January presents a unique opportunity for savvy credit cardholders. Many valuable perks reset with the new year, offering a fresh wave of benefits – but only if you remember to use them. It’s easy to let these advantages slip by, leaving money on the table.
American Express cards, in particular, are known for delivering monthly statement credits, rather than a single annual benefit. This means consistent, ongoing value, but also a need for diligent tracking. These credits aren’t designed to roll over; they operate on a “use it or lose it” basis, demanding attention each month.
The American Express Platinum Card unlocks a wealth of January perks. A $25 digital entertainment credit awaits, applicable to popular streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, and Paramount+. Don’t forget the $15 Uber Cash, perfect for rides or food delivery, and a $12.95 credit towards a Walmart+ membership. A $9.99 credit for Uber One is also available, adding even more value.
Beyond monthly benefits, Platinum cardholders can also leverage semi-annual statement credits at Saks Fifth Avenue – $50 from January to June, and another $50 from July to December. Luxury hotel bookings through Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection can also yield significant savings, with up to $300 in statement credits available twice a year.
For business owners, the American Express Business Platinum Card offers its own set of advantages. Enjoy up to $50 quarterly (up to $200 annually) on eligible Hilton purchases, and a $10 wireless statement credit each month. A substantial $1,150 in statement credits is available for Dell purchases, requiring a $5,000 annual spend.
The American Express Gold Card provides a different flavor of benefits, focused on lifestyle spending. A $100 annual U.S. Resy statement credit is split into two $50 increments, one for January-June and another for July-December. $10 monthly Uber Cash and $10 in dining credits at select restaurants like Five Guys and The Cheesecake Factory further enhance the card’s value.
The American Express Business Gold Card offers up to $20 in flexible business statement credits monthly, applicable to FedEx, Grubhub, and office supply stores. This benefit alone can significantly offset the card’s annual fee.
Delta SkyMiles cardholders can also take advantage of monthly credits. Resy statement credits range from $10 to $20 per month, depending on the card tier. Ride-hailing credits, applicable to Lyft, Uber, Alto, and Curb, offer additional savings.
The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card provides a $200 Hilton Resorts statement credit (split into two $100 increments) and up to $50 in quarterly flight statement credits. The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card offers up to $50 in quarterly Hilton statement credits.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant cardholders can enjoy up to $25 in monthly dining statement credits. Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders have access to credits for hotels, DoorDash, and Lyft, while Chase Freedom and Discover it Cash Back cards offer rotating 5% cash back categories.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card provides 5% cash back on rotating categories, requiring activation each quarter. Citi and other card issuers also offer a range of monthly and quarterly benefits that demand attention.
Ultimately, maximizing your credit card benefits requires awareness and proactive use. This January, take the time to review your card perks and ensure you’re not leaving valuable credits unclaimed. A little effort can translate into significant savings throughout the year.
