The 10 Best Credit Cards for Trip Delay Insurance & Coverage [2024]

If you travel frequently, you’ve probably experienced a trip delay. Your plane will inevitably be stranded on the tarmac, the crew will be late, or the last flight of the evening is canceled due to weather. Regardless of why your trip is delayed, chances are you’ll incur an added expense to your journey.

In some cases, the travel provider may provide compensation. But in situations such as severe weather, they may not.

If you have trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance on your credit card, you might be able to receive funds to offset some of the cash outlay from your delayed travel. This protection normally kicks in when your trip has to be canceled, or you are unable to continue your journey due to a covered loss.

There is another little-known protection that can help if you’re in a delayed trip situation. Trip delay coverage, offered on several travel rewards credit cards, can reimburse you for out-of-pocket costs when a covered incident causes your delay.

Here’s all the information that you need to know, including what you can expect, and which travel rewards cards offer this under-the-radar, but useful, coverage.

What Is Trip Delay Coverage?

Trip delay coverage, often referred to as trip delay reimbursement, will reimburse you for covered expenses you incur due to a qualifying delay during your trip. The length of the delay before coverage kicks in can vary by card but will range from a qualifying delay requirement of as few as 6 hours to more than 12 hours.

Trip delay reimbursement is considered supplemental insurance coverage, and is only paid in excess of any reimbursement you would collect elsewhere, whether from the common carrier or another insurance policy. Examples of covered expenses include the reasonable cost of meals, transportation, lodging, toiletries, medication, and other necessary personal items.

Typically covered trip delays would include those that are due to equipment failure, severe weather, labor strikes, or hijacking.

Trip delay coverage is different from trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance in that it does not cover prepaid or nonrefundable expenses. It also does not cover delays that you are informed of before your trip, which may or may not cause you to cancel your travel plans.

Historically, trip delay coverage was offered as a “per day” reimbursement with a maximum total reimbursement based on the number of consecutive days the delay occurred. For example, in the past, it wasn’t unusual to see up to $500 in trip delay coverage provided in the form of up to $100 per day with a maximum of 5 consecutive days.

Since then, the “per day” limitation has been removed for most cards, which means you can claim the full $500 maximum on eligible purchases even if your delay is less than 5 days.

This coverage generally applies to the primary cardholder plus eligible companions (the definition of an eligible companion will vary depending on the card issuer) as long as the ticket is paid for using the credit card. So if you have 3 eligible companions traveling with you and each trip has a $500 trip delay coverage maximum, you may be covered for $2,000 overall.

Bottom Line: Trip delay coverage is designed as ancillary coverage to reimburse you for unexpected expenses incurred due to a covered trip delay. Trip delay coverage that comes with your credit card normally has a payout limit of $500 or less.

Best Personal Cards

Card Summary

In general, the most attractive credit cards for trip delay coverage will have policies that kick in as soon as possible. Most credit cards offer trip delay coverage if the delay is 12 hours or more — but some offer trip delay coverage if the delay is more than 6 hours.

Delays of 12 hours or more are statistically rarer than delays of more than 6 hours — if you find yourself on an itinerary that is delayed by 7 hours, for example, the credit card you used to purchase your ticket will ultimately determine whether you can get reimbursed for your eligible purchases.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck^® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck^® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Our categorical winner, without a shadow of a doubt, is the Amex Platinum card. This is arguably the best card for travel benefits, and it only makes sense that it has trip delay insurance.

It’s one of the rare cards, many of which are also mentioned in this article, to offer up to $500 in trip delay coverage if you experience a delay of just 6 hours or more, or a delay that requires an overnight stay.

