Amex will remove $100 travel credit and add $100 of dinning credit that you must use on a Tuesday from 2-4pm from restaurant names that begins with A Z.
I'm finally beginning to benefit from the points game. I booked a flight two months ago with points and today upgraded my seats to business class for $130 round trip. Thanks for the tips. You've helped me get $900 of value out of $230 out of pocket with annual fee.
I've always looked at the Gold Card as the "foodie" card anyway, the Platinum is more of the travel card. Taking out the $100 Airline credit makes sense. I've been looking into applying for the Gold card, I'm interested in what they add to it.
At this point after removing the return protection last year, and now the airline credit, I don't think the card make much sense to justify the $250 unless you are a high spender or really stuck into that point ecosystem.
Platinum status should be standard for the Amex bonvoy brilliant (not for just 1 yr)...since it carries such a high AF (my opinion). I don’t consider it a great card for that reason alone honestly
Amex feeling the pressure from Freedom Flex by releasing this info so early. Trying to slow down the reaction of people dropping the Gold for 3X UR with Chase for dinning with no AF. Groceries? Amex has a $99 card that gives 6% on that category.
My question is, Why would AMEX release this info so early without also saying what will replace it? I am up for renewal in January, I hope I'll see something by then or I may be enticed by what Chase is currently offering me.
I like how you kept the same level of energy despite it being 4am. I’m looking forward to the AMEX Gold changes. I already get positive value with out the airline credit so any change would make my experience better. I would not mind getting an increase on the dining credit.
One of the bumps in the road is that lounges where I have been have been closed and even breakfast not offered or painfully limited. I hope to see that let up soon.
0:12 “it’s because it’s 4am and I haven’t slept yet. If you like stuff like this, a huge favor is to give this thumbs up” dang. taken out of context, quotes can get wacky haha
I just did 4 hours early check in with this card, 2 seconds after being told my check in was at 4pm. I whipped out the card they whipped me a room key. This card is powerful.
Hey sebby I need your opinion, I'm under 5/24. I was wondering which marriott card I should get. I originally wanted the amex marriott business card, but the marriott from chase sounds so good too!
The Platinum Status from 2/1 to Jan 2022 on the Brilliant Card seems to be hit or miss. I tried it on 2 different properties in snowy Cleveland and was offered NOTHING....watch yourself out there for actual VALUE vs. Marriott Advertising.
I just closed my AMEX Gold Card the other day. I'm trying to cut down on my annual fees. I already have the Chase Sapphire Reserve for my restaurant/dining category and the AMEX EDP to cover my grocery spend. Sounds like I made the right decision.
Just make sure you swipe the EDP 30x a month. Otherwise the AMEX Gold is still a better bet. No credits AT ALL with the EDP. While difficult to use, the AMEX Gold credits do cut down on that annual fee nicely.
Why would you even keep the Amex gold now if they are not switching the travel credit until ‘22 and not now when we are not traveling. Bc then you’re just using the hard to redeem 10 month restaurant credit...
Yes, please. I called to get the offer (chase) and they said I had to apply for a new card to receive the SUB. Even though I have had the card for over 24 months.
I REALLY want to see which is better the Chase Marriott cards or the American Express Marriott cards. I've been trying to figure out which way to go Amex or Chase for Marriott.
Awesome content! Question, can I get Amex Bonvoy Brilliant, Bonvoy Business, and Chase Boundless and get 15 Elite Night Credits from each towards Platinum? Do they stack?
I searched for and answer, and I didn't find any websites commenting on a question I have for reaching Bonvoy Platinum status. Amex Platinum includes Bonvoy Gold status. Both Business Bonvoy and Bonvoy Brilliant cards each include 15 qualifying nights. Since Bonvoy Gold status is 25 nights and Bonvoy Platinum status is 50 nights, Amex Platinum implies 25 nights already logged, then adding Bonvoy Brilliant and Business Bonvoy adds 30 nights for a 55 night total and qualifying for a Bonvoy Platinum Elite status. Is my math right?
I just signed up for the IHG card so probably not doing Marriott for a while. Nice to know AMEX is doing some things to revamp those offers and compete with Chase.
Been tempted to get the Marriott. I use Marriott a lot for personal and business. I’m already a Titanium Elite Lifetime Member which is only thing holding me back. I mean, if I went Hilton Amex, then could have top tier status with both. The $300 credit at Marriott properties seems easier to use and the 6x multiplier would add on to the bonus points I already get w/Marriott....hummmm
There is no such thing as a 5k Marriott night. I do frequent road trips and I've checked 400+ Marriotts and after the last change I don't think I've seen 0.5cent in the states.
So Chase advertises 17x for their Marriott Card: 6X points for every $1 spent, 10X points from Marriott for being a Marriott Bonvoy, 1X point from Marriott with Silver Elite Status. Amex only advertises 6x for their Bonvoy card but it will will still be the same right? Amex just doesn't list the Bonvoy member points?
