Applying for a new credit card can at times be a nerve-wracking experience — but it quickly turns to excitement when you see the words, “Congratulations, you’ve been approved!” appear on your screen.
If you’re applying for a new card, you will likely be eager to start using the credit card today. However, there are a variety of factors that will determine how quickly you can begin using your new card.
Even though your application process may result in an instant decision, usually credit card issuers will require you to wait until you receive the card in the mail before you begin using it. The wait for your new card can often be 5 to 7 business days.
Some issuers will issue your credit card number instantly upon approval so you can begin using it right away.
To make matters easier, we’ve compiled a list of all major credit card issuers and their respective policies on issuing credit card numbers after approval ready for instant use.
Best Instant-Use Credit Cards by Category
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| Card | Best For |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card | Overall Rewards |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | Premium Travel Perks |
| American Express® Gold Card | Dining and Groceries |
| The JetBlue Plus Card | JetBlue Benefits |
| Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express | Shopping and Everyday |
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | Cash-back |
Why Would You Need an Instant Credit Card Number?
So why should you rush to get your credit card number in the first place? Here are a few reasons why you might want the option to use your card right away:
- Upfront Discount: If it’s a co-branded credit card you’re after, you’ll likely receive some sort of perk or discount with the merchant as soon as you sign up. This could be as simple as a discount off of your airfare when you’re about to complete your booking. In this case, having the card number right away allows you to apply that discount to the purchase you were about to make anyway.
- Large Upcoming Purchase To Help Meet Welcome Bonus Offer: If you’re familiar with the world of points and miles, you know that credit cards can come with very lucrative welcome bonuses for meeting the minimum spending requirements. The sooner you can meet the spending requirement, the sooner you get a large influx of points! Because of this, many people like to open a new credit card when they have a large upcoming purchase, such as a wedding or moving expenses.
- Emergency Need: Sometimes, you may find yourself in need of a line of credit quickly, and perhaps a 0% intro APR offer makes the most sense for you. In any case, if you need help financing a large or unexpected purchase you likely will want access to that credit sooner rather than later.
Issuers That Offer Instant-Use Card Numbers
American Express
An instant card number upon approval of a new account is available on all American Express credit cards.
However, some people report that for co-branded cards, the card number issued instantly is only for use at the co-brand location. For example, a Hilton card may only be used with Hilton or a Delta card only for use with Delta.
After your card number is given to you, remember to write it down and/or take a screenshot. You can request the number again from Amex, but it’s far quicker to take note of the card number as you’re approved for the card.
Keep in mind that the card number you receive will likely be the same as the one on your physical card, but your temporary security code likely will not be the same.
Bottom Line: American Express is by far the most convenient option when it comes to getting access to your new credit card number immediately. In this case, we highly recommend these cards as a top option for those who need to access their new credit card number instantly.
Recommended American Express Cards
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!
(at Amex's secure site)
Apply With Confidence
Know if you're approved with no credit score impact
If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!
Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$200
$0
19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Expressapart from the rest?
This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.
Pros
- 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
- 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
- 3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
- Monthly credit towards The Disney Bundle
- Monthly credit towards Home Chef
Cons
- Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
- Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- No Annual Fee.
- Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
- 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
- Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
- Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
- APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
- Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
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HIGHEST CASH BACK
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.
(at Amex's secure site)
Apply With Confidence
Know if you're approved with no credit score impact
If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.
Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
$250
$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.
With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases, this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases, this could be the card for you!
Pros
- 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and on select streaming services
- 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
- 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)
- 1% cash-back on all other purchases
Cons
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee (rates and fees)
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
- $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
- Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
- Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
- 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
- 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
- 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
- 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
- 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
- Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
- Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
- Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
- Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
- APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
- Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.
Card Categories
- Credit Card Reviews
- Cash Back Credit Cards
Rewards Center
Redeem cash-back through your American Express account
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Hot Tip: If you don’t see your card number as soon as you’re approved, you can request the card number from Amex by getting in contact with them. In addition, many users have reported being given a statement credit if Amex’s software fails and is unable to issue the card number.
