If you’ve ever wondered whether you should apply for a new Amex card now or wait for a better bonus, this guide is for you.

For the past six years, I’ve tracked every single welcome bonus for every Canadian-issued American Express card. This post pulls it all together to help you make smarter decisions about when to apply and which cards have the most potential value.

A full breakdown of every Amex Canada bonus since 2019, all in one place? Now that’s PointsWise.

Why Track Welcome Bonuses?

Because timing matters.

Welcome bonuses are the biggest reason to apply for a new credit card. But not all offers are created equal, and they fluctuate more than most people realize. For example:

• The Marriott Bonvoy Card is offering an all-time high of 110,000 Bonvoy points. Apply Now!
• The Marriott Bonvoy Business Card is offering an all-time high of 130,000 Bonvoy points. Apply Now!

We have not seen offers this high on either card in the last 6 years since we’ve been tracking this data. This is an incredible time to apply! Hurry, this offer ends August 18, 2025!

• The Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve has ranged from 65,000 to 150,000 points. Apply Now!
• The Platinum Card has offered anywhere from 25,000 to 150,000 points. Apply Now!
• Even the Cobalt Card, which is known for its monthly earning structure, has seen sign-up bonuses as high as 50,000 points. Apply Now!
  

Knowing the historical highs (and lows) can help you avoid applying during a lull, and maybe even save your hard credit pull for something bigger down the road.

Methodology

I’ve manually tracked this data since 2019, focusing only on public welcome bonuses (no targeted or referral-only offers). This includes both personal and business cards, across all Amex rewards currencies: Membership Rewards, Aeroplan, Marriott Bonvoy, and Cashback.

Data is updated regularly and embedded directly from Google Sheets, so what you’re seeing is always current.

Highest-Ever Bonuses by Card (6-Years At a Glance)

Note: these are public offers, not referral or targeted.

Bonus Trends Over Time

Amex tends to push aggressive offers around spring and late summer, particularly May, July, and September. These months account for a majority of the highest historical offers across the lineup.

We’ve added charts for each card showing how their bonuses have evolved over time. You can explore by each card below:

Explore AMEX Canada Welcome Bonus History by Card

Use the dropdowns below to dig into each card’s data.

AMEX Canada Aeroplan Business Reserve Card

AMEX Canada Aeroplan Card

AMEX Canada Aeroplan Reserve Card

AMEX Canada Business Gold Card

AMEX Canada Business Platinum Card

AMEX Canada Cobalt Card

AMEX Canada Gold Rewards Card

AMEX Canada Green Card

AMEX Canada Marriott Bonvoy Business Card

AMEX Canada Marriott Bonvoy Card

AMEX Canada Platinum Card

AMEX Canada SimplyCash Card

AMEX Canada SimplyCash Preferred Card

Common Questions

When is the best time to apply for an Amex card in Canada?

Historically, May, July, and September have been strong months for elevated bonuses across most major Amex travel cards.

Read the Reviews and Apply Now for these AMEX Canada Cards:

Do welcome bonuses repeat?

Sometimes. Amex occasionally brings back a historical high, but there’s no set pattern. Some cards, like the Platinum, tend to cycle through higher offers more frequently, while others may go years between peak offers.

Further Reading: Amex Platinum vs. Amex Gold Canada – Which is Worth It for Travel?

Further Reading: Amex Platinum Card Canada Review 2025: Luxury Travel Benefits Worth $799?

Is it worth waiting?

It depends. If you’re earning a signup bonus to hit a specific travel goal (say, a flight to Europe), waiting 2–3 months could mean an extra 30,000–50,000 points. That’s a huge difference in value.

That said, offers can disappear with no notice, so if you’re seeing one near historical highs, it’s probably worth locking in.

Final Thoughts

This post was built for travellers who want to get serious about timing their credit card strategy. Understanding trends like this can help you get maximum value from each card application to travel better and go further with your points.

Check back often, we’ll keep this post updated as new bonuses roll out.

And if you want to see which offers are best right now, head to our Best Amex Welcome Bonuses in Canada roundup.

View Every Amex Canada Welcome Bonus Since 2019: See the Highs, Lows, and Trends on PointsWise.

If you’re searching for the best Amex welcome bonus in Canada right now, you’re in the right place. These offers can be worth hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars in travel value – but only if you apply at the right time.

At PointsWise, we’ve tracked every Amex welcome offer in Canada for the past six years. That means we don’t just tell you what the current bonus is – we show you how it compares to the best, worst, and average. This guide highlights the four Amex cards with the highest-value signup bonuses available in 2025, along with data-backed insight into when to apply.

Learn More: See how today’s offers compare to the highest-ever Amex bonuses.

1. Business Platinum Card from American Express

Current Bonus (2025): Earn 80,000 Membership Reward points when you spend $15,000 in the first 3 months. Then earn 40,000 points when you Make a purchase in months 14-17 of Cardmembership. That’s up to 120,000 points. This offer has a value of $1,200 (at 1¢ per point).

• Historical High: 150,000 points
• Historical Low: 35,000 points
• Best Time to Apply: Historically strongest in Q1 and Q3

This is one of the most powerful cards in Canada. With frequent spikes up to 150,000 points and a strong average of 93,333 over the past six years, the Business Platinum is ideal for business owners looking to maximize travel rewards.

The current bonus is well above average. If you’re on the fence, this is a great time to apply.

Learn More: Read the Amex Business Platinum Card Review.

2. Aeroplan Business Reserve Card

Current Bonus (2025): Earn 65,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $10,500 in the first 3 months. Then earn an additional 45,000 points after you spend a total of $75,000 on your Card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership. That’s up to 140,000 points. This offer has a value of $2,800 (at 2¢ per point).

• Historical High: 150,000 points
• Historical Low: 65,000 points
• Best Time to Apply: May, July, and early fall (Sept) have seen major spikes

This premium business Aeroplan card delivers serious value for frequent flyers. In July 2021, it hit an all-time high of 150K points, and it’s hovered near or above 100K multiple times. While the current bonus isn’t at its peak, it’s still very competitive.

If you’re planning Aeroplan travel soon, this card remains a top pick for bonus value.

Learn More: Read the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card Review.

3. Aeroplan Reserve Card

Current Bonus (2025): Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months. Plus, earn an additional 40,000 points after you spend a total of $45,000 on your Card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership. That’s up to 130,000 points. This offer has a value of $2,600 (at 2¢ per point).

Historical High: 150,000 points
Historical Low: 50,000 points
Best Time to Apply: Late spring and summer – big spikes have occurred in June/July

This is the top-tier personal Aeroplan card, and it delivers premium perks like Maple Leaf Lounge access and priority airport treatment. If you’re loyal to Air Canada, this card offers strong bonus potential with a six-year average of 94,091 points.

Consistently high offers make this card a reliable Aeroplan powerhouse.

Learn More: Read the Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card Review.

4. The Platinum Card from American Express

Current Bonus (2025): Earn 70,000 Membership Reward points when you spend $10,000 in the first 3 months. Then earn 30,000 points when you Make a purchase in months 14-17 of Cardmembership. That’s up to 100,000 points. This offer has a value of $1,000 (at 1¢ per point).

• Historical High: 150,000 points
• Historical Low: 25,000 points
• Best Time to Apply: Q2 (May) and fall spikes common

The personal version of the Platinum Card has had a wild ride. Bonuses have ranged from as low as 25K to as high as 150K. The current 90K offer is slightly below the 6-year average (92,692), but still very strong – especially if you’re ready to travel.

If travel perks matter to you, and you want to lock in a high bonus, now is a great time.

Learn More: Read the Amex Platinum Card Review.

When Is the Best Time to Apply for an Amex Card in Canada?

We analyzed six years of data and found that the best welcome bonuses often appear in:

• Q1: January through March
• Q2: May and June
• Q3: July to early September

Avoid applying during November and December if you can – that’s when we’ve seen the weakest offers historically.

Timing your application can mean the difference between 60,000 points and 150,000. Bookmark this page or sign up for alerts so you don’t miss out.

If you’re curious about how current offers stack up against historical trends, check out our comprehensive tracker: Every Amex Canada Welcome Bonus Since 2019: See the Highs, Lows, and Trends.

Summary: Best Amex Bonus Offers Right Now

Final Thoughts

The best welcome bonus isn’t just about chasing the biggest number – it’s about knowing when to apply. Whether you’re after flexible points, Aeroplan perks, or premium travel benefits, these four Amex cards offer the strongest bonus potential in 2025. And because we track this data year-round, you can be confident you’re making a smart decision.

If you’re ready to apply, don’t wait too long. Bonus offers change frequently – and the best ones don’t stick around forever.

Got questions or want to compare card options? Head over to our full Amex comparison guide or drop a comment.

Related Reading

• Compare the Best Amex Cards in Canada
• Membership Rewards Card Reviews
• Every Amex Canada Welcome Bonus Since 2019: See the Highs, Lows, and Trends

View Best Amex Welcome Bonuses in Canada (2025) – Up to 150,000 Points on PointsWise.

Introduction

The Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card is an excellent option for Canadian small business owners and frequent travellers. This card offers a powerful combination of travel rewards, business benefits, and Marriott Bonvoy points earning potential, making it a strong contender in the premium travel card category.

The standout feature? A substantial welcome bonus that sets you up for free hotel stays while earning rewards on your everyday business purchases.

Ready to elevate your travel experience? Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card today!

How to Earn the Welcome Bonus of 130,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points

The welcome bonus is one of the most exciting features of the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card. You can earn up to 130,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. With an estimated value of $1,300, this bonus can cover multiple free hotel nights or be transferred to airline partners for incredible travel opportunities. Here’s how to earn the bonus:

• New Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Cardmembers can earn up to 130,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points.
• Earn 75,000 points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Earn an additional 40,000 points after you spend a total of $30,000 on your card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 15,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership.
• Offer ends August 18, 2025. 

To maximize this bonus, focus on charging essential business expenses such as inventory, marketing, and travel bookings to your card. Setting up recurring payments for utilities or software subscriptions can also help you hit the spending requirement quickly.

Don’t miss out on this incredible welcome bonus—sign up today!

Card Fees

With an annual fee of $150, the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card offers exceptional value for frequent travellers. 

The foreign transaction fee of 2.5% is standard among Canadian credit cards but can be offset by the card’s travel rewards. 

Businesses can add supplementary cards for just $50 each, allowing employees to earn rewards while managing expenses efficiently.

For small business owners who travel regularly or make large purchases, the rewards and perks easily outweigh these costs, especially with the annual free hotel night benefit.

How to Earn Marriott Bonvoy Rewards

The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card rewards cardholders across these spending categories:

• 5 points per $1 spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, including standalone retail establishments and Marriott’s online stores (Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques).
• 3 points per $1 spent on eligible travel, dining, and gas purchases in Canada, including restaurants, quick-service outlets, coffee shops, and travel services.
• 2 points per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

For optimal rewards, use this card for travel and dining expenses while charging day-to-day business expenses to consistently accumulate points.

How to Get Approved

Approval for the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card typically requires a good credit score of 670 or higher. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient business revenue, which is generally in the range of $50,000–$150,000 annually for small businesses like retail shops or service providers.

During the application process, you’ll need to provide basic business information, including your business name and registration number.

How to Redeem Marriott Bonvoy Points

Marriott Bonvoy points are incredibly versatile and can be redeemed in several ways:

• Redeem points for free hotel nights with no blackout dates at over 7,000 Marriott properties worldwide, from budget-friendly stays to luxury accommodations like The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis.
• Transfer points to airline partners for flights, often at a 3:1 ratio, with bonus miles awarded for larger transfers.
• Use points for exclusive experiences, room upgrades, car rentals, or gift cards.

For the best value, focus on redemptions for high-end hotel stays or strategic airline point transfers. Combining points with cash can also stretch their value further.

Start earning and redeeming points for unforgettable travel experiences—apply now!

Amex Experiences Benefits

This card enhances your lifestyle with exclusive perks through Amex Experiences, including Front of the Line presale access for tickets to concerts, shows, and other events. Cardmembers also enjoy priority service at select venues and exclusive offers through Amex Offers, which provide discounts and rewards at popular retailers and restaurants.

Business Benefits

The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card simplifies expense management with tools like quarterly and annual summaries of charges, making it easier to categorize expenses and track spending. 

The Flexible Payment Option allows you to pay over time, and employee cards enable your team to earn rewards on business purchases while maintaining control with customizable spending limits.

Insurance Coverage

This card offers robust insurance benefits, including:

• $500,000 Travel Accident Insurance for accidental death or dismemberment on common carriers.
• Baggage Delay Insurance of up to $500 for delays over six hours.
• Flight Delay Insurance of up to $500 for delays exceeding four hours.
• Purchase Protection covering eligible items up to $1,000 per incident for 90 days.

For frequent travellers and business owners making large purchases, these protections provide peace of mind and financial security.

Travel Benefits with the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business Card

The travel benefits offered by the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card are designed to elevate your travel experience, whether you’re exploring new destinations or travelling for business. These benefits provide exceptional value for cardholders, especially when paired with the generous rewards and redemption opportunities within the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Annual Free Night Award

Cardholders receive an Annual Free Night Award worth up to 35,000 points, which can be redeemed for a free hotel night at Marriott Bonvoy properties worldwide. This benefit alone can offset the card’s $150 annual fee, making it an essential perk for travellers.

Imagine redeeming your free night at a stunning Marriott resort in Hawaii or a chic urban hotel in downtown Toronto. This benefit is perfect for a weekend getaway or a luxurious addition to a longer vacation.

Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status

With this card, you automatically enjoy Silver Elite Status, unlocking exclusive perks like priority late checkout and bonus points on stays. Additionally, by spending $30,000 annually on the card, you can upgrade to Gold Elite Status, which includes enhanced room upgrades, a welcome gift at check-in, and late checkout at 2 p.m.

Picture arriving at a Marriott property after a long day of travel. With Gold Elite Status, you’re greeted with a warm welcome gift and enjoy an upgraded room with a view. The late checkout gives you the flexibility to relax before your departure, adding a touch of luxury to your stay.

15 Elite Night Credits

Every year, cardholders receive 15 Elite Night Credits, which count toward achieving the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status. This means you only need five additional nights to achieve higher-tier benefits like complimentary breakfast or lounge access, available with Platinum Elite Status .

Access to Marriott’s Luxury Hotel Network

The Marriott Bonvoy program gives you access to the world’s largest collection of luxury hotels, including brands like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and W Hotels. With properties in over 130 countries, your Marriott Bonvoy points can take you virtually anywhere.

Use your points to stay at a luxurious St. Regis hotel in the Maldives for a dream vacation. With amenities like overwater villas, fine dining, and personalized service, your points unlock experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.

Why These Travel Benefits Matter

These travel benefits aren’t just perks—they’re practical tools that add comfort, flexibility, and value to your travel experiences. Whether you’re travelling for work or leisure, the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card ensures you get the most out of every journey.

Ready to take advantage of these unparalleled travel benefits? Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card today!

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

By referring others to the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card, you can earn 10,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per approved referral, up to a maximum of 150,000 points annually. This referral program is a simple yet lucrative way to amplify your rewards while sharing the benefits of this card with friends and colleagues.

Is the Marriott Bonvoy Business Card Right for You?

The Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card is perfect for small business owners and frequent travelers who want to turn everyday spending into valuable rewards. With its 130,000-point welcome bonus, you can enjoy up to $1,300 in value, enough for multiple free hotel nights at Marriott properties worldwide.

If you frequently stay at Marriott hotels, this card offers automatic Silver Elite Status, 15 Elite Night Credits, and the chance to earn Gold Elite Status, providing perks like late checkout, room upgrades, and bonus points. Plus, the free annual night award—valued at up to 35,000 points—makes this card a great option for anyone looking to offset its $150 annual fee.

Conclusion: A Must-Have for Travellers

With generous rewards, Elite status perks, and travel benefits, this card is ideal for Canadian business owners who travel often. If you can meet the $5,000 spending requirement, the welcome bonus alone makes it a smart choice.

Ready to elevate your travel game? Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card today!

View Earn Free Hotel Nights: Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card Review (Canada) on PointsWise.

Introduction

The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a premium Canadian credit card that brings elevated travel experiences, valuable rewards, and world-class benefits to frequent flyers. Designed for Aeroplan enthusiasts and luxury travellers, this card offers everything from exclusive lounge access to significant earning potential. Here’s a comprehensive review of why the Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card might be the ideal addition to your wallet.

Welcome Bonus: Earn Up to 130,000 Aeroplan Points

The Aeroplan Reserve Card boasts one of the most lucrative welcome bonuses in the Canadian travel rewards market. You’ll earn:

• Earn 60,000 points after you spend $7,500 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn an additional 40,000 points after you spend a total of $45,000 on your Card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership.
• You can also earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and– 17 months of Cardmembership.
• That’s up to $3,500 or more in value when you combine your bonus points and card benefits.
• Offer ends August 18, 2025!

This adds up to a potential 130,000 Aeroplan points, which could be worth $2,600 or more when redeemed for Air Canada flights or partner airline tickets.

Learn More: Check the highest-ever Aeroplan Reserve bonuses.

Don’t Miss Out on This Exclusive Bonus

Start earning Aeroplan points today with the Aeroplan Reserve Card! Apply now to unlock up to 130,000 Aeroplan points.

Reward Rates: Earn More on Travel, Dining, and More

The Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card makes it easy to earn Aeroplan points quickly, especially in categories most relevant to travellers and foodies:

• 3x Aeroplan points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada. Exclusions include purchases through third-party websites, travel agents, vacation packages from other merchants, Air Canada gift cards, and Maple Leaf Club memberships.
• 2x Aeroplan points per $1 spent at restaurants, quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, and drinking establishments in Canada, as well as food delivery services (excluding groceries).
• 1.25x Aeroplan points per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Earn on Every Dollar You Spend

Maximise your rewards with every purchase. Apply for the Aeroplan Reserve Card today and take advantage of its accelerated earning rates.

Lounge Access: Travel in Comfort

The Aeroplan Reserve Card truly shines in its ability to elevate your travel experience, particularly through access to premium airport lounges.

Maple Leaf Lounge Access

As a cardholder, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges for yourself and one guest. These lounges offer a relaxing environment with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and beverages. Whether you’re catching up on work or unwinding before a flight, this benefit adds significant value to your journey.

Priority Pass Membership

The card also includes a Priority Pass membership, giving you access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. With six complimentary visits per year, even casual travellers can enjoy the luxury of a peaceful, well-appointed lounge environment.

Toronto Pearson Airport Priority Services

For cardmembers passing through Toronto Pearson Airport, the Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card offers exclusive perks, including:

• Complimentary valet service at the Express Park lot.
• A 15% parking discount at select Pearson lots.
• Access to the Priority Security Lane, which lets you breeze through security and save valuable time.

Upgrade Your Airport Experience

Skip the lines, relax in comfort, and enjoy exclusive perks. Apply now to access premium airport lounges and services with the Aeroplan Reserve Card.

Maximize Your Aeroplan Rewards and Status

The Aeroplan Reserve Card is packed with features that enhance your Aeroplan membership and make elite status more accessible:

• Annual Worldwide Companion Pass: Receive one companion pass each year when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date. The pass allows you to book a companion ticket for a reduced fare when flying with Air Canada, making it ideal for those who frequently travel with a partner or family member.
• Rollover Status Qualifying Miles: Carry over any unused Status Qualifying Miles (SQM) to the next year, making it easier to maintain or upgrade your Aeroplan Elite Status.
• Reach Aeroplan Elite Status Faster: For every $5,000 spent on the card, you’ll earn 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and 1 Status Qualifying Segment, accelerating your progress toward elite perks.

Elevate Your Travel Status

Fast-track your Aeroplan Elite Status with the Aeroplan Reserve Card. Apply here to start enjoying exclusive benefits.

Redeem Aeroplan Points for Free Hotel Nights

Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide.

Approval Odds: Are You Eligible?

The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a premium product, and approval odds are very good for those who meet the following criteria:

• Credit Score: Applicants should have a score of 740 or higher.
• Income: Although there is no official minimum income requirement, a high personal income of $80,000 or more annually is recommended. This card is ideal for senior professionals or executives with disposable income to take full advantage of its premium benefits.
• Credit History: A strong credit history with consistent payments and low credit utilisation will increase your chances of approval.

Ready to Apply?

If you meet these criteria, there’s no better time to apply for the Aeroplan Reserve Card. Click here to get started.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

The Aeroplan Reserve Card offers some of the most extensive travel insurance coverage available, giving you peace of mind wherever your travels take you.

Protect Yourself on Every Trip

From emergency medical coverage to trip cancellations, this card has you covered. Apply today to enjoy premium insurance coverage when you travel.

Review of the Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card: Is It Worth the $599 Annual Fee?

The Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card more than justifies its $599 annual fee for frequent travellers and Aeroplan enthusiasts. The welcome bonus of up to 130,000 Aeroplan points, worth an estimated $2,600, offers tremendous upfront value. Additionally, perks like complimentary Maple Leaf Lounge access, Priority Pass membership, and Toronto Pearson Airport priority services provide a luxurious and stress-free travel experience. Frequent flyers can also unlock a companion pass by spending $25,000 annually, saving significantly on Air Canada flights.

The card’s robust earning rates (3x points on Air Canada, 2x on dining, 1.25x on everything else) and extensive insurance coverage, including $5,000,000 emergency medical insurance and trip cancellation/interruption protection, add to its overall value. If you frequently fly with Air Canada, value exclusive travel perks, and spend enough to maximize the benefits, the Aeroplan Reserve Card is well worth the annual fee. However, casual travellers or those who don’t prioritize Air Canada may find better value with other cards.

Rewarding Redemption Options

Aeroplan points earned with this card can be redeemed for:

• Air Canada and partner airline flights: Maximise your points’ value by booking premium cabin tickets on Air Canada and its partners.
• Free hotel nights: Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide.
• Travel upgrades, car rentals, and hotel stays.
• Merchandise and gift cards: A flexible option for those who want non-travel rewards.

Unlock the Value of Your Points

Redeem your points for incredible rewards. Apply now to start earning today.

Is the Aeroplan Reserve Card Right for You?

The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a perfect fit for:

• Frequent Flyers: Travellers who regularly book Air Canada flights and value lounge access, priority services, and companion passes.
• Aeroplan Members: Individuals looking to fast-track their way to elite status while earning substantial rewards.
• Luxury Travellers: Those who prioritise convenience and comfort during their travels.

Bottom Line

The Aeroplan Reserve Card is a standout choice for frequent flyers and Aeroplan enthusiasts who want to elevate their travel experiences. With exceptional earning potential, unparalleled travel perks, and comprehensive insurance coverage, this card offers incredible value for those who love to travel in style.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Make every trip extraordinary. Apply now for the Aeroplan Reserve Card and unlock a world of exclusive travel benefits.

View Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card Review: Is It Worth $599? on PointsWise.

Is the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card Card Worth It?

This review covers the American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card, which is perfect for business owners who frequently fly with Air Canada. This premium card combines valuable travel perks, generous rewards, and business tools to simplify expenses and enhance travel. With its extensive benefits, it’s a strong choice for high-spending Canadian business travellers.

Ready to experience the ultimate business travel card?
Apply now for the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card.

Review of Key Features for the Aeroplan Business Reserve Card

Earn Points Faster

• 3x Points on Air Canada Purchases: Earn 3 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on eligible purchases directly with Air Canada, including flights. Exclusions apply to purchases made through third-party websites, travel agents, and vacation packages.
• 2x Points on Hotels & Car Rentals: Earn 2 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on eligible hotel and car rental bookings directly with providers or through Amex Travel.
• 1.25x Points on Everything Else: Earn 1.25 Aeroplan points per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Welcome Bonus: Up to 140,000 Aeroplan Points

• Earn 65,000 points after you spend $10,500 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Earn an additional 45,000 points after you spend a total of $75,000 on your Card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership. 
• That’s up to $3,700 or more in value when you combine your bonus points and card benefits.
• Offer ends August 18, 2025!

Get up to 140,000 Aeroplan points today and unlock the ultimate travel rewards.

Want to compare this offer to other cards? Learn more about the best Amex welcome bonuses available right now.

Business Benefits

The Aeroplan Business Reserve Card isn’t just about travel—it’s a valuable tool for managing business expenses:

• Flexible Payment Options: Pay off balances over time or in full, depending on cash flow needs.
• Detailed Expense Reports: Quarterly and annual summaries simplify accounting and help you track spending.
• Supplementary Cards for Employees: Add no-fee cards for essential spending or upgrade to premium cards for additional perks.

Premium Travel Perks

Elevate every trip with exclusive travel benefits:

• Annual Worldwide Companion Pass: Earn a discounted companion pass when you spend $25,000 annually.
• Priority Services: Includes priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling on Air Canada flights.
• Maple Leaf Lounge Access: Enjoy a comfortable pre-flight experience with complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi.
• Preferred Pricing: Save on Aeroplan flight rewards with exclusive cardholder discounts.
• First Checked Bag Free: Save on baggage fees for up to 9 people on the same reservation.
• Toronto Pearson Perks: Enjoy priority security, valet parking, and discounted car services.

Apply now for premium travel perks and enjoy a smoother journey with Air Canada.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Travel worry-free with the Aeroplan Business Reserve Card’s extensive insurance benefits:

• Emergency Medical Insurance: Up to $5,000,000 in coverage for eligible medical expenses during trips up to 15 days (for those under 65).
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance: Up to $1,500 per person for cancellations and interruptions due to covered reasons.
• Flight & Baggage Insurance: Coverage of up to $1,000 for delays, lost luggage, or damage.
• Purchase Protection: Protects eligible purchases for up to 90 days against theft or damage.
• Car Rental Insurance: Automatically covers rental cars valued up to $85,000 when charged to your card.

Fees and Eligibility

• Annual Fee: CA$599
• Supplementary Card Fees: $199 for full benefits; no-fee options available.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%
• Eligibility Requirements:
  • Credit Score: 670+ recommended.
  • Business Revenue: Suggested minimum revenue of $50,000 annually.
  • Other: Must provide business details, including registration and revenue information.

Check if you’re eligible and apply today.

Who Should Get the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card?

This card is ideal for:

• Frequent Air Canada Flyers: Maximize rewards and enjoy exclusive perks like lounge access and preferred pricing.
• Canadian Business Owners with High Spending: With accelerated earn rates and detailed expense tools, this card helps optimize business expenses.
• Travellers Who Value Insurance: Robust coverage ensures peace of mind for everything from trip cancellations to emergency medical needs.

Start earning 3x points on Air Canada today.

Final Thoughts

The Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card is an excellent choice for Canadian business owners who frequently travel with Air Canada. While the annual fee is steep, the card’s premium benefits, high rewards rates, and comprehensive insurance make it worth the investment for frequent travellers. If your business spending aligns with the earning categories, this card offers exceptional value.

Don’t wait—apply for the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card today and unlock a world of travel rewards.

