Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

09/07/2026: Welcome offer has been changed to just 130K Points

03/12/2026: New welcome offer is 130K Hilton Honors Bonus Points + 1 Free Night Reward. Offer is set to end 04/15/2026

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card is a mid-tier hotel credit card designed for frequent guests of Hilton who want elite perks without paying for a top-tier premium card. While the annual fee is not waived in the first year, cardholders can offset much of the cost through $50 quarterly Hilton resort credits and the opportunity to earn a free night reward, though many of these credits are issued incrementally and are closely tied to Hilton stays. The card includes complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status—with a path to Diamond status after $40,000 in annual spending—making it ideal for travelers who value room upgrades, bonus points on stays, and on-property benefits. Additional perks include no foreign transaction fees, free authorized users, National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status, baggage insurance, car rental loss and damage coverage, purchase protection, and extended warranty benefits. However, most elevated earning categories are limited to U.S. purchases and Hilton points are typically valued around 0.5 cents each, so the Surpass card is best suited for loyal Hilton travelers who can consistently maximize hotel stays and quarterly credits rather than occasional guests.

Issuer

American Express, founded in 1850, has evolved from a freight forwarding company to the largest global payment network. Known for its charge card introduced in the 1950s, American Express operates as one of the largest banks in the US, extending its products and services to over 200 countries and owning the 4th largest card network globally, making it one of the largest bank in the US. Beyond its renowned card offerings, American Express provides a comprehensive range of financial products and services, including savings, checking, personal loans, as well as business and travel services. Although primarily targeting affluent individuals and businesses, recent efforts focus on attracting Millennials and Gen Z customers. With a strong emphasis on technology and a user-friendly website, the company ensures accessibility to its diverse offerings. Despite its financial stability, with over $298 billion in assets and $80 billion in annual revenue in 2025, some businesses may decline American Express cards due to high interchange fees. Additionally, the company's strategic partnerships, including co-branded cards with Delta, Hilton, and Marriott, contribute to its revenue streams. However, American Express is committed to ESG initiatives, philanthropy, and regulatory compliance, offering FDIC-insured deposits and upholding a mission to provide the world's best customer experience while supporting equitable and resilient communities globally.

Spending Multipliers

Credits & Features