The American Express Platinum Card offers significant value, with many benefits that aren’t just for the primary cardholder. There are two ways to extend the perks of the Amex Platinum: you can share them with a partner, child, friend, or someone else in your circle.
But, it’s not really straightforward—it’s important to weigh your options. The Companion Platinum Card has no additional fees, but there’s a $195 fee for certified users, though that doesn’t compromise benefits.
Companion Platinum vs. Authorized Users
| Advantage | Companion Platinum | Certified Users |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection Program Access | No | Yes |
| Amex Offer | Yes | Yes |
| Car rental and hotel elite status | No | Yes |
| Mobile phone protection (when bills are paid with the card) | Yes | Yes |
| Earn Membership Reward Points | Yes | Yes |
| Global Entry/TSA Precheck Credit | Yes | Yes |
| Lounge Access | No | Yes |
| Platinum Night Dining Experience | Yes | Yes |
| Travel and Shopping Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Charges | $0 | $195 |
What Benefits Are Not Available?
Neither Companion Platinum Cardholders nor certified users receive their own statement credits, except for the Global Entry/TSA Precheck credits. This feature mostly helps primary cardholders maximize their own spending on the card.
It’s also worth noting that Companion Platinum Cardholders and Authorized Users won’t receive a welcome offer unless they apply directly as primary cardholders.
Can You Earn Bonus Points for Adding a Member?
It might be helpful to explore Amex offers for potential bonus points when adding certified users, although earning bonus points for Companion Platinum is not that likely.
For instance, a recent offer allowed for 20,000 bonus points after adding a certified user who spent $2,000 within the first six months.
When is a Companion Platinum Card Ideal?
If you’re thinking about a Companion Platinum Card, keep in mind that it lacks both lounge access and elite status. However, if you’re okay with missing those perks, it still has decent benefits.
Global Entry or TSA Precheck Statement Credit
If someone is already enrolled in Global Entry or TSA Precheck, you can still use this perk without any additional fees for adding a Companion Platinum Card.
Earn More Points
Primary Card Members can earn bonus points on purchases made by their Companion Platinum members. They earn at the same rate as the regular Amex Platinum card.
- Earn 5 points per dollar on airfare booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 each calendar year).
- Earn 5 points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- Earn 1 point for every other dollar spent.
When Paying for an Amex Platinum Certified User Makes Sense
Sometimes, paying an additional $195 for a certified user can be worthwhile. Authorized users enjoy all the Companion Platinum benefits, plus a bit more:
Lounge Access
Eligible certified users can access the American Express Global Lounge Collection, even if they’re traveling without the primary cardholder.
Note: Registration is required.
Also, if you travel on the same day with Delta, qualifying Platinum Card Members can get up to 10 visits a year to the Delta Sky Club, unless you spend over $75,000 to earn unlimited visits.
Car Rental and Hotel Elite Status
Certified users gain complimentary gold status with both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Programs, among other perks like room upgrades and late checkout, upon registration.
They also receive executive status from Avis, Hertz, and National Emerald Club, which means added benefits when renting vehicles.
Hotel Benefits
Authorized users also have access to luxury hotel chains through the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts program, although they won’t receive the same hotel statement credits available to primary members.
Which Option Should You Choose?
The Companion Platinum Card lets others earn points for the primary cardholder while enjoying some benefits at no extra cost. This is particularly useful for:
- Teenagers or young adults aiming to build credit history.
- Those benefiting from Global Entry/TSA Precheck credits.
In contrast, adding authorized users provides access to additional perks similar to those of primary cardholders, like lounge access and elite status—but with a fee. You need to pay extra for each user added, making it suitable for frequent travelers or companions who value these benefits.
Conclusion
Sharing Amex Platinum perks makes a lot of sense, especially for younger individuals or frequent travelers who want to maximize their benefits. The Companion Platinum Card is ideal for those just starting with earning rewards, while certified user cards suit travelers who appreciate club access and elite benefits.
If you’re uncertain about whether a certified user should get their own card, a more extensive guide could clarify that decision.
For additional details about the card, you can explore a complete review of the American Express Platinum.
