The American Express Green Card offers expanded bonus categories for earning Membership Rewards points on travel, transit, and dining purchases. In this review, we’ll analyze the earnings potential, benefits, and costs to see if the Green Card deserves a spot in your wallet.
Introduction to the Amex Green Card
The American Express Green Card sits in the middle of the Membership Rewards credit card lineup. With 3x points on travel, transit, and dining, this card amps up earning on common purchases. The $150 annual fee is reasonable for a card with decent benefits.
In this review, we’ll see how the Green Card performs as a mid-tier travel and dining rewards card with a moderate annual fee.
Overview of American Express Green Card Rewards Rates
Here is an overview of the rewards rates offered by the American Express Green Card:
| Category | Rewards Rate | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Travel and Transit | 3X Points | On flights, hotels, cruises, taxis, rideshares, parking, etc. |
| Dining | 3X Points | At restaurants worldwide |
| All Other Purchases | 1X Point | No category restrictions |
Welcome Offer, Annual Fee, and Requirements
New cardholders can currently earn 30,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
There is a $150 annual fee which is reasonable for a mid-tier rewards card. You’ll need at least a 690 credit score and moderate income for approval.
How the Amex Membership Rewards Program Works
With the American Express Green Card you can:
| Membership Rewards Program | Details |
|---|---|
| Earn Points | On eligible card purchases |
| Transfer Points | To various airline and hotel partners |
| Redeem Points | For flights, hotels, vacation packages, etc. |
| Point Value | Around 1-2 cents per point when transferred to partners |
Transferring to airline and hotel partners often yields the most value from Membership Rewards points.
Offsetting the $150 Annual Fee
The Green Card helps offset the annual fee with:
- Up to $100 in annual CLEAR statement credits for the airport expedited screening program.
- Complimentary LoungeBuddyaccess to over 1,300 airport lounges and entertainment venues.
- No foreign transaction fees helps save on international trips.
Who Gets the Most Value from the Green Card?
The American Express Green Card: makes the most sense for:
| Best User Profiles | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequent Travelers | 3X bonus categories provide extra earnings on flights, hotels, transit, rideshares, etc. |
| Diners | 3X points on dining rewards frequent restaurant spend |
| Airport Lounge Users | CLEAR credits and LoungeBuddy access provide lounge access |
| Responsible Cardholders | Paying bill off monthly avoids interest charges |
For travelers who can maximize the 3X bonus categories, the increased earning power typically offsets the annual fee.
The Bottom Line
With expanded 3X points on travel, transit, and dining, the Amex Green Card bumps up earning potential on common purchases. But occasional travelers may not justify the $150 annual fee. Make sure your spending habits align before getting the Green Card. Overall a solid mid-tier card for earning travel rewards.