Despite its hefty $550 annual fee, the Hilton Aspire Amex card offers a range of benefits that make it well worth the cost. One of the most valuable benefits is the Hilton Honors Diamond status, which comes with bonus points on hotel stays, free breakfast, room upgrades, and access to executive lounges. In addition to elite status, the card also offers an impressive welcome offer of 180,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
The earning rates on the Hilton Aspire Amex are also quite generous. Cardmembers earn 14 points per dollar on purchases at Hilton portfolio hotels, 7 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com, car rentals booked with specific companies, and purchases at U.S. restaurants, and 3 points per dollar on all other purchases. These earning rates are sure to boost Hilton Honors point balances for loyalists.
The statement credits offered by the Hilton Aspire Amex are another valuable benefit. Cardmembers receive up to $400 in statement credits each calendar year for eligible purchases at eligible Hilton resorts, split into two $200 credits. They also receive up to $200 in annual airline purchase statement credits, split into $50 per calendar quarter. Additionally, cardmembers receive up to $100 Hilton property credit when booking at least a two-night paid stay at Waldorf Astoria or Conrad properties. The card also provides a statement credit of up to $189 per year toward a Clear Plus membership, which is an expedited security program available at select U.S. airports.
Other benefits of the Hilton Aspire Amex include up to three free night awards each year, complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status, and travel protections such as trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation, and interruption insurance. Cardmembers also receive cellphone protection for up to $800 per claim for device repair or theft when the wireless bill is paid with the Aspire card.
Overall, the Hilton Aspire Amex card is a great choice for Hilton loyalists who frequently stay at Hilton properties. The elite status, high earning rates, and useful statement credits make it a worthwhile investment. However, for those who only stay at Hilton properties occasionally, a lower annual fee card or a general travel rewards credit card may be a better fit.