View Is the Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card Worth It? Full Review on PointsWise.

Introduction

Are you looking for a credit card that turns your everyday purchases into extraordinary travel experiences? The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is designed for savvy Canadian travellers who love maximizing rewards. If you want to earn free nights at luxurious Marriott brand hotels, this card offers incredible value.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the card’s features, benefits, and how it can help you elevate your travel game. Whether you’re a frequent Marriott guest or just starting your journey into travel rewards, we’ll help you decide if this card is right for you.

Looking to elevate your travel game? Click here to learn more about the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card!

How to Earn the Welcome Bonus

Earning the 110,000-point welcome bonus is straightforward and a major draw for new cardmembers.

• Experience Amex’s best offer this year on the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card 
• New Marriott Bonvoy American Express Cardmembers earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy points
• Earn 65,000 points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Earn an additional 30,000 points after you spend a total of $20,000 on your card in your first 12 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 15,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership.
• Offer ends August 18, 2025!

Compare this ultra-high welcome bonus to other Amex Cards in Canada: Best Amex Welcome Bonuses in Canada (2025) – Up to 150,000 Points

Here are some tips to reach the spending requirement quickly:

• Charge recurring monthly bills to your card.
• Use the card for groceries, dining, and everyday expenses.
• Plan ahead by making large purchases you’ve been considering.

Ready to claim your welcome bonus? Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card today!

Card Fees

The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card comes with an annual fee of $120, making it one of the more affordable travel rewards cards. There’s no additional fee for supplementary cards, so you can extend the benefits to a family member.

Be mindful of the 2.5% foreign transaction fee, which applies to purchases made outside of Canada. However, the value from points earned on your spending often outweighs these fees for frequent travellers.

How to Earn Rewards

This card’s points earning structure is simple yet rewarding:

• 5 points per $1 spent at Marriott Bonvoy properties. This includes eligible purchases at Marriott hotels, retail establishments like Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques, and online gift card purchases.
• 2 points per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Keep in mind that only purchases made directly with Marriott qualify for the 5x multiplier, so bookings through third-party sites won’t earn as many points.

How to Redeem Points

Marriott Bonvoy points are incredibly flexible, offering numerous redemption options:

Hotel Stays

Use your points for free nights at Marriott properties worldwide, including luxury brands like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and W Hotels. Booking off-peak stays or using points for room upgrades can maximize value.

Flight Redemptions

Transfer your points to over 40 airline partners for flights. Many programs, like Aeroplan and British Airways Avios, offer favourable transfer ratios, making this a fantastic way to redeem your points.

Unlock incredible redemptions with the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card.

Amex Experiences and Benefits

With this card, you gain access to Amex Experiences, including:

• Front of the Line® presale tickets for concerts and events.
• Exclusive access to premium lounges and venues, like Massey Hall.
• Amex Offers, which provide discounts at popular retailers and restaurants.

These perks go beyond travel, adding value to your everyday lifestyle.

Insurance Benefits

Travel with confidence, knowing the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card offers comprehensive insurance coverage:

• Travel Accident Insurance: Up to $500,000.
• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Up to $2,000 per insured person.
• Flight and Baggage Delay Insurance: Up to $500 for essential items and accommodations.
• Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance: Up to $500 per trip.

This level of protection ensures peace of mind while travelling.

Travel Benefits

Annual Free Night Award: Stay for Free Every Year

One of the most valuable perks of the Marriott Bonvoy Card is the Annual Free Night Award. After your first card anniversary, you’ll receive a certificate redeemable for a night at Marriott properties valued at up to 35,000 points.

This benefit alone can offset the card’s annual fee, as stays at luxurious hotels often exceed the cost of holding the card. Use it for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a stopover during your travels. Popular redemption options include brands like The Westin, Sheraton, and Le Méridien.

Automatic Silver Elite Status: A Gateway to Elite Perks

As a cardmember, you automatically qualify for Silver Elite Status in the Marriott Bonvoy program. This includes:

• Priority late checkout: Enjoy more flexibility with your travel schedule.
• 10% bonus points on stays: Boost your points earnings when you book directly with Marriott.
• Room preferences: Get a better room based on your preferences whenever available.

Silver Elite Status enhances your stays with thoughtful upgrades and conveniences, ensuring every trip feels elevated.

Gold Elite Status: Unlock Premium Rewards

Frequent travellers who spend $30,000 annually on their Marriott Bonvoy Card will enjoy an automatic upgrade to Gold Elite Status. This tier includes additional perks like:

• Enhanced room upgrades: Receive upgrades to premium rooms, including those with better views and extra amenities.
• 2 PM late checkout: Relax and enjoy your stay without rushing to meet an early checkout time.
• 25% bonus points on stays: Accelerate your rewards with increased earning potential.

If you combine the card’s 15 Elite Night Credits with just 10 paid nights, you can also achieve Gold Elite Status without meeting the annual spending threshold.

Fast-Track to Elite Status

Your card includes 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year, a significant boost toward earning higher status levels in the Marriott Bonvoy program. These credits apply automatically and count toward achieving:

• Platinum Elite: At 50 nights, unlock perks like free breakfast and guaranteed room upgrades.
• Titanium Elite: At 75 nights, enjoy even more exclusive benefits, including suite upgrades and additional welcome gifts.

For travellers looking to climb the elite ladder, this feature saves time and increases the value of your Marriott Bonvoy membership.

Access to Marriott’s Global Portfolio

With Marriott Bonvoy, you have access to the world’s largest collection of luxury and mid-range hotels, spanning over 7,000 properties in 130+ countries. This includes iconic brands like:

• The Ritz-Carlton: Renowned for its unmatched luxury and impeccable service.
• St. Regis: Offering refined elegance and personalized touches.
• W Hotels: For modern travellers who appreciate bold design and unique experiences.

Your Marriott Bonvoy points can also unlock unforgettable experiences, from Michelin-starred dining to rejuvenating spa treatments.

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

The referral bonus offered by the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is an incredible way to boost your points quickly. 

By sharing your referral link with friends and family, you can earn 10,000 points per referral, up to 150,000 points annually. That’s enough for free nights at luxurious Marriott properties or valuable airline transfers. It’s a simple and effective way to maximize your rewards while helping others enjoy the card’s benefits.

Start earning referral bonuses today—share your Marriott Bonvoy referral link now!

Who Should Get the Marriott Bonvoy Card?

The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is an excellent choice for Canadian travellers looking to maximize their rewards and enjoy exclusive benefits. Here’s who it’s best suited for:

Frequent Marriott Hotel Guests

If you regularly stay at Marriott properties, this card is a must-have. You’ll earn up to 5 points per $1 spent on eligible stays and gain access to perks like free hotel nights and elite status boosts.

Travellers Seeking Flexible Rewards

With redemption options including free hotel nights, flight transfers to over 40 airline partners, and unique experiences, this card offers unmatched flexibility for travel enthusiasts.

How to Get Approved

To qualify, you’ll need:

• A good credit score (670+).
• Stable personal income, such as $35,000–$70,000 annually, making it accessible to salaried employees and freelancers with consistent earnings.
• To be at least the age of majority in your province or territory.

If you meet these criteria and value premium travel experiences, the Marriott Bonvoy Card is a great addition to your wallet.

Ready to apply? Get the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card today!

Conclusion: Is the Marriott Bonvoy Card Worth It in Canada?

If you’re a Canadian traveller looking for a credit card that offers flexibility, exceptional value, and hotel benefits, the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is a standout option. With a 110,000-point welcome bonus, an annual free night award, and access to Marriott’s 7,000+ properties worldwide, this card can transform your everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences.

The $120 annual fee is easily justified by the value it delivers. From elite status boosts to comprehensive travel insurance, the card is packed with features that frequent and occasional travellers alike will appreciate. Whether you’re booking luxury stays, redeeming points for flights, or planning your next adventure, the Marriott Bonvoy Card opens up endless possibilities.

For Canadians who love to travel smart and maximize their rewards, this card is absolutely worth it.

Don’t miss out—apply for the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card today and start turning your travel dreams into reality!

View Review: Is the Marriott Bonvoy Card Worth It for Canadian Travellers? on PointsWise.

Review Updated May 2025: I recently revisited the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and was able to enjoy the Executive Lounge again – this time on a beautiful sunny day overlooking False Creek. While many elements remain unchanged, there are some key updates to access policies, service hours, and the food and beverage offerings that are worth noting.

My original review was written in 2018, just seven months after the hotel first opened. Now, seven years later, I’ve returned to do a full update. I was invited by JW Marriott to experience the lounge again for review purposes; however, all opinions are my own.

Book Direct: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, BC 

Marriott Bonvoy Executive Lounge Access – 2025 Update

As of 2025, the Executive Lounge at JW Marriott Parq in Vancouver, BC can be accessed in several ways: through elite Marriott Bonvoy status, by booking an eligible room type, or by purchasing access directly.

Complimentary Access for Marriott Bonvoy Elite Members

The following Marriott Bonvoy members receive complimentary lounge access at properties with an Executive Lounge, M Club, Concierge Lounge, or similar:

• Platinum Elite (50+ nights/year)
• Titanium Elite (75+ nights/year)
• Ambassador Elite (100+ nights/year + $23,000 USD annual spend)

Lounge access includes entry for the eligible Marriott Bonvoy member, plus one guest. This benefit applies at all participating hotels, including the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver.

To enjoy Executive Lounge access, you’ll need at least Platinum Elite status.

Fast-Track Lounge Access with a Credit Card Shortcut

There’s a shortcut for Canadian travellers:
The American Express Canada Marriott Bonvoy Card gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year, helping you get 30% of the way to Platinum just by being a cardmember.

Additional perks include:

• 5x points on Marriott stays
• An annual Free Night Award (worth up to 35,000 points)
• Automatic Silver Elite status

Learn More: A Beginner’s Guide to Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Benefits in Canada

If you stay at Marriott properties even a few times a year, this card helps you unlock better perks faster, including lounge access once you reach Platinum.

• Read the full Amex Marriott Bonvoy Card Review
• Read the full Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business Card Review

Booking a Room with Lounge Access Included

Some rooms at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver include Executive Lounge access. If you’re not a Platinum Elite or higher, booking one of these room types is a great way to enjoy the lounge without needing to meet Marriott’s annual stay requirement for Elite status.

Look for room descriptions that say “Executive Lounge Access Included” when booking directly through Marriott. 

Book Direct: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, BC 

Purchasing Lounge Access

If you don’t have Elite status and aren’t staying in a qualifying room, you can still buy daily lounge access:

Lounge Access Rates (per day):

• Adults: $150 CAD
• Youth (11–17): $100 CAD
• Children (13 months–10 years): $50 CAD
• Infants (0–12 months): Free

This includes breakfast, evening appetizers, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. Bar service is available separately for purchase.

Getting Into the Lounge & Hours

The Executive Lounge is located on the 4th floor (Conference Level) and requires key-card entry. There’s a check-in desk at the entrance, but during our visit it wasn’t staffed. This may vary depending on the time of day or hotel occupancy.

Lounge Hours (as of May 2025)

Monday – Friday: 6:30 am – 10:00 PM

• Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:00 am
• Bar Service: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
• Appetizers: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
• Desserts: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 am – 10:00 PM

• Breakfast: 7:00 am – 10:30 am
• Bar Service: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
• Appetizers: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
• Desserts: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Book Direct: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, BC 

JW Marriott Parq Executive Lounge Seating

The lounge offers a mix of seating options – comfy chairs, small tables, and TV zones. There’s also a dedicated office nook with a desk and printer (though the printer was out of service during our visit). TVs had the NHL playoffs on, so it’s a nice place to watch the game before carrying on with your evening.

The space itself is airy and bright, with a peaceful view overlooking False Creek. There’s a private washroom for lounge guests, and plenty of casual seating for relaxing with a drink or snack. That said, dining tables are limited and can fill up quickly during food service, so you may find yourself using the lower lounge tables, which aren’t ideal for eating a full plate.

Evening Appetizers / Hors D’Oeuvres

We arrived around 5:15 pm and basic snacks like apples, pretzels, and candy were available. 

Staff mentioned bar service officially starts at 5:30pm, despite signage indicating 5:00pm. Bar service included wine, beer, and spirits available for purchase.

Once service began, staff were friendly and proactive. They wiped down tables and let guests know appetizers would begin at 5:30. The food presentation was excellent, and attention had clearly been paid to dietary needs. Many items were helpfully labelled:

• D (contains dairy)
• DF (dairy-free)
• G (gluten-free)
• N (contains nuts)
• NF (nut-free)

While the offerings were creative and thoughtfully prepared, they’re presented as appetizers – not a full dinner. If you arrive with a big appetite, you may need to go back for seconds or plan for a proper meal afterward. We enjoyed sampling everything, but it’s best thought of as an upscale snack service rather than a replacement for dinner.

Desserts and Beverages

There were a number of cookies, candy, and chips that were available all day, as well as a few plated options offered during dessert service including mini apple pies, hazelnut chocolate financiers, and Spanish cheesecake. 

Non-alcoholic drinks were available in the fridges, and a self-serve coffee and tea bar was fully stocked. The sparkling water dispenser was out of order, but canned JW-branded sparkling water was available.

JW Marriott Executive Lounge Breakfast Buffet

Breakfast continues to impress! On our most recent stay, the selection was even better than I remembered. An extensive spread that covered everything from hot dishes and fresh fruit to pastries, yogurt, oatmeal, cured meats, and specialty coffee. Sunday morning was quite busy due to the Vancouver Sun Run, but staff kept things well stocked, clean, and were dialed in to guest needs throughout the busy morning service.

I can’t say enough good things about the breakfast buffet – the variety and quality were very impressive and would satisfy any taste buds. For a longer stay, you certainly wouldn’t get tired with all the options available. In my opinion, the breakfast buffet offers better value and is more traditional than the evening appetizers.

In-Room Welcome Amenity

We stayed in a standard room during this visit and were lucky to have a stunning view of False Creek, Science World and The Plaza of Nations on a clear, sunny day from our room, as well as the lounge.

Adding to the experience was a thoughtful welcome amenity delivered to our room.

Read the Review (2018 edition): JW Marriott Parq Vancouver Hotel Review, Standard Room, Water View

JW Marriott Vancouver Executive Lounge Review – Bottom Line

If lounge access is included with your room or Marriott Bonvoy Elite status, it adds a lot of value to your stay. The breakfast offering alone is worth taking advantage of, and the staff’s attentiveness during service was appreciated.

Evening service felt more hit or miss, and while the food was thoughtful and well presented, it won’t fill the gap for those expecting a full dinner. If you’re thinking of paying the $150 access fee out of pocket, it may be worth considering whether you’ll get enough use to justify the price, especially with other excellent dining options inside the hotel and the attached Parq Casino.

Still, the experience is polished and peaceful, with stunning views and a quiet atmosphere that feels exclusive without being stuffy.

If you’re looking to fast-track your way to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite and enjoy perks like Executive Lounge access at properties like this one, the American Express Canada Marriott Bonvoy Card or Bonvoy Business Card can help get you there faster. Both cards offer 15 Elite Night Credits annually, 5x points on Marriott stays, and an annual Free Night Award-making them a strong value even for casual travellers.

Book Direct: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, BC 

Have you experienced the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver Executive Lounge? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

View JW Marriott Parq Vancouver Executive Lounge Review (2025) on PointsWise.

Intro: Why the Amex Cobalt Card Deserves a Spot in Your Wallet

The American Express Cobalt Card has become a favourite among Canadian travellers, foodies, and everyday spenders alike. With standout earn rates on groceries, dining, streaming, and transit, it delivers real-world value where most people actually spend.

But is it still worth it in 2025? And how does it compare to other popular Amex cards in Canada?

In this review, I’ll break down the actual value of the welcome bonus, point-earning potential, referral perks, and redemption options based on years of data and personal experience. I’ll also cover important details many reviews skip – like hidden fees and approval odds – to help you make an informed choice.

If you’re wondering whether American Express is a smart choice overall, start here:

• Are American Express Cards Worth It for Canadians?
  

Let’s take a closer look at what the Amex Cobalt offers – and whether it fits your lifestyle and goals.

Cobalt Card Details: What You Need to Know

The American Express Cobalt Card is a mid-tier credit card, built for Canadian consumers who want to earn serious points on everyday purchases. With flexible Membership Rewards points, strong category multipliers, and a monthly fee structure, it’s a top choice for those who want high value without a premium price tag.

Unlike other travel rewards cards, the Cobalt Card focuses on where most people actually spend – groceries, dining, streaming, gas, and transit. It’s especially popular with young professionals, frequent diners, and anyone who wants to rack up points fast.

Related: How to Use Amex at Grocery Stores in Canada
Bonus Tip: How to Use Your Amex Card at Superstore

Apply now for the Cobalt Card and start earning 5x on eats!

Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 15,000 Points

The Amex Cobalt Card offers a monthly welcome bonus of up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points. You’ll earn 1,250 points each month when you spend $750 or more in that billing period, for the first 12 months.

This structure spreads the bonus out over time instead of offering a large upfront payout. While it’s ideal for those with consistent monthly spending, it may be less appealing if you’re looking to unlock a high-value bonus quickly.

Learn More:

• How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus
• Cobalt bonuses have peaked in the past, see the full bonus history.

Missing a monthly target means missing that month’s bonus, with no option to catch up later. If you’re consistent with spending on food, groceries, and transit, this bonus is easy to earn.

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card

Card Fees: What Does the Amex Cobalt Really Cost?

The Amex Cobalt Card has a monthly fee of $12.99, totalling $155.88 annually. While that’s on par with other mid-tier rewards cards, the monthly model offers flexibility if you’re not ready to commit to a full annual fee upfront.

There are no fees for adding additional cards, which is helpful if you’re sharing spending with a partner or family member.

However, like all Amex cards in Canada, a 2.5% foreign transaction fee applies on purchases made in non-Canadian currencies. This is a common blind spot for travellers.

Card Benefits & Insurance

The Amex Cobalt Card comes with strong travel and shopping insurance, exclusive experiences, and flexible rewards redemption options – making it one of the best mid-tier cards in Canada.

Travel & Shopping Insurance Highlights

• $5 million emergency medical coverage (up to 15 days, under age 65)
• Flight & baggage delay insurance – up to $500 for meals, hotels, and essentials
• Lost or stolen baggage – up to $500 per trip
• Car rental coverage for vehicles up to $85,000
• Mobile device insurance – up to $1,000
• Extended warranty & purchase protection
  

Everyday Perks

• Amex Offers – rotating deals on shopping, dining, and more
• Front of the Line access to concerts and events
• Exclusive Access at select Canadian venues
• Hotel Collection benefits like late checkout and $100 USD credit
  

Want the full list of perks? Read our deep dive:
Amex Cobalt Card Benefits in Canada

Reward Rates: Maximize Points on Your Everyday Spending

The Amex Cobalt Card is built around real life spending. With strong earn rates on food, transit, and streaming, it’s one of the best options in Canada if you want to rack up points fast on everyday purchases. You’ll earn Membership Rewards points, which can be incredibly valuable when used the right way.

Each category includes detailed rules on what qualifies, so we’ve broken those down here:

• How to Earn Amex Cobalt Membership Reward Points
  • How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 5x Points on Food & Drinks
  • How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 3x Points on Streaming Services
  • How to Earn 5x the Points on Gas with Amex Cobalt
  • How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 2x Points on Travel & Transit
  • How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 1x Points on Everything Else

If your monthly grocery or dining bill is over $2,500, consider pairing the Cobalt with another Amex card to keep earning at higher rates.

Referral Bonuses: Earn 5,000 Points Per Approved Friend

The Amex Cobalt Card makes it easy to earn extra Membership Rewards points through referrals. As a cardholder, you can earn 5,000 points each time someone applies through your referral link and is approved.

You can refer up to 15 people per year, allowing you to earn up to 75,000 points annually – a value of about $750 if redeemed at 1 cent per point.

Your referee will receive the standard welcome bonus (15,000 points over 12 months) when they meet the spend requirement, so everyone wins.

• How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Referral Bonus

Once you’re approved, you’ll get access to your personalized referral link through your Amex online account. This is a powerful way to boost your points without extra spending.

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card

Redemption Power: Unlock Maximum Value From Your Points

The Amex Cobalt earns Membership Rewards points, one of the most valuable and flexible loyalty currencies in Canada. While you can redeem points for gift cards, statement credits, or Amazon purchases, the best value by far comes from transferring points to airline and hotel partners.

Top transfer partners include Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways/Iberia), Marriott Bonvoy, and Hilton Honors. Most transfers to Aeroplan and Avios are instant, while Marriott Bonvoy can take up to 48 hours.

Here’s where you really start to see the value:

• Vancouver to Toronto, round-trip in economy with Aeroplan = around 25,000 MR points, often worth $500+ in cash fares (a solid redemption value of 1.8 to 2.4 cents per point!)
• Toronto to New York, round-trip in business class with Aeroplan = ~20,000 MR points.
• Vancouver to Tokyo in ANA business class via Avios (partner booking through British Airways) = around 75,000 MR points.
• 7-night hotel stay in Montreal using Marriott Bonvoy (transfer 60,000 MR = around 72,000 Bonvoy points).
• Last-minute domestic flights that would otherwise cost $700+ can often be booked for 10,000–20,000 Aeroplan points.

Each of these redemptions can offer 2–5 cents per point in value – far exceeding the standard 1 cent per point baseline.

Explore more options:
Best Ways to Use Membership Rewards in Canada

Hidden Costs to Consider

While the Amex Cobalt Card offers exceptional earning potential, there are a few costs and limitations worth knowing upfront.

1. 2.5% Foreign Transaction Fee

Despite being positioned as a great travel card, the Cobalt still charges a 2.5% fee on purchases in non-Canadian currencies. If you travel often or shop online from U.S. retailers, these fees can add up quickly. This is one area where it falls short compared to some no-FX-fee cards in Canada.

2. Limited Acceptance

Although Amex acceptance is growing, some independent shops, contractors, and even big box stores still don’t take it. It’s smart to carry a Visa or Mastercard as a backup, especially for property tax payments, utility bills, or smaller local markets where Amex still isn’t accepted.

See Where to use Amex Cobalt Card to Earn 5x Points

3. No Airport Lounge Access

Unlike the Platinum or Aeroplan Reserve cards, the Cobalt doesn’t offer lounge access – even for a fee. If that’s a must-have perk for you, this might not be the right primary card.

That said, for daily spending and flexible rewards, the value still outweighs these limitations for most cardholders.

Approval Odds: Is It Hard to Get Approved for the Cobalt Card?

The Amex Cobalt is one of the more accessible rewards cards in Canada. While American Express doesn’t publish exact requirements, approval typically favours applicants with a credit score of 670 or higher and a stable personal income.

Most successful applicants fall into the $35,000 to $70,000 annual income range – whether salaried, self-employed, or gig workers with reliable earnings. You’ll also need to be the age of majority in your province or territory.

Good credit history and a few years of credit activity help, but even newer credit profiles have success, especially with no history of missed payments or high utilization.

• Is it Hard to Get Approved for an Amex Cobalt Card?

Conclusion: Is the Amex Cobalt Right for You?

The Amex Cobalt Card offers an impressive mix of value, flexibility, and everyday earning potential. With up to 15,000 points in your first year, generous multipliers on essential spending, and access to exclusive Amex perks, it continues to stand out in Canada’s competitive credit card market.

That said, it’s not perfect. The 2.5% foreign transaction fee, limited acceptance in some areas, and lack of premium perks like lounge access might make it a secondary card for some.

So, is it the best choice for you?

If you spend consistently on food, transit, and streaming, want to earn flexible travel points, and prefer monthly fees over upfront annual costs, the Cobalt Card delivers excellent long-term value.

Still comparing Amex Cards? Check out:

• Amex Gold vs. Amex Cobalt
• Amex SimplyCash vs. Amex Cobalt
• Is the Amex Cobalt Card Worth It in Canada?
  

Ready to earn 5x points on your everyday spending?
Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Amex Cobalt Card worth it in Canada?
Yes, if you spend regularly on food, groceries, streaming, and transit, the Cobalt Card offers excellent long-term value. It earns flexible Membership Rewards points and comes with strong insurance and perks for a mid-tier fee.

What is the income requirement for the Amex Cobalt Card?
American Express doesn’t publish an official income requirement, but most approved applicants report earning between $35,000 and $70,000 per year with a good credit score (670+).

Can I use the Amex Cobalt Card at Costco or Walmart?
Costco only accepts Mastercard in-store, so the Amex Cobalt won’t work there. Walmart accepts Amex online but not in-store at all locations. You can use your Cobalt Card at most major grocery stores and online food retailers in Canada.

How many points do you need to fly from Vancouver to Toronto with Amex points?
A round-trip economy flight booked through Aeroplan typically costs around 25,000 Membership Rewards points (transferred 1:1). This is one of the best redemptions for domestic travel in Canada.

Apply now for the Cobalt Card and start earning 5x on eats!

Related Posts

Every Amex Canada Welcome Bonus Since 2019: See the Highs, Lows, and Trends

May 15, 2025

Review: Unlock 5x Rewards with the Cobalt Card: Food, Travel & More

April 8, 2025

Amex SimplyCash vs. Amex Cobalt – Best Everyday Spending Card?

March 28, 2025

Amex Cobalt vs. Amex Gold (Which is Better in Canada?)

March 11, 2025

View Review: Unlock 5x Rewards with the Cobalt Card: Food, Travel & More on PointsWise.

Intro

When it comes to everyday purchases—think groceries, gas, and dining out—choosing the right credit card can make a big difference in how quickly you earn rewards. Two of the top American Express cards in Canada for daily spending are the Amex Cobalt Card and the Amex SimplyCash Card.

But which one gives you more value on your everyday purchases?

In this post, we’ll break down how these two no-fee and low-fee options stack up. And if you’re considering higher cash back potential, you may also want to check out the Amex SimplyCash Preferred Card review, a premium version of the SimplyCash with even more earning power.

Let’s take a look:

CANADA: APPLY NOW! SimplyCash from American Express

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to $100 bonus cash back

Annual Fee:

$

0

Rewards:

Earn

Apply Now!

Card Details

The Amex Cobalt Card offers flexible Membership Rewards that can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, and more. It’s ideal for people who spend heavily on food, drinks, and transit and want strong value from their everyday spending.

The Amex SimplyCash Card is a cashback card that’s easy to use and doesn’t require a points strategy. It’s a great choice for anyone new to rewards cards or looking for a simple way to earn money back without overthinking it.

Ready to Apply?

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card!

Apply for the Amex SimplyCash Card!

Welcome Bonuses

The Cobalt Card offers more total value, but it requires consistency.
The SimplyCash Card gives you faster rewards with less commitment.

Learn More: Cobalt’s bonus has reached 50,000 – see the welcome bonus trends for a comparison.

Card Fees

CANADA: APPLY NOW! SimplyCash from American Express

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to $100 bonus cash back

Annual Fee:

$

0

Rewards:

Earn

Apply Now!