The Amex Platinum card has a huge welcome bonus and an earning structure of up to 5x Membership Rewards points:

• 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 on these purchases every calendar year)
• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• 1x points on all other purchases

So if you happen to book a lot of flights and hotels, you’ll earn some fantastic rewards. But the travel benefits (not necessarily the rewards) are what actually make the card’s annual fee totally worth it, in our opinion:

• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status and Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)
• Rental car elite status with Avis, Hertz, and National
• Up to $200 hotel credit on prepaid Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection bookings. Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• Up to $200 airline fee credit
• Up to $189 CLEAR Plus credit
• Up to $200 Uber Cash
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

This card is terrific even for lifestyle benefits:

• Up to $240 digital entertainment credit
• Up to $300 Equinox credit
• Up to $300 SoulCycle credit
• Up to $155 Walmart+ credit
• Up to $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit
• Cell phone protection

Lastly, there’s purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)

Why We Like Earning Amex Membership Rewards Points

Amex Membership Rewards points are worth 2.2 cents apiece, making it the most valuable transferable rewards currency we have. A 5x rewards earning structure means you can get up to an 11% return on your spending.

Currently, Amex points are best redeemed for luxury award travel if you’re looking to maximize value.

You can still use Amex points for gift cards, travel booked through AmexTravel.com using Pay With Points, statement credits, online shopping, cash-back, and more. But we recommend sticking to transfer partnerships to eke out as much value as possible from your hard-earned points.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

75,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-840)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $395 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Our runner-up choice is the famous Capital One Venture X card. And it’s one of our favorites because it has amazing benefits overall; and in the context of this guide, its trip delay coverage is about as good as it gets.

As long as you pay for a portion of your ticket using your Capital One Venture X card, you can get up to $500 per trip if your trip is delayed by more than 6 hours.

On top of the lovely welcome bonus, you’ll have the chance to earn a whopping 10x Capital One miles:

• 10x miles on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles on all other purchases

Seeing as how the Capital One Venture X card has top-shelf trip delay insurance, you can probably also infer that it has top-shelf travel insurance overall, too, including primary car rental coverage.

It also has complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status, an annual anniversary bonus of 10,000 miles, an $300 Capital One Travel credit, access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges, a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit.

This credit card has cell phone insurance, no-additional fee authorized user cards for up to 4 individuals (rates & fees), purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Why We Like Earning Capital One Miles

We value Capital One miles at 1.8 cents each, which makes earning up to 10x miles worth a return on spending of an astonishing 18%.

And sure, you can redeem your Capital One miles for travel or for online merchandise, gift cards, statement credits, and much more. But if you transfer your miles to travel partners, you can use your miles for even better value.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

22.49%-29.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 22.49%-29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

When it comes to offering trip delay reimbursement coverage, Chase shines as a consistent provider of this complimentary protection on several of its travel rewards credit cards.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers up to $500 per trip in reimbursements if it’s delayed by more than 6 hours or requires an overnight stay. This coverage is provided per eligible purchased ticket.

In addition, this credit card earns an amazing 10x Ultimate Rewards points on select purchases:

• 10x points on hotels, rental cars, and dining booked through Chase Travel
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• 5x points on flights booked through Chase Travel
• 3x points on all other dining and travel
• 1x points on all other purchases

Some notable perks include a $300 travel credit, complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit, and fantastic travel insurance.

You’ll also notice that there’s a complimentary DoorDash DashPass subscription (if activated by December 31, 2027; plus $5 in DoorDash credits every month), purchase protection, extended warranty, and no foreign transaction fees.

Why We Like Earning Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

At a high level, we consider Chase Ultimate Rewards points to be one of the most coveted currencies out there. We peg their value at around 2.0 cents each, which makes it possible to a return on spending of up to 20% when you earn 10x points.

Even so, it’s possible to get superior value beyond that if you leverage your Ultimate Rewards points through the Chase transfer partners for the purposes of booking luxury award travel.

If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can always default back to the tried-and-true methods of bookings travel through the Chase Travel portal or get gift cards, earn statement credits, donate to charity, buy merchandise online, or use your points at Amazon.com.

