Comparison Site for Great Credit Card Offers

June 8, 2005 05:44 PM

New applicants are entered for a sweepstakes for a chance to win a free trip for two to Las Vegas and an additional daily drawing for a chance to win a Blue iPod mini. (This promotion is valid until July 31, 2005)

Through the rebate program, cardholders earn a cash award that varies according to the amount spent per year. Cardholders are awarded a 0.25% rebate for the first $2,000; 0.5% for amounts over $2,000 and up to $6,000; and 1.5% for purchases over $6,000 up to $50,000. An additional 0.5% rebate is added for any billing period in which the account carries a balance - so only those who spend up to $50,000 a year and carry a balance will be able to take advantage of the 2% cash back rebate.

In addition, up to 3% will be awarded on purchases made at supermarkets, gas stations, drugstores, and home improvement stores. American Express® refers to these as “Everyday Purchases”. These purchases earn an additional 2% if a balance is carried, which amounts to a 5% rebate. Cash back rewards are earned for purchases only.

Aside from the cash rebates, this card provides common benefits and services commonly found with American Express® credit cards, such as the buyer’s assurance plan, purchase protection plan, and up to $100,000 in travel accident insurance. The card also features smart card technology and a free smart card reader.

This card has no annual fee and a reasonably low interest rate for purchases and balance transfers (for those who qualify), which makes it ideal for those who plan to occasionally carry a balance. The card has a 0% introductory rate for the first six months of membership that can be applied towards purchases. A 4.99% introductory rate is available on balance transfers for the life of the loan (valid for transfers submitted during the application process). It is important to note that the balance transfer introductory rate only applies to those who initiate a transfer when applying for the card.

Therefore, those who plan to take advantage of the cash back reward program for “Everyday Purchases” (to earn the highest rebate) as well as the various standard services provided, will benefit most from what Blue Cash(sm) from American Express® has to offer.

** It is important to note that like many cash reward cards, the highest rebate offered will not apply to all purchases made with the credit card. In this case, 1.5% will only be applied to those purchases made after the cardholder spends over $6,000 in one year, so the overall cash rebate earned will be less than 1.5%, depending on the amount spent (if the cardholder does not carry a balance). For example, if the cardholder were to spend $6,000, of this amount only $1,000 would be applied towards the 1.5% rebate (if the cardholder did not carry a balance).