way to request them. But they've been known to appear via email, as an Amex Offer, and as banners in your online account. I recommend checking the desktop version of your account throughout 2022 👍
I just got the Hilton Honors Business
Awesome card! 🏆
@@MarkReese indeed.
We love this card we are in Puerto Rico and here there are resorts that we use it more than 2 times a year.
Awesome to hear, Edgardo!
All understandable, but your bricked point 4. If you fly southwest, there are ways to use the credits for paid flights.
Indeed 👍
Venture X or Aspire?
The answer will vary for 1 person vs. another. Go with the one that gives you more of what you want 👍
@@MarkReese 1. What about VX's Turo benefit?
2. Are the primary & secondary car insurances worth it?
3. Do most card points lose value with dynamic, platform pricing?
4. Do December signups pay a 2nd renewal AF in Jan?
5. If VX travel sucks (no domestic), which hotel partner is the best? I've read VX has poor customer service, rarely have the flights they advertise, and overprice their hotel offerings.
Apart from typical reviews, I'd love to hear your honest take on the 'technical costs' of credit card services. You're the only guy that gave honest energy with video like this. Keep it up!
No one wants to get stranded overseas with a headache. Which are cars have benefits that are easist to use? Thx.
@@Ricocase - I simply don't recommend cards like that. You won't hear me say, "This card is amazing and everyone needs it right now because I think it's great and you should too."
So regarding the Turo benefit...I've already used it 3x and love it. But would you use it? That's up to you.
Are the rental car insurances worth it? That depends. I've never used them, so I could argue 'no.' Others have used them and saved hundreds, so to them, they'd argue 'yes.'
There's also no best hotel transfer partner, or airline transfer partner, or lounge network, etc.
I think the Hilton Honors Aspire card is one of, if not the #1 best hotel credit card ever made (in its current form). However, I canceled mine and don't want it again right now. Why? It doesn't fit my wants / needs. But that doesn't mean someone else shouldn't get it.
Credit cards are like clothing & accessories. People dress in different ways according to what they like.
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- No, December card signups do not pay another annual fee in January. You pay 1 annual fee per year, and that year is based on _cardmember year,_ not calendar year.
- Most credit card points lose value over time and are a bad investment. The worst culprits are airline miles & hotel points. The 'best' are bank points (Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, etc.) that have a guaranteed flat-rate value and also access to transfer partners.
@@MarkReese yes, by best transfer partner, I meant VX. My mistake.
Vx seems to have non-domestic airlines and unpopular hotel transfer partners, e.g. Wyndham and Radisson.
Even if I VX to gather Turo points, I'm curious about which VX partner offered the best return by point value.
Lastly, that math seemed like VX offer, among others, is net $0 for new members.
e.g. If VX charges at least 3 to 5% merchant fees on 4k...
& a $400 annual fee, what's $750 (75k miles at 0.01 cents/mile) in points truly worth?
@@Ricocase - Same answer. There's no 'best transfer partner' with Capital One. It's possible to get great value, average value, and bad value all with the same partner. I'd recommend watching this video about how transfer partners work: ruclips.net/video/ae1WayyrwnE/видео.html
Merchant fees do not affect point valuations.
Hey Mark I already have AmEx Plat & Gold and not a highly frequent traveler (mostly job related travels and 3 week annual vacation) I found that AmEx plat is not particularly strong for hotel values. Is there any recommended hotel card to pair with the AmEx (not aspirational travel or but more focus on availability & convenience) or I should go for csp and use chase points on Hyatt (already have CFU)?
On the whole, the CSP will likely be one of the best choices 👍 The ability to use Chase points at 1.25¢ per point for hotels is fantastic, and the transfer partner opportunity with Hyatt is also among the best in the industry.
Hotel credit cards, in general, are best if you want perks / benefits / status.
@@MarkReese Thanks a lot for the clarification. I was thinking about AmEx Green or cancel plat for CSR but thinking that it’s less stressful for me to carry Cards with most of AF offset by benefits/perks
@@MarkReese In addition I always think it will be helpful if you can do a video to analysis CSP/CSR for booking hotels through portal vs booking through hotel apps
@@Raven_623 - Thanks for the suggestion!
I have an impression that approval rate for American Express Cards with annual fees are higher than no annual fees that's based on my personal experience.
