Is the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex Card Worth Its 650 Annual Fee?
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the premium offering from Amex and Delta Air Lines, boasting an annual fee of $650. For those considering this card, the question arises: does it deliver enough value to justify the steep cost?
To assess the worthiness of the Delta Reserve card, let’s explore its benefits, potential earnings, and what it offers to frequent travelers.
Welcome Bonus and Value
New cardmembers can earn a substantial welcome bonus of 125,000 SkyMiles after spending $6,000 within the first six months of membership. This limited-time offer, which is available until October 29, could translate to around $1,500 in value, based on TPG’s October 2025 valuation of Delta SkyMiles at 1.2 cents per mile. However, eligibility for this bonus may be limited for those upgrading from other SkyMiles Amex cards or for previous cardholders who have already received a welcome bonus.
American Express will notify applicants if they are ineligible for the welcome offer before conducting a hard credit inquiry, which is a helpful feature for potential cardholders.
Earning Rewards
The Delta Reserve card allows cardholders to earn SkyMiles at competitive rates:
– 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases
– 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases
According to TPG’s valuations, these rewards can equate to a return of approximately 3.6% for Delta purchases and 1.2% for general spending. While other cards may offer higher returns on everyday spending, the Delta Reserve card shines for those who frequently travel with Delta.
Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs)
A unique feature of the Delta Reserve card is its ability to help users qualify for Medallion status. For every $10 spent, cardholders earn 1 Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD), along with a bonus of 2,500 MQDs each Medallion Qualification Year. This can significantly accelerate the path to elite status within Delta’s loyalty program.
Statement Credits and Perks
The Delta Reserve card comes with several statement credits that can offset its annual fee:
– Ride-Hailing Credit: Up to $10 per month (up to $120 annually) for eligible ride-hailing services in the U.S. Enrollment is required.
– Dining Credit: Up to $20 per month (up to $240 annually) for eligible purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Again, enrollment is necessary.
– Delta Stays Credit: A statement credit of up to $200 per calendar year for prepaid hotel or vacation rental bookings made through Delta.
Maximizing these credits can lead to significant savings, potentially covering a portion or even the entirety of the annual fee.
Delta Sky Club Access
Cardholders enjoy limited access to Delta Sky Clubs, with 15 visits included each year. However, access is restricted if traveling on a basic economy ticket. After using the 15 visits, cardmembers can purchase additional one-time passes for $50 each. Notably, if you spend over $75,000 on the card within a calendar year, you’ll receive unlimited visits the following year, along with four guest passes annually.
Additionally, cardholders have access to Centurion Lounges and Escape lounges when flying on a Delta flight booked with the Reserve card, with guest policies varying by lounge.
Companion Certificate
One of the standout benefits is the annual companion certificate received upon card renewal. This certificate allows cardholders to purchase two round-trip tickets for the price of one (plus taxes and fees), which can be a significant value, especially when used for first-class or peak season travel.
Other Benefits
The Delta Reserve card also offers a variety of other perks, including travel insurance, purchase protections, and exclusive access to events and experiences.
Conclusion
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is a top-tier option for frequent Delta travelers, offering a range of benefits that can offset its high annual fee. With valuable perks like lounge access, a companion certificate, and the ability to earn Medallion status more quickly, it can be an excellent addition to the wallet of anyone who regularly flies with Delta.
However, for those who do not travel with Delta frequently, other credit cards may provide better value. It’s essential to evaluate your travel habits and preferences before committing to this premium card.
For more information on the Delta SkyMiles Reserve card and to apply, visit the official site. Remember to review the rates and fees associated with the card to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and travel aspirations.
