Amex Platinum Authorized Users: Is It Worth It?

The American Express Platinum Card, known for its prestige and exclusive perks, has long been a symbol of luxury in the world of credit cards. But did you know that as the primary cardholder, you have the option to share some of these benefits with your loved ones?

In this guide to Platinum Authorized User benefits, we'll explore everything you need to know about authorized users on this Amex Card. From the cost of adding users to the incredible benefits, they can access.

Complete guide to authorized users on the Amex Platinum Card

Whether you're considering adding a family member or a friend, or you're curious about whether it's worth the investment, you'll find all the vital information you need below. So, let's begin our journey into the world of Amex Platinum Authorized Users.

Can You Add an Amex Platinum Authorized User?

Yes, the Amex Platinum Card allows you to add Additional Card Members (authorized users).

How Much Does it Cost to Add an Authorized User?

This is where the biggest change lies. The current fee structure is as follows:

• $195 total for up to three authorized users. This means you can add one, two, or three authorized users for a single $195 annual fee.
• $195 per person for each additional authorized user beyond the first three. So, if you want to add four authorized users, you'll pay $390 ($195 for the first three, plus $195 for the fourth).

This change significantly alters the value proposition of adding authorized users.

What are the Authorized User Amex Platinum Benefits?

One of the main reasons to add an authorized user to your Amex Platinum Card is to share the incredible range of benefits this card offers. From airport lounges to statement credits and travel insurance, authorized users can enjoy a host of privileges.

Global Lounge Access:

Authorized users get access to American Express Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select lounges, Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta, and access to the International American Express Lounges.

Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fees:

Authorized users receive a statement credit for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Hotel Elite Status:

Authorized users can enroll in hotel loyalty programs like Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.

Fine Hotels & Resorts:

Access to premium hotel benefits at Fine Hotels & Resorts properties.

Car Rental Privileges:

Authorized users receive complimentary memberships in car rental programs, such as Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Avis Preferred, and National Emerald Club Executive.

Annual Credits (One Per Account, Per Calendar Year):

These benefits are limited to one use per account, per calendar year, regardless of whether the primary cardholder or an authorized user utilizes them:

• Airline Fee Credit: Up to $200 for incidental fees with your selected airline.
• Saks Credit: Up to $100, distributed as two $50 credits (one every six months).
• Hotel Credit: Up to $200 for prepaid bookings at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay required, booked through Amex Travel).
• Clear Credit: Up to $189 statement credit for a Clear Plus membership.
• Digital Entertainment Credit: Up to $240 annually, distributed as $20 monthly credits for select merchants.
• Equinox Credit: Up to $300 annually for eligible Equinox memberships or Equinox+ app access.
• Walmart+ Credit: Up to $155 annually, covering the monthly cost of a Walmart+ membership

These limitations are important to consider when adding authorized users. If these one-time benefits are a primary reason for having the card, you may want to use them yourself rather than extending them to authorized users.

Which Amex Platinum Benefits Are Not Available to Authorized Users?

Not all benefits of the Amex Platinum Card can be shared with authorized users. Some features remain exclusive to the primary cardholder:

• Authorized users do not receive an additional welcome offer, as all purchases contribute to the card's minimum spending requirements, resulting in a single points deposit.
• The Platinum Card offers Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber Cash, which is distributed as monthly $15 credits for U.S. rides or U.S. Uber Eats orders, with an additional $20 bonus in December (enrollment is required). However, this Uber Cash is deposited into only one Uber account when you add the Amex Platinum as a payment method. To use it in an authorized user's Uber account, you'll need to remove the card from the original account and reenroll it using the authorized user's account.

Should You Add an Amex Platinum Card Authorized User?

With the updated fee structure of $195 for up to three authorized users, adding family members or loved ones can now be an excellent way to maximize the value of your Amex Platinum Card. Sharing benefits like lounge access, hotel elite status, and car rental privileges can easily offset the cost, especially if multiple people travel frequently.

Consider these factors:

• Travel Frequency: If your authorized users travel often, lounge access and other travel benefits can be extremely valuable.
• Use of Credits: Coordinate with your authorized users on who will utilize the annual credits to avoid duplication.
• Spending Habits: While authorized users' spending contributes to your overall Membership Rewards balance, consider if sharing access is suitable for your financial situation.

By understanding the updated fee structure and the shared benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether adding authorized users to your Amex Platinum Card is right for you.