Could be 👍
How does the upgrade bonus points work? I've had the Hilton Honors for almost a year now and i want to apply for the Hilton Surpass! Should i apply for the card now? Or should i wait for an upgrade offer and then apply for the Surpass and will i get the points twice? Can you please Clarify. Thank you so much :)
Upgrade bonuses are targeted & not guaranteed. They may appear via mail, email, or within your Amex online account as an Amex Offer / pop-up / banner.
I recommend applying directly for Amex cards first because you can only get a welcome bonus if you have not ever had the card before. Then see if you get targeted for upgrade offers in the future.
@@MarkReese Thanks for clarifying. Very much appreciated :)
Hey Mark! Love the channel! I just got my first AMEX card in years about a month go, the BCP. I have about 100 nights booked for work next year, mostly all Hilton. I am already Diamond status. My question is do I get this card, or opt for a charge card and get the points? It looks like the Green card offers the best “ booked through the hotel” rewards and not through the portal. As always, thanks for your help!
Hi Fred - what's your goal?
@@MarkReese To get the best “bang for my buck” since I don’t have any travel cards at this time. I would like to stay in the AMEX group though. I know the Platinum is great, but I can’t book my travel through their portal due to job restrictions.
@@redheadfred7763 - The *best return,* on average, will be the HH Aspire Card, but the points are a lot less flexible.
14X Hilton points = 7% return.
3X Amex points = 3% - 6% return (avg.)
The *more flexible* point currency will be Amex points (significantly more redemption options). Amex points also have greater upside potential if maximized, so those 3X Amex points _could yield_ a 9%+ return.
I usually use hotel cards for hotel stays, but that does not mean I'm getting the best return possible.
There isn't an objectively right answer here. It's based on what you value / want.
@@MarkReese Thank you very much for your advice. That’s where I’m at as well. With 100+ nights of projected Hilton hotel travel next year, I think I’m going to go the Aspire route and take advantage of the higher point yield along with the free nights for a premium personal family vacation. Happy New Year!
Great video. Nevertheless, I look forward to seeing you on the block in the Amex Pop up Jail
Thanks Alvin 👊
Question I have 7 hard inquiries on my report and if I was to get another one would it still drop my score another 20 points?
By 'another' 20 points, are you saying you experienced a 20-point drop from your most recent inquiry?
Great video Mark! Since you're more focus on cash back, what credit cards do you use or plan to use in the future for each category (Dining, Grocery, catch all, etc.)?
I've been using an Amex setup for the past couple years, and plan to stick with it for the foreseeable future:
- Schwab Platinum Card
- Gold Card
- Green Card
- Blue Business Plus
@@MarkReese Nice!
I would just go to Surpass card. I cancel before they regretted it. Got the card again but the surpass
Surpass = great hotel card!
And you have alot of categories to the points on
Only thing I don’t like about the card is that the credit card numbers stick out on the card.
Haha yep 😄
Very great job on the details. I want the Amex Marriott Brilliant and the Amex Hilton Aspire. But I already have five Amex credit cards - Macy’s Amex, Delta Gold SkyMiles Amex, Hilton Honors Amex w/no annual fee, Marriott Bonvoy Amex business card, and Amex Credit One Bank card. Do you recommend I close two/three of these current cards to get the Amex Brilliant and Amex Hilton Aspire? If so which two/three to close? Amex has me capped at five max credit cards. Or you recommend other hotel cards? I already have the Amex Platinum card.
Neither the Macy's nor the Credit One card count towards your 5-card maximum. They are not issued by Amex, rather, Amex is acting like Visa/Mastercard in those situations as a payment processor only.
Can I product change Hilton Honors no annual fee for the Hilton Honors Buisness card and get that bonus?
@@DuncanIII1973 - No & no. Personal cards cannot be changed into business cards. Also, doing product changes means no welcome bonus ✌️ An exception would be if you receive a targeted offer specifically for an _upgrade bonus._
Thanks so much for the explanation.
@@DuncanIII1973 - Yo got it!
Idk the Chase Marriott card sounds great too! As a SUB you get 3 free nights and 10x on gas stations and restaurants for the first 6 months also a free anniversary night for less that $100 per year. Over $1000 in value IMO as a sub for $95 AF. Have the plat for status. Can’t get the bonvoy card because I’m above 5/24 but the outsized value from it is incredible!
Big value indeed! 🌟
Did you also cancel your Bonvoy Brilliant? If not, why not?
No. Reason = I'm a big Marriott loyalist and value both the $300 credit + annual Free Night Award.