CANADA: APPLY NOW! American Express Cobalt Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to 15000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

155.88 ($12.99/mo)

Rewards:

Earn

5x

points

on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.

Apply Now!

Card Benefits & Insurance

The Cobalt Card is built with travel and lifestyle in mind. Perks like The Hotel Collection, premium venue access, and deeper Amex Offers integration make it a strong choice if you’re planning getaways or enjoy events. While the SimplyCash Card shares some Amex Experiences and Offer access, it doesn’t carry the same depth of benefits.

Travel Benefits & Experiences

Insurance Coverage

Are you a frequent traveller? The Cobalt Card is clearly the stronger pick for travel perks, protection, and redemption flexibility.

The SimplyCash Card offers a solid base with purchase protection and extended warranty, but lacks most travel-specific insurance.

Ready to Apply?

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card!

Apply for the Amex SimplyCash Card!

Reward Rates

Amex Cobalt – Earn Flexible Points

The Cobalt Card is built for everyday spenders who want to maximize rewards across food, transit, and entertainment. The standout here is the 5x earn rate on groceries and dining, which can add up quickly, especially for families or anyone who eats out often.

Amex SimplyCash – Straightforward Cashback

The SimplyCash Card keeps things simple, with solid earn rates on essentials and no points to manage.

Which Card Wins?

If you’re comfortable using points and redeeming them strategically (especially for travel), the Cobalt Card delivers more value-especially on food and grocery spending. But if you want a no-fuss solution with cash back you don’t have to think about, the SimplyCash Card offers consistent value with no annual fee.

Referral Bonuses

Referral bonuses can help offset annual fees-or stack up toward your next trip.

Amex Cobalt Referral Bonus

As a Cobalt cardholder, you can earn:

• Per Referral Bonus: 5,000 points
• Annual Max: 75,000 points
• Value per Referral: $50 (based on 1¢/point)

Refer 3 friends to the Amex Cobalt, and you’ve earned 15,000 extra points-enough for a short-haul round-trip flight with the Fixed Points Travel Program.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! American Express Cobalt Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to 15000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

155.88 ($12.99/mo)

Rewards:

Earn

5x

points

on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.

Apply Now!

CANADA: APPLY NOW! SimplyCash from American Express

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to $100 bonus cash back

Annual Fee:

$

0

Rewards:

Earn

Apply Now!

Amex SimplyCash Referral Bonus

The SimplyCash Card offers a smaller referral bonus, but it’s still a nice perk considering the card has no annual fee.

• Per Referral Bonus: $25 cash back
• Annual Max: $375
• Value per Referral: $25

Ready to Apply?

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card!

Apply for the Amex SimplyCash Card!

Redemption Power: Which Card Gets You Further?

Want to fly for less? The Cobalt Card gives you far more potential-especially if you’re willing to transfer points or use Fixed Points Travel.

Want simple savings? The SimplyCash Card puts money back in your pocket without the extra steps.

Amex Cobalt: Flexible Rewards with Travel Potential

Cobalt earns Membership Rewards points, which are some of the most flexible rewards in Canada. You can redeem for:

• Travel through Amex Travel at 1,000 points = $10
• Transfer to partners like Aeroplan, Avios, Marriott, and Hilton
• Fixed Points Travel Program, where 15,000 points can cover a round-trip short-haul flight
• Statement credits at 1,000 points = $10
• Amazon or PayPal purchases at 1,000 points = $7 (poor value)
• Gift cards, merchandise, or even charitable donations.

Real-Life Example: Travel vs. Statement Credit

Let’s say you spend $1,000/month on groceries and dining with the Cobalt Card. That’s 5,000 points/month, or 60,000 points/year just from that one category.

• Redeemed for statement credits: 60,000 pts = $600
• Transferred to Aeroplan: Potentially worth $1,000+ in flights

So if you’re working toward a future trip, the Cobalt Card can easily cover a round-trip flight, or even multiple flights, depending on how you redeem.

SimplyCash: Straightforward Cash in Hand

The SimplyCash Card earns cash back, credited to your statement once a year (September billing cycle). There’s no need to track points or transfer to partners.

• Redemption Rate: 1 dollar earned = 1 dollar off your statement
• No categories to worry about when redeeming
• No travel partners or bonus portals to manage

Real-Life Example: Simple Savings Add Up

Let’s say you spend $1,000/month on groceries and gas combined, earning 2% cashback.

• $12,000/year × 2% = $240 cashback
• Add another $12,000 in miscellaneous spend at 1.25% = $150 cashback
  Total Annual Cashback: $390 (no tracking, no strategy)

Best for: People who want to set it and forget it. Cashback shows up automatically,

Hidden Costs to Consider

Before you apply, it’s important to look beyond rewards and welcome bonuses. Here are some things to consider:

1. Foreign Transaction Fees

Both cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee, which applies to purchases made outside Canada-or even online in a foreign currency.

2. Monthly Cap on Cobalt’s 5x Bonus

The Cobalt Card’s 5x earn rate on food and groceries is capped at $2,500 in combined spend per month. Anything beyond that drops to just 1x.

3. Annual Cashback Timing on SimplyCash

The SimplyCash Card only pays out cashback once per year, in your September statement. You won’t see monthly credits or be able to use the cashback throughout the year.

4. Limited Acceptance for Amex Cards

American Express cards, while widely accepted in major cities and online, aren’t accepted everywhere-especially at some grocery chains (e.g. No Frills, Costco) or smaller businesses.

5. Redemption Value Can Vary with Cobalt

If you’re not using points for travel, you might not get full value from the Cobalt Card. While the Cobalt Card offers flexible redemptions, not all options are equal.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! American Express Cobalt Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to 15000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

155.88 ($12.99/mo)

Rewards:

Earn

5x

points

on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.

Apply Now!

Approval Odds

Which Card Is Easier to Get Approved For?

While both cards have similar approval requirements, the SimplyCash Card is considered an entry-level product, which may be slightly easier to qualify for if you’re new to credit cards or building credit history.

The Cobalt Card is a mid-tier product with a monthly fee, but if your credit score is in good standing and you have reliable income, your chances are solid.

Ready to Apply?

Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card!

Apply for the Amex SimplyCash Card!

Final Comparison: Which Card Is Better for You?

Both the Amex Cobalt and Amex SimplyCash are excellent everyday cards-but they’re built for different goals.

• Choose the Cobalt Card if you want maximum rewards on food, transit, and streaming, plus travel perks, insurance coverage, and the flexibility to turn points into flights, statement credits, or hotel stays. This card offers serious long-term value, especially for anyone who’s focused on travel or already spending heavily in bonus categories.
• Go with the SimplyCash Card if you prefer straightforward cashback with no annual fee. It’s a low-maintenance card that delivers consistent value on groceries, gas, and everyday purchases-no points strategy required.

Learn More:

• Read the full Amex Cobalt Card Review.
• Read the full SimplyCash Card Review.
• Or if you’re looking to earn even more cashback, check out the SimplyCash Preferred Card Review.

Compare More:

• The Amex Cobalt Card vs Amex Gold (Which is Better in Canada?)

Ready to Apply?

Apply today using the links below to get your welcome bonus and support this site at no extra cost:

• Apply for the Amex Cobalt Card – Earn 15,000 points.
• Apply for the Amex SimplyCash Card – Earn $100 cashback.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! SimplyCash from American Express

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to $100 bonus cash back

Annual Fee:

$

0

Rewards:

Earn

Apply Now!

View Amex SimplyCash vs. Amex Cobalt – Best Everyday Spending Card? on PointsWise.

Introduction

Two of the best travel rewards cards in Canada come from American Express: the Amex Gold Rewards Card and the Amex Platinum Card. But which one is right for you? If you’re spending big and chasing VIP travel perks, the Platinum might be calling your name. If you’re looking for value-packed rewards on everyday spending, the Gold is hard to beat.

In just 10 easy steps, this guide will help you compare both cards and choose the best one. We’ll break down bonuses, benefits, travel perks, and hidden costs to help you decide which card works best for your travel goals. Plus, we’ll give you real-world spending examples and redemption scenarios, so you can see exactly what each card can do for you.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! The Platinum Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

100000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

799

Rewards:

Earn

2

Points

for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada

Apply Now!

1. Card Details: The Essentials

The Amex Gold Rewards Card is a solid all-rounder, ideal for Canadians who spend heavily on groceries, gas, and travel but don’t want to pay a massive annual fee.

The Amex Platinum Card is built for frequent travellers who want premium perks, including unlimited airport lounge access, elite hotel status, and luxury travel benefits.

2. Welcome Bonuses: Which One Gets You More?

If you’re spending over $3,300 per month, the Amex Platinum delivers a huge bonus upfront. But if that’s too steep, the Amex Gold spreads out its bonus over a year, making it much easier to achieve for most people.

Learn More: Want to compare their historical welcome offers? Here’s the full chart.

What Can These Points Get You?

• 60,000 Amex Gold Points: A round-trip flight from Toronto to Vancouver in economy via Aeroplan, or 4 nights at a Marriott Bonvoy Category 3 hotel.
• 100,000 Amex Platinum Points: A one-way business class flight to Europe, or a luxurious stay at a 5-star hotel in New York, Paris, or Tokyo.

If you can hit the Platinum’s spending requirement, go for it. Otherwise, the Gold is a safer bet for steady rewards.

Bonus: Use your Marriott points to cover the cost of a 4-night stay and get the 5th night free.

Learn More: Explore More Posts about the Amex Platinum Card in Canada

Learn More: Explore More Posts about the Amex Gold Rewards Card in Canada

3. Card Fees: Is the Platinum Worth 3x the Price?

$799 per year sounds steep, but you’re paying for luxury, exclusivity, and a seamless travel experience.

• Airport lounges alone can justify the cost—with unlimited access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and Plaza Premium, you’ll always have a quiet place to relax before your flight.
• Hotel perks like Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Gold status get you room upgrades, late check-outs, and complimentary breakfast.
• Annual travel credits put $200 back in your pocket every year.

If you travel often and use these perks, the Platinum easily pays for itself. If you’re a more casual traveller, the Gold’s $250 fee is much more manageable while still offering great travel benefits.

4. Travel Benefits: Where Platinum Leaves Gold in the Dust

Platinum = VIP Travel Perks.

With unlimited airport lounge access, you’re skipping the chaos of crowded terminals and relaxing with complimentary food, premium drinks, and high-speed Wi-Fi before your flight.

Hotel status perks? Say hello to free upgrades, late checkouts, and welcome gifts at some of the world’s top hotels. And with Fine Hotels & Resorts, Platinum cardholders get exclusive benefits like $100 property credits, free breakfast, and guaranteed late checkouts.

Insurance Benefits

Both cards come with strong travel insurance and purchase protections, but the Amex Platinum offers higher coverage limits and more premium protections.

If you want comprehensive protection for your trips, the Platinum is the way to go.

5. Reward Rates

The Amex Gold Rewards Card wins for most Canadians due to its higher everyday spending multipliers.

Spending Simulator

For everyday spending, Amex Gold is the clear winner. If groceries, gas, and travel make up a big chunk of your spending, you’ll earn more points with the Gold. If dining and travel perks matter more, the Platinum wins.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! American Express Gold Rewards Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to 60000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

250

Rewards:

Earn

2

points

for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada

Apply Now!

CANADA: APPLY NOW! The Platinum Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

100000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

799

Rewards:

Earn

2

Points

for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada

Apply Now!

6. Referral Bonuses

Gold Card Referrals: Earn up to 70,000 points each year when you refer a friend. Your friend can receive up to 60,000 points when they meet the spending requirements.

Platinum Card Referrals: Earn up to 140,000 points per referral each year, while your referee can receive up to 100,000 points with their welcome offer.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Gold Referral Bonus in Canada

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus in Canada

The Amex Platinum Canada Has the Best Referral Bonus

If you frequently refer friends, family, or business partners, the Amex Platinum’s referral program is the most lucrative in the Canadian travel credit card market.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus in Canada

7. Redemptions: What Do Your Points Get You?

Both Cards are Membership Rewards Cards that can be transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs equally. But if you’re flying with your Amex Platinum? Expect priority check-in, fast-tracked security, airport lounge access, and even champagne before takeoff. This is a game-changer if you love a premium travel experience, making long-haul flights less stressful and more enjoyable.

8. Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond the annual fees, there are a few costs to keep in mind:

• Foreign transaction fees: 2.5% on non-Canadian purchases.
• Additional cardholder fees: $250 for extra Platinum cards, $50 for additional Gold cards.
• Lounge guest fees: Some lounges charge for guests beyond your included access.

9. Approval Odds

If you have a strong credit history and high income, the Platinum is within reach. The Gold is easier to get approved for and a great first premium travel card.

10. Final Comparison: Which Card Should You Get?

The Amex Gold Rewards Card is perfect if you want big rewards on everyday spending without a sky-high annual fee. You’ll earn fast on groceries, gas, and travel, and still have access to great travel redemptions.

The Amex Platinum Card is built for luxury travellers who fly frequently. If you want VIP perks, unlimited lounge access, top-tier hotel benefits, and first-class travel experiences, this is the card for you.

Still undecided? Ask yourself:

• Do you spend heavily on travel and dining? Platinum is your best bet.
• Do you want to maximize grocery and gas spending? Gold wins here.
• Do you travel often and want premium perks? Platinum all the way.
• Do you prefer a lower annual fee? Gold is the smart choice.

Whichever card you choose, you’re getting one of the best travel rewards cards in Canada.

Learn More: Full Review: Is the Amex Gold Card Canada’s Best Travel Rewards Card?

Learn More: Amex Platinum Card Canada Review 2025: Luxury Travel Benefits Worth $799?

Apply Now!

Apply for the Amex Gold Rewards Card!

Apply for the Amex Platinum Card!

And if you liked this comparison article, be sure to check out our other post: Amex Cobalt vs. Amex Gold (Which is Better in Canada?)

CANADA: APPLY NOW! The Platinum Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

100000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

799

Rewards:

Earn

2

Points

for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada

Apply Now!

View Amex Platinum vs. Amex Gold Canada – Which is Worth It for Travel? on PointsWise.

Introduction

Trying to decide between the Amex Cobalt and Amex Gold Rewards Card? In just 10 easy steps, this guide will help you compare both cards and choose the best one based on bonuses, fees, benefits, rewards, and more.

CANADA: APPLY NOW! American Express Cobalt Card

Welcome Bonus:

Earn

up to 15000 Amex points

Annual Fee:

$

155.88 ($12.99/mo)

Rewards:

Earn

5x

points

on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.

Apply Now!

When it comes to travel rewards credit cards in Canada, two of the most popular choices are the American Express Cobalt Card and the American Express Gold Rewards Card. Both offer access to Amex Membership Rewards points, valuable perks, and flexible redemption options. However, depending on your spending habits, one card may suit you better than the other.

1. Card Details

The Amex Gold Rewards Card stands out with its metal design, while the Cobalt Card is plastic. However, both cards earn Membership Rewards points and fall into the mid-level card category.

2. Welcome Bonuses

The Amex Gold Rewards Card has a significantly higher welcome bonus of 60,000 points, valued at $600 compared to 15,000 points ($150) on the Cobalt Card.

Learn More: Want to compare their historical welcome offers? Here’s the full chart.

3. Card Fees

The Cobalt Card charges a monthly fee of $12.99 instead of an annual fee, making it easier to manage for some users. The Gold Rewards Card costs more upfront but includes a free first supplementary card.

4. Card Benefits (Including Insurance)

Travel & Lifestyle Perks

Amex Gold Rewards Card

The Gold Rewards Card is the winner here. This card is ideal for frequent travelers, offering premium benefits like:

• Four complimentary Plaza Premium Lounge passes per year—perfect for relaxing before flights.
• It also provides a $100 Annual Travel Credit, which helps offset costs on eligible bookings through Amex Travel Online.
• Additionally, cardholders receive a $50 NEXUS credit every four years, making border crossings smoother.

But if you want luxury travel benefits, be sure to check out the Amex Platinum Card in Canada.

Amex Cobalt Card

While the Cobalt Card is strong on everyday spending categories, its travel benefits are limited. It does offer Front of the Line presale tickets and access to exclusive experiences, but it lacks the premium travel benefits of the Gold Card.

Learn More: How to Get the Best Concert Seats with Amex Presales

Insurance Coverage

The Gold Rewards Card offers better travel insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption coverage, which the Cobalt Card lacks.

5. Reward Rates

If you spend heavily on dining, groceries, and food delivery, the Cobalt Card’s 5x rate makes it the better choice. However, the Gold Rewards Card earns 2x points on travel bookings, making it appealing for frequent travellers.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 5x Points on Food & Drinks

6. Referral Bonuses

The Gold Rewards Card has a higher referral bonus for both the referrer and the referee, making it the better choice for those who frequently refer friends and family.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Referral Bonus

7. Redemption Power: Which Card Gets You Further?

Cobalt Card for Everyday Spenders

Stronger for everyday spenders—5x on food can rack up points quickly, but the $2,500/month cap limits how much you can maximize.

Gold Rewards Card for Travel

Best for travel redemptions—comes with better Aeroplan and Avios transfer rates, making it ideal for frequent flyers.

If you’re looking to redeem for flights, the Gold Rewards Card provides more value with better transfer flexibility to airline programs. However, if your spending is food-heavy, the Cobalt Card’s 5x earning rate makes up for its weaker transfer ratios.

8. Hidden Costs to Consider

The Cobalt’s 5x earn rate on food, drinks and groceries is capped at $2,500/month. If you go over this, you only earn 1x on extra spending.

The Gold Rewards Card has a $250 annual fee, but the $150 in travel credits offsets some of this cost.

Both cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee, so neither is ideal for frequent international purchases.

9. Approval Odds

American Express Canada does not publicly disclose a specific income requirement for these cards. However, a stable income and good credit history can improve your chances of approval. 

If you’re ready to see if you qualify, click here to apply now for the Gold Rewards Card, or apply for the Cobalt Card.

10. Final Comparison: Which Card is Better for You?

Best For	Amex Cobalt Card	Amex Gold Rewards Card
Dining & groceries
Travel rewards & insurance
Lower monthly fee
Higher welcome bonus
More accessible approval

Choose the Amex Cobalt Card if you spend heavily on dining and groceries and prefer a lower monthly fee.

Choose the Amex Gold Rewards Card if you want better travel benefits, insurance, and a higher welcome bonus.

Is the Gold Rewards Card Right For You?

Right now, the Amex Gold Rewards Card’s 60,000-point welcome bonus is one of the best we’ve seen – worth up to $600 in travel. Don’t miss it!

Apply for the Gold Rewards Card!

Is the Cobalt Card Right For You?

If your focus is on maximizing points on dining and groceries, the Amex Cobalt Card’s 5x points on food is a game-changer. For many, it’s the fastest way to rack up Membership Rewards points for everyday spending.

Apply for the Cobalt Card!

Still can’t decide? Check out our full reviews of the Cobalt and Gold Cards, or check out our full Amex reviews to compare in even more detail.

And if you’re considering the Platinum Card as well, check out our comparison post: Amex Platinum vs. Amex Gold – Which is Worth It for Travel?

View Amex Cobalt vs. Amex Gold (Which is Better in Canada?) on PointsWise.

Introduction

American Express has long been associated with premium credit cards and top-tier travel rewards programs. As one of the leading credit card providers in Canada, Amex offers a diverse range of options tailored to suit different lifestyles, spending habits, and financial goals. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a small business owner, or someone looking to maximize everyday purchases, there’s an Amex card for you.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best American Express cards available in Canada for 2025, helping you find the perfect fit. From lucrative travel rewards to cashback options, this comparison will make your decision easy. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started.

Why Choose an Amex Card?

American Express sets itself apart from other credit card providers in Canada with its superior rewards programs, exceptional customer service, and exclusive perks. Here are some of the top reasons why an Amex card might be the right choice for you:

Generous Rewards Programs

From flexible Membership Rewards to Aeroplan points, Amex cards are known for offering high earn rates and flexible redemption options.

Learn More: Use our bonus history tracker to help choose your next card.

Travel Perks

Enjoy benefits like lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance, and hotel upgrades with select cards.

Excellent Customer Service

Amex’s 24/7 customer support is consistently rated among the best in the industry.

Unique Cardholder Benefits

Access presale tickets to major events, exclusive dining experiences, and valuable partner offers.

Whether you’re looking to earn points, save on everyday purchases, or enjoy luxury travel perks, Amex offers unmatched value.

Types of Amex Cards in Canada

American Express offers a variety of credit cards catering to different needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories and top cards in each. Click the links to read detailed reviews of each Amex card:

Aeroplan Credit Cards

• Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
• Aeroplan Card
• Aeroplan Reserve Card

Perfect for frequent Air Canada travellers, these cards allow you to earn Aeroplan points quickly while enjoying travel perks like priority boarding and lounge access.

Membership Rewards Credit Cards

• Business Gold Rewards Card
• Business Platinum Card
• Cobalt Card
• Gold Rewards Card
• Green Card
• Platinum Card

Membership Rewards is one of the most flexible programs, offering points that can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, and transfers to airline partners.

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

• Marriott Bonvoy Business Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Card

For those loyal to the Marriott Bonvoy program, these cards offer excellent earning potential on hotel stays and travel-related expenses.

Cashback Credit Cards

• SimplyCash Card
• SimplyCash Preferred Card

Simple and straightforward, these cards reward you with cash back on everyday purchases, with no complicated redemption processes.

Budget Friendly Cards

• Green Card
• Essential Card

These low- or no-fee cards provide great value for budget-conscious users who still want to earn rewards.

How to Choose the Best Amex Card

When deciding on the best American Express card for your needs, consider these key factors:

Spending Habits

Are your expenses focused on dining, groceries, or travel? For example, the Cobalt Card is a great option for foodies and frequent travellers.

Rewards Program Preferences

Do you prefer the flexibility of Membership Rewards, or are you loyal to programs like Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy?

Lifestyle Goals

Are you looking for luxury travel perks, cashback on everyday purchases, or budget-friendly options?

Budget

Consider the annual fees versus the benefits offered. High-annual-fee cards like the Platinum Card provide significant perks, while budget-friendly options like the SimplyCash Card are ideal for low-maintenance rewards.

Taking the time to match your financial habits and goals with the right card ensures you’ll get the most value.

Compare Amex Cards in Canada

Below is a comparison of the best Amex cards in Canada for 2025:

Top Pick! Cobalt

• Category: Membership Rewards
• Best For: Dining and Groceries
• Key Perks: High earn rates on dining and groceries
• Annual Fee: $155.88 ($12.99/month)
• Apply Now!

Aeroplan Business Reserve

• Category: Aeroplan
• Best For: Frequent Air Canada Travellers
• Key Perks: Priority boarding, lounge access, earn Aeroplan points
• Annual Fee: $599
• Apply Now!

Aeroplan Card

• Category: Aeroplan
• Best For: Everyday Aeroplan Earning
• Key Perks: Earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases
• Annual Fee: $120
• Apply Now!

Aeroplan Reserve

• Category: Aeroplan
• Best For: Premium Travel
• Key Perks: Travel perks, accelerated Aeroplan earning
• Annual Fee: $599
• Apply Now!

Business Gold Rewards

• Category: Membership Rewards
• Best For: Small Business Rewards
• Key Perks: Flexible rewards, business expense management
• Annual Fee: $199
• Apply Now!

Business Platinum

• Category: Membership Rewards
• Best For: Luxury Business Travel
• Key Perks: Premium travel perks, high rewards rates
• Annual Fee: $799
• Apply Now!

Gold Rewards

• Category: Membership Rewards
• Best For: Versatile Rewards
• Key Perks: Accelerated points on gas, groceries, and travel
• Annual Fee: $250
• Apply Now!

Green

• Category: Budget Friendly
• Best For: No-Fee Rewards
• Key Perks: Flexible rewards with no annual fee
• Annual Fee: $0
• Apply Now!

Marriott Bonvoy Business

• Category: Marriott Bonvoy
• Best For: Frequent Marriott Stays
• Key Perks: High earn rates at Marriott hotels
• Annual Fee: $150
• Apply Now!

Marriott Bonvoy

• Category: Marriott Bonvoy
• Best For: Casual Marriott Stays
• Key Perks: Earn points on everyday and travel spending
• Annual Fee: $120
• Apply Now!

Platinum

• Category: Membership Rewards
• Best For: Luxury Travel
• Key Perks: Lounge access, hotel upgrades, travel insurance
• Annual Fee: $799
• Apply Now!

SimplyCash

• Category: Cashback
• Best For: Everyday Cashback
• Key Perks: Straightforward cashback on all purchases
• Annual Fee: $0
• Apply Now!

SimplyCash Preferred

• Category: Cashback
• Best For: Higher Cashback Rates
• Key Perks: Competitive cashback rates
• Annual Fee: $119.88 ($9.99/month)
• Apply Now!

Essential

• Category: Budget Friendly
• Best For: No-Fee Option
• Key Perks: Low interest fees for carrying a balance
• Annual Fee: $25
• Apply Now!

FAQs

What are the main types of Amex cards available in Canada?

Amex offers several categories of cards, including travel rewards, cashback, business cards, and budget-friendly options. Each category is designed to meet specific financial and lifestyle needs.

Which Amex card is best for frequent travellers?

The Platinum Card and Aeroplan Reserve Card stand out for their exceptional travel perks, including lounge access, travel insurance, and accelerated rewards on travel expenses.

What Amex card is best for grocery and dining rewards?

The Cobalt Card is unmatched for grocery and dining rewards, offering a high earn rate on these categories.

Are there Amex cards with no annual fees?

Yes, the SimplyCash Card and Green Card are excellent no-fee options for budget-conscious users.

What’s the best Amex card for small business owners?

The Business Platinum Card and Business Gold Rewards Card provide robust rewards and tools for managing business expenses effectively.

Best Amex Cards in Canada: Final Recommendations

Here are our top picks by category:

Best for Travel

Platinum Card

Read the Platinum Card Review.

Apply Now!

Best for Everyday Spending

Cobalt Card

Read the Cobalt Card Review.

Apply Now!

Best for Business

Business Platinum Card

Read the Business Platinum Card Review.

Apply Now!

Best Cashback Card

SimplyCash Preferred Card

Read the SimplyCash Preferred Card Review.

Apply Now!

Best Budget Friendly Rewards Card

Green Card

Read the Green Card Review.

Apply Now!

To explore the full details and benefits of each card, check out our in-depth reviews. Ready to earn rewards? Click the “Apply Now” button and start maximizing your spending today!

Conclusion: What’s Next?

American Express offers some of the best credit cards in Canada, tailored to suit a variety of lifestyles and financial goals. Whether you’re looking for luxurious travel perks, everyday cashback, or budget-friendly rewards, there’s an Amex card for you.

Still undecided? Explore our full reviews for each card or apply now to start earning rewards today!

