The best American Express credit cards in Canada for 2024
December 5, 2024
Explore the best variety of American Express credit cards, tailored to meet your unique needs. Compare, choose, and apply today for a card that matches your purchasing habits.
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Compare Canada’s best American Express credit cards
The best American Express credit cards in Canada for 2024
When it comes to premium perks and top-notch rewards, American Express is virtually unmatched. Plus, more Canadian businesses are accepting AMEX cards than ever before, making it a great time to consider one. While American Express may be the smallest of the three major credit card companies in Canada (the others being Visa and Mastercard), it’s also the only one to issue its own credit cards rather than rely on a bank or credit union.
Best overall American Express card
Best for Groceries & dining
based on spending $2,200/mo after $156 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
15,000 points (a $150 value)
- Annual fee
$156
Perks of the American Express Cobalt® Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $250,000 | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | $500; delays 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | $500 per trip for all persons | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500; delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- In your first year as a new Cobalt Cardmember, you can earn 1,250 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $750 in net purchases on your Card. This could add up to 15,000 points in a year. That’s up to $150 towards a weekend getaway or concert tickets
- Earn 5x the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
- Earn 3X the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- Earn 2X the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada
- Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
- Earn 1X point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
- Enjoy access to hotel bookings, a room upgrade (when available), 12pm check-in and late check-out (when available), and up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities when charged to the room for a stay of 2 or more consecutive nights through The Hotel Collection from American Express Travel
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Cobalt Cardmembers receive regular Perks such as bonus reward offers and access to great events
- Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Cobalt is one of Canada’s best travel credit cards. If you’re looking for a versatile credit card that rewards both everyday spending and travel, the American Express Cobalt is an ideal choice. Cardholders can enjoy strong travel insurance, a generous welcome offer, and flexible point redemption options.
Pros
- Exceptional point earning: 5x the points on eligible restaurant and food delivery, 3x the points on eligible streaming services, 2x the points on ride shares, transit and gas. The earning potential for restaurants and takeout is significantly higher than most other cards
- Flexible point redemption: Travelers can choose from three ways to use their points: points 1:1 to several valuable loyalty programs including Aeroplan, use the Fixed Points Program to simplify redemptions regardless of travel dates, or use points for statement credits at a rate of 1 point = 1 cent. Or, redeem Membership Rewards for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or purchases
- Exclusive access: Enjoy privileges such as Front of the Line Presale and Reserved tickets to concerts, theatre performances, movie screenings, culinary events, and other special offers
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Benefit from a strong travel insurance package, including up to $5,000,000 in travel emergency medical
- No additional fee for authorized users: Add authorized users for no extra cost (an average fee of $30-50 on other comparable cards)
Cons
- Monthly fee: A monthly fee of $12.99 (totalling an annual fee of $156, which is higher than most other rewards cards)
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Travel insurance age limitations: The travel insurance package does not cover trip cancellation or medical coverage for cardholders over the age of 65
- Lack of airport lounge access: Frequent travellers may be disappointed as this card does not offer access to airport lounges
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca's take
What makes the American Express Cobalt arguably the best rewards card in Canada is its impressive array of bonus categories. Users can earn a whopping five points per dollar on groceries, restaurants, bars, and food deliveries, three points per dollar on eligible streaming subscriptions, two points per dollar on ride shares, transit and gas, and one point per dollar on everything else.
While the card’s annual fee is a little higher than average at $156, its manageable $12.99/month payment schedule makes it easy to handle. Plus, in your first year with the card, you can earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points.
Outside of its generous welcome offer and point values, the American Express Cobalt also provides flexible point redemption options for travellers.
Users have the choice to either:
- redeem points for hotel stays or flights on virtually any airline at a flat rate of $10 per 1000 (1 cent per point)
- use AMEX’s Fixed Points Travel Program to get special redemption rates and potentially earn up to 50%-75% more point value on round trip flights out of Canada
- transfer points to select hotel partners like Marriott Bonvoy
- use the Pay with Points program to use your points for regular card purchases like gas and groceries
- transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
It also won't cost you extra to add authorized users, meaning you'll avoid annual fees should you have to share the account with a loved one.
