The announcement of new benefits and an increased annual fee for the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card in 2024 has generated mixed reactions among cardholders. While some are excited about the new perks that come with the card, others are disappointed by the discontinuation of certain benefits and the hike in the annual fee.
One of the most significant changes to the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is the increase in the annual fee from $95.00 to $195.00, effective July 1, 2024. This $100.00 increase has raised eyebrows among cardholders, who are questioning whether the new benefits justify the higher cost of ownership. Despite the higher annual fee, the card now offers some attractive new perks that may appeal to frequent travelers and Hilton loyalists.
One of the key new benefits of the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is the opportunity to earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar spent on eligible purchases at Hilton properties. This is a significant increase from the previous earning rate and can help cardholders accumulate points faster towards free stays and other rewards. Additionally, cardholders can now earn up to $240.00 in statement credits annually for eligible Hilton purchases made with the card, with a limit of $60.00 in credits each quarter. This benefit can help offset the higher annual fee for those who frequently stay at Hilton properties.
Another new perk of the card is the ability to earn 5X Hilton Honors bonus points on all other purchases made with the card, up to $100,000.00 in purchases each calendar year. This can be a valuable benefit for cardholders who use their Hilton Honors American Express Business Card for everyday expenses and want to maximize their points earnings. Additionally, cardholders will now enjoy complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status, which can provide access to exclusive benefits and discounts when renting cars.
Despite these new benefits, some cardholders are disappointed by the discontinuation of certain perks that were previously offered with the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card. One of the most notable changes is the removal of complimentary access to airport lounges through the Priority Pass Select program. This benefit will no longer be available as of July 1, 2024, which may be a disappointment for frequent travelers who relied on lounge access as a valuable perk of the card.
Another discontinued benefit is the Free Night Reward, which allowed cardholders to earn free night stays at Hilton properties based on their spending. This benefit will no longer be available after June 30, 2024, which may be a blow to cardholders who enjoyed the opportunity to earn free nights through their card purchases.
Overall, the changes to the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card in 2024 have sparked a debate among cardholders about whether the new benefits outweigh the increased annual fee and the loss of certain perks. While the card now offers enhanced earning opportunities and statement credits for Hilton purchases, some cardholders may be disappointed by the removal of airport lounge access and the Free Night Reward. Ultimately, the decision to keep or cancel the card will depend on individual preferences and travel habits, as well as the value that cardholders place on the new benefits compared to the higher cost of ownership.