How to Waive Amex Platinum Fee for Military: A Comprehensive Guide

The American Express Platinum Card is a powerhouse of travel benefits and premium perks, but its hefty annual fee can be a sticking point. Fortunately, active duty military members have a path to potentially waive this fee thanks to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA). Here’s a detailed look at how to take advantage of these protections.

Understanding SCRA and MLA Benefits for Amex Platinum

The key to unlocking a fee-free Amex Platinum lies in understanding the two laws designed to protect service members:

• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA): This act provides a wide range of financial and legal protections to active duty military personnel. Critically, it caps interest rates on debts incurred before active duty at 6%. More importantly, it addresses fees associated with credit cards.

• Military Lending Act (MLA): This law protects service members and their dependents from predatory lending practices. It applies to credit extended during active duty and sets a rate cap of 36% called the Military Annual Percentage Rate (MAPR), which includes fees and other charges.

In essence, if you obtained your Amex Platinum before entering active duty, you may be eligible for fee waivers and interest rate reductions under the SCRA. If you obtained the card during active duty, the MLA comes into play, potentially limiting the fees you can be charged.

Applying for Amex Platinum Fee Waiver

The application process generally involves the following steps:

1. Confirm Your Eligibility: Ensure you are on active duty (or have recently entered active duty) and that your card either predates your service (SCRA) or was acquired during your service (MLA). Reservists and National Guard members on active duty for more than 30 consecutive days typically qualify.
2. Gather Documentation: You’ll need documents proving your active duty status. Accepted forms include:
   • Copy of your orders: These should clearly show your name, date of entry into active duty, and the duration of your service.
   • Leave and Earnings Statement (LES): This document details your pay and active duty status.
   • Official letter from your commanding officer: This letter should verify your active duty status and dates of service.
3. Contact American Express: Call the dedicated American Express Military Line. This is the most efficient way to initiate the fee waiver process. Have your account information and supporting documentation ready. You can find the number on the Amex website or through your online account.
4. Submit Documentation: Amex will likely request you submit your documentation electronically (through secure upload) or via mail. Follow their instructions carefully to avoid delays.
5. Follow Up: After submitting your documentation, periodically check the status of your request. You can do this by calling the Military Line or checking your online account for updates.
6. Verification: American Express might request additional information to verify your eligibility. Respond promptly and thoroughly to all requests.
7. Confirmation: Once approved, you should receive written confirmation that your annual fee has been waived or credited back to your account. Make sure to keep this confirmation for your records.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete Documentation: Submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation is a common reason for delays or denials. Double-check that all required documents are included and legible.
• Misunderstanding Eligibility: Ensure you truly meet the eligibility criteria under either the SCRA or MLA. If your card was obtained before active duty, SCRA applies. If it was obtained during active duty, MLA applies.
• Failure to Follow Up: Don’t assume your application will be automatically approved. Regularly follow up with American Express to check on the status of your request.
• Applying Too Late: Ideally, apply for the fee waiver as soon as you enter active duty or realize you are eligible. Delaying your application could result in paying the annual fee unnecessarily.

The Importance of the Amex Military Line

The American Express Military Line is your best resource for navigating the fee waiver process. Representatives are trained to assist service members with SCRA and MLA benefits. Using this specific line will generally result in a smoother and faster resolution compared to calling a general customer service line.

Alternatives if a Fee Waiver Isn’t Approved

If your fee waiver request is denied, explore these alternatives:

• Downgrade: Consider downgrading to a no-annual-fee American Express card. This allows you to retain your Amex membership while avoiding the annual fee.
• Cancellation: If you are not using the card’s benefits enough to justify the fee (even if waived), consider canceling the card. However, be mindful of the potential impact on your credit score.
• Re-evaluate Benefits: Take a hard look at the benefits you are actually using from the Platinum card. Are you maximizing the travel credits, lounge access, and other perks? If not, the card might not be worth keeping, even with a waived fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the American Express Military Line phone number?

The dedicated American Express Military Line number is typically available on the Amex website or by searching online for “American Express Military Contact.” Contacting this line is crucial for a smooth application process.

2. Does the Amex Platinum authorized user fee also get waived for military?

Yes, the MLA and SCRA often extend to authorized user fees. If the primary cardholder is eligible, authorized user fees can often be waived as well. Confirm this directly with American Express when applying for the waiver.

3. Can I get a refund of the annual fee if I already paid it before applying for the waiver?

Potentially. If you’re approved for a waiver, American Express may credit back a prorated portion or the entire annual fee, depending on the timing of your application and approval.

4. How long does it take to get the Amex Platinum annual fee waived after applying?

The processing time can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to a month. Follow up regularly with American Express to check on the status of your application.

5. Do I have to reapply for the fee waiver every year I am on active duty?

Yes, generally you need to reapply each year to confirm your continued active duty status. American Express will typically send you a reminder.

6. Does this fee waiver apply to all American Express cards or just the Platinum?

The SCRA and MLA protections apply to many American Express cards, not just the Platinum. However, the specific terms and conditions may vary.

7. What happens if I leave active duty? Will the annual fee be reinstated?

Yes, once you leave active duty, the fee waiver will typically be discontinued, and the annual fee will be reinstated. American Express will notify you of this change.

8. Can my spouse or dependent apply for the fee waiver on my behalf?

Generally, the service member needs to initiate the application. However, a spouse with Power of Attorney may be able to act on the service member’s behalf. Check with American Express for specific guidance.

9. What if I am denied the fee waiver even though I believe I am eligible?

If you believe you were wrongly denied, you can appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or escalating the issue within American Express. You can also contact a legal aid organization specializing in military affairs.

10. Does the MLA/SCRA waiver affect my credit score in any way?

The fee waiver itself does not directly affect your credit score. However, responsible card usage, such as making timely payments and keeping your credit utilization low, will positively impact your credit score.

11. What documents are considered official “military orders”?

Official military orders typically include documents like permanent change of station (PCS) orders, deployment orders, or activation orders. The key is that the document clearly states your name, date of entry into active duty, and the duration of your service.

12. Can I apply for the Amex Platinum and immediately request a fee waiver under the MLA?

Yes, if you are on active duty, you can apply for the Amex Platinum and simultaneously apply for a fee waiver under the MLA. In fact, it’s recommended to do this as soon as possible after getting approved for the card.