The American Express Cobalt also provides a wide variety of insurance benefits, including:
- travel emergency medical ($5 million for 15 days)
- travel accident ($500,000), $500
- flight interruption
- baggage loss/delay
- car rental collision/loss damage waiver for vehicles up to $85,000
Also, as with many other Amex cards, users get access to ticket presales and reserved seats for concerts, movie screenings, and culinary events, along with other special offers.
Pros
- Earn 5x points per dollar on groceries, restaurants, bars, and food deliveries (one of the best earn rates in Canada for this category), 2x points on transportation and travel, 3x points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- Welcome offer - earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points.
- Very flexible point redemption options - use Fixed Points Travel Program for flights/hotels, or Pay with Points program for everyday purchases like gas and groceries
- Ability to transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer programs, earning you even more
- No cost for additional users
- Comprehensive travel insurance
Cons
- Annual fee of $156 is higher than average (but is paid monthly)
Best cash back American Express card
Best for Everyday spending
based on spending $2,200/mo after $0 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1.25% – 2% / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
$100
- Annual fee
$0
Perks of the SimplyCash® Card from American Express
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Not included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Not included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Not included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Not included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Not included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- In your first 3 months as a new SimplyCash® Card from American Express Cardmember, you can earn a bonus 5% cash back on all purchases (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates. That’s up to $100 in bonus cash back.
- Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually), and 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases
- Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- Insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The SimplyCash from American Express credit card lets you earn cash back without restrictions. This card is a great option for those who aren’t looking for premium perks or who won’t earn enough rewards to offset an annual fee. offers a great cash back rate, no limit to the amount you can earn, and all the benefits of American Express perks.
Pros
- Streamlined rewards structure: Simple and easy rewards structure that doesn’t require any extensive research or understanding
- Insurance: Travel and purchase protection coverage, including travel accident insurance ($100,000), purchase protection, and extended warranty
- 24/7 concierge services
- Exclusive access: Enjoy privileges such as access to Front of the Line Presale and Reserved tickets to concerts, theatre performances, movie screenings, culinary events, and other special offers
- No annual fee: No annual fee for primary or additional cardholders
Cons
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Low redemption flexibility: Cash-back rewards are only redeemable once per year
- Low earn rate: The card’s standard earn rate of 1.25% isn’t particularly compelling when stacked up against other no-fee cash back cards
- Limited insurance: Other than the standard purchase protection and extended warranty, the only coverage offered is travel accident insurance (up to $100,000)
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca's take
Offering no annual fee, a generous welcome bonus, and no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn, the American Express SimplyCash card should catch the eye of anyone looking for a solid flat-rate cash back card with a few extra perks.
New users who apply for the card are able to earn a bonus 5% cash back on all purchases (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates. That’s up to $100 in bonus cash back. There’s also no annual fee for additional cardholders, so you can earn even more by adding extra users to your account. And, if you have a friend or family member who would rather have their own card, a successful referral will net you an additional $750 in cash back.
While the American Express SimplyCash comes with the standard purchase protection and buyer’s assurance coverage typical to cards of this type, it has one feature that makes it stand out among competitors: $100,000 travel accident insurance - a rarity among non-travel cards with no annual fee.
Pros
- No annual fee for primary or additional cardholders
- Welcome bonus - earn a bonus 5% cash back on all purchases (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates. That’s up to $100 in bonus cash back.
- Earn an extra $750 cash back for a successful referral - a huge bonus when you combine it with the potential earnings of the welcome offer
- Features $100,000 in travel accident insurance - a rarity among non-travel no-fee cards
Cons
- The card’s standard earn rate of 1.25% isn’t particularly compelling when stacked up against some other no-fee cash back cards
- Not a lot of redemption flexibility - cash back can only be applied once a year as a statement credit
Best no-fee American Express card
based on spending $2,200/mo after $0 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
10,000 points (a $100 value)
- Annual fee
$0
Perks of the American Express® Green Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Not included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Not included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Not included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Not included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Not included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Not included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 within 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Get the Card that lets you live in the moment while getting ready for the future
- The American Express® Green Card lets you go for it with every swipe or tap of your Card
- As a new American Express® Green Cardmember, you can earn a Welcome Bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your Card in the first 3 months of Cardmembership. That’s $100 towards groceries or concert tickets.
