For the avid traveler who frequently flies with Delta, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a compelling option that offers a blend of travel benefits, earning potential, and perks designed to enhance your journey. This card isn’t just about earning SkyMiles; it’s about unlocking a more comfortable and rewarding travel experience with Delta Air Lines.
Key Features and Benefits
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card comes packed with features that cater to the needs of Delta loyalists. Here’s a breakdown of its most significant advantages:
- Bonus Miles: New cardmembers often have the opportunity to earn a substantial welcome bonus after meeting a specified spending requirement within the first few months. This can be a fantastic way to jumpstart your SkyMiles balance.
- Miles Earning Structure:
- 3x Miles on Delta Purchases: This is where the card truly shines for Delta flyers. Every dollar spent directly with Delta (flights, upgrades, in-flight purchases, etc.) earns you 3 SkyMiles.
- 3x Miles on Purchases Made Directly with Hotels: This category can also be quite lucrative for travelers who frequently book hotel stays.
- 2x Miles at U.S. Supermarkets and at Restaurants Worldwide: This broadens your earning potential beyond travel, covering everyday essential spending.
- 1x Mile on All Other Eligible Purchases: All other spending earns 1 mile per dollar.
- Annual Companion Certificate: This is arguably one of the most valuable benefits of the card. Each year, upon renewal of your card, you receive a domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate. You simply pay government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $75 for the companion ticket. This can lead to significant savings on a future flight.
- First Checked Bag Free: You and up to eight other people on the same reservation can each check their first bag free on Delta flights. This alone can save a family hundreds of dollars on a round-trip journey.
- Priority Boarding: Enjoy Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights, allowing you to settle in and store your carry-on before the crowds.
- Statement Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: Receive a statement credit for the application fee for either Global Entry ($100) or TSA PreCheck ($85) once every 4 years for Global Entry or once every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck. These programs expedite your security screening process at airports.
- Access to Delta Sky Club: While not complimentary, the card offers discounted access to the Delta Sky Club. You can enter for a per-visit rate of $50 per person when flying on a Delta flight. This is a good option for those who don’t need unlimited access but appreciate the lounge experience occasionally.
- Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQD) Waiver: This is a crucial benefit for those aspiring to achieve or maintain Delta Medallion Status. You can earn an MQD Waiver by spending a certain amount on your card within a calendar year, helping you reach elite status without solely relying on flight spending.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is a valuable perk for international travelers, as it means you won’t incur additional fees on purchases made outside the United States.
- Amex Offers: Access to targeted offers from various merchants, providing statement credits or bonus points on eligible purchases. These offers can add up to significant savings throughout the year.
Annual Fee and Considerations
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card comes with an annual fee, which is important to factor into your decision. While the fee might seem substantial upfront, the value derived from the companion certificate, free checked bags, and other benefits often outweighs the cost, especially for frequent Delta flyers.
Consider your travel habits:
- How often do you fly Delta? The more you fly Delta, the more you’ll benefit from the miles earning and travel perks.
- Do you typically travel with a companion? The annual companion certificate is a huge value proposition if you do.
- Do you check bags frequently? The free checked bag benefit can save you a significant amount over time.
- Are you pursuing Delta Medallion Status? The MQD Waiver can be instrumental in helping you achieve your status goals.
How to Apply for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
Applying for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a straightforward process, primarily done online. Here’s a general guide on how to apply:
- Visit the Official American Express Website: The most reliable and secure way to apply is directly through the American Express website. You can usually find the card by navigating to their “Travel Credit Cards” section or by searching specifically for the “Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card.”
- Review the Card Details: Before applying, carefully read through all the terms and conditions, including the current welcome offer, annual fee, interest rates, and all associated benefits. Ensure you understand what you’re signing up for.
- Click “Apply Now”: Once you’re ready, click the “Apply Now” or similar button to start the application process.
- Complete the Application Form: You will be prompted to provide personal and financial information. This typically includes:
- Personal Information: Full name, date of birth, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), address, and contact information.
- Financial Information: Annual income, source of income, and possibly information about your current employment.
- Security Information: You may be asked to create an online account or verify your identity through security questions.
- Review and Submit: Before submitting your application, double-check all the information you’ve provided for accuracy. Once you’re confident, click “Submit Application.”
- Application Decision: American Express will typically provide an instant decision. In some cases, your application might be pending further review, and you’ll receive a decision via email or mail within a few business days.
- Receive Your Card: If approved, your new Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card will be mailed to your address, usually within 7-10 business days. Once you receive it, activate it according to the instructions provided.
Important Considerations for Applying:
- Credit Score: American Express generally requires a good to excellent credit score for approval for their premium travel cards like the Delta SkyMiles Platinum. While there’s no universally published minimum score, a FICO score of 670 or higher is generally recommended.
- Income: While there isn’t a strict income requirement, American Express will assess your ability to repay debt based on your reported income and existing financial obligations.
- Relationship with Amex: Having a prior relationship with American Express (e.g., another Amex card or checking account) can sometimes be a factor, though it’s not a prerequisite for approval.
Maximizing Your Card’s Value
To get the most out of your Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card, consider these tips:
- Prioritize Delta Spending: Use your card for all Delta purchases to maximize your 3x miles earning.
- Utilize the Companion Certificate: Plan your domestic travel around the companion certificate to unlock significant savings. Book early for the best availability.
- Leverage Amex Offers: Regularly check your Amex account for personalized offers that can save you money or earn you bonus points on everyday spending.
- Strategize for MQD Waiver: If Medallion Status is a goal, track your spending to ensure you meet the MQD Waiver threshold.
- Pay Your Balance in Full: To avoid interest charges and make the most of your rewards, always aim to pay your credit card balance in full each month.
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card is a powerful tool for Delta loyalists, offering a robust suite of benefits that can significantly enhance your travel experience and bring you closer to elite status. By understanding its features and how to leverage them, you can truly unlock the value of this premium travel card.
