By Most small business owners know about the points and cashback that come with an American Express card so what many don’t realize is that American Express business card benefits go far beyond rewards. From hidden statement credits to overlooked travel perks, these cards can quietly save your business thousands each year.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the overlooked AmEx business perks that rarely get mentioned in “best card” lists. Whether you hold the AmEx Business Platinum, Business Gold, or even a no-fee option like the Blue Business Plus, chances are you’re not taking full advantage of what your card has to offer.
Hidden Benefits of the AmEx Business Platinum
If you’ve ever wondered whether the AmEx Business Platinum hidden benefits justify its high annual fee, the answer is usually yes if you know where to look. Here are three perks that often go unnoticed:
1. Dell Credits Worth Up to $400 Per Year
Many cardholders overlook this one the Business Platinum provides up to $400 in Dell statement credits annually ($200 every six months). That means you can offset the cost of laptops, monitors or even software subscriptions your business already needs. To activate you’ll need to register through your AmEx account.
- Stack the Dell credit with AmEx Offers or Dell coupons and you could save even more than $400 a year. The AmEx Dell credit can also be applied to cybersecurity software making it a versatile benefit for modern businesses.
2. 35% Airline Points Rebate
When you book flights through AmEx Travel and use Pay With Points. Business Platinum cardholders get 35% of those points back. This effectively stretches the value of your Membership Rewards, making travel for client meetings or conferences far cheaper.
3. Airport Lounge & WeWork Access
Travelers often highlight Centurion Lounge access, but many don’t realize that the Business Platinum also offers WeWork credits in select regions. If you or your employees need flexible workspace while traveling, this perk can reduce coworking costs significantly. It’s one of the most underrated AmEx travel benefits for entrepreneurs.
- These are just a few of the hidden benefits that make the Business Platinum card more than just a “premium travel card” tool for lowering everyday business expenses.
AmEx Business Gold Card Perks You Didn’t Know About
The AmEx Business Gold is popular for its flexible rewards, but it also comes with lesser-known advantages.
- 4X Points in Two Categories: Each month, you’ll earn 4X points in your top two spending categories (from options like advertising, gas, dining and technology purchases). Few cardholders actually optimize these categories, leaving rewards unclaimed.
- AmEx Offers Savings: Business Gold frequently has targeted AmEx Offers discounts and rebates on services like FedEx, Staples or marketing platforms.
- Purchase Protection: Like the Platinum, the Gold also comes with extended warranty and AmEx purchase protection which can save businesses money on electronics and equipment.
How the AmEx Dell Credit Works (and How to Maximize It)
The AmEx Dell credit is one of the most overlooked perks of the Business Platinum. Here’s how it works:
- Register your card through AmEx to activate the credit.
- Get $200 in statement credits from January to June and another $200 from July to December.
- Eligible purchases include not just hardware but also software and accessories.
Many small businesses miss out because they forget to register—or they assume it’s hardware-only. Use the AmEx Dell credit for cybersecurity software, productivity tools or monitors to maximize value.
Extended Warranties and Purchase Protection with AmEx
Buying equipment is a major expense for small businesses. With American Express extended warranty coverage, you can double the manufacturer’s warranty (up to one additional year) on eligible purchases. This applies to laptops, printers and other business electronics.
Additionally, AmEx purchase protection covers theft or accidental damage for up to 90 days after purchase peace of mind that can save thousands in replacement costs. The combination of AmEx purchase protection and extended warranties makes AmEx cards particularly valuable for tech-heavy businesses.
Little-Known AmEx Travel Benefits for Small Businesses
Beyond lounge access, AmEx business cards pack in valuable travel benefits:
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credits: Skip long airport lines with statement credits for expedited security programs.
- Hotel Elite Status: The Business Platinum includes automatic Gold status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.
- Car Rental Benefits: Free upgrades and insurance coverage through AmEx’s global partners.
These AmEx travel benefits reduce travel costs and make business trips smoother for employees and owners alike.
AmEx Offers That Can Cut Your Operating Costs
One of the most underrated features is AmEx Offers. By activating deals in your account, you can earn rebates and discounts on everyday business expenses:
- 10–30% off FedEx and UPS shipping
- Discounts on SaaS platforms like QuickBooks or Adobe
- Cash back for business dining or travel bookings
These targeted offers change regularly, meaning savvy cardholders can save hundreds throughout the year.
Employee Card Benefits That Improve Expense Tracking
American Express allows you to issue free employee cards with custom spending limits.
- Better control over staff expenses
- Simplified bookkeeping with AmEx reporting tools
- Ability to earn rewards faster by consolidating company spending
For growing businesses, this feature alone makes AmEx a practical financial management tool.
FAQ: Hidden AmEx Business Card Benefits
Does AmEx Business Gold have lounge access?
No, lounge access is reserved for Business Platinum and Centurion cardholders.
How do AmEx extended warranties work?
AmEx doubles the manufacturer’s warranty (up to one year) on eligible purchases when you use your card. The American Express extended warranty is especially useful for electronics.
Is AmEx worth it for small business owners?
Yes, if you maximize hidden benefits like statement credits, AmEx Offers, and employee card tracking.
Can employee AmEx cards have spending limits?
Yes, Business cardholders can set custom spending limits on employee cards at no extra cost.
Conclusion
While most small business owners use AmEx for points or cash back, the hidden American Express business card benefits can be just as valuable. From Dell credits to extended warranties, purchase protection, and employee card controls, these overlooked perks can save your company thousands each year.
Audit your current card’s benefits and start using the perks you’re already paying for including the AmEx Dell credit, AmEx purchase protection, and underrated AmEx travel benefits.