- Earn 1x the points on Card purchases
- Charge an eligible purchase to your Card and redeem your Membership Rewards points for a statement credit (All eligible purchases: 1,000 points = $10 statement credit)
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- With Amex ExperiencesTM and Front Of The Line® Amex Presale Tickets, American Express Cardmembers get access to amazing events in Canada
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Green Card takes the crown for best no-fee travel credit card due to its attractive welcome bonus, quickly-earned points on travel purchases, easy redemption, and other travel-related perks.
Pros
- No annual fee: Enjoy the card’s travel benefits without an annual fee
- Double points on travel: Effectively double your points when booking travel through American Express Travel
- Flexible redemption options: Redeem points for travel, gift cards, merchandise, everyday purchases, or eligible purchases at Amazon.ca
- Transferable points: Transfer your points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and loyalty programs like Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy, making it easier to save on flights and accommodations while abroad
Cons
- Low standard earn rate: The standard earn rate of one point per $1 may not be as competitive as other no-fee rewards cards
- Limited insurance coverage: The insurance package includes extended warranty and purchase protection only, lacking some travel coverage offered by other no-fee credit cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca's take
The American Express Green Card takes our prize for best no-fee American Express card due to its healthy welcome bonus, point accelerator for travel purchases, and redemption flexibility.
New cardholders can earn 10,000 Membership Rewards points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your card in the first three months of cardmembership. After that, you’ll get a standard earn rate of one point per dollar, but you can double that when you book travel expenses through American Express Travel.
Another great feature of this card is how many redemption options you’re given. Users can choose to cash in their points on travel (booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program), gift cards and merchandise through Membership Rewards, groceries and other everyday purchases through Pay with Points, or eligible purchases at Amazon.ca. Not only that, but you can also transfer your points to travel loyalty programs such as Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy.
And, of course, American Express Green Card users will also enjoy the same benefits as all AMEX cardholders: Front of the Line presales and reserved tickets as well as American Express Experiences ranging from entertainment, dining, and retail.
Pros
- No annual fee
- Welcome bonus - earn 10,000 Membership Rewards points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your card in the first three months of cardmembership.
- Opportunity to effectively double your points when booking travel through American Express Travel
- Flexible redemption options: travel, gift cards/merchandise, everyday purchases, Amazon.ca
- Transfer your points to loyalty programs like Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy
Cons
- Standard earn rate of one point per dollar isn’t particularly competitive with other no fee rewards cards
- Fairly lean insurance package extended warranty and purchase protection only. If you’re interested in more comprehensive coverage, other no fee cards offer more in this area.
Best American Express travel card
Best for Groceries & gas
based on spending $2,200/mo after $250 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 2pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
60,000 points (a $600 value)
- Annual fee
$250
Perks of the American Express® Gold Rewards Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points:
- New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers, earn 5,000 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 in net purchases on your Card
- This could add up to 60,000 points in a year. That’s up to $600 towards your next vacation
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada, and 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
- The Card is now available in your choice of Gold or Rose Gold metal options
- Receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card
- You have access to an annual $100 CAD Travel Credit, compliments of your American Express Gold Rewards Card. Use the credit once annually towards any single travel booking of $100 or more charged to your Gold Rewards Card through American Express Travel Online
- As a Gold Rewards Cardmember, you can receive complimentary membership in Priority PassTM – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Escape the chaos of airports and relax in an oasis of calm and simply enjoy the fact that the travel experience has begun before your plane has even left the ground. Enrollment is required and entry fees apply
- Enjoy four (4) complimentary visits per Calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Entry fees apply once complimentary visits have been used
- Charge any eligible purchase to your credit Card then log in to redeem your earned points for a statement credit
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- 1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster
- Subject to approval. The preferred rate for purchases is 21.99% and funds advances is 21.99%. If you have Missed Payments, the applicable rates for your account will be 25.99% and/or 28.99%. See the information box included with the application for the definition of Missed Payment and which rates apply to charges on your account and other details
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining of monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Gold Rewards card is one of the most flexible travel credit cards in Canada, and this has led it also to be one of the most popular – particularly among savvy travellers and points optimizers.
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca's take
If you’re an American Express fan looking for a flexible travel card with a great welcome bonus, the American Express Gold Rewards Card should be on your radar.