View Best Amex Cards for Canadians: Compare & Review (2025 Edition) on PointsWise.

Introduction: Is the Amex Essential Card Right for You?

If you’re exploring low-interest credit card options in Canada, the American Express Essential Card deserves your attention. This card is designed for Canadians who value straightforward, manageable fees and interest rates. With a standout low interest rate of 12.99%, it’s an excellent choice for those who may occasionally carry a balance but want to avoid high borrowing costs.

Looking for a straightforward, low-interest card with premium benefits? Apply for the Amex Essential Card today.

Affordable Card Fees

One of the most appealing aspects of the Amex Essential Card is its straightforward fee structure. With an annual fee of $25, it’s one of the most affordable low-interest cards available in Canada.

Additional fees include:

• Purchase interest rate: 12.99%.
• Cash advance interest rate: 12.99%, an uncommon feature for this category.
• Foreign transaction fee: 2.50%.

The lack of hidden fees or excessive charges makes this card a predictable and reliable choice for Canadians focused on budget management.

How to Get Approved for the American Express Essential Card

Approval for the American Express Essential Card typically requires a stable income and a good credit score, though Amex may consider applicants with slightly lower scores.

Requirements include:

• A minimum credit score of approximately 670.
• Income stability, typically in the range of $35,000–$70,000 annually.
• Residency in Canada and the age of majority in your province or territory.

Think you qualify? Start your application for the Amex Essential Card here.

Low Interest Rates: For Carrying a Balance

The Amex Essential Card shines with its exceptionally low interest rate of 12.99%. For those who occasionally carry a balance, this rate is far below the industry standard of around 19.99%, significantly reducing borrowing costs.

Additionally, the 12.99% cash advance rate is a standout feature, offering flexibility for financial emergencies without excessive penalties. While carrying a balance is never ideal, this card helps minimize the impact when it’s unavoidable.

Who Is This Card For?

The Amex Essential Card is ideal for Canadians seeking simplicity, affordability, and practical benefits. It’s particularly suited for:

• Budget-conscious individuals who prefer a low annual fee and interest rate.
• Occasionally carry a balance: The 12.99% interest rate is significantly lower than most entry-level cards, making it a safer option if a balance is unavoidable.
• Young adults looking to build credit: Responsible use of this card can help establish a solid credit history.
• Those who need an affordable option for a cash advance in an emergency situation.
• Canadians who value Amex Experiences and the exclusive perks that come with it.

If you’re looking for a rewards-heavy card, this might not be the best fit. However, for those prioritizing financial predictability, it’s a strong contender.

Does this sound like you? Apply for the American Express Essential Card now.

Amex Experiences: Exclusive Benefits for Cardholders

Even without a rewards program, the Amex Essential Card provides access to Amex Experiences, which adds significant value. Perks include:

• Front-of-the-line access to concerts, theatre shows, and special events.
• Exclusive dining and shopping deals through Amex Offers.
• Access to premium lounges and priority service at major venues like Massey Hall and Mirvish Theatres.

These benefits enhance the card’s appeal, especially for those who enjoy entertainment and lifestyle perks.

Insurance Coverage

The Amex Essential Card offers insurance benefits to protect both your purchases and travel plans. These include:

• Travel Accident Insurance: Up to $100,000 in coverage for you, your spouse, and dependent children when tickets are purchased with the card.
• Purchase Protection: Covers eligible items against accidental damage or theft for up to 90 days, with a maximum of $1,000 per claim.
• Extended Warranty: Doubles the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible items, adding up to an additional two years of protection.

These features provide peace of mind, especially for frequent travellers and those making high-value purchases.

Conclusion: Is the Amex Essential Card Right for You?

The American Express Essential Card offers simplicity, affordability, and valuable perks. While it lacks a traditional rewards program or sign-up bonus, its 12.99% interest rate, $25 annual fee, and access to Amex Experiences make it a smart choice for budget-conscious Canadians. 

When selecting a credit card, it’s important to assess your financial habits and priorities. Low-interest cards like the Amex Essential are ideal for individuals who occasionally carry a balance or value minimal fees. Evaluate what matters most to you—whether it’s rewards, low interest, or premium perks—and choose your card accordingly.

Ready to take control of your finances? Get started with the Amex Essential Card here.

View Amex Essential Card Review: Carry a Balance Without Breaking the Bank on PointsWise.

Introduction

The Amex SimplyCash Preferred Card is a standout option for Canadians who want to earn significant cashback and enjoy premium benefits. Offering 4% cashback on gas and groceries, along with 2% on all other purchases, this card provides excellent rewards for everyday spending.

Plus new cardholders can also take advantage of an exciting welcome bonus that provides a fantastic earning boost during the first three months.

With its impressive cashback rates, top-tier insurance coverage, and exclusive benefits, the SimplyCash Preferred Card delivers exceptional value. 

Apply now to take advantage of everything this card has to offer.

How to Earn the Welcome Bonus

The SimplyCash Preferred Card features an enticing welcome bonus that offers real value for new cardholders. When you spend $2,000 in the first three months, you’ll earn 10% cashback, resulting in up to $200 in rewards. Additionally, making a purchase during the 13th month of card membership will earn you a $50 statement credit, bringing the total welcome bonus to $250.

To maximize this offer, focus your spending on everyday essentials like groceries, gas, and utility bills during the initial three months. Larger planned purchases, such as home appliances or travel expenses, can also help you reach the spending threshold quickly. This bonus is one of the card’s most exciting features, providing immediate value.

Don’t miss out on this incredible welcome offer. Apply today.

Card Fees

The SimplyCash Preferred Card offers a competitive fee structure that balances affordability with premium rewards. Here’s a breakdown of the card’s fees:

• Annual Fee: $9.99 per month, totalling $119.88 annually.
• Additional Card Fee: $0
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%.
• Cash Advance Rate: 21.99%.
• Purchase Interest Rate: 21.99%.
• Penalty APR: 25.99% to 28.99% variable.

This fee structure is competitive compared to other cashback cards in Canada, especially considering the premium rewards and benefits included.

For those who spend heavily on gas, groceries, and everyday purchases, the cashback potential far outweighs the modest annual fee.

Click here to apply for the SimplyCash Preferred Card today.

How to Earn Rewards

The SimplyCash Preferred Card offers a competitive rewards structure that helps maximize your cashback on everyday purchases. With 4% cashback on gas and groceries (up to $30,000 in annual spending per category) and 2% cashback on all other purchases, this card is an excellent all-rounder for Canadian households. Once the annual spending cap of $30,000 is reached in the enhanced categories, the cashback rate drops to 2%.

Real-Life Examples of Earning Cashback

To illustrate how much cashback you can earn, let’s break it down using typical spending scenarios:

Example 1: Monthly Household Spending

Imagine a family with the following monthly expenses:

• Gas: $500
• Groceries: $800
• Other purchases: $1,000 (dining, shopping, subscriptions, etc.)

Here’s how the cashback adds up:

• Gas: $500 × 4% = $20 per month ($240 per year)
• Groceries: $800 × 4% = $32 per month ($384 per year)
• Other purchases: $1,000 × 2% = $20 per month ($240 per year)

Total Annual Cashback: $240 (gas) + $384 (groceries) + $240 (other purchases) = $864 per year.

Example 2: Maximizing the Spending Cap

For high spenders who reach the $30,000 annual cap in the enhanced categories (gas and groceries), here’s the potential cashback:

• Gas and Groceries: $30,000 × 4% = $1,200 annually.
• Additional Spending in Gas/Groceries After the Cap: Earns 2% cashback.
• All Other Purchases: Assuming an additional $10,000 annually at 2%, that’s $200.

Total Annual Cashback for High Spenders: $1,200 (capped categories) + $200 (additional purchases) = $1,400 annually.

Keep in mind that certain purchases, such as groceries at wholesale clubs, superstores like Walmart, or alcohol retailers, do not qualify for the 4% cashback rate. With careful spending, the SimplyCash Preferred Card makes it easy to earn hundreds—or even over a thousand—dollars in cashback each year.

How to Get Approved

Although there is no publicly stated minimum credit score or income requirement, we recommend a good credit score of 670 or higher and a moderate to high annual income, generally between $50,000 and $100,000. Dual-income households or mid-level professionals often meet these requirements. Applicants must also meet the age of majority in their province or territory.

This card is designed for responsible borrowers who can maximize its rewards.

Ready to apply? Check your eligibility and get started here.

How to Redeem Cashback

Redeeming cashback is effortless with the SimplyCash Preferred Card. Rewards are automatically credited to your September statement every year, ensuring you never miss out on your earnings. This simplicity is a major advantage for busy professionals who want a hands-free rewards experience.

Unlock your rewards potential with the SimplyCash Preferred Card. Apply now.

Amex Experiences and Benefits

American Express is known for its exclusive perks, and the SimplyCash Preferred Card is no exception. Cardholders enjoy Front Of The Line presale access, allowing them to secure tickets to popular events before the general public. Amex Offers provide discounts and savings on dining, shopping, and entertainment, with new deals added regularly.

Insurance Coverage

The SimplyCash Preferred Card comes with comprehensive insurance coverage, making it a reliable companion for travellers and shoppers. Key benefits include:

• Travel Medical Insurance: Up to $5,000,000 in coverage for eligible medical expenses when travelling outside your province or country (for trips up to 15 days for those under 65).
• Flight and Baggage Delay Insurance: Up to $500 in coverage for delays of four or more hours.
• Car Rental Theft and Damage Insurance: Coverage for vehicles valued up to $85,000.
• Purchase Protection: Protection for up to 90 days on eligible purchases, with a limit of $1,000 per incident.

Feel secure with comprehensive insurance coverage. Apply for the SimplyCash Preferred Card today.

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

The SimplyCash Preferred Card offers a valuable referral program. Cardholders can earn $200 cashback for every friend or family member who successfully applies for the card. There is no cap on the number of referrals, making this a powerful way to earn additional rewards.

Sharing your referral link through social media, email, or word of mouth can help you maximize these earnings. Each referral brings you closer to even greater cashback rewards.

Start earning referral bonuses today by sharing the SimplyCash Preferred Card.

Conclusion: Is the SimplyCash Preferred Card Right For You?

The Amex SimplyCash Preferred Card is an excellent choice for young professionals, families, and frequent travellers who want to maximize rewards on everyday spending. With its 4% cashback on gas and groceries, 2% cashback on all other purchases, and a generous welcome bonus, this card offers outstanding earning potential.

Beyond cashback, the SimplyCash Preferred Card delivers exceptional value through comprehensive insurance coverage and exclusive perks like Amex Experiences and Front Of The Line® access. For just $9.99 per month, it provides premium benefits without the hefty price tag.

If you’re looking for a reliable and rewarding cashback card that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, the SimplyCash Preferred Card is a top choice. 

Don’t wait—start earning 4% cashback and take advantage of this card’s incredible benefits today.

View Earn Big: 4% Cashback on Gas, Groceries & More with Amex SimplyCash Preferred Card (Review) on PointsWise.

Introduction

The SimplyCash Card from American Express stands out as one of the best no-annual-fee credit cards in Canada. With a $0 annual fee and the ability to earn up to 2% cashback on everyday purchases, this card delivers excellent value for both everyday spenders and savvy travellers.

On top of that, the SimplyCash Card offers an impressive welcome bonus to help you start earning rewards right away, making it an easy choice for Canadians looking to get the most from their spending. Whether you’re fueling up at the pump, stocking up on groceries, or paying for everyday essentials, this card is designed to put money back in your pocket.

Ready to experience the benefits of the SimplyCash Card? Apply now!

How to Earn the Welcome Bonus

New cardholders can take advantage of one of the most generous offers available: Earn 5% cashback on all purchases, up to $2,000, in the first three months. That’s an extra $100 cashback just for using your card for everyday expenses—a great way to kickstart your rewards.

Qualifying for the welcome bonus is simple: Spend $2,000 within the first three months of card membership, and the cashback will be automatically credited to your account. For most Canadian households, this spending threshold is easily met through routine purchases like groceries, gas, and monthly bills.

This bonus ensures immediate value and provides a strong start to your SimplyCash rewards journey. Don’t miss out—apply now!

Card Fees

The card’s interest rates are competitive for its category:

• Annual Fee: $0
• Supplementary Card Fee: $0
• Purchase Interest Rate: 21.99%
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%
• Cash Advance Interest Rate: 21.99%
• Penalty APR: 25.99%–28.99% variable

The SimplyCash Card keeps things affordable with no annual fee. Supplementary cards are also free, which is ideal for households that want to maximize cashback with multiple users. However, foreign transaction fees apply at 2.5%, so international travellers may need to consider this when making purchases abroad.

These rates are standard for entry-level cards and highlight the importance of paying balances in full to avoid interest charges.

How to Earn Rewards

The SimplyCash Card’s earning structure is straightforward, making it easy to understand where your cashback comes from. For everyday purchases, you’ll earn:

• 2% cashback on gas at stand-alone gas stations in Canada, up to $15,000 annually. After reaching this cap, you’ll earn 1.25%.
• 2% cashback on groceries at stand-alone grocery stores in Canada, also up to $15,000 annually. Purchases at superstores, wholesale clubs, and alcohol retailers are excluded from this category.
• 1.25% cashback on all other eligible purchases, with no cap.

Cashback Examples

Gas Spending

Frequent drivers will find the $15,000 annual cap on gas purchases to be more than sufficient for most budgets:

• Spending $1,250 per month on gas reaches the cap in 12 months, earning $300 cashback at the 2% rate.
• Even moderate drivers spending $500 per month would still earn $120 cashback annually, staying well below the cap.

Grocery Spending

Groceries are another category where the 2% cashback rate shines, and the $15,000 cap ensures high earning potential:

• A household spending $1,250 per month on groceries would hit the cap and earn $300 cashback annually.
• With a more modest grocery budget of $750 per month, you’ll earn $180 cashback annually, without approaching the cap.

These caps are designed to accommodate a wide range of spending habits, allowing most households to maximize rewards on gas and groceries while enjoying unlimited 1.25% cashback on all other eligible purchases.

How to Get Approved

The SimplyCash Card has accessible approval criteria, making it a practical choice for many Canadians. Applicants typically need a credit score of 670 or higher, along with a stable personal income. 

Although there is no publicly stated minimum income requirement, this card is well-suited for individuals earning between $35,000 and $70,000 annually, including salaried employees and freelancers with consistent income.

To qualify, you must also meet the age of majority in your province or territory. If you meet these straightforward criteria, applying is simple. 

Think you’re eligible? Apply for the SimplyCash Card now and start earning rewards!

How to Redeem Points

The SimplyCash Card is designed for simplicity, and its cashback redemption reflects this. Cashback is automatically credited to your American Express account annually in September. There’s no need to track points or worry about conversion rates—just enjoy your cashback as a statement credit.

While this card doesn’t offer point transfers to airline programs, its straightforward cashback rewards make it ideal for those who prefer ease of use.

Amex Experiences Benefits

One of the standout features of the SimplyCash Card is access to Amex Experiences, which includes a range of exclusive offers and events. Cardholders can enjoy:

• Front of the Line Presale Access for tickets to concerts, shows, and events, allowing you to secure seats before the general public.
• Exclusive Venue Perks, such as dedicated entrances, premium lounges, and priority service at top locations like Massey Hall.
• Amex Offers, which provide discounts and rewards at popular retailers, restaurants, and online shops.

These perks enhance the value of the card, especially for those who enjoy dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.

Insurance Coverage

The SimplyCash Card includes several valuable insurance benefits, offering peace of mind for purchases and travel:

• Travel Accident Insurance: Up to $100,000 in coverage for accidental death or dismemberment when travelling on a common carrier.
• Purchase Protection: Covers eligible items against accidental damage or theft for up to 90 days, with a limit of $1,000 per incident.
• Extended Warranty: Doubles the manufacturer’s warranty for up to two years, with coverage of up to $10,000 per item annually.

These features provide added security, making the card an excellent choice for both travellers and everyday spenders.

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

The SimplyCash Card’s referral program is a great way to earn even more rewards. For every successful referral, you’ll receive $100 cashback.

With a maximum of 25 referrals annually, you could earn up to $375 in additional cashback. This program is perfect for sharing the card’s benefits with friends and family while boosting your own rewards.

Start earning even more by referring friends—get your SimplyCash Card today!

Who Should Get This Card

The SimplyCash Card is ideal for Canadians who value cashback rewards and prefer a straightforward earning structure. It’s a great fit for:

• Everyday spenders who frequent gas stations and grocery stores.
• Individuals seeking a no-annual-fee card with meaningful perks.
• Those who want access to exclusive Amex Experiences without a premium fee.

If you’re looking for simplicity and high-value cashback, this card checks all the boxes.

Conclusion: Is the SimplyCash Card Right for You?

The SimplyCash Card offers excellent rewards and no annual fee, making it a top choice for Canadians seeking simplicity and value. Its cash back earning structure, exclusive Amex Experiences, and insurance coverage add significant appeal, especially for everyday spenders and occasional travellers.

If you’re looking for a simple, rewarding card that delivers real value without annual fees, the SimplyCash Card deserves your attention.  Apply for the SimplyCash Card here!

View No-Fee Canadian Card? Amex SimplyCash Offers Big Cashback (Review) on PointsWise.

Introduction to the Amex Platinum Card in Canada

For Canadian travellers looking to enjoy luxury travel rewards, the Amex Platinum Card is in a class of its own. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a luxury enthusiast, this metal card offers unmatched benefits, including impressive earning potential, exclusive travel perks, and access to unique experiences.

With one of the most generous bonuses in Canada, this offer provides exceptional value for those who can take advantage of it.

Ready to experience the best in travel rewards? Apply for the Amex Platinum Card now.

How to Earn the Amex Platinum Welcome Bonus

The welcome bonus is a significant draw for the Amex Platinum Card, offering up to 100,000 points.

Here’s how you can unlock this incredible bonus:

• Earn 70,000 points after spending $10,000 within the first three months.
• Earn an additional 30,000 points by making a purchase in months 14–17 of card membership.

These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and luxury experiences worth $1,000+, making this one of the most valuable bonuses available. Imagine turning those points into a first-class flight experience, complete with champagne and lie-flat seating, or a stay at a five-star resort with stunning ocean views.

Learn More: Platinum has offered up to 150,000 points – here’s the full breakdown.

Apply now.

Card Fees

The Amex Platinum Card comes with a $799 annual fee, but its extensive perks and rewards easily justify the cost. 

Additional fees include:

• $250 for supplementary Platinum cards.
• First two Gold cards free; $50 for each additional Gold card.

How to Earn Rewards

The Amex Platinum Card offers a straightforward and rewarding earning structure, making it easy to accumulate points quickly—especially if dining and travel are a significant part of your spending habits. Here’s how you can earn Membership Rewards points:

• 2x points on dining and food delivery in Canada:
  Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases at restaurants, quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, drinking establishments, and food delivery services whose primary business is food delivery (excluding groceries).
• 2x points on travel purchases:
  Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases for travel services or travel bookings, including airfare, lodging, and transportation via air, water, rail, and road (excluding local and commuter transportation).
• 1x points on all other eligible purchases:
  Earn 1 point per $1 on everyday purchases outside of dining and travel.

How to Redeem Points

One of the standout features of the Amex Platinum Card is the flexibility and value of Membership Rewards points. Whether you’re planning a luxurious getaway, covering everyday expenses, or indulging in exclusive experiences, the options are endless. 

Here’s how you can maximize your points:

Transfer Points to Travel Partners for Maximum Value

For travellers seeking the best return on their rewards, transferring points to hotel and airline loyalty programs is the key. The Amex Platinum Card offers seamless transfers to popular partners like:

• Airlines: Programs like Aeroplan and Avios unlock the potential for luxury flights.
  • Book a business-class seat to Europe or the Caribbean for fewer points than you’d expect. Imagine reclining in a lie-flat seat, sipping champagne, and savouring gourmet meals while flying to your dream destination.
  • Airline transfers often yield the best value per point, with some redemptions exceeding 2¢ per point—doubling the value of other options.
• Hotels: Transfer points to Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors for luxurious hotel stays.
  • Enjoy a free night in a five-star suite with ocean views, or upgrade to elite experiences like private villas or overwater bungalows.

Transfers give you the flexibility to choose premium travel experiences that would otherwise cost thousands of dollars, stretching your points further than simple cash equivalents.

Flights and Hotels with Amex Travel

For those who prefer straightforward booking options, the Amex Fixed Points Travel and Flexible Points Travel programs offer seamless ways to use your points:

• Fixed Points Travel: Redeem a set number of points for round-trip flights at competitive rates. For example, book a round-trip flight within North America starting at just 15,000 points.
• Flexible Points Travel: Use your points for virtually any travel expense, from airfare to car rentals, at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 credit. This program gives you the freedom to customize your travel without restrictions.

Everyday Use of Membership Rewards Points

Membership Rewards points aren’t just for big trips—they can add value to your everyday life:

• Shop with Points: Cover purchases on Amazon or at checkout with PayPal.
• Gift Cards and Statement Credits: Redeem points for gift cards to popular retailers or turn points into real-time savings on your statement.
• Donate to Charity: Use your points to give back, turning your rewards into meaningful contributions.

Why Transfers to Airlines Offer the Best Value

While all redemption methods provide flexibility, transferring points to airline programs typically delivers the highest value per point. A single transfer can turn a modest points balance into an extravagant experience:

• Use Aeroplan points for a lie-flat seat to Asia.
• Redeem Avios for a short-haul first-class flight within Europe.
• Enjoy access to unique airline partner alliances, giving you options across hundreds of routes and destinations worldwide.

With these strategies, you can stretch your points further and transform everyday spending into extraordinary travel experiences.

Unlock your next luxury getaway with points from the Amex Platinum Card. Apply here.

Travel Benefits

The Amex Platinum Card redefines what it means to travel in luxury. Here’s how it elevates every journey:

Effortless Airport Experiences

Start your trip stress-free with complimentary valet service and expedited security lanes at Toronto Pearson Airport. Before takeoff, unwind in Centurion Lounges, where gourmet dining, curated cocktails, and tranquil spaces await.

Unmatched Hotel Stays

Check into a Fine Hotels + Resorts property and enjoy perks like complimentary breakfast for two, room upgrades, late checkouts, and a $100 USD property credit. Imagine yourself in a suite with a view of the Paris skyline, sipping espresso as you plan your day.

Elite Travel Partners

With Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status, you’ll enjoy enhanced rooms, late checkouts, and extra points on every stay.

Ground Transportation Perks

Car rentals are seamless with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle Status, offering guaranteed upgrades and priority service.

Lounge Access Across the Globe

Relax in over 1,400 lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass and Delta Sky Club Lounges, where the chaos of airports melts away. Whether it’s a quiet retreat before boarding or a premium drink to celebrate your journey, you’re covered.

These benefits don’t just make travel more comfortable—they turn it into an indulgent experience.

Amex Experiences and Member Extras

Amex Platinum cardholders gain access to exclusive experiences and perks:

• Front of the Line Presales: Early access to tickets for concerts, shows, and events.
• Concierge Services: A dedicated team to assist with travel planning, dining reservations, and more.
• Amex Offers: Save on everyday purchases with discounts and bonus rewards.

These extras ensure cardholders are always treated to unique and memorable experiences.

Credit Rewards

The Amex Platinum Card provides generous annual credits that significantly offset the $799 annual fee, making it much more affordable for cardmembers. Here’s how you can take advantage of these valuable perks:

• $200 Annual Travel Credit: Each year, you’ll receive a $200 credit to use on travel bookings. For example, apply this credit toward a flight, hotel stay, or rental car, instantly reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
• $200 Annual Dining Credit: Savour fine dining experiences at some of Canada’s top restaurants. Enjoy an indulgent dinner or a special occasion meal, knowing $200 will be covered annually by your card.
• $100 NEXUS Credit: Every four years, receive up to $100 in statement credits for NEXUS application or renewal fees, making cross-border travel smoother and more convenient.

Together, these credits provide $400 in annual value, reducing the effective cost of the card to $399 per year for frequent travellers and dining enthusiasts. When combined with the extensive travel perks and earning potential, the Amex Platinum Card becomes an even more compelling choice.

Start enjoying these valuable credits today with the Amex Platinum Card. Apply now.

Insurance Benefits

Travel with peace of mind knowing the Amex Platinum Card offers extensive coverage:The Amex Platinum Card provides an extensive range of insurance benefits, ensuring peace of mind for every journey. These protections are among the most comprehensive offered by any credit card in Canada:

• $5,000,000 Emergency Medical Insurance: Up to $5,000,000 in coverage for eligible medical expenses while travelling outside your province or country for the first 15 days of your trip (for insured persons under 65).
• $500,000 Travel Accident Insurance: Coverage for accidental death or dismemberment when travelling on a common carrier.
• Trip Cancellation Insurance: Up to $2,500 per person (maximum $5,000 per trip) for non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel for a covered reason.
• Trip Interruption Insurance: Up to $2,500 per person (maximum $6,000 per trip) for interruptions or delays.
• Flight Delay Insurance: Up to $1,000 for expenses incurred during delays of four hours or more.
• Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance: Up to $1,000 per trip for checked or carry-on luggage.
• Baggage Delay Insurance: Up to $1,000 for essential items when baggage is delayed by six hours or more.
• Car Rental Theft and Damage Insurance: Covers rental vehicles valued up to $85,000.
• Extended Warranty: Doubles the original manufacturer’s warranty by up to two years, with coverage up to $10,000 per item and $25,000 annually.
• Purchase Protection: Protects eligible purchases from damage or theft for 120 days, up to $1,000 per occurrence.
• Hotel Burglary Insurance: Up to $1,000 in coverage for personal items stolen from your hotel room.

This comprehensive insurance makes the Amex Platinum Card an excellent card for both domestic and international travel.

Travel confidently with the Amex Platinum Card’s exceptional insurance benefits. Apply now.

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

The Amex Platinum Card stands out as the best card for maximizing referral rewards, offering an unmatched opportunity to earn up to 225,000 points annually through its referral program.

Here’s how it works:

• Earn 15,000 points for every successful referral.
• Refer up to 15 friends annually to hit the maximum of 225,000 points.

To put this into perspective, 225,000 points could cover two round-trip business-class flights to Europe, offering luxurious lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and priority service. Even referring just one friend earns you 15,000 points, enough for a short-haul flight within Canada or the U.S.

This program makes the Amex Platinum Card the top choice for earning referral bonuses, turning your recommendations into incredible travel opportunities.

Start earning referral rewards today with the Amex Platinum Card. Apply now.

Who Should Get the Amex Platinum Card?

The Amex Platinum Card is more than just a credit card; it’s a statement of success. 

Being a Platinum Cardmember carries an air of sophistication, offering access to exclusive experiences and luxurious benefits.

