The Hilton Honors Business Card by American Express is more than just a credit card—it’s your passport to an elevated travel experience. Whether you’re frequently staying at Hilton hotels or looking for ways to maximize rewards for your business, this card offers unparalleled benefits tailored for savvy business travelers.
With an impressive points system, complimentary status upgrades, and a sleek new metal design, the Hilton Honors Business Card is designed to meet the needs of professionals on the go.
Key features of the Hilton Honors Business Card
The Hilton Honors Business Card is packed with features that make it stand out in the crowded business credit card market. Let’s take a closer look at what this card offers.
How does the annual fee work?
The Hilton Honors Business Card comes with an annual fee of $195. While this may seem like a substantial cost, the benefits you gain from using the card can easily outweigh this expense. To make it more manageable, you can divide the fee into monthly payments, easing the financial burden.
Although this card doesn’t offer an annual fee waiver, the numerous perks it provides—such as earning 12X points on Hilton purchases—make the fee worthwhile, especially for frequent travelers who can take full advantage of the rewards and benefits offered.
How is the credit limit determined?
American Express determines the credit limit for the Hilton Honors Business Card by evaluating your creditworthiness and financial background at the time of your application. This assessment includes factors such as your income, credit history, and overall financial profile, allowing them to set a limit that aligns with your ability to repay.
Unlike prepaid cards, where you control the limit through your deposits, the Hilton Honors Business Card offers a flexible credit limit that can increase as your business needs evolve. This flexibility makes it a valuable tool for managing business expenses and growing your rewards over time.
Benefits of the Hilton Honors Business Card
The Hilton Honors Business Card is packed with perks that cater to the needs of business travelers. Here are some of the standout benefits:
- 12X Hilton Honors Points: Earn 12X points for every dollar spent directly with Hilton properties.
- 5X Points on Other Purchases: Earn 5X points on eligible purchases, up to $100K per year, and 3X points thereafter.
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status: Enjoy perks like room upgrades, free breakfast, and more with complimentary Gold status.
- Upgrade to Diamond Status: Spend $40,000 annually on the card to upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status.
- Complimentary National Car Rental Status: Receive Emerald Club Executive status, offering enhanced rental car benefits.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use your card abroad without worrying about additional fees.
- New Metal Card Design: The card now comes in a sleek metal design, adding a touch of elegance to your wallet.
Standout benefit: Hilton Honors Points Program
The Hilton Honors Points program is where this card truly shines. Earning 12X points on Hilton purchases allows you to accumulate rewards quickly, making your stays even more rewarding. Additionally, the 5X points on other eligible purchases ensure that every dollar spent contributes to your next trip. With Hilton’s extensive network of hotels and resorts, these points can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, and more, offering significant value to frequent travelers.
Disadvantages
As with any credit card, the Hilton Honors Business Card has its downsides:
- Annual Fee: The $195 fee might be a barrier for some.
- High APR: With a variable APR ranging from 20.99% to 29.99%, carrying a balance could become expensive.
- Points Capping: The 5X points on non-Hilton purchases are capped at $100K annually.
Main drawback: High APR
The high APR is perhaps the biggest downside of the Hilton Honors Business Card. If you don’t pay off your balance in full each month, interest charges can quickly add up, negating the value of the rewards you earn. This card is best suited for those who can consistently pay off their balance to avoid costly interest fees.
Who can apply for this card?
To apply for the Hilton Honors Business Card, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Credit Score: A good to excellent credit score is typically required for approval.
- Income: You need a steady income that meets the card issuer’s requirements.
- Residency: The card is available to U.S. residents who have a valid Social Security number.
- Business Requirements: You must have a registered business, as this card is specifically designed for business use.
It’s important to note that this card is not available to individuals with negative credit records or those seeking easy approval. Meeting these criteria ensures you are in a strong position to apply and benefit from the card’s features and rewards.
How to apply for the Hilton Honors Business Card
Applying for the Hilton Honors Business Card is straightforward and can be done in three ways: online, through the mobile app, or in person.
Online Application
You can apply for the Hilton Honors Business Card directly through the American Express website. The process is quick, and you can receive a decision within 30 seconds. Simply fill out the online form with your personal and business information, review the terms, and submit your application.
Mobile App
If you prefer, you can also apply using the American Express mobile app. Download the app from your device’s app store, log in or create an account, and follow the prompts to apply for the Hilton Honors Business Card.
In-Person Application
For those who prefer a more personal touch, you can apply in person at an American Express branch or authorized retailer. Bring your identification, business details, and any required documentation, and a representative will guide you through the application process.
In summary, the Hilton Honors Business Card offers robust rewards and valuable travel perks for business owners who frequently stay at Hilton properties. Despite the annual fee and high APR, the benefits, especially the Hilton Honors Points program, make this card an excellent choice for the right user.