Chase (Use “Spend Instantly” Feature)
Chase credit cards offer a “Spend Instantly”feature as part of its Chase Mobile app. Once you’re approved for a new card, you can immediately add that card via your app to 1 of 3 digital wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.
Here is how it works:
Step 1: Log in to your account.
Step 2: Select your new card, then scroll down to Manage Account and click Digital Wallets.
Step 3: From there, you can select which digital wallet you want to instantly link your card to.
Step 4: You’re all set! Now you can start using your card before it even arrives in the mail.
Currently, most Chase credit cards are eligible for the Spend Instantly feature, with the exception of the Aeroplan® Credit Card, Amazon cards, business cards, Chase Freedom Flex℠, Disney cards, the DoorDash Rewards Mastercard®, the Instacart Mastercard®, and IHG cards. Fortunately, 3 of our favorite cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and the Chase Freedom Unlimited® are all included.
Recommended Chase Cards
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
Up to $300 cash back
$0
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.
When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.
Pros
- 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
- 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
- 1.5% back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
- Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
- Ability to pool points
Cons
- 3% foreign transaction fee
- INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
- Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program thatlets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
- After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back.You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expireas long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
- No annual fee –You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
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POPULAR CHOICE
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
60,000 points
$1,200
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.
Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.
Pros
- 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
- 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
- 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
- 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
- 2x points on all other travel worldwide
- $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
- 6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
- Excellent travel and car rental insurance
- 10% annual bonus points
- No foreigntransaction fees
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt
Cons
- $95annual fee
- No elite benefits like airport lounge access orhotel elite status
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
- Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
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Bank of America
According to Bank of America, customers who apply and are approved for a credit card via the Bank of America Mobile Banking app can upload it immediately to their digital wallet.
However, for those who apply through the website, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card seems to be the only one that gives an instant card number.
Bank of Missouri
SoFi partners with this small regional bank to offer its credit card to customers. When you are approved for the SoFi Credit Card, you can immediately add it to a digital wallet and begin using it for purchases with your mobile device.
Barclays
Several Barclays co-branded credit cards offer instant card numbers and credit available for purchases made through the co-branded website:
- Frontier Airlines World Mastercard® — Instant credit toward purchases made through the Frontier website
- Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® — Instant credit toward travel purchases made through the Hawaiian Airlines website
- The JetBlue Card — Instant credit toward purchases through the JetBlue website
- Priceline Rewards™ Visa® Card — Instant credit toward purchases through the Priceline website
- Princess Cruises® Rewards Visa® Card — Instant credit when used to purchase a cruise with Princess Cruises
Citi
A handful of Citi cards will offer you instant card numbers, including:
- Citi Custom Cash® Card
- Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® — Temporary instant credit number for purchases through the American Airlines website
- Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi
Goldman Sachs
The Apple Cardwill allow cardholders to use the card instantly upon approval via the Wallet app on your iPhone.
HSBC
HSBC will provide you with your credit card number after approval, but not the CVV or your card’s expiration date.
Synchrony
The only cards offered by Synchrony that give instant access to your card number are:
- eBay Mastercard
- PayPal Cashback Mastercard
You can make an online purchase of up to $250 via PayPal with either card.
USAA
USAA will give you an instant card number to use, along with the expiration date and 3-digit code. This has a maximum credit limit of $1,000, which is increased to your approved credit limit when the physical card arrives.
U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank has begun issuing instant credit cards for mobile/online use on some cards with plans for this to roll out to all cards in the near future. This option is currently limited to those processing a credit card application with the text-to-apply option, which only can happen for an application processed by a banker, either in-branch, over the phone, or via email.
Wells Fargo
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card, issued by Wells Fargo, allows you to access your card number instantly through the Bilt mobile app after you’re approved for the card.
Issuers That Do Not Currently Offer Instant Card Numbers
- Alliant Credit Union
- BBVA
- Capital One
- Discover
- Navy Federal Credit Union
How Do I Get an Instant Credit Card Number?