This card is ideal for:

• Financial responsibility: While there’s no stated minimum income, applicants should demonstrate financial stability and the ability to manage the card’s $699 annual fee comfortably. The focus is on your financial habits, not just your earnings.
• Those with strong credit: A Very Good credit score (740+) is typically required to qualify, reflecting the card’s exclusivity.
• Frequent travellers: Enjoy unparalleled travel benefits, including lounge access, elite hotel status, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
• Luxury seekers: From dining credits to members only experiences, the card is for individuals who appreciate the finer things in life.

The Amex Platinum Card is designed for those who see travel as an extension of their lifestyle—a way to explore the world with comfort, style, and unparalleled service. It’s not just a credit card; it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Take the first step toward Platinum Card membership and elevate your travel experiences. Apply now.

Conclusion

For the right cardholder, the Amex Platinum Card delivers exceptional value. The $400 in annual credits, 100,000-point welcome bonus, and luxury travel perks like lounge access and elite hotel status easily justify the fee for frequent travellers and high-income earners. Add in its comprehensive insurance coverage, and it’s clear this card is more than just a payment method—it’s a gateway to elevated experiences.

Ready to unlock the benefits of Platinum membership? Apply now.

View Amex Platinum Card Canada Review 2025: Luxury Travel Benefits Worth $799? on PointsWise.

Introduction

The American Express Green Card is a $0 annual fee travel rewards card for Canadians looking to maximize their travel rewards. With its Flexible Memberships Rewards Program, accessible earning rates, and Amex Experiences, it’s an excellent choice for both frequent travellers and everyday spenders. Whether you’re booking flights, dining out, or shopping online, this card ensures your hard-earned dollars work harder for you.

Ready to elevate your travel experiences? Apply for the Amex Green Card today!

Card Fees: What You Need to Know

The Amex Green Card offers competitive fees that make it a budget-friendly choice for rewards enthusiasts:

• Annual Fee: $0—making it one of the most accessible cards in its class.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5% on purchases outside Canada.
• Cash Advance Rate: 21.99%
• Penalty APR: 25.99%-28.99% variable.

With no annual fee, this card delivers significant value to travellers and shoppers.

How to Earn Rewards with the Amex Green Card

The Amex Green Card in Canada lets you earn Membership Rewards points on every purchase:

• 2x Points: Earn double the points on eligible hotel and car rental bookings made through the American Express Travel website.
• 1x Points: Earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Maximizing Earnings: Plan your travel bookings through Amex Travel to capitalize on the 2x bonus while using the card for everyday expenses to rack up points consistently.

How to Earn the Welcome Bonus

Welcome bonuses are a huge reason Canadians sign up for travel rewards cards, and the Amex Green Card doesn’t disappoint!

• Bonus Details: Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards points by spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of card membership.
• Value of the Bonus: Those 10,000 points are worth $100 when redeemed for statement credits or PayPal purchases. However, their value can soar when redeemed for flights or transferred to airline programs (more on that later).
• Strategic Spending: Focus your first three months of card use on recurring bills, travel bookings, and everyday purchases to hit the $1,000 spending threshold effortlessly.

Think about this—your first $1,000 in spending could already fund part of your next vacation with a 10,000 point head start. That’s money you’re already spending, turned into real travel rewards.

Don’t miss out! Apply for the Amex Green Card today and start earning your next adventure.

How to Redeem Points: Unlock Maximum Value

Membership Rewards points are renowned for their flexibility, and the Amex Green Card lets you make the most of them:

Flights and Hotels

• Fixed Points Travel Program: Use points to book flights with fixed redemption values—great for finding deals on domestic and international travel. For example, round-trip flights start at just 15,000 points.
• Flexible Points Travel Program: Redeem points for virtually any travel expense, including flights, hotels, and car rentals. Every 1,000 points equals $10 in travel value.

Transferring Points for Maximum Value

The real power of Membership Rewards lies in transferring points to airline and hotel loyalty programs:

• Aeroplan and Avios: Transfer points to Aeroplan or British Airways Avios for flight redemptions. This can unlock tremendous value, especially for premium cabin flights or international travel.
• Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors: Redeem points for luxurious hotel stays worldwide.
• Best Use Case: A savvy points transfer can turn 10,000 Membership Rewards points into a business class ticket valued at $500 or more.

Other Redemption Options

• Shop with points at Amazon or PayPal.
• Redeem points for gift cards or statement credits.
• Donate points to charity for a feel-good reward.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on limited-time transfer bonuses to get even more value out of your points.

Insurance Coverage: Peace of Mind on Your Journeys

The Amex Green Card includes insurance benefits to protect your purchases:

• Automatic Purchase Protection: Get 90 days of automatic protection, covering up to $1,000 per incident for eligible purchases. Enjoy worry-free shopping with coverage for accidental damage or theft, even if other insurance doesn’t apply—just charge the full purchase price to your card.
• Extended Warranty: Doubles the original manufacturer’s warranty by up to two additional years on eligible purchases made with your card. Coverage is valid in Canada and the U.S., with protection up to $10,000 per item and $25,000 annually. Conditions apply.

Claim Process: Rest assured knowing claims are straightforward—just ensure you charge the full amount of the trip or purchase to your card.

Amex Experiences: Elevate Your Lifestyle

One of the standout perks of the Amex Green Card is access to Amex Experiences, an exclusive program offering unforgettable events and special deals. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Curated Offers Just for Cardmembers

From advance screenings of blockbuster movies to weekend getaway packages and unique shopping deals, Amex Experiences opens the door to perks designed to enhance your lifestyle. These offers are curated to give cardmembers memorable moments you won’t find anywhere else.

Front of the Line Presale Access

With Front of the Line presale access, you’ll enjoy early access to tickets for concerts, shows, and events—before they’re available to the general public. Whether it’s securing seats to the hottest concerts or getting the best spots at a theatre production, you’ll have the upper hand.

Exclusive Access at Top Venues

Take your night out to the next level with premium access at top Canadian venues:

• Budweiser Stage: Dedicated entrances and premium lounges.
• Massey Hall and Mirvish Theatres: Relax in style with priority service and premium seating options.

Amex Offers: Save While You Spend

Amex Offers lets you enjoy discounts and rewards on everyday purchases at your favorite stores, restaurants, and online shops. With deals updated regularly, there’s always something new to explore.

Why It Pays to Be a Cardmember: The Amex Green Card isn’t just a travel companion—it’s your ticket to exclusive experiences that make every moment special.

Ready to unlock unforgettable experiences? Apply for the Amex Green Card and start enjoying exclusive perks today!

How to Earn the Referral Bonus

The referral bonus program is a fantastic way to maximize your rewards with the Amex Green Card. By sharing your referral link with friends and family, you can earn bonus points every time someone is approved for a new card.

How the Referral Program Works

When you refer someone to the Amex Green Card (or other eligible American Express cards), you earn a set number of Membership Rewards points as a referral bonus. Your friend also benefits by receiving the current welcome bonus offer.

Earning Potential

• Bonus Per Referral: Earn 7,500 Membership Rewards points for each successful referral.
• Annual Maximum: You can earn up to 112,500 points annually through referrals.
• Estimated Value: At a rate of 1¢ per point, that’s a potential value of $1,125 per year just for referring others to join Amex.

How to Share Your Referral Link

1. Find Your Link: Log in to your American Express account and navigate to the referral section.
2. Personalize Your Message: Share your link via email, social media, or messaging apps with a note about why you love the Amex Green Card.
3. Highlight Benefits: Mention key perks like the $0 annual fee, flexible rewards, and exclusive Amex Experiences to encourage sign-ups.

Maximizing Referral Success

• Tailor Your Message: Emphasize how the card benefits different lifestyles, from frequent travellers to casual shoppers.
• Leverage Social Media: Share your referral link in posts or stories, highlighting your favorite card features.
• Encourage Action: Mention the limited-time welcome bonus to create urgency for sign-ups.

Ready to earn rewards faster? Refer your friends and family to the Amex Green Card and start stacking those points! Apply now and join the rewards journey today!

Is the Amex Green Card Right for You?

The Amex Green Card is perfect for:

• Travellers seeking no annual fees.
• Shoppers who want to earn rewards on everyday purchases.
• Canadians looking for flexible redemption options.

If you prefer higher rewards rates in specific categories or additional premium benefits, explore other Amex options like the Gold Rewards Card.

Conclusion

The Amex Green Card is a standout option for Canadian travellers and everyday spenders, offering flexibility, rewards, and a host of benefits—all without an annual fee. Whether you’re just starting your travel rewards journey or seeking a reliable card for everyday purchases, the Green Card delivers exceptional value.

With $0 in annual fees, generous earning rates, and access to exclusive Amex Experiences, this card is an easy choice for those looking to maximize rewards without breaking the bank. From flights and hotels to everyday purchases, the Amex Green Card helps you turn your spending into incredible opportunities.Call to Action:

Transform your travel rewards journey today with a $0 annual fee card. Apply for the Amex Green Card now and start earning rewards with every swipe!

View Unlock the Travel Potential of the Amex Green Card in Canada: Full Review on PointsWise.

Discover why the Amex Gold Card is a top choice for Canadian travellers. Learn about its earning rates, welcome bonus, travel benefits, insurance coverage, and how to get approved with this full review:

Introduction

The Amex Gold Card is a powerhouse for Canadian travellers and everyday spenders. Combining generous rewards with premium lifestyle and travel benefits, it’s designed for those who want to elevate their spending while earning exceptional value. With its metal card design available in gold or rose gold, it’s as stylish as it is functional.

Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Apply for the Amex Gold Card today and start earning rewards from your very first purchase!

Key Features Overview

• Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points, valued at $600.
• Earning Rates: Double rewards on travel, groceries, gas, and drugstores.
• Redemption Flexibility: Transfer points to airlines, hotels, and more.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.50%, ensuring transparency for international purchases.
• Metal Card Design: Choose between gold or rose gold metal for a sophisticated look.

Amex Gold Card Fees in Canada

• Annual Fee: $250 CAD.
• First Supplementary Card: Free (valued at $50).
• Additional Supplementary Cards: $50 each.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.50%.
• Purchase Interest Rate: 21.99%.
• Penalty APR: 25.99–28.99% variable.

Earn up to 60,000 Welcome Bonus Points!

Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points with this straightforward offer:

• Structure: Earn 5,000 points per month when you spend $1,000 monthly for 12 months.
• Value: 60,000 points are worth $600 (at 1¢ per point).
• Requirements: Consistent spending of $1,000 per month.

This generous bonus is your ticket to free travel or statement credits. Sign up today to start earning your welcome bonus!

How to Earn Points with the Amex Gold Card

The Amex Gold Card offers excellent earning potential in categories that matter most:

• 2x Points on Travel: Earn double on flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.
• 2x Points on Gas, Groceries, and Drugstores: Ideal for daily essentials.
• 1x Point on All Other Purchases: Keep earning on everything else.

How to Redeem Amex Gold Points in Canada

Membership Rewards points are among the most valuable and flexible in Canada. Here’s how to maximize their potential:

Best Travel Redemptions

1. Transfer to Airline Partners:
   • Transfer points to Aeroplan or British Airways Avios for maximum value.
   • 60,000 points can cover a one-way business class flight within North America or to Europe.
2. Hotel Partners:
   • Redeem with Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors for luxurious hotel stays.
   • 60,000 points can translate into 3+ free nights at mid-tier Marriott properties.
3. Amex Fixed Points Travel Program:
   • Simplify travel planning with predictable point values for flights.
   • Round-trip flights within Canada start at 15,000 points.
4. Flexible Points Travel:
   • Redeem points for virtually any travel expense at 1,000 points = $10 credit.

Everyday Redemptions

• Statement Credits: Cover eligible purchases at a rate of 1,000 points = $10.
• Shop with Points: Use points at Amazon or PayPal for daily spending.
• Gift Cards: Choose from top retailers for added flexibility.

How to Get the Best Value for Amex Membership Points

Maximize your points by transferring them to travel partners where you can achieve values of 2¢ per point or more, especially for premium travel bookings.

Start planning your dream vacation with this flexible rewards program. Apply now!

Amex Gold Card Benefits (The Fun Stuff)

The Amex Gold Card goes beyond earning points, offering perks that elevate your travel and lifestyle experiences:

Travel Perks

• $100 Annual Travel Credit: Redeemable through Amex Travel, offsetting your annual fee.
• Priority Pass Lounge Access: Four complimentary visits per year to relax in style at over 1,400 lounges worldwide.
• The Hotel Collection Benefits: Enjoy upgrades, late check-out, and up to $100 USD credit at participating properties on stays of 2+ nights.
• Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Status: Skip the line and enjoy upgrades on car rentals.

Exclusive Experiences

• Front of the Line Access: Get early access to concert tickets and VIP events before the general public.
• Exclusive Event Perks: Dedicated entrances, premium lounges, and priority service at venues like Mirvish Theatres and Massey Hall.
• Amex Offers: Save with personalized discounts and rewards at top retailers and restaurants.

Card Design

• Metal Card Design: Choose between a gold or rose gold metal card design.

From exclusive dining offers to complimentary airport lounge access, the benefits make every day more rewarding. Sign up here to experience it all!

Insurance Coverage

With extensive coverage, the Amex Gold Card ensures peace of mind for both travel and purchases:

• Emergency Medical Insurance: Up to $5,000,000 for 15 days (under age 65).
• Trip Cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person, $3,000 per trip.
• Trip Interruption: Up to $1,500 per person, $6,000 per trip.
• Flight Delay: Up to $500 after 4+ hours.
• Baggage Delay: Up to $500 after 6+ hours.
• Lost/Stolen Baggage: Up to $500 per trip.
• Car Rental Theft/Damage: Covers vehicles up to $85,000.
• Purchase Protection: Covers $1,000 per incident for 90 days.
• Extended Warranty: Adds 2 years to eligible warranties, up to $25,000 annually.

How to Get Approved for the Amex Gold Card

• Credit Score: Good (670+).
• Income: $50,000–$100,000 annually.
• Tips: Maintain low credit utilization and avoid multiple applications within six months.

How to Earn the Amex Gold Card Referral Bonus in Canada

Boost your points balance effortlessly:

• Earn 7,500 Points Per Referral: Each successful referral adds to your Membership Rewards balance.
• Max Annual Bonus: Earn up to 112,500 points per year (15 referrals).
• Strategy: Share your link on social media, email, or personal networks.

Sharing your referral link is one of the easiest ways to supercharge your points balance. Ready to get started? Apply for the Amex Gold Card and start earning from referrals today!

Conclusion: Is the Amex Gold Card Canada’s Best Travel Rewards Card?

The Amex Gold Card stands out as one of the best travel rewards cards in Canada. Its high earning rates on everyday essentials like groceries, gas, and travel, paired with the flexibility of Membership Rewards, make it an excellent choice for Canadians who want to make their spending work harder.

What truly sets the Amex Gold Card apart are its premium travel benefits. With access to Plaza Premium Lounges, exclusive perks through The Hotel Collection like room upgrades and property credits, and the ability to transfer points to top airline and hotel partners, the card transforms your travels into luxurious experiences. Whether you’re redeeming points for flights, hotels, or even statement credits, the flexibility of Membership Rewards ensures you’re getting the best value for your lifestyle goals.

For Canadians who love to travel and want to elevate their everyday spending, the Amex Gold Card offers a winning combination of rewards, perks, and convenience. If you’re ready to take your travel game to the next level, this card is a must-have.

Apply for the Amex Gold Card today and start enjoying the benefits!

View Full Review: Is the Amex Gold Card Canada’s Best Travel Rewards Card? on PointsWise.

Introduction

The American Express Business Platinum Card is a premium choice for Canadian business owners who value luxury travel and exceptional perks.

Right now, you can earn up to 120,000 Membership Rewards points!

With unparalleled travel benefits, robust rewards, and powerful expense management tools, this card is perfect for high-spending businesses and frequent travellers. Whether you’re running a well-established company or scaling a startup, the Business Platinum Card offers unmatched value for those who know how to make the most of it.

Quick Highlights:

• Welcome Bonus: Up to 120,000 Membership Rewards points (valued at $1,200).
• Earning Rates: 1.25x points on eligible purchases.
• Exclusive Benefits: Lounge access, elite hotel status, comprehensive insurance, and more.

Keep reading to learn how this card can elevate your business and transform your travel experiences.

Unlock Up to $1,200 in Rewards: Limited-Time Welcome Bonus!

The American Express Business Platinum Card is currently offering one of the most lucrative welcome bonuses in Canada—but it’s only available for a limited time!

• Initial Offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points by spending $15,000 in the first three months.
• Additional Bonus: Earn 40,000 points when you make a purchase between months 14–17 of your membership.
• Total Welcome Bonus: Up to 120,000 points, valued at $1,200 (1¢ per point).

Apply for the Business Platinum Card today!

Tips for Meeting the Spend Requirement:

• Use the card for large, recurring expenses like marketing campaigns, inventory, or payroll.
• Consolidate travel bookings or major one-time purchases to hit the required thresholds.

Take advantage of this exclusive offer now!

Card Details

Key Features:

• Annual Fee: CA$799 per year.
• Additional Card Fees:
  • $250 for full-benefits cards.
  • $0 for employee Gold Cards.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.50%.
• Purchase Interest Rate: 21.99%–30.00% (variable).
• No Pre-Set Spending Limit: Offers dynamic spending power based on your card usage and payment history.

Ready to unlock these premium benefits for your business? Sign up now!

Rewards Redemption: Flexible and High-Value Options

One of the standout features of the Business Platinum Card is the flexibility and value of its Membership Rewards program.

Redeeming Points for Travel

Travel redemptions offer the most value, especially when transferring points to airline and hotel loyalty programs. Here are some of the key ways to maximize your points:

1. Transfer Points to Partners
   Convert your Membership Rewards points to travel loyalty programs like Aeroplan, Avios, Marriott Bonvoy, and Hilton Honors.
2. Fixed Points Travel Program
   Use the Amex Fixed Points Travel program to book round-trip flights at a fixed point rate, regardless of cash prices.
3. Flexible Points Travel Program
   Redeem points for virtually any travel expense through the Flexible Points Travel Program, where 1,000 points = $10 credit.
4. Amex Travel Portal
   Book travel directly through the Amex Travel Portal for convenience and flexibility.

With endless travel possibilities, the Business Platinum Card can take your business to the next level. Apply today!

Card Benefits

The American Express Business Platinum Card has an extensive range of benefits, making it one of the most sought-after premium business cards in Canada.

Premium Lounge Access: Travel in Comfort

• Priority Pass Membership: Unlimited access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide, featuring complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
• Centurion Lounges: Experience luxury with gourmet dining, premium beverages, and quiet relaxation spaces.
• Plaza Premium Lounges: Access these exclusive lounges at major Canadian and international airports for a peaceful pre-flight retreat.
• Delta Sky Club: Relax at Delta Sky Club lounges when flying Delta Airlines.
• Toronto Pearson Perks:
  • Complimentary valet service.
  • Priority security lane access for faster check-ins.
  • Discounts on parking and car detailing services.

These benefits ensure every travel experience is smooth and luxurious. Start enjoying lounge access today!

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Travel with peace of mind thanks to some of the most robust insurance options available:

• Emergency Medical Insurance: Up to $5,000,000 in coverage for eligible medical emergencies abroad.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Up to $1,500 per person (or $6,000 per trip) for cancellations or interruptions.
• Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance: Coverage of up to $1,000 per trip.
• Flight Delay Insurance: Up to $1,000 for essential expenses after a delay of four hours or more.
• Car Rental Theft & Damage Insurance: Automatic coverage when you charge your rental to the card, saving you costly fees.

Credit Rewards

The Business Platinum Card helps your business save while rewarding you for everyday expenses:

• $200 Annual Travel Credit: Automatically applied to offset travel costs.
• $120 Wireless Services Credit: Save on eligible wireless service charges.
• $200 Dell Credit: Use for Dell purchases to support your business needs.
• $300 Indeed Credit: Invest in hiring the right talent with statement credits.
• $100 NEXUS Credit: Receive a statement credit for your NEXUS application or renewal every four years.

Hotel and Travel Perks

• Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status: Enjoy late check-outs, room upgrades, and bonus points.
• Hilton Honors Gold Status: Includes free breakfast, upgrades, and additional points on every stay.
• Fine Hotels + Resorts Benefits: Enjoy perks like daily breakfast for two, late check-out, and property credits valued at $600 USD per stay.
• Flexible Payment Options: Manage business expenses with no pre-set spending limit and flexible repayment options.

How to Get Approved for the Business Platinum Card in Canada

Securing approval for the American Express Business Platinum Card requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. While this card is designed for high-spending business owners, understanding the requirements can improve your chances of success.

Key Approval Factors

1. Credit Score
   • A very good credit score (740+) significantly increases your chances of approval. If your score is below this threshold, consider improving your credit by reducing debt and making consistent, on-time payments before applying.
2. Income Requirements
   • While there isn’t a publicly stated minimum income, applicants typically have high business revenue to qualify. Examples of businesses earning $100,000–$250,000 annually, such as mid-sized companies or growing startups, are ideal cardmembers.
3. Business Information
   • Provide details about your business, including:
     • Business name.
     • Registration number.
     • Proof of financial stability.
   • Having clear and accurate records demonstrates professionalism and increases your likelihood of approval.
4. Age Requirement
   • Applicants must be of the age of majority in their province or territory. Ensure all application details meet legal requirements for age and identity.

Tips to Increase Approval Odds

• Establish a Positive Credit History: Ensure your personal and business credit scores are strong. Pay off existing debts and avoid recent missed payments.
• Demonstrate Financial Stability: Include all relevant financial documents, such as bank statements or revenue reports, to showcase your business’s financial health.
• Apply at the Right Time: If you’re planning major business investments, such as equipment or travel, align your application to capitalize on the welcome bonus spend requirements.

How to Earn the Referral Bonus with the Amex Business Platinum Card in Canada

The American Express Business Platinum Card offers an additional way to earn points through its referral program. Sharing the card’s benefits with colleagues or friends can reward you with substantial Membership Rewards points:

1. How It Works:
   • Share your personalized referral link with others.
   • When someone applies through your link and gets approved, you earn Membership Rewards points as a referral bonus.
2. Current Referral Offer:
   • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points for every approved referral.
   • You can refer up to 15 people per year, allowing you to earn up to 225,000 points annually.
3. Sharing Your Link:
   • Access your referral link through your Amex online account.
   • Share it via email, social media, or directly with your professional network.
4. Extra Value:
   • Combine the referral bonus with your regular earning rates to maximize your Membership Rewards points.
   • Use the bonus points for travel, statement credits, or transferring to loyalty partners for even greater value.

Example Scenario:

If you refer five colleagues who are approved for the card, you could earn:

• 5 referrals x 15,000 points = 75,000 points.
  These points can be redeemed for $750 in travel credits or transferred to a loyalty partner for even more value.

Encourage your network to take advantage of the limited-time welcome bonus, and boost your own points balance at the same time!

Ready to earn even more rewards? Apply today for the Business Platinum Card in Canada and start sharing your referral link to build your points balance!

Conclusion: Is the American Express Business Platinum Card Worth the $799 Annual Fee?

The Amex Business Platinum Card in Canada undeniably comes with a high annual fee, but for the right business owner, the value far exceeds the cost. If you’re a frequent traveller, the card’s extensive lounge access, premium travel benefits, and insurance coverage deliver unmatched convenience and comfort.

The 120,000 Membership Rewards points welcome bonus, which alone is worth $1,500, more than offsets the annual fee in the first year. Ongoing benefits like the $200 annual travel credit, elite hotel statuses, and statement credits for wireless, Dell, and Indeed further enhance the card’s value.

This card is ideal for businesses with high spending and frequent travel needs, especially those that can maximize rewards through Membership Rewards redemptions or referrals. However, if your spending is lower or you can’t fully use the travel benefits, there are more cost-effective options like the Amex Business Gold Card, or Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Cards.

Final Verdict:

For high-revenue businesses and frequent travellers who value premium benefits and rewards flexibility, the American Express Business Platinum Card is absolutely worth the $799 annual fee. Apply today to unlock these exclusive benefits and take your business to the next level!

Act Fast!

Don’t miss your chance to earn up to 120,000 Membership Rewards points and unlock a world of premium benefits.

Click here to apply for the Business Platinum Card!

View Amex Business Platinum Card Canada Review: Is It Worth $799? on PointsWise.

Introduction

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card is made for Canadian entrepreneurs and business owners looking to optimize their expenses while earning valuable rewards. With a straightforward earning structure, the Amex Flexible Membership Rewards Program, and benefits designed to support business growth, this card turns everyday expenses into meaningful rewards.

Start maximizing your business rewards today! Apply for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card here.

How to Earn Rewards with the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card offers a consistent and rewarding earning structure:

• Quarterly Bonus: Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards points each quarter when you spend $20,000 on your card. This bonus provides a steady opportunity to earn points throughout the year.
• Everyday Purchases: Earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every $1 spent on all purchases. 

This is ideal for businesses with regular operating expenses, offering significant value in return for your spending.

Earn a Generous Welcome Bonus of 40,000 Amex Points

New Canadian cardholders can take advantage of an attractive welcome offer:

• Welcome Bonus: Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $7,500 in the first 3 months.
• Redemption Value: This bonus equates to $400 when redeemed at a rate of 1¢ per point.

This welcome bonus can offset the annual fee and jumpstart your Amex rewards balance.

Don’t miss out on the 40,000 points welcome bonus. Apply today!

Understanding the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card Fees

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card offers a balance between affordability and premium features. Here’s what to expect:

• Annual Fee: $199 CAD – a competitive cost for a business credit card with extensive rewards and benefits.
• Supplementary Card Fee: $50 CAD per card annually – allowing you to extend benefits to your team members without breaking the bank.

When you factor in the value of the welcome bonus, quarterly rewards, and Membership Rewards points earned on purchases, the fees are easily offset, making this card an excellent investment for business owners.

How to Redeem Your Points

The Flexible Membership Rewards Program allows you to redeem your points to suit your business needs:

1. Transfer Points: Maximize your value by transferring Amex Membership Rewards points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, particularly beneficial for frequent travellers.
2. Amex Fixed Points Travel: Redeem points for flights at fixed rates, providing predictable value for travel bookings.
3. Amex Flexible Points Travel: Book flights and travel directly through American Express, with no blackout dates or restrictions.
4. Statement Credits: Use points to pay your credit card balance, offering a flexible way to manage expenses.

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage for Your Business

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card provides an impressive suite of insurance benefits designed to protect your purchases and travel experiences. Highlights include:

• Baggage Insurance: Protect your belongings with coverage of up to $500 per trip for lost or damaged checked and carry-on baggage when you charge your airline tickets to your card. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your personal items are covered while you’re in transit. Conditions apply.
• Purchase Protection: Get 90 days of automatic protection, covering up to $1,000 per incident for eligible purchases. Enjoy worry-free shopping with coverage for accidental damage or theft, even if other insurance doesn’t apply – just charge the full purchase price to your card.
• Extended Warranty: Extend the manufacturer’s warranty by up to one additional year on eligible purchases. This is especially valuable for high-cost items your business relies on.

