What is the best use for Amex points?

[encarter13]

I almost exclusively use AMEX for business and personal. I only redeem points for airfare.

I am 100% addicted to gaining points. If I am buying something that has a 3% fee for using AMEX over cash, I will calculate how points I am giving up vs what the 3% fee will total. Then, I can decide if I am giving up more points than money and see if it makes sense to pay the 3% fee.

[bayerische]

Originally Posted by dera

And how many MR points?
For me it's been hard to find more than 1.5cpp value in SPG transfers.

Thing is, I'm sure the Delta points for example is a good value deal, but two problems. I don't fly Delta, and Delta does not operate to Finland.

Local deals with MR points to flights aren't very good.

But you're right, about 1,5C/point is perhaps what you get.

[tyler1980]

Originally Posted by encarter13

I almost exclusively use AMEX for business and personal. I only redeem points for airfare.

I am 100% addicted to gaining points. If I am buying something that has a 3% fee for using AMEX over cash, I will calculate how points I am giving up vs what the 3% fee will total. Then, I can decide if I am giving up more points than money and see if it makes sense to pay the 3% fee.

Probably about 10 years ago or so, i would do similar. I would get a card with 5 points per dollar at office supply stores as a bonus category and then buy visa gift cards. Then I would use the gift card to get cash from an ATM, deposit into bank account, pay CC bill and repeat. The fees for the visa gift card was less than the points value by a lot. So it was worth it.

CC companies cracked down on it though.

I still do the calculations for CC surcharges vs cash though as i want the points.

[Gaijin]

I just applied for a American Express Delta Airlines Platinum card through Amex USA web site but they jerked me around because I live in Japan and though I qualified would not issue me the card.

So a few days ago I applied in person at the airport for the Gold Amex Delta Airlines card here in Japan. They don’t offer the Platinum Version in Japan. I use Delta when I fly home and this should help with upgrades. Hate flying coach for 10-12 hours.