Given the current situation, lot of the Hotels are Not doing Continental Breakfast, Lounges, and In house dining anymore, at least for 2020. Hopefully 2021 would be different.
I get an annual $100 credit for being a corporate card holder so my Amex annual gold fee is already $150. So not such a big deal, the incidental credit was already difficult to use.
Why would you even keep the Amex gold now if they are not switching the travel credit until ‘22 and not now when we are not traveling. Bc then you’re just using the hard to redeem 10 month restaurant credit...
Southwest works really well since they have flexible cancelation rules where you can keep your balance: www.asksebby.com/blog/how-to-use-the-amex-airline-incidental-fee-credit
We jumped to chase, were considering doing amex but they got way too many hoops to maximize the points. HOWEVER, it sucked that i couldn't get a referral bonus when i someone in the fam wanted the prefered.
they change the travel to a 100$ hotel collection, "you get a $100 hotel credit on qualifying charges, plus a room upgrade upon arrival, when available, when you book a stay of at least two consecutive nights."
I have a weird Marriot question. They expended status through Feb 2022. I have a Bonvoy Brilliant that gives me 15 status nights a calendar year. Does that mean I'll have 45 status nights without doing anything else by the time my status expires? That is what the extension language looks to me. They also gave me 25 extra status nights because I was Platinum in 2019. They gifted everyone half the points you needed to get your 2019 status. It sounds to good to be true but if I can stack the credit card nights and I can collect nights until Feb 2022 that means in 2022 I'll get Titanium status (which includes United silver status) with only 5 actual stays. I have to be missing something. Sebastian what do you think? I already have 6 stays from Jan/Feb and 4 were reward stays so I might get Marriot Titanium (with United silver) for 2 actual paid nights.
Sebby, keep up the good work my man. Question I have 3 credit cards, b of a cash rewards, discover it, I got them in January 2020 and i just got a chase freedom last month. I dont have any previous credit history before this. What/when do u suggest I should get my next card?
Hi sebby. I will be under 24/5 next month and I’m planning to apply some of the cards. One business card. Might be united because I live in Houston. And it doesn’t add to 24/5 Im deciding between the chase boundless and amex brilliant since I can only get welcome bonus from one of them in 24months. Im planning to either flying to Europe or Hawaii next year. Do Hawaii Marriott Hotels honor platinum status as they do in the contiguous? Thank you
Oof. I wasn't happy about losing roadside assistance. And now I'm doubly not happy with losing my $100 incidental credit (usually have to check a bag a couple times a year so it worked for me). I'll wait to see what they replace it with, but I'm not thrilled...
Yeah the loss of roadside assistance was annoying. I have a newer car and we have AAA but my guy drives a beater tonl work so it was nice to have this in addition
@@laddibugg Yeah I was stuck in the airport lot at midnight one time and I called both AAA and Amex and whoever showed up first got to jump the car. Was really nice having two options.
UPDATE: I'll be cancelling my gold card next year. The new $10/mo Uber/UberEats credit is not something I'll use since I have my own car. Really missing the roadside especially. Oh well, it was a good run.
Just a couple of days ago I got a survey from Amex about my Gold card and how it compares to my other most used cards. One of the things I suggested was to make Gold an easy daily driver, so 5x on dining/groceries and 2x on everything else (since it's a premium card), and removing the airline credit since it's difficult to use compared to other companies' credits. Expanding the dining credit at minimum would be great, but I think increased earn rates are key when there are no annual fee cards that earn better than Gold (Freedom Flex and Unlimited).
2x on everything with the 1.25 cash out on the schwab platinum means minimum 2.5 cash back on all purchases which I think is the most you can really get for an "all purchases" cash back. So yeah I'd be all over that lol
Hey Sebby Could you please make a video comparing the benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless? Also, I don’t have any of the Hotel Cards . When it comes to the signing up bonus, which card would you get first if you were me and wanting to get aspirational trips- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant, Hilton Aspire or Chase’s Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant?
I would "finish" Chase first if you're still eligible but account for the "One Lane Bonvoy" rules. If you want to talk strategy: www.asksebby.com/free-card-consultation
Just opened the 5 night Marriott VISA card (Still waiting the card arrive)... and the AE Card jump up.... I should not apply the Chase card if I know this will give you diamonds status 😩 I think I’m not qualify for both card as the same time right?....
I think a lot of people who have gold also have platinum as well so I dont think people really care. I use my platinum for AMERICAN airlines and my gold for SW since you can use it buy cheap tickets and use the 100$ to get it reimbursed. I trust AMEX will find a way to make the gold even better by replacing the $100 benefit. In lieu of the 100$ credit, Amex should add UBER eats/grub hub premium memberships to the cards in addition to increasing the $10 a month to $20 a month.