Protect your business with premium insurance coverage. Apply for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card today.

Enjoy Travel Benefits with The Hotel Collection

Look forward to your next hotel stay with the following benefits:

• The Hotel Collection: Receive a $100 USD credit for qualifying dining, spa, or resort activities when booking two or more consecutive nights at participating properties.
• Amex Flexible Points Travel: Book flights, hotels, and car rentals directly through American Express, with no restrictions or blackout dates.

These perks add value and comfort to your business travels.

Who Should Get the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card?

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card is ideal for:

• Canadian Business Owners with Steady Revenue: Those looking to earn consistent rewards through regular spending.
• Entrepreneurs Seeking Flexibility: Individuals who appreciate a rewards program with flexible redemption options.
• Professionals Needing Expense Management Tools: Those looking for features to efficiently track and manage their business expenses.

The card’s earning structure ensures that every purchase contributes to your rewards, making it a valuable asset for businesses.

How to Get Approved for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card in Canada

Getting approved for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card is straightforward if you meet the suggested requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

• Credit Score: A good credit score of 670+ is recommended. If you’ve consistently managed credit responsibly, you’re likely to meet this threshold.
• Revenue Requirements: While not mandatory, the card is well-suited for businesses earning $50,000–$150,000 annually. This range is ideal for small businesses, retail shops, and service providers with steady income.
• Established Business: Ensure your business has a stable financial track record. American Express Canada tends to favor applicants with consistent business income and strong cash flow.
• Application Details: When applying, provide accurate and complete information about your business, including its annual revenue, years in operation, and expenses.

By meeting these recommendations, you’ll increase your chances of being approved.

Confident your business meets the requirements? Apply now for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card.

Final Thoughts: Why the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card is a Smart Choice

The Amex Business Gold Rewards Card offers rewards, flexibility, and insurance geared towards for business owners. Its straightforward earning structure, coupled with comprehensive benefits, makes it a practical choice for those looking to maximize value from their business expenses.

Start earning meaningful rewards today. Apply for the Amex Business Gold Rewards Card here.

View Is the Amex Business Gold Card in Canada Right for You? Full Review on PointsWise.

Introduction

The American Express Aeroplan Card is a straightforward travel rewards credit card designed for Canadians who travel a few times a year and want to earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases. With a reasonable annual fee and practical perks, this card is ideal for those who value simplicity over luxury. It doesn’t include high-end features like airport lounge access but provides meaningful benefits to make travel more affordable and rewarding.

Why Choose the Amex Aeroplan Card?

The Aeroplan Card caters to budget-conscious travellers who want to earn Aeroplan points without committing to a premium card. Its competitive earning rates and travel benefits, such as free checked bags and priority boarding, make it an attractive option for infrequent flyers.

Looking for a practical travel card? Apply now and start earning rewards today!

Key Card Details

• Annual Fee: $120
• Supplementary Card Fee: $50 per card
• Rewards Currency: Aeroplan Points
• Approval Odds: Designed for those with good to excellent credit.

This card offers simplicity and value, making it an excellent fit for occasional travellers who want to avoid premium-level fees.

Earning Aeroplan Points

The Aeroplan Card rewards users with points on everyday spending, with a focus on practical categories:

• 2x Points: Earn 2 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on Air Canada and select travel purchases.
• 1.5x Points: Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points per $1 on eligible gas, groceries, and dining.
• 1x Point: Earn 1 Aeroplan point per $1 on all other purchases.

Welcome Bonus

New American Express Aeroplan Cardholders in Canada can earn a welcome bonus of up to 40,000 Aeroplan points by meeting the following spend requirements:

1. First Three Months: Earn 30,000 points after spending $3,000.
2. 13th Month: Earn an additional 10,000 points after spending $1,000.

These points are valued at approximately $800 (at 2 cents per point), offering significant savings on flights.

Ready to kickstart your Aeroplan points balance? Sign up here and unlock up to 40,000 points!

Card Benefits

The Aeroplan Card is designed for practicality, offering key benefits to enhance your travel experience without unnecessary frills.

Travel Benefits

• Free First Checked Bag: Save on baggage fees for yourself and up to eight companions on Air Canada flights.
• Priority Boarding: Skip the wait and enjoy a smoother boarding process.
• Hotel and Car Rental Discounts: Access exclusive offers through Aeroplan partners.

Everyday Benefits

• Purchase Protection: Protect eligible purchases against theft or damage within 90 days.
• Extended Warranty: Get up to an additional year of warranty coverage on eligible purchases.

Fees to Consider

The Amex Aeroplan Card offers a solid value for its modest fees:

• Annual Fee: $120, which is easily offset by the free checked bag and travel rewards.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.5%, standard for Canadian credit cards.

These manageable costs make it a budget-friendly option for travellers who don’t require luxury perks.

Who Should Get the Amex Aeroplan Card?

The Aeroplan Card is perfect for Canadians who:

1. Travel a Few Times a Year: Occasional Air Canada flyers will benefit most from the travel perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
2. Want Simple Rewards: With straightforward earning rates, it’s easy to accumulate points without overthinking your spending habits.
3. Prefer a Low Annual Fee: At $120, the annual fee is affordable and provides significant value for casual travellers.

Maximizing Your Rewards

To make the most of your Amex Aeroplan Card:

1. Use It for Everyday Spending: Focus on bonus categories like gas, groceries, and dining to accelerate your points earning.
2. Plan for the Welcome Bonus: Spend strategically to meet the bonus requirements and unlock up to 40,000 points.
3. Redeem Points Wisely: Maximize the value of your points by booking flights, especially during Aeroplan seat sales.

Final Thoughts: Is the Amex Aeroplan Card Right for You?

The American Express Aeroplan Card is a fantastic entry-level travel rewards card for Canadians who don’t travel frequently but still want to save on flights and earn Aeroplan points on everyday purchases. While it lacks luxury perks like lounge access, it delivers practical benefits at an affordable price.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to make your occasional travel more affordable, the Aeroplan Card is an excellent choice.

Ready to make the most of your travels? Apply for the Aeroplan Card today and take advantage of its practical travel benefits!

View Aeroplan Card Review: A Budget-Friendly Choice for Casual Travellers on PointsWise.

Amex Business Platinum Card in Canada Increases Welcome Bonus to 150,000 Points!

Great news for Canadian business owners! As of October 29, 2024, American Express has increased the welcome bonus on the Business Platinum Card to an impressive 150,000 Membership Rewards points. This limited-time offer is perfect for entrepreneurs looking to maximize travel and business rewards, available only until January 28, 2025.

New Welcome Bonus Details: To earn the full 150,000 points, new cardholders need to meet the spending requirements within the first few months. 

These points can be redeemed for travel perks, including flights, hotel stays, and transfers to loyalty programs like Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy, providing flexibility and high-value redemption options.

Key Benefits of the Amex Business Platinum Card in Canada

• $200 Annual Travel Credit: Apply this to any single travel booking over $200.
• Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to over 1,200 lounges globally for you and a guest.
• Fine Hotels and Resorts Program: Receive perks like daily breakfast, room upgrades, and late check-out at select hotels.
• Hotel Loyalty Status: Get complimentary Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.
• Referral Bonus: Earn 15,000 points per successful referral, up to 225,000 points annually.
• Annual Fee: $799 CAD.

Historical Bonus Trends – Why Apply Now?

1. Bonus Peaks: High bonuses, like the current 150,000 points, are rare and typically last for limited periods.
2. Return to Lower Levels: After the promotion ends, the bonus will return to a lower range, possibly between 80,000 and 110,000 points.
3. Ideal Time to Apply: With this offer ending on January 28, 2025, it’s an excellent opportunity to secure one of the highest bonuses available.

Is the Amex Business Platinum Card Worth It? 

The Amex Business Platinum Card is loaded with premium perks that can easily offset the $799 annual fee for frequent travelers. From exclusive airport lounge access and luxury hotel benefits to flexible redemption options, this card is ideal for business owners who want to maximize rewards and enhance their travel experience.

The current Amex Business Platinum 150,000 points welcome bonus represents one of the best opportunities for new cardholders. 

Apply now to take advantage of these enhanced benefits and start earning points towards your next business trip or personal getaway!

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Platinum and Business Platinum Referral Bonus

View Amex Business Platinum Card in Canada Increases Welcome Bonus to 150,000 Points! on PointsWise.

Update – April 2025:
The 140,000-point Amex Platinum offer featured in this post is no longer available.
For the latest bonuses, including current Platinum, Aeroplan, and Business card offers, check out our updated guide:
Best Amex Welcome Bonuses in Canada (2025)

Exciting news for Canadian travelers! As of October 29, 2024, American Express Canada has increased the welcome bonus on the Platinum Card from 100,000 to an impressive 140,000 Membership Rewards points. This limited-time offer, available until January 28, 2025, is perfect for those looking to maximize rewards on travel, dining, and everyday spending.

New Welcome Bonus Details:

These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and transfers to programs like Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy, providing excellent value for both frequent and occasional travelers.

Key Benefits of the Amex Platinum Card in Canada:

• $200 Annual Travel Credit: Offset travel bookings with this yearly credit.
• $200 Annual Dining Credit: Use at select restaurants across Canada.
• Lounge Access: Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally through the Amex Global Lounge Collection.
• Hotel Status: Enjoy Hilton Honors Gold, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite, and other elite hotel benefits.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Coverage includes emergency medical, trip cancellation, and rental car insurance.
• Referral Bonus: Earn up to 225,000 points annually by referring friends.
• Annual Fee: $799 CAD.

Historical Bonus Trends – Why Apply Now?

1. Bonus Peaks: High bonuses like the current 140,000 points are rare and often short-term.
2. Return to Lower Levels: After this promotional period ends, the bonus will return to a lower level, possibly in the range of 80,000–100,000 points.
3. Best Time to Apply: Given that the offer ends on January 28, 2025, now is the ideal time to apply if you want to secure one of the highest bonuses available.

Is the Amex Platinum Card Worth It?

With premium perks like airport lounge access, travel insurance, and elite hotel benefits, the Amex Platinum Card in Canada is a top choice for travel enthusiasts. While the $799 annual fee may seem high, frequent travelers can recoup the cost easily with benefits like the $200 travel credit, points-earning potential, and exclusive hotel privileges. If you travel often or value luxury perks, this card offers substantial value.

The current Amex Platinum 140,000 points welcome bonus is one of the highest offers we’ve seen. Apply now to maximize your rewards and elevate your travel experience.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus

View Amex Platinum Card in Canada Boosts Welcome Bonus to 140,000 Points! on PointsWise.

If you’ve been earning American Express Membership Rewards points, now is the time to make the most of them! For a limited time, you can enjoy a 30% transfer bonus when you move your Amex points to Marriott Bonvoy.

With this offer ending on October 31, 2024, it’s a great opportunity for Canadians planning hotel stays at Marriott properties.

The Details of the 30% Transfer Bonus

The Amex Membership Rewards to Marriott Bonvoy transfer bonus gives you 30% more points when transferring your Amex points. The standard transfer rate is 1:1.2 – for every 1,000 Amex points, you receive 1,200 Marriott Bonvoy points. But during this promotion, 1,000 Amex points will get you 1,560 Marriott Bonvoy points!

This promotion runs in Canada from September 1, 2024, to October 31, 2024, and is a must to take advantage of and be PointsWise!

Why Transfer Your Amex MR Points to Marriott Bonvoy?

If you’ve been thinking about a luxury hotel stay at a luxury Marriott property, or just want to extend your stay, with this 30% transfer bonus, your travel plans just became a lot more exciting.

• Stay longer for less: Marriott Bonvoy’s “5th night free” promotion allows you to get your 5th night free when booking with points. Paired with the 30% transfer bonus, you can stretch your points even further!
• Book aspirational stays: Book high-end hotels like the St. Regis or The Ritz-Carlton. This transfer bonus helps make those luxury experiences possible.
• Plan for the future: Even if you’re not sure where you’ll stay, transfer your points now to lock in the bonus, and you can plan your trips later. Marriott Bonvoy points don’t expire if you keep your account active!

How to Transfer Your Amex Points

Transferring points is easy. Here’s how:

1. Log in to your account at membershiprewards.ca.
2. Select the Marriott Bonvoy transfer option.
3. Enter the amount of points (in increments of 1,000).
4. Confirm your transfer to Marriott Bonvoy.

Transfers can take up to two business days, but in most cases, it’s instant. 

Important: Make sure your name and address match on both your Amex and Marriott Bonvoy accounts to avoid any delays with transferring your points.

Is Transferring Amex Points to Marriott Bonvoy Worth It?

The value of transferring your points depends on your travel goals. If you’re planning to stay at a Marriott property soon or want to take advantage of Marriott’s generous 5th night free promo, this transfer bonus is as good as it gets.

However, if you’re saving your Amex points for other uses like airline transfers or flights, it may be worth comparing the value you’ll get. 30% bonus points can make a huge difference, especially if you’re planning your next big hotel stay.

Maximize the Offer Before It’s Gone

This promotion only comes around once or twice a year in Canada, making it the biggest Amex and Marriott Bonvoy promotion of 2024. If you’re thinking about earning even more points, now might also be a good time to consider applying for the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card to start building your points for future transfers. And if you don’t need to transfer right away, mark your calendar for the next promotion, which will return next year.

Key Details:

• Promotion Dates: September 1 – October 31, 2024
• Standard Transfer Rate: 1,000 MR points = 1,200 Marriott Bonvoy points
• Transfer Bonus Rate: 1,000 MR points = 1,560 Marriott Bonvoy points (with 30% bonus)
• Transfers must be in increments of 1,000 points.
• Allow up to 48 hours for transfers to complete.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer. Whether you’re planning an upcoming trip or want to secure more points for future travel, the Amex points 30% transfer bonus to Marriott Bonvoy is one of the best ways to stretch your points even further!

View 30% Transfer Bonus from Amex Canada to Marriott Bonvoy – Ends October 31, 2024! on PointsWise.

Introduction

With premium perks like airport lounge access and travel insurance, the American Express Platinum Card is ideal for frequent travelers. One of its standout features is the referral program, which allows cardholders to earn significant points by referring others.

Let’s see how the Amex Platinum referral bonus works in Canada:

Amex Platinum Card Canada Overview

Earn Rate

3x points on dining, 2x on travel, and 1x on other purchases.

Welcome Bonus

Annual Fee

How the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus Works in Canada

With the Amex Platinum Card, you can earn 15,000 points for every successful referral. 

Your friend will receive the same exclusive welcome bonus, and you can refer up to 20 people per year, allowing you to earn up to 300,000 points annually.

How to Refer a Friend

1. Make sure you’re already an Amex Platinum Cardmember. If not, apply now for the Amex Platinum Card.
2. Login to your online account and from your Dashboard click the “Refer Now” button and accept the terms and conditions.
3. Copy and share your personalized referral link.
4. That’s it! Once your friend applies through your link and gets approved for their Platinum Card, you should see your referral points posted to your account within a few days.
5. To view your points, from your American Express online dashboard click “View and Redeem Points > My Points Account > View Points” to see a breakdown of the points you’ve earned from daily purchases and referrals. The referral bonus will show up there.

For each referral that gets approved for an Amex Platinum Card, you’ll earn 15,000 points, and can put those towards your next luxury vacation. You can book your next stay at a luxury hotel through Fine Hotels and Resorts, and pay off your trip with the referral points you’ve earned, while receiving luxury hotel benefits like:

• Room upgrade upon arrival (when available)
• Daily breakfast for two people
• Guaranteed 4pm check-out
• Noon check-in, when available
• Complimentary WI-FI
• $100 property credit to be used at the hotel restaurant, or spa (this varies by property).

Why Refer a Friend?

Referring friends to the Amex Platinum Card can help you earn massive rewards, which can be used for premium travel experiences like first-class flights and hotel stays. Plus, your friend will get to enjoy the same luxurious benefits, and if they apply when Amex is running a promotional offer, they earn a higher welcome bonus than the public offer.

What Can You Do with the Referral Bonus?

Each referral bonus of 15,000 points can be redeemed for travel, including flights and luxury hotels. With multiple referrals, you can experience first-class travel and exclusive benefits.

15,000 points is enough for a short haul round trip flight to a neighbouring province or state. One referral can pay for your next flight through Amex Fixed Points Travel.

Amex Gold vs Amex Platinum

While the Amex Gold offers strong travel rewards, the Platinum Card is in a class of its own, offering lounge access, concierge services, and premium travel insurance.

Referral Program Considerations

Share Your Link Wisely

Amex’s guidelines for sharing your referral link are pretty vague:

• You should only send your link to friends and family who genuinely want to receive it.
• Ask their permission first.

As long as you aren’t spamming people with your link, and take a reasonable approach to sharing your link, you should be ok.

Strategize to Max Out Your Referral Points

The maximum number of referral points you can earn in a year are 300,000 points, which under the standard rate is 15,000 points per referral. This resets every year on your Card’s anniversary.

Conclusion

With its premium perks, the Amex Platinum Card is a must-have for luxury travelers. Referring your friends is an easy way to rack up points for even more exclusive experiences.

Apply now for the Amex Platinum Card to get started earning referral points!

Learn More:

• How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Card Referral Bonus
• How to Earn the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Referral Bonus
• How to Earn the Amex Gold Card Referral Bonus

View How to Earn the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus in Canada on PointsWise.

Introduction

The American Express Gold Rewards Card is one of the best travel cards in Canada. Beyond its generous rewards, it also offers a fantastic referral program that lets you earn points by inviting friends and family to apply. In this article, we’ll break down how the Amex Gold referral bonus works and how you can maximize your rewards.

Amex Gold Card Canada Overview

Earn Rate

2x points on eligible travel, grocery, gas, and pharmacy purchases.

Annual Fee

How the Amex Gold Referral Program Works in Canada

Amex Gold cardholders can earn up to 10,000 points for every successful referral. 

You can refer up to 20 friends annually, potentially earning up to 200,000 points. Your referred friend will also receive a special welcome offer.

How to Refer a Friend

1. Make sure you’re already an Amex Gold Cardmember. If not, apply now for the Amex Gold Card.
2. Login to your online account and from your Dashboard click the “Refer Now” button and accept the terms and conditions.
3. Copy and share your personalized referral link.
4. That’s it! Once your friend applies through your link and gets approved for their Gold Card, you should see your referral points posted to your account within a few days.
5. To view your points, from your American Express online dashboard click “View and Redeem Points > My Points Account > View Points” to see a breakdown of the points you’ve earned from daily purchases and referrals. The referral bonus will show up there.

For each successful referral, you’ll earn 10,000 Amex points you can use towards your next flight. Because the Amex Gold Card is a flexible Membership rewards Card, you can transfer your points to your favourite airline loyalty program.

Why Refer a Friend?

By referring friends to the Amex Gold Card, you can quickly accumulate enough points for your next vacation. Plus, in some cases when Amex increases the referral welcome bonus, your friend will enjoy a higher welcome bonus than the public offer.

What Can You Do with the Amex Gold Referral Bonus?

With 10,000 points from a single referral, you can redeem for travel, merchandise, or statement credits. Accumulating several referrals could cover an entire flight or a weekend getaway.

With 10,000 points, that’s almost enough to cover a short haul roundtrip flight.

Explore: Amex Fixed Points Travel

Amex Gold vs Amex Cobalt

Compared to the Amex Cobalt, which offers great everyday rewards, the Amex Gold focuses more on travel perks. If you’re a frequent traveler or looking for flexibility in your points, the Amex Gold might be a better option for you.

Things to Consider

Don’t Spam Your Referral Link

Amex’s guidelines for sharing your referral link are pretty vague:

• You should only send your link to friends and family who genuinely want to receive it.
• Ask their permission first.

As long as you aren’t spamming people with your link, and take a reasonable approach to sharing your link, you should be ok.

Keep in Mind the Yearly Cap

The maximum number of referral points you can earn in a year are 200,000 points, which under the standard rate is 20,000 points per referral. This resets every year on your Card’s anniversary.

Conclusion

If you’re already enjoying the benefits of the Amex Gold Card, why not share it with your friends? The referral program is a great way to earn extra points and help others discover a card that’s perfect for frequent travelers and everyday rewards.

Apply now for the Amex Gold Card to get started earning referral points!

Learn More:

• How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Card Referral Bonus
• How to Earn the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Referral Bonus
• How to Earn the Amex Platinum Referral Bonus

View How to Earn the Amex Gold Referral Bonus in Canada on PointsWise.

The American Express Cobalt Card has a strong reputation as a high earning rewards card in Canada thanks to its earning potential of 5x the points on food. If you’re a foodie and a casual traveller, this is the card for you. Earn 5x the points at grocery stores, restaurants and on food delivery services like DoorDash, Skip the Dishes, and Uber Eats.

Save with Uber Eats: Save $20 USD off your first order with Uber Eats. Use promo code eats-brittanym19194ue

Earn Up to 5x the Points

Here’s how you’ll earn points:

• 5x Points on Eats and Drinks: Restaurants, bars, grocery stores and food delivery services will all earn you 5x the points. There is a $2,500 monthly spend cap for this points category. After the spend cap has been reached, you’ll earn 1x the points on eats and drinks.
• 3x Points on Streaming Subscriptions: Reward yourself for entertainment with popular streaming services.
• 2x Points on Travel and Transit: Earn rewards on your travel expenses, from gas stations and Uber rides to flights and hotels.
• 1x Points on Everything Else: Earn points on all other purchases, ensuring rewards on every spend.

If you spend $500 per month on food, you’ll earn $25 back in Amex points. That adds up to an extra $300 annually, simply for grocery purchases.

Bonus: How to Earn 5x the Points on Gas with Amex Cobalt in Canada

Earn a Welcome Bonus 

New cardmembers can earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points within the first year. By spending $750 per month, you’ll earn 1,250 points per billing cycle. That’s a cash value of $150, nearly offsetting the annual fee for your first year.

Enjoy Flexible Ways to Redeem Your Points

A huge benefit of being a Cobalt cardmember is having flexibility when you redeem points. Here are all the ways you can redeem points with Amex:

Transfer Points to Partner Loyalty Programs

Transfer your Amex Membership Rewards (MR) points to your favourite loyalty programs for maximum value and take advantage of promotions and status-earning opportunities.

Airline Loyalty Programs:

• Aeroplan (Air Canada): 1000 MR points = 1000 Aeroplan points
• Air France KLM Flying Blue: 1000 MR points = 750 Flying Blue Miles
• Asia Miles: 1000 Membership Rewards points = 750 Asia Miles
• British Airways Executive Club (Alaska Airlines): 1000 Membership Rewards points = 1000 Avios
• Delta SkyMiles: 1000 Membership Rewards points = 750 SkyMiles
• Etihad Guest: 1000 Membership Rewards points = 750 Etihad Guest miles

Hotel Loyalty Programs:

• Hilton Honors: 1000 Membership Rewards points = 1000 Hilton Honors points
• Marriott Bonvoy: 5 Membership Rewards points = 6 Marriott Bonvoy points

Statement Credit

To redeem your Cobalt points for a statement credit, simply login to your Amex Online Services account and select the card purchases for which you’d like to redeem points for. A statement credit will be applied to your account within 48 hours. Amex points are valued at a base value of $0.01 per point, so 10,000 points = $100.

Fixed Points Travel Program

Perfect for straightforward redemptions. Round-trip airfares start from 15,000 Amex points.

Choose a flight category—Canada/U.S., Europe, or Worldwide—to see the fixed points required for a maximum base ticket, making last-minute bookings easy.

Select between Economy and Business class to see where the Fixed Points Travel Program can take you.

Flexible Points Travel Program

Use American Express Travel to book your next flight, hotel, or car rental and pay with Amex points, or a combination of points and cash.

Caution! While using American Express Travel is an option, consider booking directly with your preferred hotel, airline, or car rental company to earn loyalty status. Then, use points to pay off your credit card statement. American Express Travel is considered a third party, which may prevent you from receiving all the perks typically offered through loyalty programs.

Merchandise

Buy general merchandise with your Amex points through the shopping portal.

Gift Cards

Redeem points for gift cards from popular retailers.

Amazon Shop with Points

Link your Membership Rewards account to your Amazon.ca account, choose your linked American Express Card as your payment method and Amazon will give you the option to pay with points at checkout.

Caution! Avoid redeeming your points through the “Amazon Shop with Points“, Gift Card, and Merchandise methods, which values points considerably lower than the standard 1 cent per point value when redeemed for a credit statement. 

For Amazon redemptions, purchase an Amazon gift card at a grocery store to earn 5x the points on that purchase, and then redeem those points as a statement credit.

Travel with Peace of Mind

The Cobalt card comes with travel insurance:

• Emergency Medical Insurance: Coverage for unforeseen medical expenses.
• Travel Accident Insurance: Protection against accidents during travel.
• Baggage and Flight Delay Insurance: Reimbursement for delays and lost baggage.
• Car Rental Insurance: Coverage for theft or damage to rental vehicles.
• Hotel/Motel Burglary Insurance: Coverage for theft from hotel rooms.

Get Access to Exclusive Perks 

As a Cobalt cardmember, you’ll enjoy:

• American Express Invites: Access to special events, dining experiences, and entertainment offers.
• Front of the Line Presale Access: Get priority ticket access to concerts and events.

Does the Cobalt Card Have Lounge Access?

No. The Amex Cobalt card does not come with airport lounge access.

If you want lounge access, consider these Cards instead:

• Platinum Card
• Business Platinum Card
• Gold Card
• Business Gold Card

Conclusion: Is the Amex Cobalt Card Right for You? 

The Amex Cobalt card stands out for its high rewards potential and flexible redemption options. 

However, it’s important to consider Amex acceptance rates at stores you shop at most, and the 2.5% foreign transaction fee.

While not primarily a travel rewards card, the Cobalt card benefits the casual traveller, because you can transfer your points to Aeroplan, Delta, Marriott, Hilton and other hotel and airline programs.

Bottom line: If you spend more than $500-$750 a month on food and gas, the Cobalt card is an easy choice providing a net win after the annual fee of $155.88 ($12.99 billed monthly). 

Learn More: Is it Hard to Get Approved for an Amex Cobalt Card in Canada?

View Amex Cobalt Card Benefits in Canada on PointsWise.

The American Express Cobalt Card is highly regarded in Canada, especially for those whose biggest monthly expenses are food and travel. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Cobalt Card’s benefits to help you decide if it’s a good Card for you.

Amex Cobalt Card Benefits

Points Earning Potential

• 5x Points on Eats and Drinks: Earn 5x Amex Membership Rewards (MR) points for every $1 spent on eligible restaurants, bars, cafes, and delivery services.
• 3x Points on Streaming Subscriptions: Earn 3x MR points per $1 on eligible streaming services.
• 2x Points on Travel and Transit: Earn 2x MR points per $1 spent on eligible transit including taxis, rideshares, public transit, and flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
• 1x Points on Everything Else: Earn 1x MR point per $1 on all other purchases.

