One underrated perk of the American Express Platinum Card is automatic Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy. Here’s how it works, how to activate it, and whether it’s actually worth it.
Since adding the American Express Platinum card back to my collection, I’ve leveraged enough of the statement credits to offset the annual fee. It took a little effort, but the card makes sense based on our spending patterns and travel style. There’s a learning curve involved, and it’s easy to let some of the credits lapse to the point where you’re losing money.
While many people solely focus on travel credits, the AMEX Platinum Card has additional travel perks. The AMEX Platinum benefit with Hertz saved me 33% on a single rental. In addition to rental car benefits, you’ll also get status with several hotel chains. I use the Platinum card to get Gold Honors status with Hilton each year.
When I first got the Platinum card again, I noticed my Marriott Bonvoy account showed only Silver Elite status. That’s because the AMEX Platinum benefit isn’t automatic — you have to log in and enroll for Gold Elite to take effect.
Cardholders can call the number on the back of their card to have a representative walk them through the steps. However, I prefer to do everything online.
After logging in to your account, your Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status is listed under the travel benefits category.
Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status isn’t worth much, as the only guaranteed benefits are bonus points and complimentary Wi-Fi access. But the way AMEX puts it, there appears to be a chance you’ll get a room upgrade or late checkout.
The next step is to put in your Marriott Bonvoy Number.
That’s really all there is to it. The process isn’t immediate, as AMEX says it can take up to 3-5 business days (or possibly longer) to process the upgrade request.
In fact, it only took about 48 hours for my upgraded status to be reflected in my account.
The status you get from the AMEX Platinum card doesn’t bring you any closer to the higher status levels. If you want Platinum Elite status, you’ll still need to earn 50-night credits.
Normally, Marriott Gold Elite requires 25 nights per year, but with the Platinum Card, you can bypass that by activating the benefit.
It’s not a game-changer, but free status with Marriott and Hilton is one of those easy wins that adds value to the AMEX Platinum.
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