Alright, strap yourselves in, because we're about to embark on a journey to unlock some serious travel and lifestyle perks! If you're a military service member, you've likely heard whispers about the incredible benefits of the American Express Platinum Card. And guess what? Those whispers are true! American Express is incredibly supportive of our service members, often waiving the substantial annual fee for eligible military personnel. This means you can enjoy all the premium benefits without the hefty price tag.
This guide will walk you through, step-by-step, how to potentially get your hands on this coveted card and leverage the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA) to your advantage.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Are You Eligible? Understand SCRA and MLA
Before you even think about hitting "apply," it's crucial to understand the two primary acts that make this possible: the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA).
1.1. SCRA: For Accounts Opened Before Active Duty
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a federal law that provides financial and legal protections to military members when they enter active duty. For credit cards, this primarily means a 6% interest rate cap on debts incurred before active duty. While it doesn't explicitly waive annual fees, many credit card companies, including American Express, voluntarily extend annual fee waivers under SCRA as a goodwill gesture.
Key Takeaway: If you already have an American Express card (or any other credit card) before you go on active duty, you'd apply for SCRA benefits for that existing account once your active duty starts.
1.2. MLA: For Accounts Opened While On Active Duty
The Military Lending Act (MLA) is a federal law that provides protections for active-duty servicemembers and their dependents concerning certain credit products. Crucially, the MLA caps the Military Annual Percentage Rate (MAPR) at 36% for "covered borrowers" and prohibits certain credit terms, including mandatory arbitration and prepayment penalties. For credit cards, the most significant benefit for military members is that it often mandates the waiver of annual fees and other fees (like late payment fees, overlimit fees, etc.) on accounts opened while you are on active duty.
Key Takeaway: If you apply for and open a new American Express Platinum Card while you are on active duty, it's the MLA that will likely trigger the annual fee waiver automatically. This is generally the more straightforward path for getting the Platinum Card with no annual fee.
1.3. Who is a "Covered Borrower"?
Generally, a "covered borrower" for both SCRA and MLA includes:
Active-duty members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
National Guard and Reservists on Title 10 active duty orders for 30 days or longer.
Public Health Service and NOAA Commissioned Officers.
Spouses and dependents of eligible active-duty servicemembers are also often covered under MLA for accounts opened in their own name while the service member is on active duty.
Pro Tip: You can check your eligibility in the MLA Database and SCRA Database online. This is a highly recommended step before applying.
Step 2: The Application Process – Timing is Everything!
This is where the rubber meets the road. The timing of your application can influence which act (SCRA or MLA) applies and how smoothly the fee waiver process goes.
2.1. Applying While on Active Duty (Recommended)
This is generally the easiest and most reliable way to ensure your annual fee is waived under MLA.
Sub-step 2.1.1: Confirm Your Active Duty Status.
Ensure your active duty orders are in effect and that you are listed as a "covered borrower" in the MLA database. This usually updates a few days after your orders begin.
Sub-step 2.1.2: Choose Your Platinum Card.
While we're focusing on the personal American Express Platinum Card, remember that other Amex cards (like the Gold Card, Hilton Aspire, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant, etc.) may also have their annual fees waived for active-duty military.
Sub-step 2.1.3: Fill Out the Application Accurately.
Go to the official American Express website.
Provide your name exactly as it appears on your military ID.
Fill in your date of birth, address, telephone number, and Social Security number.
When it asks for "Income Source," be sure to select "Military" if that option is available. This helps trigger Amex's internal checks for military status.
Be prepared for standard creditworthiness checks. While the annual fee is waived, Amex still requires applicants to have good to excellent credit (typically a credit score of 700+) and a stable income. There's no strict income requirement, but a general recommendation is $50,000+ annually, coupled with a low debt-to-income ratio.
Sub-step 2.1.4: Submit and Await Approval.
American Express often provides an approval decision within minutes. Sometimes, it might take a few business days for additional review.
Important: Amex offers a "Know if you're approved with no credit score impact" feature initially, but if you accept the card, your score may be impacted by the hard inquiry.