Not gonna lie this Marriott Platinum status offer is tempting. For high end properties, Marriott does have some good ones. I'm just a little put off in the slight drop in their hard and soft product for their low and mid-tier properties. Plus I don't want to have to many $450+ cards. I have my eyes on the Hilton Aspire card. Plus next year (2021) I need to spend all the free nights and status benefits I got this year from Hyatt!!! :)
Hey Community, The Amex offer is interesting to me, I didn't reach the Amex stage yet, still in the mid-game but I'm curious. If I applied for the Amex business card, will I be able to get the 100K offer for the Amex platinum in the future?
Awesome video Sebby! I hope Hilton Surpass Amex does 12X the points again on groceries. I’m using my free weekend night at Conrad Maldives so I could use the grocery points!
Great info as always, Sebby! I wanna let you know that last week, I went in branch (to boost my chances) and applied for the Ink Unlimited. 2 Days ago, I got approved manually, and I'm so happy. I now have the Ink Trifecta (to go along with my CIC & CIP) and 54,500 UR points will be coming my way 😁. I just went to your website and saw that the Ink cards links are back, so I apologize for not seeing them earlier. So for those of you reading this, if you wanna go for Ink cards, PLEASE go to asksebby.com and click on business cards. 3 months from now (before the lucrative offer expires on Jan 13), I WILL use your link to apply for the IHG Premier and finish 5/24. When I drop back to 4/24 in June, I'll do the same when I apply for the Flex. Thank you so much for what you've done for the credit card community, Sebby, and keep up the great work!
@@AskSebby Anytime! You were a huge part of my points and miles journey, and I wouldn't have earned all these points if it wasn't for you. So you deserve every support!
I'm officially canceling my AMEX Gold card - it's just NOT justified at all because the annual fee of $250 doesn't balance out with those $10/month dining credits (it's a pain in the ass it's by month) and the $100 airline credit is heavily restricted esp during Corona szn 😂
It's really very targeted at people who spend a lot on eating out. Which makes sense in conjunction with the platinum if you're travelling frequently you're probably gonna be eating out a lot more. But corona is restricting that for a lot of people.
@@Tyler-ek6od Personally I agree but the credits for dining just aren't accessible or useful to foodies - I'm a professional food critic and I'm never gonna go to Cheesecake factory lmao
@@PeterBilzerian the dining credit is pretty limited I agree. I pretty much just use it for grubhub when I'm in a hotel and don't feel like going out lol. Are there any other cards more geared towards actual dining that you'd recommend?
@@Tyler-ek6od Great question actually - the Hilton Aspire card is actually my favorite card for it because it's a well-rounded card for everything. It's a little up there in AF but far more worth it - I made a video on my channel about that card specifically
I'n my opinion these cards are extremely overrated and for me the best value is the no fee cash back cards. - where I get value every time. I had the Hilton Aspire card for a year, and found that to take advantage of the credits, I was making purchases on things that I would never buy if it weren't for the credit. In terms of Hotel status, I think these are overrated as well. I'm currently lifetime platinum with Marriott from years of business travel, and I rarely use these benefits. The available room upgrades are usually nothing more that a higher floor (who cares). The domestic lounges don't really offer much, Hilton is slightly better than Marriott , however, I must admit some of the international lounges are pretty good. The complementary breakfast is usually mediocre at best. Also, many of the hotel brands have a free breakfast anyway. It's also not easy to convert points to rooms at the listed values. It's just too much work, just give me the cash and I'm good.
I had no idea about the free Calm account. It feels like this a special benefit from watching Ask Sebby rather than American Express. Thanks, Sebastian.
I actually think the Gold is a decent "all around" card atm, perhaps because, from what I gather, I'm one of the few that can actually use the incidentals for AA seat fees and get a decent seat. However, "food and travel" categories are fairly saturated in the market, looking forward to what AMEX rolls out next. Also, MB Platinum status is incredibly enticing, I was almost there the hard way pre covid but I don't know if its worth the trouble of getting the card solely for 1 year of status; the addition definitely has me researching the card a little more now though. Thanks Seb!
Amex Gold 2021: Keep Calm, and carry on. Too funny about needing it for the annual fee! I'm expecting good things to compete with the Chase revamps. Anyone who spent 75K on their Brilliant Card this year, just got a slap in the face. That is a $300 opportunity cost ($450 by my valuation), to earn Platinum Status.
All annual fees for me are $0 (I'm military).. I travel a lot, but I don't see myself keep my Amex Platinum and Gold, and CSR is I had to pay an annual fee.
