The Two Must-Have Credit Cards for Top Credit Score Holders
Jun 11, 2024
While researching for Bon, I had the opportunity to speak with hundreds of individuals who boast high credit scores. It became clear that two credit cards stood out among this financially savvy group: the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum Card. These cardholders swore by the superior rewards and benefits that far outweigh the annual fees. Let’s delve into what makes these cards the top picks for those with stellar credit scores.
Chase Sapphire Reserve
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is renowned for its exceptional travel benefits and reward structures. Here’s a closer look at what it offers:
Travel Rewards
3x Points on Travel and Dining: Cardholders earn three points per dollar spent on travel (including airfare, hotels, car rentals, and more) and dining at restaurants, which can be a significant boost for frequent travelers and food enthusiasts.
50% More Value on Travel Redemption: Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. For example, 50,000 points are worth $750 towards travel.
Travel Benefits
$300 Annual Travel Credit: Automatically applied to your account for travel purchases, this effectively reduces the card’s $550 annual fee to $250.
Priority Pass Select Membership: Enjoy unlimited access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, providing comfort and convenience during travel.
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Fee Credit**: Receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, speeding up your passage through airport security and customs.
Purchase Protection
Extended Warranty Protection: Adds an additional year to eligible manufacturer’s warranties of three years or less.
Purchase Protection: Covers new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per year.
American Express Platinum Card
The American Express Platinum Card is synonymous with luxury and premium service. Here’s why it’s favored by those with top credit scores:
5x Points on Flights and Hotels: Earn five points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, and on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
1x Points on Other Purchases: Earn one point per dollar on all other purchases, ensuring a steady accumulation of rewards.
Exclusive Benefits
Up to $200 Airline Fee Credit: Annually, receive up to $200 in statement credits for incidental fees charged by your selected airline, such as baggage fees and in-flight refreshments.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy $15 in Uber Cash for U.S. rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December, totaling up to $200 annually.
$100 Saks Fifth Avenue Credit: Receive up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue (up to $50 in credits every six months).
Luxury Travel Perks
Fine Hotels & Resorts Program: Enjoy benefits such as daily breakfast for two, room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, and more at over 1,000 luxury properties worldwide.
Global Lounge Collection: Access to the most extensive lounge network of any credit card, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and more.
Platinum Concierge: Receive 24/7 access to a personal concierge who can assist with everything from dining reservations to event tickets.
Why High Credit Score Individuals Choose These Cards
The overwhelming sentiment from the high credit score individuals I spoke with is that the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum Card provide unparalleled value through their rewards and benefits. Here’s why:
Value Over Fees: Despite the high annual fees, the multitude of credits, perks, and rewards offered by these cards often offset the cost, making them a smart choice for frequent travelers and high spenders.
Comprehensive Travel Benefits: From lounge access to travel credits and insurance, these cards offer a seamless and luxurious travel experience, highly valued by those who travel often.
Superior Customer Service: Both cards come with access to top-tier customer service, which adds an extra layer of convenience and security for cardholders.
In conclusion, the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum Card stand out as the top choices for individuals with high credit scores. Their robust rewards programs, extensive travel benefits, and superior customer service make them worth the investment. If you’re aiming to maximize the value of your credit card, these two should be at the top of your list.
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