American Express Gold Card

A rewards card built around food: 4x at restaurants and US supermarkets, with a $325 fee that dining credits can offset.

Who it's for

This card fits you if food is one of your biggest expenses. You earn 4x at restaurants and at US supermarkets and 3x on flights, and the card comes with dining and Uber credits. The annual fee is $325. If you spend a lot on groceries and eating out and you'll actually use the credits, the points can cover the fee and then some.

Who should skip it

Skip it if you rarely eat out or shop at supermarkets, because most of the value lives in those two categories. Skip it if you won't track monthly credits, since the fee only makes sense when you use them. Keep in mind that it's a charge card: you are expected to pay in full, and the Pay Over Time feature carries a high APR. If you want simple cash back, the Blue Cash Everyday or Blue Cash Preferred may be a better fit.

How to get the most from it

Put every restaurant meal and supermarket trip on this card, since 4x is where it shines. Book flights with it to earn 3x. Turn on and use the dining and Uber credits, ideally by setting a reminder or linking them to places you already go. Pay the full balance every month so Pay Over Time interest never kicks in. Use points for travel, where they tend to be worth more than as statement credit, and check before you redeem.

Pros

• 4x at restaurants and US supermarkets
• 3x on flights
• Dining and Uber credits help offset the fee
• No foreign transaction fees

Cons

• $325 annual fee
• Credits take some effort to use
• Charge card: plan to pay in full every month
• Lower rates outside food and flights

Frequently asked questions

Is the Amex Gold worth $325?

It's usually worth it if you spend several hundred dollars a month on groceries and dining and use the credits. If you use neither the credits nor the 4x categories much, a no-fee card is likely better.

Is the Amex Gold a credit card or a charge card?

It's a charge card. You're expected to pay the balance in full, though some purchases can be paid over time with Pay Over Time at a variable APR.

Does the Amex Gold earn 4x at Walmart or Costco?

The 4x supermarket rate applies to US supermarkets as American Express defines them. Superstores and warehouse clubs usually don't count. Check the issuer's terms for details.

Gold or Sapphire Preferred?

The Gold earns more on groceries and dining, but costs $325. The Sapphire Preferred costs $95 and earns more on travel booked through Chase. Heavy grocery spenders usually do better with the Gold.