@@thejokerspeaks Thanks! I am out May of 2023. I love the feeling I get using the CSR and Platinum cards. But I'm not organized/creative enough to justify the $1100 fees if I had to pay them. One solid real estate deal yields $100-150K on an initial investment of $50K after 3-7 years. I mean, I'm not about jumping over dollars to pick up pennies. The time I could spend on credit card hacking to save $2-3K in a year, I could spend that same time researching 3 real estate deals which would net me six figures. Probably is fun for some as a hobby, but time could be utilized much better elsewhere if you're goal is making money. You could only save so much (very little) with CC rewards. You can make much much more by spending that time elsewhere IMO
My wife and i are titanium status. Only thing is i only have chase marriott and she has none. We are having a difficult time trying to determine which we should get cause i qualify SCRA (i believe spouse is authorized too). Edit: reason for the hesitation is because i want the $300 credit and also the 5 nights 50k free nights. Only issue is with limited travel, the 50k night from chase really make things hard
So you have 2 plays: a) Chase Boundless (wait 1 year) => upgrade to Ritz b) Amex Brilliant + Biz (if she can get biz) The Ritz $300 is annoying to use though.
You do go to the grocery store still? Right? And you don't order food to go from restaurants? Also FYI, they have to give people who sign up for the card 1 year to use the benefits before dumping said benefit.
If they would've changed it this yr and the replacement would have been less than the 100$, then someone would have found a way to them under the card act...Where cc aren't allowed to raise fees, devalue card within the 1st yr. Thats why its a 12mnth wait for an upgraded card that yields a higher af
Finally bit the bullet applied and approved for Amex Brilliant. Was debating for a bit. But I’m a long time regular Marriott dude. Already have lifetime Titanium. But with that big a sign up bonus, just seemed a no brainer. I’ll easily use the $300 credit on regular stays (before getting card had booked Cosmopolitan Vegas for 4 nights at a good rate). Excited
Hey, are you okay buddy? Up at 4AM with a sense of dread? You may need more than the calm app. You take care of us, make sure to take care of yourself. We are going to need you if/when we get through this.
You did it! All you peasants who cancelled their AmEx Gold flex card after gift cards stopped working 🙌🎉 I'm sure what's next will be at least comparable
What if I got the chase offer for 5 free nights first. Then got this card. Will I still get the platinum status? I know I won’t get the SUB. But will it still give that platinum status?
Reading through the terms, I believe you should be fine. The automatic Platinum status replaces the typical Gold status that was previously offered. It's not part of the bonus.
Amex will remove $100 travel credit and add $100 of dinning credit that you must use on a Tuesday from 2-4pm from restaurant names that begins with A Z.
don't forget you must spend $1000 min to get $5 back, up to 20x a year.
I'm finally beginning to benefit from the points game. I booked a flight two months ago with points and today upgraded my seats to business class for $130 round trip. Thanks for the tips. You've helped me get $900 of value out of $230 out of pocket with annual fee.
I've always looked at the Gold Card as the "foodie" card anyway, the Platinum is more of the travel card. Taking out the $100 Airline credit makes sense. I've been looking into applying for the Gold card, I'm interested in what they add to it.
Agreed. Keep travel to the platinum card, and up the food benefits on the gold card. That's why I got it and ditched the Uber card.
Amex should add 2x points back on every purchase
At this point after removing the return protection last year, and now the airline credit, I don't think the card make much sense to justify the $250 unless you are a high spender or really stuck into that point ecosystem.
Plus they removed the premium roadside protection last year too.
Platinum status should be standard for the Amex bonvoy brilliant (not for just 1 yr)...since it carries such a high AF (my opinion). I don’t consider it a great card for that reason alone honestly
I agree 100%
Great video as usual Sebby! IMO, amex airline credit has become too restricting anyways. Maybe they will add something more interesting
Hopefully!
Yeah they should be like chase.
Amex feeling the pressure from Freedom Flex by releasing this info so early. Trying to slow down the reaction of people dropping the Gold for 3X UR with Chase for dinning with no AF. Groceries? Amex has a $99 card that gives 6% on that category.
“Hippy Dippy”? That killed me as soon as I heard it 😂😂😂
4am filming for ya!
My question is, Why would AMEX release this info so early without also saying what will replace it? I am up for renewal in January, I hope I'll see something by then or I may be enticed by what Chase is currently offering me.
I like how you kept the same level of energy despite it being 4am. I’m looking forward to the AMEX Gold changes. I already get positive value with out the airline credit so any change would make my experience better. I would not mind getting an increase on the dining credit.
All good, just turn it into a $100 travel credit like CSR $300 travel credit.
Amex, take notes! 😜
Yes, please compare to chase offer for marriott bonvoy. Thanks!!
Hi. I have the ritz card. I’m unable to get the brilliant card unless I cancel the ritz. Is that correct?
Yes, you will need to wait at least 30 days after canceling to apply.
This is a trap setup by them to get you to cancel the old ritz card
@@uncoveredtruth2088 Are you related to Admiral Ackbar???? ;)
One of the bumps in the road is that lounges where I have been have been closed and even breakfast not offered or painfully limited. I hope to see that let up soon.
Yes please revisit the Marriott family and Hilton family of cards
I just got the Brilliant card last month.... would the platinum status be applied to current holders too or just new holders?