Just remember that your redemption value will be lower through these pathways than through transfer partners.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

60,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$720

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
• 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases
• Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.

Cons

• $650 annual fee (rates & fees)
• No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
• Receive four Delta Sky Club^® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

While you might expect the Delta Reserve card to have great trip delay insurance, this credit card is one of the sleepers in the world of frequent flyer credit cards.

This ultra-premium flavor of the co-branded Delta credit cards issued by American Express allows you to enjoy trip delay insurance that can reimburse you for up to $500 per trip if your ticket is delayed by more than 6 hours.

This is about as good as it gets, matching the Amex Platinum card, Capital One Venture X card, and Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

This special card product is the only one that offers airline-specific benefits:

• Complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta*
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card
• First checked bag for free
• Priority boarding

To boost your earning potential, you’ll get up to 3x Delta SkyMiles on purchases:

• 3x SkyMiles on Delta purchases
• 1x SkyMiles on all other purchases

Plus, earn 1 Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta Reserve card in a year and get a boost toward achieving elevated status for next Medallion Year.

To round out the Delta Reserve card’s benefits, there’s a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, and authorized users for no additional annual fee (rates & fees).

Why We Like Earning Delta SkyMiles

We currently value Delta SkyMiles at 1.0 cents each, which translates to a maximum return on spending of 3% when you make purchases on the Delta Reserve card.

Although this rewards structure isn’t industry-leading, you can get even more value by strategically redeeming those SkyMiles for optimal value, typically through partners for business class flights.

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

GREAT STARTER CARD

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is the only personal credit card option in this guide with an annual fee below $100. In fact, it’s exceedingly rare for solid trip delay insurance to be offered on a credit card with a sub-$100 annual fee.

If your trip is delayed by 12 or more hours or requires an overnight stay, you could receive up to $500 for each ticket purchased — the Chase Sapphire Preferred card also offers excellent overall travel insurance.

But what really makes this card is the ability to earn up to 5x Ultimate Rewards points on a wide variety of purchases:

• 5x points travel booked through Chase Travel
• 5x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 5x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries
• 2x points on all other travel purchases
• 1x points on all other purchases

It doesn’t end there because you can leverage one of the most unique perks from this card: a 10% anniversary rewards bonus.

And remember, we value Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents each, which makes earning 5x points equal to a return on spending of 10%. That’s basically unheard of for a mid-tier premium credit card!

Other perks include a $50 annual hotel credit on stays booked through Chase Travel, as well as purchase protection, extended warranty, no foreign transaction fees, and no-additional fee authorized user cards.

Bottom Line: The best personal cards for trip delay coverage are the Amex Platinum card, Capital One Venture X card, Chase Sapphire Reserve card, Delta Reserve card, and Chase Sapphire Preferred card.

Best Business Cards

Card Summary

As we mentioned previously, the best cards for trip delay coverage will have policies that kick in as fast as possible. The fastest is generally after a delay of more than 6 hours.

So if you encounter a delay of 8 hours, you’ll be covered if your card offers trip delay coverage when your trip is delayed by more than 6 hours — in contrast, if your card only offers coverage when it’s delayed by 12 hours or more, you wouldn’t qualify for reimbursement.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

19.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $189 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The lavish Amex Business Platinum card is an invaluable asset in a business owner’s wallet.

This particular card boasts top-shelf trip delay insurance that offers up to $500 for delays of more than 6 hours, making it the leader in this niche.

