What Is a Companion Amex Platinum Card? A Deep Dive

The American Express Platinum card is renowned for its premium travel benefits, luxury perks, and high annual fee. However, a Companion Amex Platinum card isn’t actually a separate card. Rather, it is a colloquial term often used to describe the option to add authorized users to your existing Platinum card account. These authorized users receive their own Platinum card, granting them access to a selection of the primary cardholder’s benefits. Think of it as extending the Platinum experience to loved ones, albeit with some limitations.

Unveiling the Authorized User Platinum Card

Adding an authorized user to your Amex Platinum account provides them with their own physical Platinum card, complete with their name embossed on it. They can then use this card for purchases, contributing to the primary cardholder’s Membership Rewards balance. While they won’t get every single benefit afforded to the primary cardholder, they do gain access to some significant advantages that can make the annual fee for adding them worthwhile.

Understanding the Benefits for Authorized Users

The exact benefits bestowed upon authorized users can vary slightly, but generally include access to:

• Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts: They can book through this program, which offers perks like free breakfast, room upgrades (when available), and resort credits at participating hotels.
• Hotel Status: In some instances, authorized users may be eligible for certain hotel elite statuses that the primary cardholder receives through the Platinum card, such as Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status or Hilton Honors Gold status. This is a huge perk.
• Centurion Lounge Access: One of the most coveted benefits, authorized users generally enjoy complimentary access to American Express Centurion Lounges when traveling. Note: Access rules can change, so always verify before traveling.
• Delta Sky Club Access (with a Delta flight): Similar to Centurion Lounges, authorized users may receive access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying with Delta. Again, verify current access policies.
• Global Assist Hotline: They have access to Amex’s Global Assist Hotline for travel-related emergencies and assistance.
• Purchase Protection & Extended Warranty: Purchases made on the authorized user card are typically covered by Amex’s purchase protection and extended warranty benefits.
• Membership Rewards Program: Authorized users contribute to the primary cardholder’s Membership Rewards balance with their spending. They cannot redeem rewards themselves.

Limitations and Considerations

It’s crucial to understand the limitations associated with authorized user cards:

• No Separate Statement Credit Access: Authorized users do not receive their own separate statement credits, such as the airline fee credit, hotel credit, or Equinox credit. These benefits are tied to the primary cardholder.
• No Access to All Perks: They typically don’t have access to all the ancillary benefits that the primary cardholder enjoys, such as access to certain Amex Offers or subscriptions.
• Primary Cardholder Liability: The primary cardholder is ultimately responsible for all charges made on the authorized user’s card. This is a critical point to remember.
• Annual Fee: There’s an annual fee for adding authorized users, although it’s significantly less than the primary card’s annual fee. It’s essential to calculate whether the benefits outweigh the cost.
• Credit Score Impact: The authorized user’s card usage can impact their credit score, both positively and negatively, depending on payment habits.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Adding an authorized user can be a strategic decision. The benefits, particularly lounge access and hotel perks, can easily justify the annual fee if utilized frequently. However, the primary cardholder must carefully consider their relationship with the authorized user and their spending habits, given the financial responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Companion Amex Platinum Cards (Authorized User Cards):

1. How Much Does It Cost to Add an Authorized User to My Amex Platinum Card?

The cost to add an authorized user to your Amex Platinum card varies. It’s important to check the current terms and conditions on the American Express website or contact Amex directly for the most up-to-date fee information. The fee is significantly less than the primary card’s annual fee, but still a consideration.

2. Does an Authorized User on My Platinum Card Get Their Own Credit Score?

Yes, the authorized user’s credit activity on the card can impact their credit score. Responsible usage, such as paying balances on time, can positively affect their credit history. Conversely, missed payments or high credit utilization can negatively impact their score.

3. Can an Authorized User Redeem Membership Rewards Points?

No, authorized users cannot redeem the Membership Rewards points earned on their spending. The points accumulate in the primary cardholder’s account and can only be redeemed by the primary cardholder.

4. What Hotel Status Do Authorized Users Get with the Platinum Card?

Authorized users may be eligible for hotel elite status that the primary cardholder receives, such as Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status or Hilton Honors Gold status. The specific statuses and enrollment processes can change, so it’s essential to verify the details on the Amex website or contact Amex directly.

5. Do Authorized Users Get Access to All American Express Lounges?

Authorized users generally have complimentary access to American Express Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta). Access policies can vary and are subject to change, so it’s always best to confirm the current rules before traveling.

6. Are Purchases Made by Authorized Users Covered by Amex Purchase Protection?

Yes, purchases made by authorized users are typically covered by American Express purchase protection, extended warranty, and other similar protections, just like purchases made by the primary cardholder.

7. How Many Authorized Users Can I Add to My Amex Platinum Card?

American Express allows you to add multiple authorized users to your Platinum card. There may be a limit, so it’s best to check with Amex directly for the specific number allowed.

8. Does Adding an Authorized User Affect My Credit Score?

Adding an authorized user should not directly affect the primary cardholder’s credit score. However, the authorized user’s spending habits and payment behavior on the card can indirectly impact the primary cardholder’s credit score if, for example, high spending leads to increased credit utilization on the primary card.

9. Can an Authorized User Access the Amex Platinum Card’s $200 Airline Fee Credit?

No, authorized users do not get their own separate $200 airline fee credit. This credit is tied to the primary cardholder’s account and can only be used by the primary cardholder. The same applies to the other statement credits.

10. What Information Is Needed to Add an Authorized User to My Amex Platinum Card?

Typically, you’ll need the authorized user’s full name, date of birth, and address. American Express may also require their Social Security number for identification purposes.

11. How Long Does It Take for an Authorized User’s Platinum Card to Arrive?

The time it takes for an authorized user’s Platinum card to arrive can vary, but it usually takes 7-10 business days after the request is processed.

12. Can I Remove an Authorized User From My Amex Platinum Card?

Yes, you can remove an authorized user from your Amex Platinum card at any time. Contact American Express customer service to request the removal. Once removed, the authorized user’s card will be deactivated.

By understanding the intricacies of adding authorized users (the so-called “Companion Amex Platinum card”), you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right move for you and your loved ones. Remember to carefully weigh the benefits against the costs and responsibilities to maximize the value of your American Express Platinum card experience.