Another Look at the Black Card

The Centurion Card, American Express’ top card (a.k.a. the Black Card for its color), is no longer by invitation only. The annual fee has also gone up from $1,000 to $2,500, even for those who have had the card from the beginning. Obtaining a card in the US requires minimum annual spending of $250,000 (with another Amex card), exceptional credit history, and significant financial assets. (Sometimes these can be waived if you’re a celebrity, or just persistent, I’ve been told.) Requirements in other countries can differ slightly. There is a $5,000 one-time initiation fee.

While there are a number of benefits, the most valuable to travelers are the complimentary elite status memberships. See chart below for details. More: (800) 297-3333.