Sub-step 2.1.5: Verify MLA Application.
Once approved, carefully review your cardholder agreement. Look for a statement confirming you've been identified as a "Covered Borrower" under the Military Lending Act. This confirms the MLA benefits are active, including the annual fee waiver.
If you don't see this or have concerns, contact American Express customer service (the number on the back of your card is a good start, or their dedicated military benefits line if available). Do this within 12 months of opening your account to request a review.
2.2. Applying Before Active Duty and Then Requesting SCRA
This path is also viable, but it requires an extra step.
Sub-step 2.2.1: Apply for the Card.
Follow the standard application process for the American Express Platinum Card before your active duty orders begin.
Sub-step 2.2.2: Wait for Active Duty to Commence.
Once your active duty begins, and you are officially in the SCRA database, proceed to the next step.
Sub-step 2.2.3: Request SCRA Benefits.
There are several ways to do this:
Online (Fastest): Log in to your American Express online account. Navigate to "Account Services" and then "Credit Management," looking for an option related to "SCRA Benefits." You may be able to upload your active-duty orders directly through their Document Center.
Phone: Call the number on the back of your card, or the dedicated SCRA line: 1-800-253-1720. If you're overseas, you can call collect at 1-336-393-1111.
Fax: Fax your active-duty orders and relevant American Express account number(s) to 623-444-3000.
Mail: Send a copy of your active-duty orders and account details to: American Express Attn: Servicemembers Civil Relief Act PO Box 981535 El Paso, TX 79998-1535
Important Documentation: You'll likely need to provide official documentation establishing your active duty status, such as active duty orders or a letter from your commanding officer on official letterhead.
Sub-step 2.2.4: Confirmation and Refund.
The SCRA review process typically takes 2-3 weeks. American Express will notify you of your status, usually within two billing cycles.
If an annual fee was charged before your SCRA benefits were applied, Amex will refund it to your account.
Step 3: Activating and Maximizing Your Benefits
Congratulations, you've (hopefully!) secured your American Express Platinum Card with a waived annual fee! Now comes the fun part: activating and taking full advantage of its myriad benefits.
3.1. Activate Your Card and Online Account
As soon as your card arrives, activate it.
Register for American Express Online Services if you haven't already. This is crucial for managing your account, checking benefits, and submitting any necessary documentation.
3.2. Understand and Enroll in Key Benefits (Enrollment Required for Many!)
The Platinum Card is famous for its generous statement credits, but many require enrollment. Don't leave money on the table!
Sub-step 3.2.1: Airline Fee Credit (Up to $200 Annually).
Designate a single airline each calendar year. Use this credit for incidental fees like baggage, seat upgrades, and in-flight food/beverages. This generally does not cover airfare itself.
Sub-step 3.2.2: Uber Cash (Up to $200 Annually).
Add your Platinum Card to your Uber account. You'll receive $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December ($35 total). This can be used for Uber rides or Uber Eats.
Sub-step 3.2.3: Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit (Up to $100/$85).
Pay for your Global Entry ($100) or TSA PreCheck ($85) application fee with your Platinum Card, and you'll receive a statement credit. This is valid once every 4 years for Global Entry or 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck.
Sub-step 3.2.4: Digital Entertainment Credit (Up to $240 Annually).
Enroll to receive up to $20 in statement credits per month for eligible purchases with partners like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Peacock, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.
Sub-step 3.2.5: Hotel Credit (Up to $200 Annually).
Use this credit for eligible prepaid bookings through Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay required for The Hotel Collection).
Sub-step 3.2.6: Equinox Credit (Up to $300 Annually).
If you're an Equinox member, this credit can offset membership fees or digital subscriptions.
Sub-step 3.2.7: Saks Fifth Avenue Credit (Up to $100 Annually).
Receive up to $50 in statement credits between January and June, and another $50 between July and December, on Saks Fifth Avenue purchases.
Sub-step 3.2.8: Clear Plus Credit (Up to $189 Annually).
Pay for your Clear Plus membership with your Platinum Card and receive a statement credit.