@@MarkReese I ask because I am starting to travel more for work again and really should have a hotel rewards card. Family has Marriott card and business seems to like Marriott, but I've generally found the Hilton properties to be better. Which between the Bonvoy Brilliant and Hilton Aspire would you recommend as a FIRST hotel rewards card?
@@hooviebear - Get the one that corresponds to the hotel chain at which you'll stay in the most each year. That way it'll act as a big point multiplier to earn free nights faster & provide you with the benefits you'll use most often.
@@MarkReese Thank you! The practical answer is probably Marriott, but I've found Hilton to be nicer and I'm concerned about the changes to the Marriott program. Are you familiar with the changing point structure?
@@hooviebear - Sure do! It's my #1 program, so whenever Marriott news comes out, I'm all over it 😁✌️
Good video!!!
😁👍
I thought the Amex priority pass cards were no longer usable?
They're usable for all PP lounges, just not the restaurants ✌️
@@MarkReese ok,Thanks
@@frederickhunter9007 👍
What happens to the credit line?
Gone forever ✌️
I'm not quite ready to get rid of the Aspire .. not until I'm through with my Hilton Vacations since there are alto more Wellcome bonus on the table for me... I think the Aspire is worth keeping for the room upgrade. How to you get the card upgrade offers ? ... in-app or by make or calling in ? I actually never receive an offer to upgrade my Amexes unless I didn't have the higher tier already. Is it possible to get the Wellcome bonus for for the same card as the business version if you have the personal one already ?
I guess I will have to call and check how long I have the diamond status ..
The upgrade offers are targeted and come & go throughout the year. Keep an eye out on your email inbox and inside your Amex account via desktop. They could appear as a banner at the top of the page, an Amex offer, or a pop-up window.
Generally you cannot get the _welcome bonus_ for the same card more than once (exception is if the Offer Terms do not have the standard 'lifetime language.'). However, you _can_ get an _upgrade bonus_ on a card even if you've already gotten a _welcome bonus_ prior (those are different).
If you have personal Hilton cards, you can also get the business Hilton card with a bonus.
@@MarkReese Great tip.. I will have to check why i didn't get any Amex Hilton H offers since 2020 .. must have unsubscribed from NL or accidentally blocked it..
@@MarkReese ... and great ! Just wanted to make sure Personal and business is not the same since the First and Last name usually also appears on the actual card .. One more question : Do you think when having the Aspire and Surpass, they will give you the welcome bonus for the NO Annual fee Hilton Honers Card ?
I now you should get the bonus for a card you didn't have yet, but not sure about going backwards down the letter? I have referred somebody to a Hilton Card and they were not eligible for the bonus even though they only had the Amex Delta Gold
Very well articulated reasons to justify account closures, but I'm left with one lingering question. lol What type of retention offers did they try to throw at you?! hahaha
I'm happy for you, sir. Diversify the portfolio and build on it. Thanks to you, Mark P, Wallers Wallet and a few others, I pulled the trigger on a targeted welcome offer. It went through instantly. Wanna talk about me geeking out? lol Anyhow ~ Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card ~ Without you guys saying and stressing out easy it is to qualify I honestly never would have tried. Thank you so very much! Happy end of 2021 and Happy New Year 2022, dear sir. Thank you for all you do.
No retention offers needed, I wanted to free up an 'Amex slot' to get a cash back card and was unwilling to cancel any others ✌️ Congrats on your approval for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum biz card! Great to hear you're enjoying (and learning from) all the great CC channels out there 😃👊
@@MarkReese Well, yea I understood the reason for canceling both; I just didn't know if they tried to dangle a carrot at you was all.
Thank you so much, Mark. Now! I get to have fun and "struggle" with deciding to keep the Delta Gold or downgrade to Blue or close. 😂 I was kind of shocked instant approval. The moment it went to, "Add authorized users," I knew I was in. Haha
@@NCKyle1980 - Haha that "add AU moment" is always a good one with Amex 😁💯
This is blasphemy! Haha, solid video Mark!
Decided it was 'bout time to make a contrarian video 😁👊
OH, so we can keep the status even if we cancel 😳 didn't know
Check out the pinned comment above 👍
I'll think about apply for hilton Honors the one no annual fee
Awesome! Good luck on the application if you decide to go for it 😃💯
I have this card but never really use it
😄✌️
Mark, sad that we are no longer Hilton Aspire brothers 😂. Based on your 10 reasons why you canceled it make sense that you canceled. I wasn’t aware of how restrictive the $250 is. I need to check my already booked Hilton stays for 2022 to see if any of the properties will trigger the $250 credit. Thank you for providing the link in the description. Anyway, you made the right decision for you. Hey, we are still Amex Platinum and C1 Venture X brothers 😎. Cheers 🍻!
