Annual Fee and Other Fees
The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express does come with an annual fee of $95, which is a common characteristic of premium cash back cards. However, the exceptional rewards and benefits offered by the card can more than offset this fee for many cardholders.
In addition to the annual fee, it’s important to be aware of other potential fees associated with the card, such as:
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of the amount of each balance transfer (minimum $5)
- Cash Advance Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars
While these fees are standard for credit cards, it’s always wise to review the card’s terms and conditions to ensure you understand the fee structure and can plan your usage accordingly.
Comparison with Other Credit Cards
When considering the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, it’s helpful to compare it to other popular cash back credit cards on the market. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Card | Cash Back Rates | Annual Fee | Introductory Offers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express | 6% at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year), 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% at U.S. gas stations, 1% on other purchases | $95 | $350 statement credit after $3,000 in purchases within 6 months, 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | 1.5% cash back on all purchases | $0 | $200 cash back after $500 in purchases within 3 months |
| Citi Double Cash Card | 2% cash back (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay) | $0 | None |
As you can see, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express stands out with its industry-leading cash back rates in popular spending categories, as well as its lucrative sign-up bonus and introductory APR offer. While it does carry an annual fee, the potential rewards earnings can make it a worthwhile investment for many consumers.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction Ratings
When evaluating a credit card, it’s essential to consider the experiences and feedback from real-world users. The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express has generally received positive reviews and high satisfaction ratings from cardholders.
According to independent review sites, the card boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, with customers praising the card’s generous cash back rewards, user-friendly mobile app, and responsive customer service. Many users highlight the ease of redeeming rewards and the convenience of the card’s acceptance at a wide range of merchants.
However, some cardholders have expressed concerns about the annual fee, particularly for those who may not maximize the card’s benefits. Additionally, a small percentage of users have reported issues with the application process or occasional difficulties with the customer support team.
Overall, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express seems to have earned the trust and loyalty of the majority of its cardholders, with its exceptional rewards and features outweighing the annual fee for many consumers.
Eligibility Requirements and Application Process
To be eligible for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old (19 in Alabama and Nebraska)
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Have a good to excellent credit score (generally 700 or higher)
- Reside in the United States or one of its territories
The application process for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. Applicants will need to provide personal information, such as their name, address, date of birth, and annual income. The application will also require a hard credit check, which may temporarily impact the applicant’s credit score.
Once the application is submitted, American Express will review the information and provide a decision, typically within a few business days. Approved applicants will then receive their new card and can begin enjoying the benefits and perks of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card.
Additional Features and Benefits
In addition to the impressive cash back rewards and introductory offers, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express comes with a variety of other features and benefits that can enhance the cardholder experience:
- Purchase Protection: Enjoy coverage for eligible purchases against accidental damage or theft for up to 90 days from the date of purchase.
- Extended Warranty: Extend the original manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases by up to one additional year.
- Return Protection: Get reimbursed for eligible return items that a merchant won’t accept within 90 days of purchase.
- Roadside Assistance: Access 24/7 roadside assistance for services like towing, jump-starts, and flat tire changes.
- Travel Accident Insurance: Receive coverage for accidental death or dismemberment when you pay for your travel arrangements with your card.
- Global Assist Hotline: Gain access to a network of medical, legal, financial, and other travel-related services when you’re away from home.
These additional features and benefits can provide valuable protection and peace of mind for cardholders, further enhancing the overall value of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card.
Is the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express Right for You?
After thoroughly reviewing the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, I can confidently say that this card is a top contender for consumers looking to maximize their cash back rewards on everyday purchases.
The card’s standout features, such as the industry-leading 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets and on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, the generous sign-up bonus, and the introductory APR offer, make it a compelling choice for a wide range of consumers. If you’re looking to earn valuable cash back on your everyday spending, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is definitely worth considering. [Apply now](https://www.americanexpress.com/us/credit-cards/card/blue-cash-preferred/) to take advantage of the card’s exceptional benefits and start earning cash back on your purchases.
Of course, as with any credit card, it’s important to carefully evaluate your spending habits and financial goals to determine if the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is the right fit for you. By considering the annual fee, your spending patterns, and the card’s rewards structure, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal financial needs.
Ultimately, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a premium cash back credit card that delivers exceptional value and a rewarding cardholder experience. If you’re ready to maximize your cash back earnings and enjoy a suite of valuable benefits, this card is definitely worth a closer look.