Admittedly, the Delta Amex cards haven't played a big role in my points strategy over the years as SkyMiles are some of the least valuable points or miles on the market. Since there are still niche uses for these cards, let's take a quick look at the changes.
Fun fact: My first travel rewards credit card was a Delta Amex Gold just because I flew Delta quite a bit. Live and learn.
Annual Fee Increases
The following annual fee increases apply to both the personal and business versions of these cards. The increased annual fees apply to new applicants immediately. Current cardholders will see the new annual fee on their first annual fee due date on/after May 1, 2024.
Statement Credits
Amex has turned these cards into small coupon books by adding a bunch of statement credits. You will see Delta Stays credits (stays booked via Delta's hotel portal), Resy credits for Resy restaurants, and rideshare credits.
Companion Certificate Changes
The Delta Amex Platinum and Delta Amex Reserve (personal and business) companion certificates can now be used for flights to/from Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.
New Business Card Bonus Categories
Delta Amex Gold Flight Credit
With both the personal and business versions, you'll now receive a $200 Delta flight credit if you spend $10,000 on either card in a year.
Points Wire Note:
If you will naturally utilize the new statement credits, you might find it easy to come out ahead even with the increased annual fees. If you won't use these credits, the fee increase will be tough to stomach.
In my opinion, the real value in these changes are the new companion certificate destination options. Those plus the credits could make the cards worth it for a Delta flyer.
If you've only been using a Delta Amex Gold card for the free checked bag benefit, that alone might not be enough justify the annual fee.
In short, these cards are useful in only a few select circumstances.
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