0:12
“it’s because it’s 4am and I haven’t slept yet. If you like stuff like this, a huge favor is to give this thumbs up”
dang. taken out of context, quotes can get wacky haha
I can’t even use the 50k Marriott Bonvoy annual reward for typical Marriott in major cities. The devalue killed this card.
I just did 4 hours early check in with this card, 2 seconds after being told my check in was at 4pm. I whipped out the card they whipped me a room key. This card is powerful.
Hey sebby I need your opinion, I'm under 5/24. I was wondering which marriott card I should get. I originally wanted the amex marriott business card, but the marriott from chase sounds so good too!
The Platinum Status from 2/1 to Jan 2022 on the Brilliant Card seems to be hit or miss. I tried it on 2 different properties in snowy Cleveland and was offered NOTHING....watch yourself out there for actual VALUE vs. Marriott Advertising.
I just closed my AMEX Gold Card the other day. I'm trying to cut down on my annual fees. I already have the Chase Sapphire Reserve for my restaurant/dining category and the AMEX EDP to cover my grocery spend. Sounds like I made the right decision.
Just make sure you swipe the EDP 30x a month. Otherwise the AMEX Gold is still a better bet. No credits AT ALL with the EDP. While difficult to use, the AMEX Gold credits do cut down on that annual fee nicely.
Why would you even keep the Amex gold now if they are not switching the travel credit until ‘22 and not now when we are not traveling. Bc then you’re just using the hard to redeem 10 month restaurant credit...
It would be great to see the comparison between the Amex and Chase offers for the Marriott card :)
Yes, I have been saying that for awhile now!!!
Yes, please.
I called to get the offer (chase) and they said I had to apply for a new card to receive the SUB. Even though I have had the card for over 24 months.
I REALLY want to see which is better the Chase Marriott cards or the American Express Marriott cards. I've been trying to figure out which way to go Amex or Chase for Marriott.
Awesome content! Question, can I get Amex Bonvoy Brilliant, Bonvoy Business, and Chase Boundless and get 15 Elite Night Credits from each towards Platinum? Do they stack?
I searched for and answer, and I didn't find any websites commenting on a question I have for reaching Bonvoy Platinum status. Amex Platinum includes Bonvoy Gold status. Both Business Bonvoy and Bonvoy Brilliant cards each include 15 qualifying nights. Since Bonvoy Gold status is 25 nights and Bonvoy Platinum status is 50 nights, Amex Platinum implies 25 nights already logged, then adding Bonvoy Brilliant and Business Bonvoy adds 30 nights for a 55 night total and qualifying for a Bonvoy Platinum Elite status. Is my math right?
I just signed up for the IHG card so probably not doing Marriott for a while. Nice to know AMEX is doing some things to revamp those offers and compete with Chase.
if your hotel night is over 50,000 points can you pay the difference or are you just out of luck one the free night for that hotel
Been tempted to get the Marriott. I use Marriott a lot for personal and business. I’m already a Titanium Elite Lifetime Member which is only thing holding me back. I mean, if I went Hilton Amex, then could have top tier status with both. The $300 credit at Marriott properties seems easier to use and the 6x multiplier would add on to the bonus points I already get w/Marriott....hummmm
I would not be upset if they increase the points we receive with amex gold.
There is no such thing as a 5k Marriott night. I do frequent road trips and I've checked 400+ Marriotts and after the last change I don't think I've seen 0.5cent in the states.
Can you pretty please do a current best hotel credit to apply? Interested in which to apply for... Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt?
So if I have the chase boundless personal card, I won’t get the Amex Marriott business sign on bonus?
Would Amex match this (Bonvoy) offer? I got the card last month.
So Chase advertises 17x for their Marriott Card: 6X points for every $1 spent, 10X points from Marriott for being a Marriott Bonvoy, 1X point from Marriott with Silver Elite Status. Amex only advertises 6x for their Bonvoy card but it will will still be the same right? Amex just doesn't list the Bonvoy member points?
A $50-$100 Amex travel credit would be better than the existing airline credit.
Agree, something that is easier to use.
Given the current situation, lot of the Hotels are Not doing Continental Breakfast, Lounges, and In house dining anymore, at least for 2020.
Hopefully 2021 would be different.
7:47 Sebby savage af
If I already have the Marriott Bonvoy american express, will I go from from gold to platinum status for 2021?
Hi-can you compare to the Chase offer? many thanks!
What`s up with Amex dropping their travel credit with the gold card?
Dam I have the business bonvoy cc hope they status match me to platnum
I get an annual $100 credit for being a corporate card holder so my Amex annual gold fee is already $150. So not such a big deal, the incidental credit was already difficult to use.
I’m wondering if retention offers will change this year. Maybe Amex will loosen up a bit on the 13 month rule?
Why would you even keep the Amex gold now if they are not switching the travel credit until ‘22 and not now when we are not traveling. Bc then you’re just using the hard to redeem 10 month restaurant credit...