Haha cheers right back at ya! 🎉
@@MarkReese Dang it!!! None of the Hilton properties I have reservation in 2022 will trigger the $250 Hotel credit. I should have done my research before booking. I wasn’t aware of how restrictive this credit is. I better get a good retention offer next year when the AF hits!
@@Leoprieto74 😬
@@MarkReese it was my fault for not being aware of the rules (only resorts). I already compiled my list of eligible resorts for my preference locations to make sure that I use the $250 credit in 2023 and subsequent years. I’ll take the hit in 2022 but never again after that!! I may even give the $250 credit to my sister in Puerto Rico for her to use it in 2022 (to do this I know I have to add her as authorize user). Cheers brother 🍻!
@@Leoprieto74 - Good that you're aware of how to use it next time 👊 Good luck on that retention offer; sounds like a good request to make since you weren't able to get the value you wanted.
What do people think about the American Express Hilton Surpass 200,000 Point Bonus, only 95 annual fee
That SUB structure is crap. It's 150K points for $2K spend, but the last 50K are locked behind $10K of spend. 150K for $2K is still pretty good, but trying to hunt that last 50K isn't really worth it.
@@aggrodkreg4321 i got denied by capital one venture x 3 times already.. have a slot for 5/24 for this or do you recommend something else like maybe aeroplan
In general, I'm not a fan of "earn up to" offers. For the HH Surpass, the first part of 150K points for $2K spend is great. Those points are worth about $750 on average, so if you spend exactly $2K, then that'd be a 37.5% return (crazy good) 😎👌
The second part of 50K points after spending a total of $10K is not that great. That's an extra $8K spend for an extra 50K points. Since those points are worth about $250 on average, that'd be a 3.1% return. Good if that were just for general spend, but not great for a welcome bonus.
If I wanted the HH Surpass, I'd probably do the first half of the bonus (spend $2K and get 150K points), but not the second half ✌️ (An exception would be if I had a 5-figure tax payment. Then I'd put that expense on the card, earn the extra 50K points, PLUS that Weekend Night Reward after spending $15K) 💯
All that make sense?
@@MarkReese yep i think i ll do that bc nothing else good right now and this seems to be better than aeroplan.. otherwise its 6 mo of abstinence for capitalone. i do have to spend 20k right now for a big item (not gonna be around in 5-6 mo)
@@drexplordinaire - Could be great timing then 👍
Every card has benefits you won't use. Listing these to pump up the count is silly. But if you do add the ones you know you'll use and they exceed the annual fee, then keeping the card is reasonable.
I myself use the free night (currently not restricted to weekends), the $250 airfare credit (which I can use for airfare on my local airline), and the $250 resort credit. So I've gotten over $700 of value each of the last two years. My travel plans are different from Reese's. If I could get a targeted upgrade offer I'd get a second Aspire.
Good luck on getting targeted for Aspire #2! 💯
I can see your point and if I was in your situation all things being equal I would probably do the same. But the situation that I'm currently in is different than yours and I can get value out a lot of those points that you cannot get value out of or shall I say it wasn't worth it to you. Thanks for the video it was very informative
For sure! On paper (i.e. objectively), it's probably the best hotel credit card available. From one person to another (i.e. subjectively), the value will vary, but to many people it's still the best hotel credit card available 😃 I may get it again myself at some point.
It's all about strategy and knowing what works best for you at the time. I need my FICO to come up then I can complete the Chase trifecta. Then get the Amex Hilton Surpass or Amex Hilton Business card for the signup bonus. Then get the Amex Hilton Aspire card for the signup bonus. At the end of all the apps I'll be at 4/24 in case I want to add one more Chase card to complete the quadfecta.
Excellent strategy you've got! 👌
Mark, do you know of any loopholes to use the $250 resort credit? There is no way I will be able to stay at one of the Hilton resorts to trigger this credit.
Do you fly Southwest?
Yes. I do fly Southwest on occasions.
@@Leoprieto74 - Watch this video starting at 8 min. 11 sec: ruclips.net/video/xIXYO7T27MQ/видео.html
@@MarkReese for the Hilton Aspire Resort $250 statement credit?
@@Leoprieto74 - Correct. The 2 credits are identical in how they work.
