Amex Gold Card Updates Benefits & Rewards
Boosting Rewards Through Amex Travel
The American Express Gold Card is receiving several updates. These changes affect earning potential on travel and car rentals. Cardholders will see enhancements to hotel rewards and a new benefit with Hertz. The adjustments aim to improve the card’s value for frequent travelers and everyday spenders.
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Previously, the Amex Gold Card offered 4x points at restaurants. This benefit is being replaced with increased earning on Amex Travel purchases. Cardholders will now earn 4x Membership Rewards points on bookings at hotels through the Amex Travel portal. This change aligns the card more closely with travel-focused rewards. It encourages direct booking through American Express.
Will These Changes Affect My Spending Habits?
The new Hertz benefit provides complimentary Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Five Star status. This status offers perks like priority pick-up and guaranteed vehicle availability. It's a valuable addition for those who frequently rent cars. The card continues to offer 4x points at U. S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year) and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines.
The shift away from restaurant rewards may prompt some cardholders to reconsider their spending strategies. While 4x points at restaurants were popular, the expanded travel earning potential offers a new avenue for maximizing rewards. The key is to utilize the Amex Travel portal for hotel bookings to take full advantage of the increased earning rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Hertz benefit is a welcome addition. It provides tangible value for renters. Overall, these changes appear to be a positive development for Amex Gold cardholders. They broaden the card's appeal and offer more flexibility in earning and redeeming rewards.
What is the impact of the restaurant reward change? The 4x points on dining at restaurants has been removed. Cardholders will now earn 4x points on hotel bookings made through Amex Travel instead. This change aims to incentivize travel bookings through the Amex platform.
How does the new Hertz benefit work? Amex Gold cardholders now receive complimentary Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Five Star status. This provides benefits like priority service and vehicle upgrades, enhancing the rental car experience. It requires enrollment through the Amex website.
Content written by James Walker for travel-good.com editorial team, AI-assisted.