In fact, its overall travel insurance is awesome, but you’ll also really enjoy the welcome bonus and its unique bonus rewards structure of up to 5x Membership Rewards points:

• 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• 1.5x points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else (up to $2 million of these purchases every calendar year)
• 1x points on all other purchases

The most memorable benefits of this card will be:

• Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Access to Fine Hotels & Resorts and The Hotel Collection
• Complimentary hotel elite status with Hilton (Gold) and Marriott Bonvoy (Gold Elite) (Enrollment required)
• 35% Pay With Points rebate for eligible flights booked through AmexTravel.com (up to 1 million points rebated per calendar year)
• Car rental elite status and privileges with Avis, Hertz, and National Car Rental

Plus, the Amex Business Platinum card has statement credits galore:

• Up to $400 in Dell credits
• Up to $360 in Indeed credits
• Up to $200 in airline fee credits
• Up to $189 in CLEAR Plus membership credit
• Up to $150 in Adobe credits
• Up to $120 in wireless credits
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits

The Amex Business Platinum card also has purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone insurance, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Welcome Offer

Earn 120k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 cash back or $1,500 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠

120,000 Points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$2,400

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.24%-26.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Cell phone protection
• Purchase protection

Cons

• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 120k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 cash back or $1,500 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.24%-26.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

One of our favorite credit cards is the Ink Business Preferred card, which boasts an enormous welcome bonus, 3x points in select bonus categories, and great trip delay insurance.

Keep in mind that coverage for this card’s trip delay reimbursement kicks in after a delay of 12 hours or more or if you’re required to stay overnight. The limit of coverage is $500 per covered trip.

Remember that this credit card earns 3x Ultimate Rewards points in combined purchases on the first $150,000 every cardmember year (1x points thereafter):

• Ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Internet, cable, and phone services
• Shipping expenses
• Travel

But, for a limited time through March 31, 2025, you can also earn 5x Ultimate Rewards points on Lyft purchases, which is equal to a maximum return on spending of 10%.

If needed, you can also leverage the Ink Business Preferred card’s cell phone insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, no foreign transaction fees, and employee cards for no additional annual fee.

United℠ Business Card

United℠ Business Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A business card from Chase for United loyalists with benefits such as free checked bags and discounts on inflight purchases.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

United℠ Business Card

A business card from Chase for United loyalists with benefits such as free checked bags and discounts on inflight purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent Credit Recommended (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The United Business card is a compelling option for traveling business owners that are also frequent United flyers. Not only will the card help you earn more United miles, but it also offers great perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, a discount on inflight purchases, and much more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
• 2x miles per $1 on United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on dining

Cons

• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
• Other United cards are more rewarding for United purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
• Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United^® credit card.
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United^® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
• Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United Club(SM) one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
• $100 United^® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The United Business card is an awesome choice that combines a reasonable annual fee from a business card with great trip delay coverage and co-branded perks.

Currently, this card provides a $500 benefit for reimbursement of expenses due to an overnight delay or one of 12 hours or longer.

This business credit card actually has quite a nice list of bonus categories up to 2x United MileagePlus miles:

• Earn 2x miles on United purchases, dining (including eligible delivery services), gas stations, local transit (includes rideshare, mass transit, taxis, train tickets, and tolls), and office supply stores
• Earn 1x miles on all other purchases

If you’re a frequent United flyer, you’ll love the below perks:

• The ability to get closer to MileagePlus elite status with the ability to earn 25 PQPs after spending $500 on your United Business card, up to 1,000 PQPs per calendar year
• Free first checked bag for yourself and a companion when you purchase your tickets using the card
• Priority boarding for yourself and your companions on the same reservation
• 2 complimentary United Club 1-time passes per year
• $100 travel credit on United after making 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more every cardmember year
• 25% statement credit on United inflight purchases
• Better-together bonus of 5,000 miles after every cardmember anniversary when you have a personal United credit card along with the United Business card

To wrap up on the United Business card, you’ll also get access to the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, purchase protection, extended warranty, great travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and no-additional fee employee cards.

Why We Like Earning United MileagePlus Miles

By our accounts, United MileagePlus miles are each worth 1.3 cents. With a maximum earning potential of 2x miles, that’s equal to a cap of 2.6% return on spending.

To ensure that you get better value, redeem your miles for international premium cabin flights on partners like EVA Air and Lufthansa!