Welcome Bonus

New Cardmembers can earn up to 15,000 MR points as a welcome bonus in the first year by meeting the spending requirement. You’ll earn 1,250 MR points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $750 in purchases on your card.

Flexible Points Redemption

A huge benefit to the Cobalt Card is its a Flexible Membership Rewards Card. That means your points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or for potentially the best value, transferred from Amex to partner airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Travel Insurance

The Cobalt Card includes travel emergency medical, flight delay, baggage loss/delay, car rental theft/damage, and hotel/motel burglary insurance. 

If you’re looking for more robust travel insurance, consider the Gold Rewards Card or Platinum Card, which also come with more travel benefits.

Additional Perks

As a Cardmember, you’ll get access to special events, dining experiences, and entertainment offers through American Express Invites, as well as Front of the Line presale access.

Learn More: How to Get the Best Concert Seats with Amex Presales

Monthly Fee

The Cobalt Card fee is $12.99 billed monthly, which totals $155.88 annually.

Pros and Cons of the Cobalt Card

Still considering the Cobalt Card? Let’s recap the pros and cons below:

Pros

• High Earning Rates: Particularly beneficial if you spend a lot on food and travel.
• Flexible Redemption Options: Allows you to maximize the value of your points by transferring them to airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Good travel insurance coverage which can save you money if you travel frequently.
• Monthly Fee Structure: Easier to manage compared to a large annual fee.

Cons

• Limited Acceptance: American Express is not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard in Canada. Loblaws and Costco do not accept Amex.
• Monthly Spending Cap: The 5x points earn rate on groceries, restaurants and food delivery are subject to a monthly spending cap of $2,500, after which the earning rate drops to 1x points.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: Charges a 2.5% fee on foreign currency transactions.

Learn More: Is it Hard to Get Approved for an Amex Cobalt Card in Canada?

Conclusion: Is the Amex Cobalt a Good Card?

Yes, the Cobalt Card is considered a good rewards Card in Canada.

It’s particularly worth it if you spend the most on food and travel, and can take advantage of the card’s high points-earning potential and flexible redemption options. 

As a flexible rewards Card, you can transfer your points to airline, and hotel loyalty programs for the best value, or redeem them for a cash statement. 10,000 Amex points = $100 statement credit.

However, if you frequently make purchases in places where Amex is not accepted or need a card with no foreign transaction fees, and more travel benefits, you might want to look at the Gold Rewards Card instead. <<<insert link>>>

Learn More at Amex: Where is Amex Accepted in Canada? 

View Is the Amex Cobalt Card Worth It in Canada? on PointsWise.

Getting the best concert seats can be challenging, especially when tickets sell out fast. However, American Express cardmembers have an advantage with the Amex “Front of the Line” presale program. 

This post will guide you through using Amex presales to secure the best seats and highlight the benefits of being an Amex cardholder. 

Let’s take a look:

Understanding Amex Presale Access

What is Front Of The Line by American Express?

Front Of The Line by American Express is a program that offers cardholders early access to tickets for popular events, including concerts, theater productions, and festivals. This perk allows you to buy presale and reserved tickets, ensuring you can purchase tickets before they’re available to the general public.

Front Of The Line is not just about early ticket access. It’s also about securing some of the best seats in the house, thanks to reserved ticket blocks exclusively for Amex cardholders. This perk is a significant differentiator from other credit card providers like Visa and Mastercard.

American Express® Experiences

American Express® Experiences is a broader program that includes Front Of The Line and other exclusive perks. As an Amex cardmember, you get access to top entertainment, events, dining, and retail offers. This program enhances your overall experience as a cardmember, whether you’re attending a concert, a theater show, or a festival.

Benefits of Amex Presales for Concerts

Exclusive Cardmember Benefits

With Amex presales, cardmembers can enjoy several exclusive benefits:

• Early Access: Purchase tickets before the general public.
• Premium Seats: Increased chances of securing the best seats.
• Event Extras: Enjoy onsite perks such as dedicated entrances and special concessions.

Event Benefits

American Express cardmembers can enjoy various event benefits, such as:

• Dedicated Entrances: Breeze through the front gate using the American Express Cardmember entrance at select venues.
• Amex Lounge Access: Enjoy pre-show refreshments and bites in the Amex Lounge at select events.
• Priority Service: Get express concession service and access to priority bars at specific theaters.

Exclusive Offers with Amex Presale Access

Concerts

At the Budweiser Stage in Toronto, you can access the venue through the dedicated American Express Cardmember entrance and relax in the Amex Lounge before the show.

Theatre

At Mirvish shows in Toronto, cardmembers can use the Amex Priority Line at The Royal Alexandra Theatre and the Priority Bars at Princess of Wales and CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre.

Festivals

For festival-goers, Amex presale access provides a fast entrance to some of Montréal’s biggest music festivals, including OSHEAGA, îLESONIQ, and LASSO Montreal.

How to Use Amex Presale Access

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sign Up for Email Notifications: Ensure you receive notifications from American Express about upcoming presales.
2. Log In to Ticketmaster: Visit the Ticketmaster website or app and log into your account. Create an account if you don’t have one.
3. Find the Event: Search for the event and look for the ‘American Express Card Member Presale’ option.
4. Enter Presale Code: Use the presale code provided by Amex if required. Enter it when prompted.
5. Select the American Express Presale: Choose the ‘American Express Card Member Presale’ option to access reserved tickets.
6. Choose Your Tickets: Select the number and type of tickets from the reserved Amex blocks.
7. Enter Amex Card Details: Proceed to checkout and enter your American Express card details for payment.
8. Complete the Purchase: Confirm your details and finalize the transaction.

How to Find Presale Codes

To find presale codes, check the Amex Offers section in your account or subscribe to Amex email notifications. This way, you’ll be alerted whenever a new offer is available. 

For additional presale password information, visit Presale.Codes. This site helps fans, ticket brokers, ticket flippers, and anyone who needs a presale code to find and use it ASAP, ensuring you get your tickets first.

Any Amex Card Will Work for Presale Access

If you’re an American Express cardmember, you automatically have Front of the Line presale access. Just use your Amex card at checkout and you’re all set.

Please note: Prepaid Amex cards do not work, you’ll need an actual credit or charge card for presale access.

American Express Experiences

Overview of the Program

The American Express Experiences program offers special entertainment, dining, and retail offers. It includes Front Of The Line access and provides a comprehensive range of perks for cardmembers.

Virtual Experiences

Amex also offers virtual experiences, allowing cardholders to enjoy unique events from home. These include cooking classes, wine tastings, fitness sessions, beauty masterclasses, and more.

Retail Packages

Amex Experiences also includes curated retail packages, such as craft beer kits, gourmet coffee, gnocchi-making classes, and exclusive gift boxes. These packages often have limited availability and sell out quickly.

Exclusive Invites

For Platinum and Centurion cardholders, the Experiences program offers “By Invitation Only” perks. These exclusive offers include shopping credits, concert tickets with dinner, and dining experiences with celebrity chefs.

FAQ

• What is the difference between “Front of the Line” and regular presales? Front Of The Line offers early and reserved ticket access exclusively for Amex cardholders.
• Can I use any American Express card for presales? No, only specific Amex cards offer this benefit.
• Are there any additional fees for using Amex presale access? Typically, there are no additional fees, but you must use your Amex card for the purchase.

Conclusion

By being an Amex cardmember and using Amex presales and the American Express Experiences program, you can secure the best concert seats and enjoy other exclusive benefits. Whether you’re attending a concert, theater show, or festival, it’s clear, Amex cardholders have the advantage over casual fans! 

Explore all the Amex cards available in Canada and choose the one that’s right for you.

View How to Get the Best Concert Seats with Amex Presales on PointsWise.

Introduction

Amex Canada has a Refer a Friend program for its Cardmembers, so existing Cardmembers can refer a friend to sign up for a Bonvoy Card, and both people get rewarded.

Please note, PointsWise is an affiliate of American Express Canada. As a result, the links on this site are not affiliate links. By using our links you are supporting the development of our site, and we thank you for your support.

Here’s how the Bonvoy Amex Card referral bonus works in Canada:

The Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Referral Bonus

What You’ll Earn

• You’ll earn 10,000 Bonvoy points for each approved referral for the Personal Bonvoy Card. 

What Your Friend Earns

• Your friend will earn an extra 5,000 Bonvoy points on the Personal Card by using your referral link.

When you refer a friend to the Personal Bonvoy Card, your friend can earn 75,000 Bonvoy points after they spend $3,000 on their Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership, instead of the standard offer of 65,000 points.

Plus, they can earn an additional 3 points for a total of 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible travel and gas purchases in their first 6 months (up to 15,000 points).

That’s a total welcome bonus of 90,000 Bonvoy points your friend will earn using your referral link.

Offer ends May 6, 2024.

Important Considerations

You must be an existing Marriott Bonvoy Amex Cardmember of either Card to refer a friend to the Personal or Business Bonvoy Cards.

Even if there’s an increased referral bonus, the maximum number of Bonvoy points you can earn each year is 150,000. This means that under the standard referral offer, you’re able to refer up to 15 friends per year to reach this maximum limit.

The referral bonus offers more points, but the minimum spend requirement is also much higher than the standard higher.

You are not allowed to self-refer to another card. For example, if you are a Bonvoy Personal Cardmember, you cannot refer yourself for a Business Card. Doing so may result in Amex clawing back points, and removal from the referral program.

However, you may refer another member of the same household (more on that in our Conclusion below).

Current or former Cardmembers with this Card are not eligible for the referral offer.

As per Amex Canada’s guidelines, you should only send your link to friends and family who genuinely want to receive it. Ask their permission first.

Learn More: Amex Canada Referral Program Terms

How to Maximize the Refer a Friend Program

To maximize the referral offer for the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card in Canada, you’ll want to take advantage of increased referral offers. One is happening right now until May 6, 2024, so be sure to refer friends before then to get the highest offer!

With “2 Player” mode, you can earn up to 202,000 Bonvoy points in Canada! Here’s how:

This example shows how it works with the Personal Bonvoy Card, but the same scenario also works with the Business Bonvoy Card.

Player 1

1. Player 1 applies for a Personal Bonvoy Card using a referral link before May 6, 2024, with an annual fee of $120.
2. They meet the minimum spend requirement of $3,000 in the first 3 months, earning 75,000 Bonvoy points as a referral bonus offer.
3. Additionally, they earn the base rate of 2x Bonvoy points x $3,000, totaling 6,000 Bonvoy points.
4. They spend a combined $3,000 on gas and travel in the first 6 months, earning an elevated welcome bonus of 5x points for 15,000 Bonvoy points.
5. Player 1 uses their referral link to refer Player 2 to a Personal Bonvoy Card.
6. Player 2 gets approved, resulting in Player 1 earning a referral bonus of 10,000 Bonvoy points.
7. Player 1 accumulates a total of 106,000 Bonvoy points!

Player 2

1. Player 2 applies for a Personal Bonvoy Card using Player 1’s referral link before May 6, 2024, with an annual fee of $120.
2. They meet the minimum spend requirement of $3,000 in the first 3 months, earning 75,000 Bonvoy points as a referral bonus offer.
3. Additionally, they earn the base rate of 2x Bonvoy points x $3,000, totaling 6,000 Bonvoy points.
4. They spend a combined $3,000 on gas and travel in the first 6 months, earning an elevated welcome bonus of 5x points for 15,000 Bonvoy points.
5. Player 2 accumulates a total of 96,000 Bonvoy points!

Player Totals

• Player 1 and Player 2 earn a combined total of 202,000 Bonvoy points!

Conclusion: Redeem Your Points

The options are limitless for how you can redeem your Bonvoy points, but here’s a Hawaiian vacation idea to get you started!

Redeem Your Points: Search Marriott.com and select “Use Points/Awards” in the search bar.

• With your 202,000 Bonvoy points, you and your partner can book a 5-night stay in Hawaii valued at $2,640 CAD. That’s an incredible value when you pay the two Card annual fees totaling $240 CAD ($120 each).
• When you redeem your Bonvoy points for any 4-night stay, you’ll get the 5th night free.
• The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is a 4-star hotel on Big Island, Hawaii.
• I did a search on Marriott.com and booking the dates October 3-8, 2024 costs 192,000 Bonvoy points, leaving you 10,000 Bonvoy points leftover!
• This hotel currently retails for $530 CAD a night!

With strategic planning and following the “2 Player Mode” example mentioned above, you can earn enough points for your dream Hawaiian vacation within six months, simply by earning points from your everyday purchases.

This is just one example of how you can earn over $2,000 in value from this Canadian travel rewards Card. 

This makes the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card an easy choice for your next vacation.

Learn More about the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card:

---

Apply Now! The Amex Marriott Bonvoy Card

Read the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Review

Amex Marriott Bonvoy Card Tips & Tricks

• Welcome Bonus: up to 110,000 Bonvoy points
• Annual Fee: $120
• Rewards: Earn 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible travel and gas purchases in your first 6 months (up to 15,000 points). Offer ends May 6, 2024.

Apply Now!

---

View How to Earn the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Referral Bonus in Canada on PointsWise.

Introduction

Loyalty pays when it comes to staying at Marriott hotels. As a Marriott Bonvoy Amex Cardmember in Canada, you’ll receive a number of benefits to help elevate your hotel stay. For a low annual fee of $120 the Card pays for itself, with the biggest highlight being the annual free night certificate.

Let’s take a look at your Cardmember benefits:

Receive 15 Elite Qualifying Nights for Silver Elite Loyalty Status

Cardholders receive 15 elite qualifying nights annually, giving you automatic Silver Elite status, which also gives you a boost to earn towards higher tiers. 

Qualifying nights from the Personal and Business Cards cannot be combined.

Silver Status most notably gives you a priority late checkout, and you’ll earn an extra 10% bonus points on paid stays. 

Upgrade to Gold Status to receive a room upgrade at check-in and a late checkout of 2pm.

Learn More at Marriott’s website: Marriott Bonvoy Tier Levels and Benefits

Anniversary Free Night Award

On each card anniversary, enjoy a free night award valued up to 35,000 points. This can easily exceed the card’s annual fee of $120 when redeemed wisely.

We just booked the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa In Victoria, BC for 39,000 points a night, a $250 value. Golf, spa, tennis, restaurants, and hiking are all at your doorstep at this resort, on breathtaking Vancouver Island, all for half the price with the Bonvoy Card! 

Find a Hotel: Search Marriott to Redeem Points for Hotels

Earn Gold Elite Status

Each year, you have two ways to attain Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status:

1. Spend $30,000 on your card before your annual Card anniversary. That’s $2,500 a month on average.

2. Stay 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year and combine them with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card. 

Gold Elite status is valid for a minimum of one year. Upon the annual reset date, net purchases reset to zero. If you already hold Gold Elite status or higher, you’ll maintain that level instead.

If this works in to your existing budget, this is a no brainer to be earning points on daily purchases to put towards your next vacation or work trip.

Book 4 Nights, Get the 5th Free

When you use your Bonvoy points to book five consecutive nights at the same hotel, you can take advantage of the Fifth Night Free benefit, which allows you to enjoy the cheapest night for free. 

This benefit uses a dynamic pricing model, where the least expensive night is deducted from the total cost when you stay for at least five nights. Be sure to look at planning a longer stay of five nights to maximize the value of your free night. 

As a bonus, you can attach your annual free night certificate to your trip, and stay six nights for the price of four. That’s two free nights free at a Marriott hotel, just for being PointsWise!

Conclusion

The Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card is an easy sell for Canadians looking for a travel rewards Card. 

With limited options for hotel branded loyalty Cards in Canada compared to the USA, the Bonvoy Card easily pays for itself in the first year with the welcome bonus offer up to and the free night certificate. Before paying full price for your next hotel stay, consider applying for the Bonvoy Card and get the benefits you deserve, for less money. 

The secret to travel hacking and cheap hotel stays is using the points from credit card signup bonuses like the Bonvoy Card.

Learn More about getting the most out of your Bonvoy Card in Canada: 

• How to Earn the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Welcome Bonus in Canada
• Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card: How It Works for 5x Points on Gas & Travel in Canada

View A Beginner’s Guide to Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Benefits in Canada on PointsWise.

Introduction

To maximize your rewards, apply for the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Card before May 6, 2024. You’ll enjoy a welcome bonus of 5x points on gas and travel for the initial six months, with the opportunity to earn up to 15,000 bonus points.

You’ll also enjoy automatic Silver Elite status, room upgrades, and more. 

Let’s take a look at how to earn 5x the points with the Amex Bonvoy Card in Canada:

Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card 5x Points on Gas & Travel Earning Structure

If you apply for a Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card before Monday, May 6, 2024, you’ll be eligible to earn the increased welcome bonus spend category of 5x points for every $1 spent on:

• Gas
• Travel
• Marriott Brand Hotels (always 5x the points)

Where to use your Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card to Earn 5x Points

Here are some popular businesses in Canada you can use your Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card to earn 5x the points with:

Marriott Brand Hotels

• Courtyard by Marriott
• Fairfield by Marriott
• JW Marriott
• Marriott Hotels
• Renaissance Hotels
• Residence Inn by Marriott
• Sheraton Hotels & Resorts
• The Ritz-Carlton
• W Hotels
• Westin Hotels & Resorts
• And more.

Stand-alone gas stations in Canada, such as:

• 7-11
• Canadian Tire Gas+
• Canco
• Chevron
• Circle K
• Co-op
• Esso
• Flying J
• Husky
• Irving Oil
• Petro-Canada
• Pioneer Energy
• Safeway Gas Bar
• Shell
• Ultramar

Travel purchases, such as:

Airlines

• Air Canada
• Air Transat
• Alaska Airlines
• Aloft Hotels
• Cathay Pacific
• Flair Airlines
• KLM
• United Airlines
• WestJet
• And all other major airlines

Accommodations

• Airbnb
• Agoda
• Best Western
• Comfort Inn
• Delta Hotels
• Econo Lodge
• Expedia
• Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
• Four Points by Sheraton
• Hotels.com
• Hyatt Hotels
• Quality Inn
• VRBO

Travel Services:

• Amex Travel
• CAA

Ferries:

• Aquabus Ferry (Vancouver)
• BC Ferries

Trains:

• Via Rail

Car Rentals & Ridesharing:

• Budget Rent a Car
• Evo Car Share
• Hertz
• Lyft
• Uber
• Zipcar
• Taxis
• Limousines 

Public Transit:

• Translink (Vancouver)
• TTC (Toronto)
• Subways

How Much Can You Earn with the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card 5x Points?

During the initial six months of Cardmembership, new Cardmembers who apply by May 6, 2024, have the opportunity to earn 5x the points on gas and travel, compared to the standard earning rate of 2x the points. 

After the welcome bonus offer ends, you can continue to earn 5x the points on purchases made at Marriott brands, and 2x the points on gas and travel.

• The maximum bonus points you can earn on gas and travel  is 15,000 points within the first six months of Cardmembership.
• This bonus translates to an additional 3 points for every $1 spent, on top of the standard earn rate of 2 points, totaling 5 points per $1 spent.
• After reaching the combined maximum or six months of Cardmembership, whichever comes first, you’ll revert to the standard earn rate of 2 points for every $1 spent on these categories.

Conclusion

The Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card offers 5x points bonus on gas and travel during the special welcome bonus offer which ends Monday, May 6, 2024. Apply now to get this offer with the Personal Card!

Apply now for the Bonvoy Business Card!

Loyalty to the Marriott brand is rewarded with benefits like the opportunity to earn a fifth night free on a four-night stay when you book using your Bonvoy points. 

With Marriott’s global reach, finding accommodations suited to your preferences and budget is effortless. Just use the “Use Points/Awards” search feature on Marriott’s website to find your next hotel. 

Additionally, the card provides automatic Silver Elite status, increasing the likelihood of room upgrades at check-in. With a welcome bonus of up to 80,000 Bonvoy points and an annual free night certificate, the Bonvoy Card is a valuable addition to any hotel enthusiast’s wallet.
Learn More:

How to Earn the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Welcome Bonus in Canada

A Beginner’s Guide to Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Benefits in Canada

View Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card: How It Works for 5x Points on Gas & Travel in Canada on PointsWise.

Introduction

Planning an upcoming hotel stay? Before you book, consider the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card for an annual fee of $120 you can redeem your points for an estimated $400 CAD in value.

Let’s take a look:

How the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Welcome Bonus Works in Canada

The Welcome Bonus

• You can earn up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
• New Marriott Bonvoy Amex Cardmembers in Canada can earn 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months of Cardmembership.

The Annual Fee

• $120 CAD
• Supplementary Cards are free.

What Are 50,000 Bonvoy Points Worth?

• We consider 50,000 Bonvoy points to be worth $400 in cash, with a value of $0.80 per point.

Find a Hotel

• Search Marriott.com and select “Use Points/Awards” to see how many points it takes to stay at your favourite hotel.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Marriott hotels are priced dynamically, so to get the best redemption, look at booking during off-peak times.
• The welcome bonus is only available to new Cardmembers.

Conclusion

With our average valuation of $0.80 per Bonvoy point and a cash value of $400 for the welcome bonus of 50,000 points, the value of the Card shines through, especially considering the annual fee is just $120.
Start planning your next hotel stay and envision where your points can take you. By investing in the $120 annual fee, you can earn an estimated $400 in value with the Bonvoy Amex Card.

Learn More: Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card: How It Works for 5x Points on Gas & Travel in Canada

A Beginner’s Guide to Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Benefits in Canada

View How to Earn the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Welcome Bonus in Canada on PointsWise.

Today, Amex Canada announced changes to the welcome bonus offers for the Aeroplan Reserve, and Aeroplan Reserve Business Cards.

Let’s take a look at the details:

Aeroplan Reserve Card Welcome Bonus Update

The Aeroplan Reserve Card will now offer a welcome bonus of 85,000 Aeroplan points, down from the previous offer of 90,000.

Although the welcome bonus has dropped by 5k, earning the welcome bonus is more straightforward:

New American Express Aeroplan Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points:

• Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points after spending $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
• Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13.

I would say this welcome bonus offer is an improvement, and allows you to earn the bulk of your points quicker, in the first 3 months, rather than being spread out.

The previous offer had the welcome bonus stretched out, by having to spend $2k every month for six months, apply for two supplementary Cards, and earn a bulk of the points on the Card anniversary. Just too many hoops to jump through.

Get a Free Hotel Night When You Redeem Aeroplan Points

Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 consecutive hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. This offer ends December 31, 2024.

Learn More at Aeroplan: Earn 1 extra night free when you redeem 3 nights with Aeroplan points. You can also earn 2 extra nights free when you redeem 6 nights with Aeroplan points.

Aeroplan Business Reserve Card Welcome Bonus Update

The Aeroplan Business Reserve Card will now offer a welcome bonus of 90,000 Aeroplan points, down from the previous offer of 95,000.

Here’s how it works:

Earn up to 90,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan points:

• Earn 65,000 Aeroplan points after spending $10,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
• Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,500 in purchases in month 13.

Just like with the personal Reserve Card, this welcome bonus is more streamlined, allowing you to earn and redeem points faster.

Although this offer is an improvement, I think it’s safe to say we all wish the welcome bonus offer on the month 13 card anniversary would go away entirely. I don’t like the fact this is marketed as a welcome bonus offer. It’s misleading, as you will have to pay the annual fee, and meet another minimum spend requirement to earn those extra 25,000 points, so keep that in mind.

The Business Reserve Card also gets the benefit of the extra free night when you book three consecutive nights at a hotel with your Aeroplan points.

Conclusion

What do you think of the new Aeroplan Reserve Card welcome bonus offers? Although both Cards saw a 5k drop in points, the structure of the offer makes it a lot easier to redeem your points quicker, rather than having them spread out.

The Aeroplan Reserve Cards are still a great opportunity for Cardmembers to elevate their travel who fly Air Canada and its partners the most.

Learn More from Aeroplan: Air Canada Partners You Can Use Aeroplan Points On

If you fly any of the airlines from the link above, you can earn and redeem Aeroplan points for them.

When you become a Aeroplan Reserve Cardmember you’ll enjoy a better travel experience with these benefits:

• Airport lounge access with PriorityPass.
• Airport lounge access at Maple Leaf lounges for Star Alliance flights.
• Get free checked bags for up to 9 people on the same flight.
• Priority check in with Air Canada.
• Toronto Pearson International Airport benefits.
• Earn loyalty status faster with Aeroplan.
• Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years for NEXUS.
• Receive a companion flight pass when you spend $25k annually. A value of up to $599.
• Earn 1 extra night free when you redeem 3 nights with Aeroplan points.

View Aeroplan Reserve Cards See New Welcome Bonuses on PointsWise.

Introduction: How it Works

With the Amex Cobalt Card in Canada you can earn 5x the points on groceries, and food and drinks at restaurants. That makes it one of the most rewarding credit cards in Canada.

But how can you maximize this spend bonus to earn 5x the points on gas purchases too? 

Because Amex Cobalt awards 5x the points on grocery purchases, you simply need to buy a gift from the grocery store with your for your favourite gas station with your Cobalt Card. It’s really that simple.

Is the Amex Gift Card Balance Method Worth It?

The spend cap for the food and drinks category on the Amex Cobalt is $2,500 per month to earn 5x the points. Then your earning rate drops to 1x the points for any further purchases in that category. This spend cap resets every billing cycle.

Let’s do the math:

Points

$2,500 per month x 5x the points = 12,500 Amex points per month.

12,500 points x 12 months = 150,000 Amex points per year.

Spending

$2,500 per month x 12 months = $30,000 spent annually with a 5% return.

$1,500 / 12 months = $125 cash value each month.

150,000 Amex points = $1,500 cash value (and even more if you transfer to hotel or airline loyalty programs).

This essentially turns the Cobalt Card into a 5% cash back credit card.

Amex Travel: View the Amex Travel Partners in Canada

With a small extra step of buying a gas gift card when you go grocery shopping, and writing down your gift card balance each time, this will put an extra $125 a month in your pocket. This is an easy way to create a savings account for your yearly vacation. Now that’s rewarding!

Keys to Success

Stay Organized

Having multiple gift cards with varying balances on them can get confusing to keep track of. 

Instead, just take an extra minute to keep track of what you’ve used on your gift card when you gas up.

Here’s a basic Google Sheets spreadsheet you can use to get started:

Google Sheets: Free Spreadsheet for Tracking Gift Card Balances for Amex Cobalt

• Gift Card #: Keep track of what gift card you’re on. With each gift card, the amount will reset as in the example below.
• Transaction Date: The date you bought or redeemed the gift card.
• Action: I like to add the grocery store I bought the gift card from, and where I filled up.
• Amount: The amount you bought the gift card for, or how much you redeemed.

Double Dip on Points

Using the Amex Cobalt gas gift card strategy, I can earn 5x the points on my purchase, plus earn points on my PC Optimum account to put towards groceries. But use the gas station where you can double dip and earn points at other stores. In my case, I want to earn additional points for groceries.

