When to use my Amex when a cash discount is offered

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When to use my Amex when a cash discount is offered

by Kristi Hillebrand New Member April 3, 2019, 2:48 pm

When to use my Amex when a cash discount is offered

Kristi Hillebrand New Member
April 3, 2019, 2:48 pm

Is it a good idea to pay with my Amex Platinum when the travel company I’m touring Africa with gives a 5% discount for paying cash? I will save $375 paying cash.
Thanks!
MidSouthSkier Community Ambassador
April 3, 2019, 2:59 pm

If $375 is 5% then I assume your trip cost is about $7500. You’d only earn 1 MR per dollar for the purchase since you’re not booking directly with the airline or via the MR portal. At Ben’s valuation of 1 MR = 1.7 cents, those 7500 points are worth about $127.50. So I’d get the cash back.
rickyw Community Ambassador
April 3, 2019, 9:38 pm

I 95% agree with Mid South. Paying with a credit card, especially a premium one like Amex Platinum, does offer some extra purchase protection and travel insurance benefits that cash does not. You should look into purchasing separate travel insurance and factor that cost in to your decision (i.e., can you get travel insurance for a $7,500 trip for around $250?)
Kristi Hillebrand New Member
April 3, 2019, 11:31 pm

Thank you for your insight. Cash it is.

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When to use my Amex when a cash discount is offered