The card offers a respectable two points per dollar spent at eligible gas stations, drug and grocery stores in Canada. You'll also earn two points per dollar on eligible travel purchases (flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more). Outside of that, you'll earn one point per dollar spent in all other categories.To redeem points, simply log in to your account for a statement credit.
One excellent feature of the American Express Gold Rewards card is its generous signup offer - earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points.
Another thing that makes the American Express membership rewards points so appealing is the fact that you can transfer them to Aeroplan and Avios on a 1:1 basis. Points can also be transferred to other programs, including but not limited to the Starwood Preferred Guest, Asia Miles, and Delta SkyMiles programs. Plus, American Express points don’t expire, so you can transfer your points only when you need to. While travelling abroad, there's certainly no shortage of perks with the American Express Gold Rewards card.
You'll also be treated to complimentary membership in Priority Pass™ – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and WiFi as you wait for your flight in a quiet, spacious atmosphere. In addition to that, you’ll get to enjoy four complimentary visits per calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Enrolment is required and entry fees apply. Plus, the card comes with a thorough travel insurance package, covering you in case of out of province/country emergency medical, trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, and more.
As an added bonus for frequent travellers to the U.S., you'll also receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card.
Pros
- 2x points per dollar spent at eligible gas stations, drug and grocery stores in Canada, and eligible travel purchases (flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more)
- Welcome bonus - earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points.
- One free additional Gold Rewards card (a $50 value) - allowing you to earn more even faster
- $100 CAD annual travel credit - offsetting the card’s annual fee
- Transfer points 1:1 to a number of different loyalty programs (Aeroplan, Avios, etc.)
- Complimentary Priority Pass™ membership granting you access to a wide network of airport lounges worldwide
- Extensive travel insurance package
- $50 CAD NEXUS statement credit
Cons
- Annual fee of $250 may be prohibitive to some users
Best American Express low interest card
Purchase interest rate
- Pay $5/mo
Based on a credit balance of $500
- Annual fee
$25
Perks of the American Express® Essential™ Credit Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
Other perks
- Enjoy an annual interest rate of 12.99% on purchases and funds advances
- With an annual interest rate of 12.99%, you can save on interest payments if you choose to carry a balance and make your minimum monthly payments on time
- Access virtual events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- 24/7 Customer Services
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information and Terms and Conditions, click the Apply now link. Conditions apply
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $15,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 12.99%
Cash advance: 12.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca's take
The American Express Essential card is great credit card option for those looking for a credit card with a low interest rate and the additional benefits and perks that come with American Express, such as Front Of The Line® experiences, special offers, concierge services, etc. The card has no annual fee and offers a competitive interest rate on purchases and balance transfers (12.99%).
Pros
- Access to presale tickets, exclusive events, and curated dining and entertainment experiences
- No annual fee and low annual income requirement ($15,000), making it readily accessible
- Allows cardholder to pay off larger purchases in instalments for a fixed monthly fee through Plan It
Cons
- Welcome offer - None
Best American Express premium card
Best for Premium perks
based on spending $2,200/mo after $799 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 2pts / dollar spent
- Anniversary bonus
40,000 points (a $400 value)
- Annual fee
$799
Perks of the American Express®The Platinum Card®
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Complimentary access; 1,400 lounges | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| Waived foreign transaction fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | $2,500 per person, $5,000 per trip | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | $2,500 per person, $6,000 per trip | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Combined maximum $1,000 | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays of 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 within 120 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Ratehub.ca’s 2023 Award Winner – Best Perks Credit Card
- Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®
- Earn up to 140,000 Membership Rewards® points – that’s up to $1,400 towards a weekend away. Offer ends Jan 28, 2025
- New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 100,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership. Offer ends Jan 28, 2025
- Plus, earn 40,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership. Offer ends Jan 28, 2025
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
- Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service
- Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants
- Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands
- Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge CollectionTM which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
- Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
- Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
- Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport
- You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis
- Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
Ratehub’s take
While the American Express Platinum card’s annual fee is steep, the premium travel perks arguably outweigh the cost to use it. You’ll enjoy free, unlimited airport lounge access (while most other cards only offer a free membership or a few passes per year), hotel upgrades, a valuable annual travel and dining credit, and more.