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Welcome Offer

Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

75,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
• 1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
• Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

• High annual fee
• Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enter Delta Sky Club^® at no cost. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
• Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
• Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
• Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
• Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
• When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion^® Studio Partner.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.
• Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

The Delta Reserve Business card is one of the only credit cards that can help you get closer to top-tier airline elite status with spending and purchases.

Indeed, this credit card is jam-packed with Delta-specific perks, but let’s first start off with the trip delay insurance, which is up to $500 after a delay of more than 6 hours. This matches the Amex Business Platinum card’s trip delay insurance.

But this card is most useful for Delta loyalists; if you happen to fly on other airlines frequently, you might not get as much value from this card as you might from the Amex Business Platinum card.

You can expect to earn up to 3x SkyMiles:

• 3x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta
• 1.5x SkyMiles after you spend $150,000 on your card in a calendar year
• 1x SkyMiles on all other purchases

The real reasons why you’d get the Delta Reserve Business card are the Delta-specific perks:

• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal
• First checked bag for free for yourself and up to 8 traveling companions on the same reservation
• Zone 5 Priority Boarding for yourself and up to 8 traveling companions on the same reservation
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credit

As you can see, most of this card’s benefits are applicable when flying Delta, but there are also no foreign transaction fees, and no additional-fee employee cards (rates & fees).

American Express^® Business Gold Card

100K OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Business Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

American Express^® Business Gold Card

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*

100,000 Points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$2,200

Annual Fee

$375

APR

19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
  • NEW! Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
  • NEW! U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
  • NEW! Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
  • U.S. purchases at gas stations
  • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
• 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
• Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection

Cons

• $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
• The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
• *Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 110,000 points with the Amex Business Gold card! The current public offer is 100,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The very last business card we’ll be including in this article is the Amex Business Gold card.

With this card, you are covered for eligible delays of 12 hours or more for up to $300 per trip.

This card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on the top 2 categories in which your business spends the most every month (up to $150,000 in combined purchases every calendar year):

• Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
•  U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
• Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
• U.S. purchases at gas stations
• U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
• Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online, TV, radio)

Earning 4x Amex points is equal to an 8.8% return on spending, which is why you should definitely take this card seriously.

The Amex Business Gold card offers access to The Hotel Collection, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees).

Lastly, there are no annual fees for employee cards after the first employee card of $50 per year (rates & fees).

Coverage Details, Conditions, and Process — Chase

Who Is Covered?

Chase defines covered persons for its trip delay reimbursement as being the cardholder, their spouse, and dependent children under the age of 22.

Conditions for Chase Trip Delay Reimbursement Coverage To Be Valid

• Must be round-trip travel of 365 days or less to a destination that is not your city of residence
• A portion of the trip must be paid for with an eligible Chase credit card
• Expenses reimbursed or provided for free by other parties are not covered
• Trips in taxis, limousines, commuter rail, buses, or rental vehicles are not covered

Bottom Line: Most Chase cards that provide trip delay insurance require the covered delay to be more than 12 hours. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card, however, has trip delay coverage that kicks in after a covered delay of more than 6 hours for coverage to be effective.

Submitting a Trip Delay Claim to Chase

While you have 60 days to report the incident, you’ll want to complete your claim online at eclaimsline.com or call the benefits administrator as soon as possible after a trip delay occurs. The phone agent will take down some initial claim information and then send you a claim form to complete.

The documentation you can expect to be asked to provide will include:

• The completed claim form
• Receipts showing that at least a portion of the trip was paid for with your qualifying card
• A copy of your ticket
• A statement from the carrier which includes the reason for the delay
• Copies of receipts for qualifying purchases
• Other documentation the benefits administrator deems important

You will have 100 days from the date of the trip delay to submit the completed claim form and associated documentation.