Southwest works really well since they have flexible cancelation rules where you can keep your balance: www.asksebby.com/blog/how-to-use-the-amex-airline-incidental-fee-credit
@@AskSebby so how would I go about doing that? Buy a ticket and then cancel it for southwest credit...
We jumped to chase, were considering doing amex but they got way too many hoops to maximize the points. HOWEVER, it sucked that i couldn't get a referral bonus when i someone in the fam wanted the prefered.
they change the travel to a 100$ hotel collection, "you get a $100 hotel credit on qualifying charges, plus a room upgrade upon arrival, when available, when you book a stay of at least two consecutive nights."
I have a weird Marriot question. They expended status through Feb 2022. I have a Bonvoy Brilliant that gives me 15 status nights a calendar year. Does that mean I'll have 45 status nights without doing anything else by the time my status expires? That is what the extension language looks to me.
They also gave me 25 extra status nights because I was Platinum in 2019. They gifted everyone half the points you needed to get your 2019 status. It sounds to good to be true but if I can stack the credit card nights and I can collect nights until Feb 2022 that means in 2022 I'll get Titanium status (which includes United silver status) with only 5 actual stays. I have to be missing something. Sebastian what do you think?
I already have 6 stays from Jan/Feb and 4 were reward stays so I might get Marriot Titanium (with United silver) for 2 actual paid nights.
Sebby, keep up the good work my man. Question I have 3 credit cards, b of a cash rewards, discover it, I got them in January 2020 and i just got a chase freedom last month. I dont have any previous credit history before this. What/when do u suggest I should get my next card?
Hi sebby. I will be under 24/5 next month and I’m planning to apply some of the cards.
One business card. Might be united because I live in Houston. And it doesn’t add to 24/5
Im deciding between the chase boundless and amex brilliant since I can only get welcome bonus from one of them in 24months.
Im planning to either flying to Europe or Hawaii next year. Do Hawaii Marriott Hotels honor platinum status as they do in the contiguous?
Thank you
Oof. I wasn't happy about losing roadside assistance. And now I'm doubly not happy with losing my $100 incidental credit (usually have to check a bag a couple times a year so it worked for me). I'll wait to see what they replace it with, but I'm not thrilled...
Yeah the loss of roadside assistance was annoying. I have a newer car and we have AAA but my guy drives a beater tonl work so it was nice to have this in addition
@@laddibugg Yeah I was stuck in the airport lot at midnight one time and I called both AAA and Amex and whoever showed up first got to jump the car. Was really nice having two options.
UPDATE: I'll be cancelling my gold card next year. The new $10/mo Uber/UberEats credit is not something I'll use since I have my own car. Really missing the roadside especially. Oh well, it was a good run.
Just a couple of days ago I got a survey from Amex about my Gold card and how it compares to my other most used cards. One of the things I suggested was to make Gold an easy daily driver, so 5x on dining/groceries and 2x on everything else (since it's a premium card), and removing the airline credit since it's difficult to use compared to other companies' credits. Expanding the dining credit at minimum would be great, but I think increased earn rates are key when there are no annual fee cards that earn better than Gold (Freedom Flex and Unlimited).
Thanks for the insights!
I would be all over this change for my Gold card
I got the same thing.
2x on everything with the 1.25 cash out on the schwab platinum means minimum 2.5 cash back on all purchases which I think is the most you can really get for an "all purchases" cash back. So yeah I'd be all over that lol
I hope they add a gas category for the Gold card
Platinum status till 2021
Is It till as long u keep the card or till 2021 only ??
Until the end of 2021.
@@AskSebby what happens after if still keep the card
Hey Sebby
Could you please make a video comparing the benefits of Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless? Also, I don’t have any of the Hotel Cards . When it comes to the signing up bonus, which card would you get first if you were me and wanting to get aspirational trips- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant, Hilton Aspire or Chase’s Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant?
I would "finish" Chase first if you're still eligible but account for the "One Lane Bonvoy" rules.
If you want to talk strategy: www.asksebby.com/free-card-consultation
Just opened the 5 night Marriott VISA card (Still waiting the card arrive)... and the AE Card jump up.... I should not apply the Chase card if I know this will give you diamonds status 😩 I think I’m not qualify for both card as the same time right?....
I would hope that the Amex gold either doubles it's dining credit or does what you said and goes up to 5x multiplier
I think a lot of people who have gold also have platinum as well so I dont think people really care. I use my platinum for AMERICAN airlines and my gold for SW since you can use it buy cheap tickets and use the 100$ to get it reimbursed. I trust AMEX will find a way to make the gold even better by replacing the $100 benefit.
In lieu of the 100$ credit, Amex should add UBER eats/grub hub premium memberships to the cards in addition to increasing the $10 a month to $20 a month.
the monthly credits are so annoying. I hope Amex Gold can do something like the $300 CSR travel credit
Not interested. If it was permanent Platinum then I'd be interested.