3.3. Enjoy Travel Privileges
Global Lounge Collection: Access Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select lounges (enrollment required), Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), Plaza Premium Lounges, and more. This is a massive perk for frequent travelers.
Elite Status: Complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy (enrollment required). This can get you perks like room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points.
Fine Hotels + Resorts & The Hotel Collection: Enjoy benefits like daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (when available), late checkout, and unique property amenities when booking through Amex Travel.
Concierge Service: A dedicated concierge can assist with dining reservations, event tickets, and travel arrangements.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use your card abroad without worrying about extra charges.
3.4. Understand Your Points
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year).
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Earn 1X point on all other eligible purchases.
Membership Rewards points are highly flexible and can be transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, often yielding much higher value than redeeming for cash back.
Step 4: Managing Your Account and Ongoing Eligibility
Even after you've got the card and are enjoying the benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure continued fee waivers and smooth account management.
4.1. Annual Fee Waivers: Automatic vs. Re-verification
For MLA benefits, Amex typically verifies your eligibility with the Department of Defense during the application process and periodically thereafter. The fee waiver should be automatic as long as you remain a "covered borrower."
For SCRA benefits, Amex may require you to re-verify your active duty status periodically, especially if your orders have changed or are nearing their end date. American Express will usually send you a notification letter if they need updated documentation.
Crucial: If you transition out of active duty, expect the annual fee to be reinstated at that point. Plan accordingly!
4.2. Authorized Users (AUs)
You can often add authorized users to your Platinum Card. For military spouses and dependents, if they are also "covered borrowers" under MLA, their authorized user fees (if any) may also be waived. However, it's generally recommended for military spouses to apply for their own card directly to ensure they receive MLA benefits in their name, especially if they are also "covered borrowers."
Remember: As the primary cardholder, you are responsible for all charges made by authorized users.
4.3. Staying Informed
Regularly check your American Express online account and the Amex app for new offers and to track your statement credits.
Keep an eye on official military finance blogs and forums, as policies and benefits can sometimes evolve.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about the American Express Platinum Card for military members:
How to check my MLA/SCRA eligibility? You can check your eligibility in the Military Lending Act (MLA) Database and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) Database online using your Social Security Number, date of birth, and last name.
How to apply for the American Express Platinum Card as an active-duty military member? Apply online through the official American Express website. Ensure you select "Military" as your income source if available, and that your active duty status is current in the MLA database before applying for the most seamless fee waiver process.
How to get the annual fee waived if I opened the card before active duty? Once on active duty, contact American Express to request Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) benefits. You can do this online, by phone (1-800-253-1720), fax (623-444-3000), or mail, providing your active duty orders.
How to confirm if MLA benefits are applied to my new Platinum Card? Review your cardholder agreement upon approval for a statement confirming you've been identified as a "Covered Borrower" under the Military Lending Act. If unsure, contact Amex customer service.
How to activate the various statement credits on the Platinum Card? Log in to your American Express online account or use the Amex app. Navigate to the "Benefits" section, where you'll find options to enroll in specific credits like airline fee, digital entertainment, Uber Cash, etc. Many require enrollment!
How to use the airline incidental fee credit? First, select your preferred airline through your Amex online account. Then, use your Platinum Card to pay for incidental fees (like baggage, seat upgrades, in-flight food/drinks) with that chosen airline, and a statement credit will typically appear within a few business days.
How to add an authorized user and have their fee waived? You can add authorized users through your American Express online account. If the authorized user is an eligible "covered borrower" (e.g., military spouse), their authorized user fee may also be waived under MLA.
How to maintain the fee waiver after my active duty orders change or end? If you remain on active duty, Amex will periodically re-verify your status. If your orders change or you transition out of active duty, the fee waiver will eventually cease. Be prepared for the annual fee to be charged at that point.
How to leverage the Platinum Card for airport lounge access? Simply present your American Express Platinum Card and a valid ID at participating lounges within the Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select (enrollment required), and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta).
How to make the most of my Membership Rewards points? The best value often comes from transferring your points to American Express's airline and hotel transfer partners. Research award charts and look for sweet spots to maximize their worth for travel.
