As financial advisors, part of our role is to stay informed about the tools and opportunities that can provide real value to the families we serve. For active duty military, there are unique benefits available through certain financial products that can help maximize rewards, reduce costs, and create meaningful lifestyle perks.
One such standout option is The Platinum Card® from American Express. While it’s known as one of the most premium travel cards available, what makes it especially compelling for active-duty military members is that the hefty annual fee is waived under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA). That means military families can access all of its high-end perks at no cost.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the benefits that matter most.
Reward Structure & Value
- Welcome Bonus: Around 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after meeting the initial spend requirement—often worth $800 or more.
- Everyday Earning:
- 5× points on flights (booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel)
- 5× points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
- 1× points on everything else
For military families who travel frequently—whether for PCS moves, visiting relatives, or well-earned vacations—these rewards can add up quickly.
Travel Perks Designed for Frequent Flyers
- Global Lounge Access: More than 1,300 lounges worldwide, including Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs. A quiet, comfortable space can make long travel days during deployments or relocations far more manageable.
- Hotel Benefits: Complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, room upgrades, late checkouts, and daily breakfast at Fine Hotels + Resorts properties. These extras can make extended stays or family trips smoother.
- Airline Discounts: Savings on premium seats through Amex’s International Airline Program.
For service members and families who travel often, the benefits align directly with travel-heavy lifestyles. If you aren’t a frequent traveler, these particular benefits may go unused.
Lifestyle Credits That Stretch a Military Budget
The Platinum Card offers credits that can help offset everyday expenses:
- $200 Airline Fee Credit each year for checked bags or in-flight purchases
- $200 in Uber Cash annually for rides or Uber Eats
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit (Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM, and others)
- $100 Saks Fifth Avenue Credit annually
- $189 CLEAR Plus Credit for faster airport security
- $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit every 4–5 years
Used strategically, these benefits can provide several hundred dollars in yearly savings.
Added Safeguards for Travel & Purchases
Military families often face unique travel demands and logistical challenges. The Platinum Card offers a strong set of protections, including:
- Trip delay, cancellation, and baggage insurance
- Secondary rental car coverage
- Purchase protection and extended warranties
- Return protection when retailers won’t take items back
- 24/7 Global Assist® hotline for medical, legal, or emergency support abroad
These safeguards can help reduce the financial stress of unexpected events while traveling.
Why We Recommend Military Clients Consider This Card
The American Express Platinum card isn’t for everyone—it’s built for those who travel often. For military members who qualify for the fee waiver, the value is hard to overlook.
From lounge access during deployments, to hotel upgrades on extended stays, to annual credits that help cover everyday expenses, the Platinum Card offers benefits that fit naturally into a travel-heavy lifestyle.
As advisors, we believe it’s worth a closer look for military families who are frequently on the move.