Considering applying for the Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express but not sure it’s right for you? Here are some things to know before you apply. First and foremost, it is important to note the card is free for your first year but it carries an annual fee of $95 after that.
Delta Frequent Flyers
If you’re a Delta Frequent Flyer, you can rack up a great number of miles over the course of a year. The card offers you a low-cost way to earn your next free flight. If you aren’t already an American Express cardholder, there’s a signup bonus of 30,000 miles if you spend $1,000 on the card in your first three months. And, if you make a purchase with Delta in your first three months, you’ll get a $50 statement credit, as well.
However, if you are already an American Express cardholder, you are not eligible for the bonus.
The Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card allows you to earn two miles for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases made directly with Delta (this includes things like in-flight purchases, bag fees, and upgrades), plus you’ll get one mile per dollar on all other purchases.
If you purchase airline tickets through Delta, (purchases through third party sites are not eligible), you’ll earn seven miles per dollar. You’ll also get bonuses like priority boarding and your first checked bag free.
This card is perfect for those who regularly fly Delta and spend more than $700 annually on their flights with the carrier.
Benefits for Delta Customers
This card provides some great rewards when it comes to flying. When it comes to redeeming your miles, there are no blackout dates. There are some blackout dates with some of Delta’s SkyTeam alliance transfer partners, though, so you’ll need to check connectors before you book.
Delta does limit the number of award seats which can be booked per flight, so it’s important to book early. Additionally, your miles won’t expire. Delta is the only major U.S. airline with miles that never expire.
Not for Everyone
While the Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express is perfect for Delta Frequent Flyers, it’s not for everyone.
First, it’s important to remember you won’t automatically qualify for any of the Medallion statuses Delta offers. With Delta SkyMiles, there are five loyalty tiers. With this credit card, you begin at the general status level. You’ll need to rack up a specific number of qualifying miles to move up the ladder. Generally, you’ll need to spend over $3,000 on Delta flights each year and earn 25,000 qualifying miles to get to the next tier.
If you don’t spend over $700 each year with Delta, most likely the card won’t be cost effective for you. Remember, the card only helps you save on flights with Delta. You will, of course, get a mile per dollar spent if you choose to fly other airlines, but if you fly on another carrier more often, take a look at the credit cards they have to offer.
The Bottom Line
The Gold Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express offers you an excellent sign-up bonus and good long-term value if you’re a loyal Delta customer. If this is you, consider applying before your next flight!