We’ve reached that time of year again—the annual tradition of panicked realizations. Many AMEX Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders are scrambling because the $200 Airline Fee Credit resets at the end of the year, and they haven’t used a cent.
If you’re in this boat, don’t worry. There’s still time, but you’ll need to get creative since AMEX doesn’t make it easy to use these credits.
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
The first thing to do is figure out your starting point. Which airline did you select for the credit earlier in the year? Have you used any of the credit? This determines how straightforward or tricky it will be to use your credit.
Step 2: Do Your Research
Before diving in, invest some time in research. While plenty of websites, videos, and podcasts promise to guide you, your best resource is likely on FlyerTalk. Dedicated threads for each airline provide real-time reports on what works, what doesn’t, and how long credits take to post. You can explore the FlyerTalk AMEX section here. Frequent Miler also maintains an updated list of what’s working, which you can find here. Additionally, the AMEX subreddit often posts discussions on current methods.
Step 3: Know What’s Covered
AMEX explicitly states which charges are eligible for the Airline Fee Credit. Approved expenses include:
- Checked baggage fees (including overweight/oversize)
- Itinerary change fees
- Phone reservation fees
- Pet flight fees
- Seat assignment fees
- In-flight amenities (e.g., food, beverages, pillows/blankets, headphones)
- In-flight entertainment fees (but not wireless internet)
- Airport lounge day passes and annual memberships
On the other hand, these are not eligible:
- Airline tickets
- Upgrades
- Mileage points purchases or transfer fees
- Gift cards
- Duty-free purchases
- Award tickets
Step 4: Enter the Grey Zone
Here’s where it gets interesting. Many travelers have discovered workarounds that exploit system loopholes, though these have become harder to find. AMEX has cracked down on many of the easiest methods to use the Airline Fee Credit, making it even more important to follow any workaround instructions carefully. If you’re considering these options, remember a few critical rules:
- Follow instructions to the letter. Read, reread, and read again the specific steps provided by your source. Skipping or modifying any step could ruin your chances.
- Understand the risks. These loopholes work because the charges mimic approved expenses or are too small for AMEX to flag. Remember that AMEX likely monitors FlyerTalk and travel blogs, so what worked yesterday might not work today.
- Be patient. If credits don’t post immediately, don’t panic. Check your source for updates; if a method stops working, it will quickly become the talk of the boards.
Step 5: The Golden Rule: DO NOT CALL AMEX
This cannot be stressed enough: do not call American Express. If you attempt a workaround and it fails, contacting AMEX to question why your charge didn’t qualify could draw unwanted attention to these unofficial methods.
Closing Thoughts
Ideally, you would’ve used the credit earlier in the year to avoid this end-of-year scramble. However, if you’re relying on creative solutions, proceed with caution and respect the unwritten rules of this game. Good luck!
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