Pros
- Unlimited lounge access: Enjoy free, unlimited lounge visits at over 1,400 lounges across the world with the
- American Express Global lounge collection
- Strong travel insurance offering: Includes everything from out-of-province emergency medical to $500,000 travel accident insurance
- Stretch your points values further: Transfer points to other travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio for increased value and flexibility
- Upgraded gold hotel status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors and deals on car rentals through American Express Online
Cons
- Very high annual fee
- Doesn’t waive foreign transaction fees, which can really add up when you’re traveling
- This is a charge card, so you’ll have to pay off whatever you spend in full each month or face a high interest rate
- American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $40,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: N/A
Cash advance: N/A
Balance transfer: N/A
Ratehub.ca take
When it comes to extra perks, the American Express Platinum Card is in a class all its own and is very easily classified as the best premium credit card in Canada. While its annual fee isn't cheap, the American Express Platinum Card offers all the bells and whistles and benefits that make it worthwhile making it a traveller’s dream credit card. The perks offered with this card include:
- Very lucrative welcome bonus - earn 100,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership. Offer ends Jan 28, 2025
- High earn rate on dining and travel purchases
- No minimum income requirement - a rarity for a card of this calibre
- Complimentary airport lounge access with unlimited passes to Priority Pass and Centurion lounges
- Dedicated 24/7 concierge service
- Annual $200 travel credit
- Best in class travel insurance coverage and VIP benefits at Toronto Pearson Airport including access to Pearson Priority Security Lane, free valet parking (usually a $25 fee), and 15% discount on parking as a statement credit
- Upgraded gold hotel status with Marriott Bonvoy, Radisson Rewards and Hilton Honors and car rental privileges with Hertz and Avis
- Transfer point 1:1 to several frequent flyer programs
Cons
- $799 annual fee is very steep and could pose a barrier to some cardholders
Cards summary (+/-)
Our guide to American Express credit cards
Changes to the American Express Cobalt Card: October 2024
As of October 8, 2024, the earning rate for travel purchases on the American Express Cobalt Card will be cut in half. The Cobalt previously earned 2 points per dollar in travel purchases; it will now change to 1 point for every dollar spent. The earning of gas and transit points will remain unchanged.
As of October 15, 2024, the earning rate for the American Express Cobalt Card no longer applies to purchases outside of Canada. Although many members earned additional points while using the card overseas, the card's official documentation has always stated that these accelerated earn rates apply only to purchases made within Canada. Any overseas purchases, including groceries, restaurants, ride shares, and transit will earn 1 point per dollar.
American Express Membership Rewards points
The American Express Membership Rewards points program is often touted as the best in Canada due to its great value and flexible redemption options.
Depending on if you go for the American Express Cobalt, Gold or Platinum cards, the rewards points you earn can be redeemed for any number of things:
- Flexible Points Travel Program: lets you redeem points for virtually any travel expense (including flights, hotel stays, vacation packages, and car rentals) in flat increments of 1,000 points for $10. You can charge the travel expense to your credit card and apply points against the purchase retroactively at a later date to offset the cost.
- American Express Cobalt, Gold or Platinum cards are all eligible
- Fixed Points Travel Program: lets you redeem points for only round-trip flights out of Canada according to a chart. This chart breaks up potential travel destinations into six regions - each requiring a set number of points (i.e. 60,000 points for a flight to Europe or 100,000 points for a flight to the Middle East). While slightly less intuitive than the aforementioned Flexible Points Travel Program, you can get far greater value (anywhere from 1.75 cents to 2 cents per point) provided you book the right flight and utilize the chart to your advantage.
- Airline Transfers: With this option, you can transfer your points (often at a 1:1 ratio) to a number of frequent flyer programs including Aeroplan and British Airways Avios. Done right, these transfers can help open up the door to even more opportunities to maximize your points values by leveraging the power of other loyalty programs - not just Amex's own program.
- Gold or Platinum cards are eligible (the American Express Cobalt is not)
- Gold or Platinum cards are eligible (the American Express Cobalt is not)
- Hotel Transfers: Similar to airline loyalty program transfers, you can transfer the points you earn on your American Express card to either the Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honours programs.
