Is American Express Free for Military?
As a token of gratitude for their service, various financial institutions and credit card companies offer special benefits to military personnel. American Express is one such company, offering a range of card options and perks specifically tailored for military personnel. So, is American Express free for military?
Basic Answer: Yes, But with Conditions
American Express does offer certain benefits to military personnel, but "free" is a rather subjective term in this case. While military personnel are eligible for specific American Express cards with benefits, some of these cards come with annual fees or other stipulations. Here’s what you need to know.
American Express Cards Eligible for Military Personnel:
American Express offers various cards that cater to the needs of military personnel, including:
• Military Rewards Card: This no-annual-fee credit card offers rewards in the form of statement credits or cash back. Military personnel can earn rewards on qualifying purchases, such as purchases made at US military exchanges, gas stations, restaurants, and online retailers.
• Military CashBack Card: Another no-annual-fee credit card, this option offers unlimited 1% cashback on all purchases. You can redeem your cash back rewards as statement credits, direct deposits, or redeemable points.
• Premium Rewards Card: This card carries an annual fee, but offers travel insurance, car rental collision damage waiver, and secondary travel accident insurance. If you travel frequently or regularly use your credit card, this card might be beneficial.
What Benefits Come with American Express Cards for Military Personnel:
- Special Offers: American Express regularly releases special promotions and offers specifically for military personnel, which can earn you more rewards or rebates.
- Travel Perks: Most American Express cards for military personnel offer travel-related perks, such as travel insurance, car rental collision damage waiver, or secondary travel accident insurance.
- Shopping Protections: Purchases made using American Express cards are eligible for dispute resolution, buyer protection, and return protection.
- Membership Rewards Points: Military personnel can accumulate Membership Rewards points, redeemable for flights, hotels, or merchandise.
- Extended Warranty: The Extended Warranty coverage on selected American Express cards provides warranty extensions on new purchases (up to one year in addition to the original warranty).
Application and Enrollment Process:
To receive an American Express card eligible for military personnel, you’ll need to:
• Apply for the desired card: Submit an online application or apply through authorized American Express providers.
• Verify Military Status: Provide proof of military status, such as a discharge certificate, current military identification, or orders.
• Enroll in specific benefits: Depending on your card, you may need to enroll in specific benefits, such as travel insurance or extended warranty.
Comparison of American Express Card Options for Military Personnel:
| Card | Rewards | Annual Fee | Interest Rate | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Military Rewards | Statement credits, cashback | $0 | Variable | Travel Insurance, Car Rental Collision |
| Military CashBack | Unlimited 1% cashback | $0 | Variable | No specific additional perks |
| Premium Rewards | Travel-specific rewards | $95 | Variable | Travel Insurance, Car Rental Collision, Sec. Travel Acc. Insurance |
In Conclusion
American Express does offer card options with benefits for military personnel, but these cards aren’t entirely "free" in the sense that most come with some form of annual fee or other costs. However, the card options cater specifically to military personnel’s needs, including travel-related benefits, extended warranty, and shopping protections. When applying for a card, it’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions, as well as the specific benefits and restrictions associated with your chosen card.
