Is the Amex Business Platinum Card Worth the 895 Annual Fee?

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express stands out in the competitive landscape of business rewards cards, boasting an impressive welcome bonus and a suite of premium perks. While the $895 annual fee may seem steep, the potential for significant savings and benefits could make it worthwhile for the right business owner. This article delves into the card’s features, benefits, and whether it justifies its high cost.

With the rise of premium credit cards, many consumers are increasingly willing to pay annual fees exceeding $400. The Business Platinum Card from American Express is Amex’s premier offering for business owners. Recently refreshed, it now includes new statement credits, enhanced earning rates in bonus categories, and a striking new mirror card design that rivals even the prestigious Centurion Card.

However, the card’s annual fee has seen a notable increase of 29%, now sitting at $895 per year, effective December 2, 2025. While this hike may be daunting, the extensive array of statement credits and benefits can significantly mitigate the impact of this cost.

It’s important to note that this card may not be suitable for every small business, particularly those that do not travel frequently or whose primary spending categories are not aligned with the card’s offerings. Applicants are advised to have a good to excellent credit score to enhance their chances of approval.

For those considering the Business Platinum Card, there’s an enticing limited-time offer: new applicants can earn 200,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 in the first three months. According to TPG’s September 2025 valuations, these points are worth approximately 2 cents each, translating to a potential value of $4,000. This represents the highest public welcome offer available for this card, making it an opportune time to apply.

While $20,000 in three months may seem daunting, businesses with robust cash flow can meet this requirement more easily. For smaller enterprises, prepaying expenses can help in reaching the threshold. For example, some users have successfully met the requirement by paying taxes or handling significant home improvement costs.

If this spending requirement feels overwhelming, consider alternative business cards with lower thresholds and fees that better match your spending habits.

The Business Platinum Card offers an impressive array of statement credits that can collectively exceed $3,500 annually, helping to offset the high annual fee. These credits cover various categories, but enrollment may be required for some benefits.

In addition to the statement credits, the card excels in travel perks. Holders gain access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which features over 1,700 lounges worldwide, including Delta Sky Clubs (with certain access limitations) and Priority Pass locations. This benefit can significantly enhance the travel experience for frequent flyers.

Moreover, cardholders can enjoy complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy, which translates to higher earnings and enhanced benefits during hotel stays. Additionally, the Leaders Club Sterling status from The Leading Hotels of the World adds further value, enabling access to upgrades and points earning opportunities.

The card also provides complimentary elite car rental status with various programs, including Avis Preferred and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, which can be beneficial for business travelers.

For business purchases, the Amex Business Platinum Card offers extended warranty protection on eligible purchases and purchase protection against accidental damage or theft. This can be especially valuable for businesses investing in high-ticket items.

While the recent refresh introduced a new $600 hotel credit, which matches the offering on the personal Platinum Card, it did not expand the earning rates for flights and hotels booked directly, which some users find restrictive. The earning structure, which offers 5 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel, may not be sufficient for those who prefer greater flexibility in booking.

For maximum value, it’s advisable to transfer Membership Rewards points to Amex’s airline and hotel partners, as this can significantly enhance their worth. While redemption options exist for gift cards or bill credits, these typically devalue the points to 1 cent or less. The Pay with Points feature on Amex Travel provides a better value, offering a 35% bonus for flights booked with designated airlines.

Amex’s regular transfer bonuses can further amplify the value of your points, making it worthwhile to keep an eye on these opportunities. Many savvy users have successfully leveraged point transfers to secure premium travel experiences, such as lie-flat seats on international flights.

For those who may not fully utilize the benefits of the Business Platinum Card, exploring other options could be prudent. There are numerous business credit cards available that might better suit your needs and spending habits.

In conclusion, the Amex Business Platinum Card remains a top choice for business travelers who frequently engage in spending within its bonus categories and can take full advantage of its extensive benefits. While the increased annual fee may deter some, the card’s travel perks and potential savings can make it a valuable asset for the right business owner. If you believe this card aligns with your business needs, consider applying to unlock its myriad of advantages.