- American Express Cobalt, Gold or Platinum are all eligible
- American Express Cobalt, Gold or Platinum are all eligible
- Other rewards (American Express Cobalt, Gold or Platinum are eligible)
- Ticketmaster: 2,000 points for $20 (1 cent per point)
- Gift cards: (varies but averages around 0.7-0.8 cents per point)
- Statement credits: 1,000 points for $7 (0.7 cents per point)
American Express credit card partnerships
American Express has always been fairly selective about who they team up with. American Express’s current credit card partnerships include:
- AIR MILES
- Marriott Bonvoy
- Scotiabank:
- Holt Renfrew(NOW DISCONTINUED)
What is the difference between a charge card and a credit card?
American Express has the distinction of being the last major provider to offer charge cards and credit cards, and while they may seem similar there are a few things that set each apart.
The main feature that separates the two is the ability to carry over a balance. While credit cards allow you to do this while accumulating interest, charge cards typically require you to pay off what you owe in full each month. Because of this, you won’t incur compounding interest and debt the way you would with a credit card. Another benefit of a charge card is that they don’t carry a pre-set spending limit the way credit cards do. This can allow you to make large-scale purchases as needed without worrying about maxing out your card and hurting your credit. It also won’t affect your credit utilization ratio, as credit bureaus don’t take charge card balances into consideration during this calculation. Both can still help you build your credit, however.
That being said, don’t interpret this as a license to spend as much as you want on the card. You’ll still have a ceiling dictated by your card usage and credit history, among other things. Often you’ll be able to check ahead to see if a purchase you intend to make will be approved by calling your provider or logging onto your online account.
What happens if you don’t pay your charge card’s full balance on time?
You’ll be hit with a late fee, which can be just as damaging to your credit as non-payment of a credit card bill. With credit cards, you’re allowed to make a minimum payment to satisfy your bill each month. With charge cards, it’s all or nothing. If you don’t pay in full, you’ll be penalized.
Because of this, eligibility requirements for charge cards are often much stricter than for credit cards. While certain credit cards are designed for those with less-than-stellar credit, charge cards require a good-to-excellent score for approval.
If you’re interested in getting a charge card, American Express currently offers the Aeroplan Card.
What is the American Express Front of the Line program?
American Express Front Of The Line® is a perks and rewards program found on every American Express credit card, no matter the tier or annual fee. It allows members to get special access to presale tickets and reserved seating for major concerts and theatre events.
Reserved seating
When it comes to high-demand concerts, it’s never fun having to click the refresh button over and over to secure good seats for you and your friends. With Amex Front Of The Line®, however, entire blocks of seating are reserved specifically for members to purchase ahead of time. This way, you’re not competing with nearly as many other fans for coveted tickets, and you can get a better shot at the best seat in the house.
Ticket presales
With tickets to big-name concerts getting harder and harder to secure, access to presales is essential if you want to ensure you don’t miss out. Front Of The Line® Amex presale tickets allow you to get in before the general onsale starts, giving you a much-needed head start.
Redeeming points for tickets
One great feature of this program is the ability to redeem your Membership Rewards points for event tickets through Ticketmaster.
Simply select the option “Membership Rewards Points from American Express” as a payment method during checkout and enter your card information. You can use your points to pay for part of your tickets or the whole thing, depending on how much you’ve collected, but there is a minimum usage of 2000 points.
Your card will get charged for the total cost, but a statement credit for the applied points will be applied to your account within 48 hours.
FAQ
How many American Express cards can I have?
In Canada, a single person can have up to 4 American Express credit cards at one time. However, deciding on the right number of credit cards for you is, therefore, largely a personal decision that depends on your current credit score, spending habits, and financial standing.
What is the best American Express credit card?
The American Express Cobalt is arguably the best rewards card in Canada. Users can earn a five points per dollar on groceries, restaurants, bars, and food deliveries, two points per dollar on transportation and travel, three times the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada, and one point per dollar on everything else.
Natasha Macmillan, Business Director of Everyday Banking
With over a decade of experience in the finance industry, Natasha works closely with Canada's top financial institutions - from banks to credit unions - to help Ratehub.ca's 1,200,000 monthly users get matched with the right banking products. read full bio
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