Except I believe the Centurion, no card gives platinum status. Whereas a lot of cards at least give that for their premium hotel cards.
Compare this to the Hilton Aspire card please
Not gonna lie this Marriott Platinum status offer is tempting. For high end properties, Marriott does have some good ones. I'm just a little put off in the slight drop in their hard and soft product for their low and mid-tier properties. Plus I don't want to have to many $450+ cards. I have my eyes on the Hilton Aspire card. Plus next year (2021) I need to spend all the free nights and status benefits I got this year from Hyatt!!! :)
With the once in the lifetime rule, How about AU?
Don't think I didn't notice that new bottle of Japnese whiskey on the shelf =p noticed it a couple videos ago
🥃
I appreciate your transparency on the referral links!
Hey Community,
The Amex offer is interesting to me, I didn't reach the Amex stage yet, still in the mid-game but I'm curious. If I applied for the Amex business card, will I be able to get the 100K offer for the Amex platinum in the future?
Hey Sebby could you do a YOLO Disney trip video, I would love to see what you’d do
Definitely compare the two Marriott cards. I feel bad you are working so late
Awesome video Sebby! I hope Hilton Surpass Amex does 12X the points again on groceries. I’m using my free weekend night at Conrad Maldives so I could use the grocery points!
Great info as always, Sebby! I wanna let you know that last week, I went in branch (to boost my chances) and applied for the Ink Unlimited. 2 Days ago, I got approved manually, and I'm so happy. I now have the Ink Trifecta (to go along with my CIC & CIP) and 54,500 UR points will be coming my way 😁. I just went to your website and saw that the Ink cards links are back, so I apologize for not seeing them earlier.
So for those of you reading this, if you wanna go for Ink cards, PLEASE go to asksebby.com and click on business cards.
3 months from now (before the lucrative offer expires on Jan 13), I WILL use your link to apply for the IHG Premier and finish 5/24. When I drop back to 4/24 in June, I'll do the same when I apply for the Flex. Thank you so much for what you've done for the credit card community, Sebby, and keep up the great work!
Congrats on the approval! :) and thank you for thinking of me. Appreciate the support 🙏
@@AskSebby Anytime! You were a huge part of my points and miles journey, and I wouldn't have earned all these points if it wasn't for you. So you deserve every support!
I'm officially canceling my AMEX Gold card - it's just NOT justified at all because the annual fee of $250 doesn't balance out with those $10/month dining credits (it's a pain in the ass it's by month) and the $100 airline credit is heavily restricted esp during Corona szn 😂
It's really very targeted at people who spend a lot on eating out. Which makes sense in conjunction with the platinum if you're travelling frequently you're probably gonna be eating out a lot more. But corona is restricting that for a lot of people.
@@Tyler-ek6od Personally I agree but the credits for dining just aren't accessible or useful to foodies - I'm a professional food critic and I'm never gonna go to Cheesecake factory lmao
@@PeterBilzerian the dining credit is pretty limited I agree. I pretty much just use it for grubhub when I'm in a hotel and don't feel like going out lol. Are there any other cards more geared towards actual dining that you'd recommend?
@@Tyler-ek6od Great question actually - the Hilton Aspire card is actually my favorite card for it because it's a well-rounded card for everything. It's a little up there in AF but far more worth it - I made a video on my channel about that card specifically
I'n my opinion these cards are extremely overrated and for me the best value is the no fee cash back cards. - where I get value every time. I had the Hilton Aspire card for a year, and found that to take advantage of the credits, I was making purchases on things that I would never buy if it weren't for the credit. In terms of Hotel status, I think these are overrated as well. I'm currently lifetime platinum with Marriott from years of business travel, and I rarely use these benefits. The available room upgrades are usually nothing more that a higher floor (who cares). The domestic lounges don't really offer much, Hilton is slightly better than Marriott , however, I must admit some of the international lounges are pretty good. The complementary breakfast is usually mediocre at best. Also, many of the hotel brands have a free breakfast anyway. It's also not easy to convert points to rooms at the listed values. It's just too much work, just give me the cash and I'm good.
depends where you travel. if you spend a lot of time in hotels in Asia, Bonvoy Plat is worth a lot.
@@WHERESSS Absolutely agree with that!
I generally use Hyatt or Hotels.com for domestic trips. Status and upgrades usually shine at unique properties or Asia.
AMEX streamlining the focus of the Gold Card. So they are probably going to push Platinum hard to Gold Card holders who like to travel.
They extended the date for the Calm premium registration to the end of the year
Ah, I see they just updated the website!
I had no idea about the free Calm account. It feels like this a special benefit from watching Ask Sebby rather than American Express. Thanks, Sebastian.
Glad to help :)
I actually think the Gold is a decent "all around" card atm, perhaps because, from what I gather, I'm one of the few that can actually use the incidentals for AA seat fees and get a decent seat. However, "food and travel" categories are fairly saturated in the market, looking forward to what AMEX rolls out next.
