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Credit cards with rewards programs are a dime a dozen with most providing similar rewards for the purchases made with the card. The Plenti® Credit Card from Amex, however, provides a different type of rewards program, separating itself from the masses of cards already out there. With no annual fee and an innovative new rewards program, this card might be one worth considering when you shop.
This card works in conjunction with the Plenti Rewards Program, which you have to sign up for separately. Enrollment in the rewards program is free, but must be completed before applying for the credit card.
The card awards 3 points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1 point), 2 points at U.S. restaurants and one point on other purchases. You can earn additional points when using your card for purchases with retailers within the Plenti network, such as Macy's, Exxon Mobil, Rite-Aid, AT&T company-owned stores, Hulu, Enterprise, and others. Each retailer provides different ways to earn and redeem points. This is in addition to the points you earn using this credit card. When you sign up for the rewards program, you also receive welcome offers and opportunities which can be worth up to 10,000 points, valued at $100 in savings. And the Plenti Online Marketplace offers even more opportunities for earning points.
You can use your points for savings on purchases with the retailers in the Plenti network, at as few as 200 points with certain retailers, worth approximately $2. In order to use your points, you must have your Plenti card available at checkout, both online and in-store. (See also: Best Credit Cards with Cash Sign-Up Bonuses)
There is no limit to the number of points you can earn, but any unused points that are at least two years old by December 31, will expire.
Terms apply.
Travel benefits.You can travel worry-free with this card, as you'll be covered by car rental insurance and travel accident insurance.
Global Assist Hotline. Helps you with travel arrangements such as preparing for your trip with destination guides, and coordination and assistance services such as lost passport replacement and translation services, when you are more than 100 miles from home.
Entertainment access. Get access to ticket presales at events such as Broadway shows, concerts, and sporting events.
Shopping benefits. Get extended warranty for up to one additional year on the original manufacturer's warranty. Other shopping benefits include purchase protection for accidental damage and theft, and return protection if a merchant will not accept the return.
Different rewards from different retailers. Instead of a simple program that might offer cash back on groceries or gas, each retailer in the Plenti program offers different rewards. Unless you are someone who is familiar with using different cards and different programs to maximize rewards, this would be very difficult to keep track of and remember. (See also: Best Cards for Groceries)
Inconvenient rewards program. In order to get the most from the credit card, you have to use the credit card plus the Plenti card, and if you have linked a loyalty rewards card to the account, that card as well. This can result in a handful of cards being required for a single purchase, (See also: Credit Cards that Offer Flat Rate Rewards)
Limited redemption opportunities. You can only use your points for savings with Plenti retailers at check out. You can't redeem your points for cash back or for transferring to travel partners. In fact, if you don't purchase anything from the retailers in the network within two years, your points will expire. If you don't frequent Plenti stores enough, another type of rewards card that allows for easier redemption through cash or gift cards will be a better option. (See also: Best Credit Cards for Earning Cash Back)
Foreign transaction fee. This is not a card to use if you travel outside of the U.S. frequently or for foreign purchases because of the fee. (See also: Best Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees)
The Plenti credit card is ideal for those who shop regularly with the partners included in the Plenti rewards program and are diligent in keeping up with loyalty programs. You get the most for your money if you remember to shop with Plenti partners, especially taking advantage of special bonus opportunities, and use the points earned for savings on future purchases. It is also best if used exclusively for domestic purchases.
Info about the Plenti Card from Amex has been collected independently by Wise Bread. The issuer did not provide the details, nor is it responsible for their accuracy.