American Express Platinum Business Credit Card Review | American Express Platinum Business Card Review

Intro APR	Intro APR Period	Regular APR	Cash APR	Instant Approval	Credit Needed
n/a	N/A	N/A		No	Fair

Annual Fee	Balance Transfer	Balance Transfer Fee	Guaranteed Approval
$450	No		No

American Express Business Platinum Card

Overall Rating
Rewards
Rates & Fees
Customer Service

The American Express Platinum Business card it the latest addition the already extensive credit card options offered by American Express. Through February 2011, 5,000 points can be earned each month $10,000 is spent using the card.

There is an additional 5,000 points that can be added monthly by making specific types of business purchases. This enables companies to maximize their use of the Membership Rewards First program.

These accelerated earning options as well as access to the top-tier rewards program, makes this card a very attractive option for businesses that have employees that need to travel frequently. It focuses on providing high levels of service and tier-one products to ensure that employees and their clients have the services they need when they need them. Be sure to compare many different business credit card offers today!

American Express Platinum Business Card Benefits

The American Express Business Platinum card was voted one of the Top 10 business credit cards. It is particularly effective for businesses that have frequent or heavy travel needs.

Its premiere services and top-tier brands allow companies to focus on their existing and potential clientele rather than struggling to make reservations and other travel arrangements, while trying to take advantage of benefits.

Complimentary services for card members include companion tickets and upgrades to business or first class on most airlines and airport club access. Luxury upgrades at hotels and rental cars are also included in the available amenities.

Complimentary airport club access allows the business traveler to take advantage of products and services that can cost up to $950 a year. Travelers, along with two guests or their family have immediate access to American Express partner clubs that include, but are not limited to Delta Sky Clubs, American Airlines Admirals Club and Continental Airlines Presidents Club.
Cardholders are automatically enrolled in top-tier programs for Hertz, National Car Rental and Avis. Membership is complimentary through American Express and saves up to $60 in annual fees. Service includes rental discounts and vehicle upgrades.
Purchase protection up to $50,000 annually against damage and theft.
Upgrades at 600 luxury hotels and resorts worldwide. Late checkout, continental breakfast and special amenities are included.

American Express Business Platinum Strengths

Flexible payment schedules that enable employees to time their billing cycle with reimbursement schedules.
Premiere travel and hotel benefits at luxury establishments
OPEN savings for business expenses. Savings are estimated between 3%-20% of standard retail.
Integrated management and organizational tools to track all expenses, making the financial piece less of a burden.
30 premium benefits designed to improve business.
Revolving credit is available for purchases over $200 and for travel expenses that occur over the course of two billing cycles.

These are in addition to the built-in benefits that all American Express cards offer. Account alerts, travel insurance, car rental insurance, extended warranties on manufacturer’s original warranty, fraud protection and year-end summary reports.

American Express Business Platinum Weaknesses

This card is difficult to qualify for. American Express requires an “Excellent” credit rating and an established business history. As a result, most new or emerging businesses will not qualify for the card, regardless of current bank statements and financials.

The other deterrent is the high annual fee. $450 for the membership fee and $175 for each additional card is unusual. However, for businesses that rely on travel to expand and enhance their market share, it will pay for itself in perks and bonuses.

American Express Platinum Client & Employee Rewards

There are many different ways an organization can say thank you to valued employees and customers. In difficult economic times, these “extras” are very often not in the budget. The American Express Platinum Business card enables businesses to use points to pay for these perks and incentives, which improve employee morale and boost customer confidence about the status of the company. Some of the options that can be purchased with Membership Rewards points include half-day spa treatments, golf clubs, a weekend stay at a luxury resort, and use of a private jet.

This card has one of the highest annual membership rates of any other card at $450 and $175 per additional card. To take full advantage of the benefits, $10,000 per month is the smallest amount that can be spent. As a result, most small businesses will not find this card effective. The American Express Gold business card has fewer benefits, but also carries with it a smaller annual fee. Visa and MasterCard each have Commercial cards, but they are geared more towards traditional incentive programs, with few of the luxurious benefits.

Be sure to compare many different business credit card offers today!