American Express Black Card

The American Express 'Black' card is an exclusive card that only Amex's best customers get to carry

Photo by Clemson page 1 of 14

American Express Black Card

unusually, Amex created the Centurion card in response to a rumor of an ultra-exclusive card that the very wealthy or hollywood famous carried

Photo by EdgarGlez | Automotive Art page 2 of 14

American Express Black Card

Not a lot is known about how to get this secret card

Photo by Tracy Hunter page 3 of 14

American Express Black Card

We believe you must spend at least $250,000 per year on another Amex card, and maybe, just maybe, American Express will invite you to apply

Photo by `James Wheeler page 4 of 14

American Express Black Card

Most of the benefits are the same as the regular Platinum card, although there are a few special ones for Centurion members

Photo by Dave Dugdale page 5 of 14

American Express Black Card

At Centurion Lounges in airports, there are tables reserved for Black card carriers, and a secret drinks menu with a nicer champagne option, as well as a premium scotch. These change over time, and a not available in any way to Platinum card holders

Photo by the queen of subtle page 6 of 14

American Express Black Card

The regular Fine Hotels and Resorts benefits apply, in addition to an extra $100+ hotel credit, and some luxury hotel chains give a room upgrade at booking time (not just checkin)  You can learn more about the Fine Hotels and Resorts program at FHRNews - https://www.fhrnews.com

Photo by James Marvin Phelps page 7 of 14

American Express Black Card

As a Centurion, you also get a better level bump at Avis and Hertz, as well as Platinum membership in Delta SkyMiles

Photo by Jim Nix / Nomadic Pursuits page 8 of 14

American Express Black Card

A few times a year, there are also "WOW" offers. Usually a $500 credit of some type, or a free single night at a luxury hotel (with no other nights needed).

Photo by akeán2® page 9 of 14

American Express Black Card

None of this is free!

Photo by 401(K) 2013 page 10 of 14

American Express Black Card

There's a one-time $7,500 application fee, and then $2,500 per year after that. Additional cards for family members also cost $2,500  These numbers vary based on country, and have changed significantly over time

Photo by quaziefoto page 11 of 14

American Express Black Card

So, i it worth it?

Photo by ed_needs_a_bicycle page 12 of 14

American Express Black Card

Maybe!  If you can use the extra Fine Hotels and Resorts benefits, or the WOW offers, then you can actually get this card to pay for itself.  For most of us, it's unlikely to be a good deal, but we're probably not going to be invited anyway!

Photo by Onasill ~ Bill Badzo page 13 of 14

American Express Black Card

If you have a Centurion or Platinum card, and you want to find out about the free nights with the Fine Hotels and Resorts program, sign up for the free newsletter at FHRNews  https://www.fhrnews.com 

Photo by Zach Dischner page 14 of 14