Also, MB Platinum status is incredibly enticing, I was almost there the hard way pre covid but I don't know if its worth the trouble of getting the card solely for 1 year of status; the addition definitely has me researching the card a little more now though.
Thanks Seb!
I think it depends on: (1) travel plans, (2) what 2021 travel looks like.
Latter is hard to predict :(
Amex Gold 2021: Keep Calm, and carry on. Too funny about needing it for the annual fee! I'm expecting good things to compete with the Chase revamps.
Anyone who spent 75K on their Brilliant Card this year, just got a slap in the face. That is a $300 opportunity cost ($450 by my valuation), to earn Platinum Status.
that is right, big slap in the face.
I did the $75k spend in 2019 😬
All annual fees for me are $0 (I'm military).. I travel a lot, but I don't see myself keep my Amex Platinum and Gold, and CSR is I had to pay an annual fee.
@@wanderingdoc5075 I would consider something like the US Altitude Reserve, for a low effective annual fee, if you were getting out soon.
@@thejokerspeaks Thanks! I am out May of 2023. I love the feeling I get using the CSR and Platinum cards. But I'm not organized/creative enough to justify the $1100 fees if I had to pay them.
One solid real estate deal yields $100-150K on an initial investment of $50K after 3-7 years.
I mean, I'm not about jumping over dollars to pick up pennies.
The time I could spend on credit card hacking to save $2-3K in a year, I could spend that same time researching 3 real estate deals which would net me six figures.
Probably is fun for some as a hobby, but time could be utilized much better elsewhere if you're goal is making money. You could only save so much (very little) with CC rewards. You can make much much more by spending that time elsewhere IMO
My wife and i are titanium status. Only thing is i only have chase marriott and she has none. We are having a difficult time trying to determine which we should get cause i qualify SCRA (i believe spouse is authorized too).
Edit: reason for the hesitation is because i want the $300 credit and also the 5 nights 50k free nights. Only issue is with limited travel, the 50k night from chase really make things hard
So you have 2 plays:
a) Chase Boundless (wait 1 year) => upgrade to Ritz
b) Amex Brilliant + Biz (if she can get biz)
The Ritz $300 is annoying to use though.
They should have changed AMEX Gold now not 2 years from now. Glad I closed it. My market for travel, and restaurants has been very limited this year.
You do go to the grocery store still? Right? And you don't order food to go from restaurants? Also FYI, they have to give people who sign up for the card 1 year to use the benefits before dumping said benefit.
If they would've changed it this yr and the replacement would have been less than the 100$, then someone would have found a way to them under the card act...Where cc aren't allowed to raise fees, devalue card within the 1st yr. Thats why its a 12mnth wait for an upgraded card that yields a higher af
@@qb6570 I’ve had card since launch over 2 years.
20 $ dining credit per month should be good idea , although i would prefer a pony .
Finally bit the bullet applied and approved for Amex Brilliant. Was debating for a bit. But I’m a long time regular Marriott dude. Already have lifetime Titanium. But with that big a sign up bonus, just seemed a no brainer. I’ll easily use the $300 credit on regular stays (before getting card had booked Cosmopolitan Vegas for 4 nights at a good rate). Excited
Make the $100 credit for car gas and EV charging stations. Tesla car owners are high income spenders, which is Amex's ideal customers.
Why where you up bro??
Meetings are no more for Bonvoy.
Do you get platinum each year you pay the fee or just the one time?
AskSebby thumbnail pic is at the W Maldives ! 🥳
Good eye! :)
Maybe the green will become better than the gold
Chase comparison video please!!!!!
Awesome vid bro! So informative!!
Glad it helped!
Hey, are you okay buddy? Up at 4AM with a sense of dread? You may need more than the calm app. You take care of us, make sure to take care of yourself. We are going to need you if/when we get through this.
You did it! All you peasants who cancelled their AmEx Gold flex card after gift cards stopped working 🙌🎉
I'm sure what's next will be at least comparable
AYEEEEEE MY BOYYYYY WITH THE FIREEEEEE 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
🔥🔥🔥
How did you hear about calm?
Other
Watching a RUclips video about credit cards
The change of thumbnail tricked me to come here again 😂
What if I got the chase offer for 5 free nights first. Then got this card. Will I still get the platinum status? I know I won’t get the SUB. But will it still give that platinum status?
Wondering the same
Reading through the terms, I believe you should be fine. The automatic Platinum status replaces the typical Gold status that was previously offered. It's not part of the bonus.
Sebby off the gas at 4 am?
That’s commitment. Damn haha
WOW I'm never this early!
🥇
Same!
whoaaaa same here!
I’m excited 😆
Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status for 1 year is *incredible* 😮🏆💳 // 4 AM dedication Seb ... you rock! 💯💥
Yes! Typically you have to spend $75k in a calendar year w/ the Brilliant to earn it.
I kinda wish this was a permanent change.
@@mav922able - Same here 😄✌️