LONDON- American Express changed its approach in the UK by adding income thresholds to its credit cards, marking a major shift from its earlier, more flexible system. This move now directly affects applicants earning below £35,000.
For many cardholders, the decision determines whether they can access higher-value cards or multiple sign-up bonuses. But there are still ways to make the most of American Express rewards without crossing that income mark, Head for Points reported.
Best American Express Strategy
Until July 2023, American Express evaluated applicants using broader financial criteria such as household income and spending patterns. The focus has now narrowed to individual earnings, dividing its UK cards into two distinct categories.
- High-fee cards – like the British Airways American Express Premium Plus and The Platinum Card – now require a minimum income of £35,000.
- Standard cards – including Preferred Rewards Gold, Nectar Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy American Express, free British Airways American Express, and The American Express Rewards Credit Card – require £15,000 to £20,000.
The £35,000 benchmark also unlocks access to multiple sign-up bonuses. For instance, someone meeting this threshold could apply for three different cards in sequence and earn substantial bonuses across them.
Earning Under £35,000: What’s Possible
For applicants earning between £15,000 and £35,000, options are limited but not without value. The key lies in choosing strategically between short-term bonus gains and long-term usability.
If you earn around £20,000
Eligible cards include:
- American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card – Free for the first year, then £195 annually.
- Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card – £95 annual fee.
- Nectar Credit Card from American Express – Free in year one, then £30 per year.
If you earn around £15,000
Your choices narrow to:
- Free British Airways American Express Credit Card – No annual fee.
- The American Express Rewards Credit Card – Also free.
A simple strategy works best: apply for a card with the most attractive bonus, meet the spending requirement, collect the reward, and then switch to a long-term card that suits your spending habits.
Which Card Offers the Best Bonus
Among cards available below the £35,000 threshold, the American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card stands out.
- Bonus: 20,000 Membership Rewards points, convertible to 20,000 Avios (roughly £200 in value).
- Extras: Four airport lounge passes and £5 monthly Deliveroo credits for a year.
For travelers, this combination of rewards and perks makes it the most valuable entry-level choice.
Other options include:
- Marriott Bonvoy American Express – 20,000 Marriott points (valued around £100) but with a £95 annual fee.
- Nectar Credit Card – 20,000 Nectar points worth £100 in-store or 12,500 Avios if converted.
- Free British Airways American Express – 5,000 Avios, the smallest bonus, but no fees.
- American Express Rewards Credit Card – 10,000 Membership Rewards points (worth about £100), with no annual fee.
Best Long-Term Strategy
For most earners under £35,000, cards with ongoing fees offer limited value unless spending is consistently high.
The free British Airways American Express and the American Express Rewards Credit Card are better for steady, long-term use.
However, the Rewards Credit Card has the edge because Membership Rewards points are more flexible. They can convert to Avios, Virgin Points, Marriott Bonvoy, or even retail vouchers.
Planning for Future Income Growth
If income is expected to exceed £35,000 in the near future, it’s smart to start with a Marriott Bonvoy or Nectar Credit Card.
These maintain eligibility for higher-tier cards like The Platinum Card or British Airways Premium Plus later — both of which offer the most lucrative sign-up bonuses once the higher income requirement is met.
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