Coverage Details, Conditions, and Process — American Express

Pay for your entire trip ticket with your eligible American Express card, Membership Rewards points, or a combination of points, vouchers, or certificates to receive trip delay reimbursement coverage.

Trip delay coverage reimburses for incidental expenses you incur as the result of a covered delay, such as lodging, meals, and toiletries.

As a general rule of thumb, American Express cards with annual fees of $450 or more have trip delay insurance that provides up to $500 per trip if your trip is delayed more than 6 hours, while any other eligible cards that offer trip delay insurance at all provide up to $300 per trip if your trip is delayed more than 12 hours.

Bottom Line: American Express offers 2 levels of trip delay insurance. Several premium American Express cards offer trip delay coverage with a benefit that can payout up to $500 for a covered delay of over 6 hours. A reduced benefit level of $300 for delays of 12 hours or more is offered on several other American Express-issued cards. 

Who Is Covered

Eligible travelers are defined as the cardholder, travel companions, and family members, including a domestic partner. Additionally, unmarried dependent children (up to age 19 or 26 if a full-time student) are considered eligible travelers.

Conditions for American Express Trip Delay Coverage To Be Valid

• The round-trip common carrier ticket must have been purchased in full with the eligible card or a combination of points, vouchers, certificates
• The trip cannot exceed 365 days away from the traveler’s city of residence
• Coverage is secondary to other insurance that might apply
• There is a limit of 2 claims per 12-month period

Submitting a Trip Delay Claim to American Express

You must notify the benefits administrator at 844-933-0648 within 60 days of a covered loss event.

The following items could be requested:

• Documentation from the common carrier that the trip was delayed
• Copies of your ticket
• Charge statements showing that the card was used to pay for the trip
• Receipts for the incurred expenses
• Other necessary documentation

You’ll have 180 days from the date of the loss to submit the required documentation.

Coverage Details, Conditions, and Process — Capital One

Who Is Covered

Eligible travelers are generally determined to be the primary cardholder, the cardholder’s spouse, and any dependent children under the age of 22 years old.

Conditions for Capital One Trip Delay Coverage To Be Valid

• The common carrier ticket or a portion of the entire ticket must have been purchased with the eligible card and/or the rewards program associated with the covered account
• Coverage is secondary to any other insurance that might apply
• The period of travel does not exceed 365 days
• There is a limit of 1 claim per covered trip

Submitting a Trip Delay Claim to Capital One

You must notify the benefits administrator within 30 days of the covered delay event.

You’ll be asked to provide documentation including:

• Signed and completed claim form
• Copies of your original tickets
• Billing statements showing that the card was used to pay for a portion of the ticket
• A statement from the common carrier explaining the reason for the delay
• Copies of itemized receipts for all claimed expenses (itemized receipts are only required for bills of $50 or more per covered traveler)
• Other necessary or requested documentation

You have 90 days from the date of the delay to submit all of the required documentation.

Final Thoughts

While you wouldn’t select a travel rewards credit card based solely on the fact that it comes with complimentary trip delay coverage, you may consider a card that has a whole package of travel protections, such as the Amex Platinum card, Capital One Venture X card, Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

These travel rewards cards come with additional benefits such as complimentary worldwide lounge access, hotel elite status, travel statement credits, and other valuable benefits that can result in an entire value-added package for the frequent traveler.

If you’re looking for more travel rewards cards and want to focus more on benefits, explore our article on the best travel rewards cards to compare your options.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa^® or Mastercard^® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Enrollment required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier.  Additional terms apply.

For the trip delay insurance benefits of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the cell phone protection benefit of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of The Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. 

For the trip delay insurance benefits of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the cell phone protection benefit of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. 

For the trip delay insurance benefits of The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the cell phone protection benefit of The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. 

For the trip delay insurance benefits of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the cell phone protection benefit of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the extended warranty and purchase protection benefits of the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. 

For the trip delay insurance benefits of the American Express^® Business Gold Card, up to $300 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 12 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.