Keep it Hassle Free

It can be frustrating to be limited to a specific gas station if none are nearby. Consider planning ahead or acquiring gift cards for multiple gas stations in your area to broaden your options for earning 5x points at the pump.

With Esso, I can pay with my gift card right at the pump, so there’s no need to go inside to redeem it. It’s hassle free to use a gift card at the pump.

Conclusion

As you can tell, I’m all for this gift card method. It creates a good habit of budgeting and achieving points redemption goals.

Now let me be clear, I’m not suggesting living beyond your means and spending more just for the sake of earning Amex points. This method should work with your existing budget.

The fun part is checking out the gift card aisle in the grocery store and seeing what other stores you can earn 5x the points on for everyday purchases you’d be making anyway.

With this strategy, earning 5% cash back on the Amex Cobalt Card in Canada is worth it, when other Visa or MasterCard cards only offer 2-4%.

Now how will you spend your Amex Cobalt rewards?

Learn More: How to Earn Amex Cobalt Membership Reward Points

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

View How to Earn 5x the Points on Gas with Amex Cobalt in Canada on PointsWise.

Introduction

The Amex Cobalt Card in Canada is one of the most rewarding credit cards, especially the 5x points multiplier on groceries, restaurants and food delivery. You’ll earn points on everyday purchases that can add up fast. So what does it take to get approved?

Learn More with the Complete Guide: How to Earn Amex Cobalt Membership Reward Points

Amex Cobalt Approval Checklist

The Amex Cobalt is a mid-level Card so it is relatively easy to get approved for if you have a good credit score.

Amex Cobalt Card Requirements

• You are a Canadian resident and have a Canadian credit file.
• You are the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.

Amex Cobalt Card Recommendations

• A good credit score of 660+.
• While there’s no publicly advertised minimum income requirement for the Amex Cobalt, it’s recommended that you have a steady income.

Learn More: Read our Amex Cobalt Card Review

How Long Does it Take to Get Approved?

When you apply for the Amex Cobalt Card online, in most cases, you’ll receive an immediate decision, allowing for instant approval.

Typically, Amex Canada is strict with the initial application for their credit cards. However, once they recognize a pattern of responsible spending and repayment behaviour, subsequent applications often result in instant approval. The assigned credit limits tend to align more closely with your income and credit history.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

Apply for an Amex Card with No Risk to Your Credit Score

When applying for credit cards or loans, lenders typically conduct a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily affect your credit score. However, Amex Canada stands out by performing a soft inquiry, ensuring no impact on your credit score during the initial application process for the Amex Cobalt Card.

With the Cobalt Card application, you can check your approval status without any risk to your credit score. Only after approval does Amex proceed with a hard credit check, which may cause a slight, temporary decrease in your credit score, particularly if your credit is already subpar. This could pose challenges for future credit approvals, especially if your application is declined, as it further lowers your credit score.

Source: Difference Between Hard Credit Check and Soft Credit Check

Amex Cards with Lower Credit Score Requirements

The Amex Cobalt Card is a mid-level Card, so a good credit score is preferred. 

If you’re looking for a stronger chance of getting approved with a lower credit score, consider applying for these entry-level American Express Cards instead:

• SimplyCash from American Express
• SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express

Conclusion

The bottom line is if you have a credit score of 660 or higher, and are a Canadian resident with a steady income, you should be in great shape to get approved for the Amex Cobalt Card. 

Keep in mind that only new applicants are eligible to earn the welcome bonus:

With an instant decision and no risk of impacting your credit score, you can see if you’re approved for the rewarding Cobalt Card right now.

Apply Now for the Amex Cobalt Card!

View Is it Hard to Get Approved for an Amex Cobalt Card in Canada? on PointsWise.

Introduction

Exciting news for those considering the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Cards in Canada! 

If you’re thinking of applying for either the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card, apply now to enjoy an increased welcome bonus. 

This marks the highest welcome bonus we’ve seen on these cards since July 2021. A welcome bonus this high may not come around for another 1-2 years, so if you’re a regular guest at Marriott hotels, there couldn’t be a better time to sign up for these cards!

This is a limited time deal that ends May 6, 2024. At that point, the welcome bonus on these Cards will be devalued.

Learn More: View the list of Marriott brand hotels.

Let’s take a look at the welcome bonus details for these limited time offers:

Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card Welcome Bonus – Limited Time Deal

The Welcome Bonus

Earn up to 80,000 welcome bonus Marriott Bonvoy points:

Earn 65,000 Welcome Bonus points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Card membership.

Plus, earn an additional 3 points for a total of 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible travel and gas purchases in your first 6 months (up to 15,000 points).

Offer ends May 6, 2024.

The Details

The annual fee on the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card is $120. 

With this Card, you’ll earn a Free Night Award automatically each year on your Card anniversary. And if you spend $30,000 annually on this Card, you’ll earn Gold Elite status which entitles you to a room upgrade (when available), as well as early and late checkout.

Take full advantage of its 5x points rewards on travel and gas purchases for your first six months of Card membership. You can do this by purchasing gift cards from gas stations for other stores, allowing you to earn 5x points on transactions that would otherwise earn you only 2x points.

If you’re gearing up for a Marriott hotel stay, make the Marriott Bonvoy Card your go-to option.

Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card Welcome Bonus – Limited Time Deal

The Welcome Bonus

Earn up to 90,000 welcome bonus Marriott Bonvoy points:

Earn 75,000 Welcome Bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first three months of Card membership.

Plus, earn an additional 2 points for a total of 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible gas, dining and travel purchases in your first 6 months (up to 15,000 points).

Offer ends May 6, 2024.

The Details

The annual fee on the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex Card is $150. 

The Business Bonvoy Card comes with the same benefits as the personal Card. In addition to earning 5x the points on gas and travel, you can also earn 5x the Bonvoy points on dining. If you dine out frequently, this is an excellent way to rack up Bonvoy points fast.

You don’t have to be a business owner to apply for this Card, but it does come with added features for business owners like “employee card misuse protection” for supplementary cards.

Conclusion

This is a very exciting deal, as it’s been almost 2 years since we’ve seen a welcome bonus offer this high on these Cards in Canada.

Consider applying for both of these Cards to maximize your Bonvoy points.

With Marriott merging with MGM, there are plenty of exciting opportunities to use your welcome bonus points for a Vegas vacation at MGM properties such as the MGM Grand, Bellagio, New York New York, ARIA, The Cosmopolitan, Excalibur, and more!

Learn More: MGM Marriott Collection, Las Vegas Hotels

90,000 Bonvoy points is enough for a 2-night stay at the Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa in the heart of Vegas, valued at $530 CAD. By investing just $120 in the annual fee for the Marriott Bonvoy Card, you can effortlessly gain over $400 in value with this Card. Now that’s PointsWise!

View Welcome Bonus Boosted for Marriott Bonvoy Amex Cards in Canada! on PointsWise.

Introduction

Are you up for the challenge? The Amex Cobalt Card can transform your grocery runs into a points-earning adventure.

Here are all six ways you can earn Amex Cobalt points with a few tricks for maximizing the points you can earn on everyday purchases.

And be sure to explore the links below for in-depth articles on each method of earning points with the Amex Cobalt Card:

• Welcome bonus
• 5x points on food and drinks
• 5x points on gas (with a travel hack)
• 3x points on streaming services
• 2x points on travel and transit
• 1x points on everything else
• Referral bonus

Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

The Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

• You can earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points in the first year. That’s $150 in cash value you can use towards purchases with a statement credit. Or transfer your points to airline loyalty programs for a higher redemption.
• That breaks down to 1,250 points for every monthly billing period when you spend $750 on your Cobalt Card.
• There is an annual fee of $155.88, billed monthly at $12.99.

Requirements to Earn the Welcome Bonus

• Eligibility is limited to new Amex Cobalt Cardmembers.
• The minimum monthly spend of $750 is required to earn the maximum welcome bonus.

Tips for Maximizing the Bonus:

• Watch for potential devaluations, and anticipate higher bonuses after dips. Be sure to align your card application with higher bonus offers and be PointsWise.
• Historical trends show peak bonus points in January and August.
• Consider adding a supplementary Cardmember to reach the minimum spend faster, without an additional fee.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

Earn 5x Points on Food and Drinks

Earning Structure

• You can earn 5x points for every $1 spent on food and drinks.
• You’ll earn up to 150,000 points per year by reaching the spend limit for the food and drinks category.
• $2,500 per month x 5x points = 12,500/month. 12,500 x 12 = 150,000 points per year.

Where to Use Your Amex Cobalt Card and Earn 5x Points

Eligible establishments for earning 5x points, include:

• Restaurants, coffee shops, and drinking establishments.
• Stand-alone grocery stores. This refers to dedicated grocery stores.
• Food and grocery delivery services like DoorDash and Instacart.

Limits to 5x Points

• There is a monthly spend cap of $2,500 CAD (as of August 2023). The spending limit resets on the first of each month. After reaching the spend limit, you’ll earn 1 point for every dollar spent.
• Some stores, including Walmart and Costco, do not qualify for earning 5x points. Walmart falls under the “general merchandise” category, and Costco does not currently accept American Express.
• Superstore (Loblaws) does not accept American Express instore or online. However, with this loophole, you can purchase Loblaws gift cards through Rakuten with American Express and earn bonus cash.

Bonus: Sign up with Rakuten and Earn $30 Cash Back.

Learn More: How to Earn 5x Points on Food and Drinks with the Amex Cobalt Card

Earn 3x Points on Streaming Services

Earning Structure

• You can earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
• Spending $100 monthly on streaming services yields 3,600 bonus points annually. Each point equals $1, providing a $36 statement credit.

Eligible Streaming Services for 3x Points

Movies and TV Shows

• Amazon Prime
• Apple TV+
• Crave
• Disney+
• Hayu
• Netflix

Music

• Apple Music
• SiriusXM Canada
• Spotify

Sports

• TSN
• RDS
• fuboTV

How to Earn More Points on Streaming Services

• Earn 5x the points by purchasing gift cards for streaming services at grocery stores using your Cobalt Card.
• This strategy should be used first to maximize your points, especially for services not on the official list, such as gaming platforms like Xbox.

Limits to Earning 3x Points

• Only eligible purchases from the official streaming list will earn 3x the points. Bundled or third-party billed services are not eligible.
• There is no spend cap on streaming services.
• YouTube and YouTube Music are not officially recognized, but some Cardmembers have reported receiving 3x points.

Learn More: How to Earn 3x the Points on Streaming Services with Your Cobalt Card.

Earn 2x the Points on Travel Purchases

Earning Structure

• You can earn 2x points for every $1 spent on eligible travel and transit within Canada.

Eligible Transit & Travel Purchases

• You can earn 2x the points on travel and transit at a comprehensive list of well-known merchants for earning 2x points, including gas stations, airlines, accommodations, and more.

How to Maximize Your Travel and Transit Points

• Consider buying gift cards at grocery stores specifically for gas stations. This way, you can earn 5x the points on gas purchases, as opposed to only earning 2x the points when buying directly from the gas station.

Learn More: How to Earn 2x Points on Travel and Transit with Your Amex Cobalt Card.

Earn 1x the Points on Everything Else

Earning Structure

• You can earn 1x points on everyday purchases if they don’t belong to specific categories (food, drinks, streaming, travel, and transit).
• Points are not earned on interest charges, Card membership fees, cash advances, foreign transaction fees, or balance transfer fees.

How to Maximize Your Points

• Consider buying gift cards at grocery stores for Amazon to earn 5x the points on Amazon purchases.

Learn More: How to Earn 1x the Points on Everything Else with Your Amex Cobalt Card.

Earn the Referral Bonus When You Refer a Friend for an Amex Cobalt Card

Referral Bonus Overview

Limited Time Referral Bonus Deal!

• You can earn a bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards points for each approved referral.
• Refer a friend between January 17, 2024, and March 4, 2024 to take advantage of this limited time offer.

Standard Referral Bonus

• The standard offer is 5,000 Membership Rewards points for each approved referral.

Referral Program Terms

• The maximum annual referral bonus limit: 75,000 Membership Rewards points.
• Most referral points will post to your account in a few days, but allow up to 10 weeks.
• Referral points can only be earned by referring new Cobalt Cardmembers.

How to Get Your Referral Link

• As a current Amex Cobalt Cardmember, log in to your online account, and from your Dashboard, click “Refer Now,” and accept the terms and conditions. Then, copy and share personalized referral link. Not already a Cardmember? Apply now!

How to Maximize Your Referral Bonus Points

• Sometimes Amex may increase the referral bonus so be sure to check when you log in to your Amex account.
• Some travel bloggers share their links on their blog, or social media like Reddit or Facebook.
• Historically, enforcement for sharing links has been flexible, allowing a reasonable approach to earn referral bonuses. Basically, don’t spam your link.
• The Amex referral program offers you a chance to earn more points and enjoy free travel experiences.

Learn More: How to Refer Friends and Earn Points with the Amex Cobalt Card.

Conclusion

Now that  you’ve learned all six ways to earn Amex points using the Cobalt Card, the next step is to create a points strategy that works for your lifestyle.

Consider updating a monthly spreadsheet to track your purchases to help reach your points goals.

Part of your strategy should be to plan how you can refer as many people as possible for a Cobalt Card so you can earn more points faster.

Your next focus is to maximize the 5x points you can earn on food and drinks. 5x the points is an excellent earn rate, so if it’s within your budget, focus on reaching the spend cap of $2,500 a month in that category.

The trick is, that money doesn’t all need to be spent on food and drinks. 

Get creative – when shopping at grocery stores that accept Amex, like Save on Foods or FreshCo. Check the gift card aisle for cards from your frequently visited stores. Purchasing a gift card to that store will automatically code as 5x the points. This is particularly beneficial for stores where you might typically earn only 1-2x points.

I hope this article helps you get the most out of your Amex Cobalt Card.

Do you have any favorite ways of earning Amex points? Drop a comment below.

View How to Earn Amex Cobalt Membership Reward Points on PointsWise.

Introduction

This post is updated as of March 3, 2025.

American Express Canada offers a referral program for its Cardmembers, so existing Cardmembers can refer a friend to sign up for a Card, and both people get rewarded.

If you’re applying for your first Amex Cobalt Card you can earn a welcome bonus by using an existing cardmembers referral link.

And if you’re an existing Cobalt Cardmember, you can share your referral link with friends and family and when they get approved, you will earn referral points.

Let’s take a look at how it works.

The Amex Cobalt Referral Bonus

Share Your Referral Link and Get Rewarded

The Standard Offer: As an Amex Cobalt Cardmember, you can refer a friend and earn a bonus of 5,000 Membership Rewards points for each approved referral, up to a maximum annual bonus of 75,000 points. That’s up to 15 referrals per year with the standard offer.

New Cobalt Cardmember Benefits

Currently, in their first year, your friend could earn 1,250 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which they spend $750 on their Card, totaling up to 15,000 points in a year. That’s up to $150 cash value towards their next night out.

Key Referral Program Terms

• Maximum annual referral bonus limit is 75,000 Membership Rewards points per calendar year. (5,000 points x 15 referrals with the standard offer.)
• Referral bonuses are subject to your creditworthiness and account history with American Express.
• Allow up to 8 to 10 weeks for the referral bonus to post to your account. (Points are usually posted much sooner, in most cases, a few days to a week).

Important Considerations

• You will only earn referral points when a new Cardmember applies for an American Express Cobalt Card. Current or previous Cardmembers are ineligible.
• American Express reserves the right to limit, cancel, or revoke referrals or welcome bonuses for violations of terms.

How to Get Your Amex Cobalt Referral Link

1. Make sure you’re already an Amex Cobalt Cardmember. If not, apply now for the Amex Cobalt Card.
2. Login to your online account and from your Dashboard click the “Refer Now” button and accept the terms and conditions.
3. Copy and share your personalized referral link.
4. That’s it! Once your friend applies through your link and gets approved for their Cobalt Card, you should see your referral points posted to your account within a few days.
5. To view your points, from your American Express online dashboard click “View and Redeem Points > My Points Account > View Points” to see a breakdown of the points you’ve earned from daily purchases and referrals. The referral bonus will show up there.

Conclusion: How to Maximize Your Referral Bonus Points

From time to time, American Express may increase the referral bonus. That’s when it really pays to share your personal link and refer a friend!

Sometimes the Amex referral welcome bonus can be a higher welcome bonus than the standard offer, but it may also come with a higher minimum spend requirement.

You will know if there is a special deal happening by logging into your American Express online account and checking your current offers.

Some travel bloggers post their referral links on their blog, or on forums like Reddit or Facebook.

You might be questioning whether Amex enforces restrictions on this practice, considering that you’re ideally expected to share your referral link solely with family and friends. The truth is, a lot of bloggers share their referral links with their readers, and that’s how they earn more points to continue traveling and blogging.

Amex’s guidelines for sharing your referral link are pretty vague:

• You should only send your link to friends and family who genuinely want to receive it.
• Ask their permission first.

Learn More: Amex Canada Referral Program Terms

As long as you aren’t spamming people with your link, and take a reasonable approach to sharing your link, you should be ok.

In my personal experience, Amex doesn’t seem to mind that travel bloggers share their referral links.

When I first started PointsWise, I would share referral links on this blog, and you would be surprised at how many people used the links!

It was exhilarating seeing my points balance climb quickly. I would literally max out the number of people I could refer in a matter of weeks. Then I would sign up for another Card and repeat the process!

It really did allow me to travel for free and write about my experiences.

If you’re looking to travel for free on credit Card points, the secret is to refer other people to sign up for an Amex Card.

Looking for more ways to earn Amex Cobalt points?

• Earn 5x points on food and drinks.
• BONUS Travel Hack: Earn 5x points on gas
• Earn 3x points on streaming services.
• Earn 2x points on travel.
• Earn 1x points on everything else.
• Earn the Amex Cobalt welcome bonus.

View How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Referral Bonus on PointsWise.

Introduction

Are you eyeing the Amex Express Cobalt Card? Before you apply, it’s crucial to be aware of the current landscape. At present, the welcome bonus for the Cobalt Card is at an all-time low of 15,000 Membership Rewards points. So is now the best time to apply, or is it PointsWise to wait for a higher offer? Let’s take a look.

Looking for Historical Amex Bonus Trends Across All Cards?

We’ve tracked every welcome bonus in Canada for the last 6+ years – including spikes on cards like the Amex Platinum, Business Platinum, and Aeroplan Reserve.

See the latest welcome bonus data and when to apply >

How the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus Works

First, here’s how you can earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points in your first year.

What’s in it for You?

• For every monthly billing period where you spend $750 in purchases on your Cobalt Card, you’ll earn 1,250 Membership Rewards points.
• Over the course of a year, that adds up to 15,000 points.
• With an annual fee of $155.88 ($12.99 paid monthly), you’ll essentially break even with the welcome bonus points.

What Can You Do With 15,000 Points?

• 15,000 points is $150 in cash value, you can put towards your next weekend getaway.

Who’s Eligible?

• This offer is exclusively for new American Express Cobalt Cardmembers.
• If you currently hold a Cobalt Card or have been a Cardmember in the past, you won’t be eligible to receive the welcome bonus again.

How to Secure The Welcome Bonus:

• Meet the minimum spend requirement of $750 each monthly billing period.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Your account must be in good standing throughout the bonus earning period.
• Allow up to eight weeks for those bonus points to post to your Membership Rewards account.

Tips for Maximizing the Welcome Bonus

Strike While the Iron is Hot

Historically, January and August have proven to be lucrative months, offering welcome bonus points of 45,000 and 50,000, respectively.

Beware of Devaluations

In July 2021 and March 2022, the welcome bonus points took a dip to 30,000 points. The welcome bonus tends to fluctuate, and the Card will not very likely get devalued twice in a row. You can generally expect a higher welcome bonus after a dive.

Keep an Eye on Trends

In November 2023, the welcome bonus took a major hit and dropped to 15,000 points. Over the last three years, the Amex Cobalt welcome bonus has seen five changes. That’s an average of one new welcome bonus offer every seven months.

Knowing these trends can help you anticipate when the offer might go up again.

Plan Strategically

Consider applying for the Amex Cobalt Card with higher bonus offers, but also weigh it against your own financial plans and needs.

Assess whether a substantial bonus is worth the wait or if a more immediate application fits your timeline.

Remember, the credit card landscape can be dynamic, so staying informed and strategic will help you make the most out of your American Express Cobalt Card application.

Add a Supplementary Cardmember

While certain Amex Cards provide extra points for adding a supplementary Cardmember, the Cobalt Card currently does not offer additional points for this. However, having a second Cardmember can expedite meeting the minimum spend requirement. There’s no annual fee for adding a second card to your account.

Conclusion

The American Express Cobalt Card’s welcome bonus, currently at an all-time low of 15,000 Membership Rewards points, should have potential cardholders considering their timing and strategy.

Ultimately, the decision to apply for the Amex Cobalt Card should align with your financial plans and needs. Whether you choose to apply now and start earning points, or patiently await a higher offer, which could take several months or close to a year, now is a great time to define your credit card goals and make the choice that’s best for you.

While the welcome bonus is underwhelming right now, the Cobalt Card makes up for it with these spending bonus categories:

How to Earn 5x Points on Food & Drinks

How to Earn 3x Points on Streaming

How to Earn 2x Points on Travel

How to Earn 1x Points on Everything Else

View How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus on PointsWise.

Intro: Is the Amex Cobalt a Good Card for Everyday Purchases in Canada?

In the ever-evolving landscape of Canadian travel reward cards, choosing the right one to be your “top of wallet” card is a decision that can significantly impact your dream vacation.

Enter the American Express Cobalt Card.

While its multipliers, like the popular 5x points on food and drinks, steals the spotlight, don’t overlook the consistent 1x points on general merchandise.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why the Amex Cobalt Card deserves the prime spot in your wallet, breaking down its earning structure and strategies for maximizing the potential of every purchase.

Amex Cobalt 1x Points on Everything Else: Earning Structure

You’ll earn 1 point for every $1 spent on:

• Everyday purchases

What Everyday Purchases Are Eligible to Earn 1x Points With the Amex Cobalt?

First, it’s important to know that you’ll earn points multipliers with these categories:

• Food and drinks (5x points)
• Streaming services (3x points)
• Travel and transit (2x points)

If your purchase belong to one of the above categories, you’ll earn 1x points on:

• General merchandise

This includes transactions from:

• Third-party payment accounts or services,
• Card readers attached to mobile phones,
• Online retailers selling goods from various merchants,
• Or cases where the merchant category is not specifically identified.

How to Find a Merchant Code for American Express

Finding a merchant code for a business typically involves looking at the merchant category code (MCC), which is a four-digit number assigned to businesses by credit card companies. The MCC helps identify the type of goods or services a business provides. These can sometimes be difficult to find, but sometimes your best bet is to check the receipt or your credit card statement. Look for a four-digit number associated with the transaction – this is likely the MCC.

What Purchases Aren’t Eligible to Earn Points?

The following transactions do not qualify for the accrual of Membership Rewards point:

• Interest charges
• Monthly/Annual Card Membership fees
• Cash advances
• Foreign transaction fees
• Balance transfer fees

How Much Can You Earn With Amex Cobalt 1x Points?

You can earn unlimited 1x points with your Amex Cobalt Card on general merchandise purchases. While there are spending bonus categories like the 5x points on food and drinks with the Cobalt Card, there are no restrictions on earning 1px points.

A Points Strategy Checklist

Before you accept the default earning rate of 1x points on the Cobalt Card, consider this mental checklist with each purchase:

• Will I earn more points within a spending bonus category? (These points will be assigned automatically on your statement):
  • 5x points on food and drinks
  • 3x points on streaming
  • 2x points on travel
• Can I buy a gift card at a grocery store to earn 5x the points, then use it to buy general merchandise?
• Can I use an online shopping portal such as Aeroplan eStore, Great Canadian Rebates, or Rakuten to earn more points?

BONUS: Click this link to earn $30 cash back FREE with Rakuten!

Conclusion

When it comes to Canadian reward Cards,, the American Express Cobalt Card consistently comes out ahead as a front-runner with its diverse earning structure.

From the appealing 5x points on restaurants and groceries to the reliable 1x points on general merchandise, this card offers a dynamic approach to rewards.

American Express is widely accepted at over 90,000 stores in Canada, including stores, restaurants, and service providers. See where you can use your Cobalt Card in Canada with this comprehensive map.

With the Cobalt Card, you can elevate your earning potential, and let your Amex Cobalt Card redefine the way you experience Credit Card rewards in Canada.

Learn More: How to Earn the Amex Cobalt Welcome Bonus

Earn More Cobalt Points with these Multipliers

• Food and drinks (5x points)
• Streaming services (3x points)
• Travel and transit (2x points)
• Everything else (1x point)

View How to Earn the Amex Cobalt 1x Points on Everything Else on PointsWise.

Intro: Is the Amex Cobalt Good for Travel?

Unlocking the full potential of your Amex Cobalt Card goes beyond the benefits of earning points on your everyday expenses.

One particularly rewarding category is the 2x points multiplier for eligible travel and transit purchases within Canada.

In this post, we’ll look at the earning structure of the Amex Cobalt’s 2x points on transit and travel, with a list of merchants where you can maximize your rewards.

Whether you’re commuting, booking flights and accommodations, or renting a car, the Cobalt Card will allow you to strategically earn and redeem points for more travel.

Amex Cobalt 2x Points on Transit & Travel: Earning Structure

You’ll earn 2x points for every $1 spent on:

• Eligible travel and transit in Canada.

What Transit & Travel Purchases Are Eligible to Earn 2x Points With the Amex Cobalt?

Below is a list of well-known transit and travel merchants in Canada where you can utilize your Amex Cobalt Card to earn 2x points:

Gas Stations:

• 7-11
• Canadian Tire Gas+
• Canco
• Chevron
• Circle K
• Co-op
• Esso
• Flying J
• Husky
• Irving Oil
• Petro-Canada
• Pioneer Energy
• Safeway Gas Bar
• Shell
• Ultramar

Airlines:

• Air Canada
• Air Transat
• Alaska Airlines
• Aloft Hotels
• Cathay Pacific
• Flair Airlines
• KLM
• United Airlines
• WestJet
• And all other major airlines

Accommodations:

• Airbnb
• Agoda
• Best Western
• Comfort Inn
• Delta Hotels
• Econo Lodge
• Expedia
• Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
• Four Points by Sheraton
• Hotels.com
• Hyatt Hotels
• Quality Inn
• VRBO

Travel Services:

• Amex Travel
• CAA

Ferries:

• Aquabus Ferry (Vancouver)
• BC Ferries

Trains:

• Via Rail

Car Rentals & Ridesharing:

• Budget Rent a Car
• Evo Car Share
• Hertz
• Lyft
• Uber
• Zipcar
• Taxis
• Limousines