February 10, 2020
Ultimate Prestige: Getting The American Express Black Card
The history of the Amex Black Card is quite unusual. Before 1999, it didn’t even actually exist!
Per Doug Smith, American Express Europe’s director at the time: “Rumors were going around that American Express had an ultra-exclusive black card for our elite customers. At the time, these rumors were false. However, we decided to capitalize on the idea”. Thus, the American Express Black Card was born in 1999.
What Is The Importance Of The Black Card?
For those who travel extensively and want to max out convenience when jetting about, the Black Card is ideal. You won’t find a stronger list of perks and benefits with any other card in existence today. While it may appear to be nothing more than a status symbol, digging deeper opens a world of opportunity. However, prestige isn't easy to attain. Below, we dig into the methods to obtain this secretive card. We also explore the costs associated with card ownership and the benefits it provides. Finally, we explore three alternative card options for those looking for something a little different.How To Get The American Express Black Card
You're more than welcome to sift through the extensive terms and conditions of the Black Card. American Express is required by law to provide this information publicly. However, you won't find the application online. The requirements necessary to obtain a Black Card are not publicly official, either. However, based on the reports, some card owners have noted, three standard American Express Black Card requirements include:- Utilization of other American Express cards
- Remaining an active cardholder (for a year minimum)
- Charge a ridiculous amount each year (think over a quarter-million dollars)
Utilize Other American Express Cards
Having other American Express cards serves to put you on the financial service company’s radar. If American Express can see a track record of loyalty of consistent card uses, your chances of invitation will surely improve.Remain An Active Cardholder
Many who practice tactics like credit card churning will keep a card for introductory bonuses, then move on. Eventually, while the card may not be canceled, it may be marked as inactive. American Express is notorious for substantial introductory bonuses as well. As a result, their cards are most commonly used for travel reward churning purposes. While this is an effective strategy for free travel, it doesn't bode well for one of the main factors that contribute to Black Card eligibility. Remain active with your card(s), especially American Express-branded cards.Charge A Ridiculous Amount Each Year
This is perfect for business owners, large and small. One of the most common indicators that trigger Black Card invitations is extensive purchase histories. From several reports, spending on credit cards to the tune of $250,000 or more each year is typically looked at. While this may seem excessive, another potential trigger point for card invitations is an annual income of over $1 million.The Cost Of Having A Black Card
The American Express Black Card, or Centurion Card, comes at a cost, as should be expected. If you happen to be one of the lucky few invited to apply for the Black Card, it’s only the beginning. There are extensive associated fees, annual charges, and more associated with the use of this card. Currently, the Black American Express Card’s initiation fee is a hefty $10,000. This is followed by a $5,000 annual fee to keep the card in good standing. Yes, this is extremely expensive. Paying over $10,000 just to get a card may seem insane. To be honest, if numbers such as this come at a shock to you, you likely aren't ready for the responsibilities that come with Centurion Card ownership. However, to reach that level, we recommend taking the necessary steps to improve credit scores. Here are a few resources we offer about this topic:- Improve Personal Credit Score, Impact Business Credit Score
- What Is A Business Credit Score? Business Effects and More
- The Complete Guide to Business Credit
APR of Black Card
It's imperative to note that the American Express Black Card isn't a credit card. On the contrary, it is technically a charge card. What this means is that the balance on the Black Card needs to be paid in full each month. Essentially, there's no APR associated with this card. This isn’t a new thing for American Express. Many of their “color” focused cards are charge cards. This includes the Gold Card, Green Card, Blue Card, and business versions of both.Benefits of the American Express Black Card
There are extensive benefits associated with the Black Card. These benefits, in many cases, more than pay for the exorbitant cost and fees. Some of these benefits include:- When swiping the Centurion Card, you earn plenty of American Express Membership Rewards points. These points can be utilized for lodging, flights, and more.
- Black Card membership comes with a complimentary membership to CLEAR. You’ve likely seen CLEAR kiosks in airports around the world. This service uses biometrics for even faster security screening through airports, venues, and stadiums. If TSA PreCheck is still too slow, CLEAR is for you, and the Black Card can get you there.
- Are you looking for floor seats for that Post Malone concert? What about getting a Louis Vuitton store to yourself to shop in peace? Maybe you want a short-notice reservation at a Michelin-star experience?
- Do you often find yourself at LAX airport? If so, Black Card membership comes with an impressive perk made for you. Cardmembers receive free membership to the LAX Private Suite. This typically costs close to $5,000 per year on its own.
- If you live and breathe by elite hotel status, you're going to love the Black Card. Cardholders automatically get top tier status across many major hotel brands. This includes Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite, Hilton Honors Diamond, and IHG Priority Platinum Elite.
- The travel benefits aren’t limited to hotels. With the Centurion Card, you also receive elite status with many airlines and rental car services. From Delta SkyMiles Platinum Medallion Status to Elite status with Avis and Hertz, benefits are ample. In fact, with the Centurion Auto program, you receive first-priority access to exotic and luxury vehicle rentals.