The American Express Business Platinum Card is well-known for its premium benefits and rewards designed for business owners and frequent travelers. Among its most compelling perks is the $200 Hilton credit, which adds significant value to the card for those who regularly stay at Hilton properties. In this guide, we’ll explore how to maximize the $200 Hilton credit in 2024, ensuring you extract the most from your Amex Business Platinum Card.
What Is the $200 Hilton Credit?
The $200 Hilton credit is an annual benefit offered to cardholders of the American Express Business Platinum Card. It allows users to receive up to $200 in statement credits for eligible purchases made at participating Hilton properties. The credit is automatically applied when you use your card for qualifying expenses, making it a seamless way to offset travel costs.
This benefit is part of Amex’s broader suite of travel perks aimed at enhancing the value of its premium business card.
Who Is Eligible for the $200 Hilton Credit?
To take advantage of this benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
- Card Membership: You must hold an active American Express Business Platinum Card.
- Eligible Properties: The credit applies to stays and charges at Hilton properties that participate in the program. These include a wide range of Hilton brands, such as Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, and DoubleTree.
- Direct Booking Requirement: To qualify, your purchases must be made directly with Hilton. This means booking through the Hilton website, mobile app, or reservation hotline. Third-party bookings through platforms like Expedia or Booking.com do not qualify.
How Does the $200 Hilton Credit Work?
The $200 Hilton credit functions as a statement credit applied to qualifying purchases at Hilton properties. Here’s how it works step-by-step:
- Make a Qualifying Purchase: Use your Amex Business Platinum Card to pay for eligible charges at participating Hilton properties.
- Automatic Credit: After the transaction posts to your account, American Express automatically applies a statement credit of up to $200 annually.
- Track Your Credit: You can monitor your usage of the Hilton credit in the Amex app or through your online account.
The credit is based on the calendar year, meaning it resets on January 1. To maximize this benefit, ensure you use the full $200 credit before the year ends.
What Expenses Qualify for the $200 Hilton Credit?
The Hilton credit applies to a variety of expenses incurred at Hilton properties. These include:
- Room Rates: The cost of your stay at a participating Hilton property.
- On-Property Dining: Charges at hotel restaurants, in-room dining, and bars located within the property.
- Spa Services: Fees for treatments at hotel spas.
- Other Incidentals: Resort fees, parking charges, and other expenses billed to your room.
However, some expenses may not qualify, such as:
- Taxes or gratuities not charged to your room.
- Payments made through third-party booking platforms.
- Purchases made at non-participating Hilton properties.
How to Maximize the $200 Hilton Credit in 2024
To ensure you get the most out of this benefit, follow these tips:
1. Plan Ahead for Business or Leisure Travel
Strategically plan your Hilton stays to take full advantage of the credit. If you travel frequently for business, book a stay at a Hilton property that aligns with your travel schedule. For leisure travelers, consider using the credit to offset costs during vacations or weekend getaways.
2. Combine with Other Hilton Perks
The Amex Business Platinum Card offers complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, which provides benefits like room upgrades, free breakfast, and late checkout. By combining the $200 Hilton credit with Gold status perks, you can enhance your overall Hilton experience and save even more.
3. Use It for Premium Properties
If you’re considering a luxurious stay at a high-end Hilton property like Waldorf Astoria or Conrad, the $200 credit can significantly offset the cost. These premium brands often feature higher rates, making the credit more impactful.
4. Offset Resort Fees
Many Hilton properties charge resort fees, which can add up quickly. The $200 Hilton credit can be used to cover these fees, reducing the overall cost of your stay.
5. Time Your Stays Strategically
The Hilton credit is an annual benefit that resets at the start of each calendar year. To maximize your savings, book one stay late in December and another early in January. This way, you can use the credit twice within a short period.
Frequently Asked Questions About the $200 Hilton Credit
Q1: Does the $200 Hilton credit cover taxes and fees?
Yes, taxes and fees billed as part of your room rate or incidentals charged to your room are eligible for the credit. However, gratuities or other charges not processed through Hilton’s billing system may not qualify.
Q2: Can I use the credit for Hilton gift cards?
Purchases of Hilton gift cards are generally excluded from earning the $200 credit. However, using the card for services or stays is a guaranteed way to benefit.
Q3: What happens if I don’t use the full $200?
Any unused portion of the $200 Hilton credit does not roll over to the next calendar year. Make sure to use the full amount by December 31 each year.
Q4: Can I combine this credit with other promotions or discounts?
Yes, the $200 Hilton credit can be combined with Hilton Honors points, promotional rates, or other discounts. This flexibility allows you to maximize your savings while enjoying additional benefits.
Other Benefits of the Amex Business Platinum Card
In addition to the $200 Hilton credit, the Amex Business Platinum Card offers a wide array of travel and business perks, including:
- 5X Points on Flights and Prepaid Hotels: Earn 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on eligible purchases.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Offset incidental airline charges like baggage fees.
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, and more.
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit: Receive a credit for enrollment in expedited security programs.
- Dell Statement Credits: Get up to $400 annually in credits for purchases with Dell Technologies.
- Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status: Elevate your travel experience at Marriott properties.
These benefits make the Amex Business Platinum Card a comprehensive tool for frequent travelers and business owners looking to optimize their expenses.
Is the Amex Business Platinum Card Worth It for the $200 Hilton Credit?
The $200 Hilton credit is just one of many perks that make the Amex Business Platinum Card worth considering. If you are someone who frequently stays at Hilton properties or values luxury travel experiences, this credit can significantly offset your annual travel costs. For business owners, the card’s extensive suite of rewards and benefits more than justifies its annual fee.
By strategically planning your stays and utilizing the credit alongside other benefits like Hilton Honors Gold status, you can extract maximum value from this feature.
Conclusion
The $200 Hilton credit offered by the Amex Business Platinum Card is a valuable benefit that can enhance your travel experience in 2024. Whether you’re using it to cover room rates, enjoy on-property dining, or pay for resort fees, this credit helps offset costs and adds convenience. By understanding the eligibility requirements and combining the credit with other perks, you can make the most of this feature while enjoying the premium travel benefits of the Amex Business Platinum Card.