I keep my aspire card bc i don’t have to pay for annual fee 😅 (military)
Awesome! 🇺🇸💯
you should cancel around Jan 7 when you get your 2022 airline credits!
Good point! 👊
Why not downgrade to the free card?
Because of Reason #10 ✌️
Airline and hotel credit is easy to cash.
😃👊
This card is so underrated for its price. The only reason I feel like you canceled is because you have so many other cards that have the same benefits. Cannibalism if you will 😂. That weekend night alone with no cap is worth it almost alone.
I gave 10 reasons in the video.
@@MarkReese I hear you. Keep the videos coming man. I’ve Learned so much from your channel!!
After watching more of these videos, I continue to see people really do over complicate things in their life. I got a Citi DoubleCash years ago and haven't looked back. Use it for everything instead of spreading my spending out over 5 credit cards. The 2% back will outwork almost any card and I don't have to book through special websites, no fee's, etc. Want an airline credit? Cool, I just got a $250 one for free with my spending this past year. What am I missing? Seems to be all smoke and mirrors. I've really tried to find another card over the years, but none of them ever seem worth it.
Hey Matthew - that Citi Double Cash Card is great! 💯 Using a variety of cards only makes sense if you're in the maximization game (mostly for travel). It's really about travel cards that have transfer partners, which can yield a 6%...8%...12%...or greater return. That's how people turn a $5,000 vacation into a $500 one.
If your military get this card!!! Regardless this card makes sense for us. After i get out i will b downgrading to the free version
😄✌️
JUST started getting hotel cards, and need to do the chase IHG premier and World of Hyatt first. After that it will be the AmEx bonvoy brilliant and Amex Hilton aspire card.
Also active military I don't pay any of these credit card fees so pretty much any card with an annual fee seems to be a wise financial decision.
Just got the chase IHG premier and the world of Hyatt is next!
@@Re3iRtH hell yea. Don’t forget the CSR before you go past 5/24
@@Re3iRtH - Awesome! 🏆
The facial expression for this thumbnail makes you look like a doppelgänger of Jim Carrey imho lol
😂👊
Hey
👋
I found myself forcing to use my benefits last year with this card
I hear ya; that same frustration is what caused me to say goodbye for now ✌️
Gold over here
Hi Xtreme!
@@SmellGoodTravelWell hello B&B, hope all is well. Good to see you here
@@Xtremeproducts I enjoy Mark!
@@SmellGoodTravelWell same here. Always.
@@SmellGoodTravelWell one of the best
In short, I have alot of cards that cover all the benefits this card gives
Great!
Mmm too many platinum cards I think mark ;)
😬
Why not downgrade one card to no fee card and play for upgrade in the future
Boss Bogan's reply is correct. Reason #10 is why I didn't downgrade ✌️
Why don’t you downgrade it?
Because of Reason #10 ✌️
@@MarkReese 😂 This was the video I did not fully watch it.
@@qahtanalqaysi5116 - Haha all good 😁
The way people are acting on flights in this day and age ill stay on the ground.
Road trips! 🚗
dang i was just gonna get one too lol
If it's right for you, go for it 👍 It's a phenomenal card, just not right for me at the moment.
This is arguably one of the best hotel cards and even Amex cards but you make it sound like it's bad lol
Yep 😁👌
Конечно же это полезная информация , но я из Казахстана, Привет
Thank you!
here to learn why you cancelled so I can follow suit 😂😂
😁✌️
Always churning….
😂✌️
what is your favorite credit card ?
Don't have one at the moment 😄✌️
Im listening to your post. You have a incomplete understanding of the card.
You can sum it up with i dont go to hiltons. Then ya. Dont get the card.
We are plus $1500 in credit use in first 6 months of the year with the aspire
The breakfest credit alone was enough to pay the AF in 6 months use. The air credit has use that works in a way you didnt mention.
I have a very complete understanding of this card.
And I also stay at Hilton properties.
Then you know for the air credit how to use the united travel bank. Two of your points were purchase and not using it every year.
@@billwright2176 - Absolutely. I don't fly United.
So, essentially you are canceling because you can't afford it. Geez.
I can afford it. Even if the card were $50 ... or $0 ... I still wouldn't get it right now. Why would I pay $450 (now $550) for a 'benefits package' I don't want?
🥇 🥇
🎉🥇🎉
@@MarkReese 😂
but you love these features on the amex platinum card
1. No I don't.
2. Of the 10 'features' mentioned, only 2-3 overlap with the Platinum Card to some degree.