The most important thing to remember is that not all credit cards, or credit issuers, offer an instant card number feature. Given that, we recommend you choose one of the cards that we’ve outlined above in order to be able to receive an instant credit card number in the first place.
Assuming you’ve been approved for one of the cards we’ve highlighted above, you’ll usually receive your instant credit card number in 1 of 2 ways.
Some issuers, like American Express, will provide you with an account number immediately upon approval that you can begin using until your physical card arrives.
Other issuers, such as Chase, offer a “Spend Instantly” feature, allowing you to add your new card right to a digital wallet like Apply Pay or Google Pay right after you’ve been approved. This allows you to use your card just as you would any other that has been added to your digital wallet, even though you haven’t received the physical card yet.
What Is the Easiest Instant Credit Card To Get?
A great card option that is relatively easy to be approved for and offers instant use is the Freedom Unlimited card. For a $0 annual fee, you’ll earn 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other eligible purchases.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
(at Chase's secure site)
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!
INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
Up to $300 cash back
$0
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.
When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.
Pros
- 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
- 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
- 1.5% back on all other purchases
- No annual fee
- Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
- Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
- Ability to pool points
Cons
- 3% foreign transaction fee
- INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
- Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, our premier rewards program thatlets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
- After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on Chase travel purchased through Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back.You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expireas long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
- No annual fee –You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Card Categories
- Credit Card Reviews
- Cash Back Credit Cards
- Credit Cards
- No Annual Fee Cards
Rewards Center
Chase Ultimate Rewards
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- Chase Freedom Unlimited Requirements and Credit Score
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While some credit cards are easier to get than others, for those that are worth having at least where earning rewards are concerned, you will need a relatively strong credit score no matter what.
Given that, if your credit score isn’t exactly where you’d like it to be at the moment, we recommend you focus on these tips to improve your credit score.
Are There Business Credit Cards That Offer Instant Use?
Yes, in fact, 2 of our favorite business cards, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Business Gold Card are both able to receive an instant card number after being approved for the card.
OUR BEST OFFER
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
(at Amex's secure site)
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
120,000 points
$2,640
$695
19.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.
When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.
Hot Tip:Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 120,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)
Pros
- 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
- Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
- Statement credits on select purchases with your card
- 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
- Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
- Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
- Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program
Cons
- High annual fee of $695 (rates and fees)
- Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
- Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
- Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
- Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
- $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card®.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
- $695 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
- APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
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BEST FOR BONUSES
American Express® Business Gold Card
U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).
(at Amex's secure site)
American Express® Business Gold Card
Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership
70,000 points
$1,540
$375
19.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The American Express® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.
The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.
Pros
- 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categorieseach month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
- NEW! Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
- NEW!U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
- NEW!Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
- U.S. purchases at gas stations
- U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
- Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
- 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
- Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
- Purchase protection and extended warranty protection
- Trip delay insurance
- Car rental insurance
- Cell phone insurance
Cons
- $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
- No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
- Get $12.95 back in statement credits each month when you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. $12.95 plus applicable taxes.
- Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
- *Terms Apply
Financial Snapshot
- APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Card Categories
- Credit Card Reviews
- Best Business Credit Cards
- Credit Cards
- Best Sign Up Bonuses
Rewards Center
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We highly recommend both business cards, not just for the rewards and benefits they provide, but as great options for those who need a business card that they can use instantly.
»Related:Amex Business Platinum Card vs. Amex Business Gold Card [Detailed Comparison]
Final Thoughts
In summary, while there are some issuers that will allow you to receive your card instantly, you’ll usually need to wait between 5 to 7 business days to receive your new credit card. If you happen to need access to your card right away, we recommend you consider an American Express card, as that will likely be your best bet.
Keep in mind that these policies can change at any time, and issuers can operate at their own discretion when deciding whether or not to issue your new card number instantly.
We love it when our readers share their experiences with us, so if you have a data point that confirms (or conflicts) with ours, please let us know in the comments below!
The information regarding The JetBlue Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Chase Freedom Flex℠ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the SoFi Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding The JetBlue Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Apple Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, clickhere.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday® from American Express, clickhere.
For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Business Gold Card, click here.
