Maximizing the American Express® Gold Card: Tips for Travelers
The American Express® Gold Card stands out as a premier choice for those looking to earn bonus points on dining and groceries. However, its substantial annual fee of $325 can be daunting. To offset this cost, cardholders can take advantage of up to $424 in annual statement credits, but doing so requires some strategic planning—especially for those traveling abroad. Here’s how to maximize the benefits of the Amex Gold Card while on the go.
Reload Your Dunkin’ Balance
One of the simplest ways to utilize your Amex Gold Card is by reloading your Dunkin’ balance. Although the credit is only valid in the U.S., you can still prepare for future use. Download the Dunkin’ mobile app, navigate to the "Scan / Pay" tab, and reload your balance with $7 each month (enrollment required). This purchase qualifies as "Dunkin’ Mobile," allowing you to earn 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide on the first $50,000 spent each calendar year.
Since the statement credit was introduced in July 2024, many users have reported that the credit posts backdated to the same day of the transaction, making it a hassle-free way to earn points while preparing for your next visit to Dunkin’.
Buy a Goldbelly or Wine.com Gift Card
The Amex Gold Card offers up to $120 in statement credits annually for dining purchases from select merchants, with a limit of $10 per month (enrollment required). A top recommendation is to purchase a Goldbelly e-gift card. Goldbelly specializes in delivering iconic food items from renowned restaurants across the U.S., albeit at a premium price.
Purchasing a $10 e-gift card from Goldbelly has proven effective, with credits posting within a few days. You can combine multiple gift cards for a larger order when you return to the U.S. Additionally, buying an e-gift card from Wine.com also triggers the credit, although it requires a minimum purchase of $25 and limits you to two gift cards per transaction.
Order Uber Eats for a Loved One
Maximizing the Uber Cash benefit can be tricky, especially when traveling internationally. However, a clever workaround is to pay for a loved one’s Uber ride or Uber Eats order back in the U.S. This requires real-time coordination but allows you to utilize the $120 in Uber Cash annually, distributed as a $10 monthly credit.
Make sure your Amex Gold Card is linked to your Uber account to use the credits effectively. This method not only helps you earn points but also supports friends and family while you’re away.
Purchase a Restaurant Gift Card
If you find yourself in the U.S. at least once every six months, utilizing the restaurant gift card credit is relatively straightforward. The Amex Gold Card provides up to $50 in statement credits from January to June and another $50 from July to December for dining at Resy-affiliated restaurants (enrollment required).
To trigger this credit, simply dine at a Resy restaurant and pay with your Amex Gold. If you’re unable to visit in person, consider purchasing a gift card online or over the phone. This strategy not only helps you earn points but also ensures you can enjoy a meal at your favorite restaurant when you return.
Bottom Line
Maximizing the benefits of the American Express® Gold Card is crucial, especially given its high annual fee. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just taking a short trip, here are some key strategies to consider:
- Buy a $10 Goldbelly gift card every month.
- Reload your Dunkin’ app balance with $7 each month.
- Cover a $10-plus Uber ride or Uber Eats order for a loved one each month.
- Purchase a $50 gift card to a Resy-affiliated restaurant every six months.
By following these tips, you can effectively offset the annual fee and make the most out of your Amex Gold Card benefits. For further insights, check out monthly and quarterly credit checklists to ensure you’re maximizing all available perks.
For more information on rates and fees associated with the Amex Gold Card, visit the official site.