Why I Canceled The Amex Gold (And YOU Should Too)

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

💲 Download MaxRewards: maxrewards.app.link/spencer (Code: SPENCER)

[@nicholascassidy-fougere8051]

I have the Amex Green Card, the annual fee is much easier to justify than the $250 fee on the Gold card

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I can definitely see why you'd say so! It all depends on the individual using it, but that could definitely be true.

[@SolidLiquidFox]

Your reasoning is sound. I also canceled a few cards as I'm trying to minimize AF to accommodate fewer high AF cards. Simplicity has value.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I completely resonate with that! I hope you feel good about your decision too!

[@sleekhairedchocolate]

Bit of a relief to hear someone walk the walk rather than just talk the talk. Definitely agree with the “right spender” idea. As someone in a similar position to you “young, 20’s, low total spend” I would be doing the same with my Gold if I didn’t differ in one key aspect. As a huge foodie, I choose to spend more money than others both at grocery stores and eating out, and also LOVE the 2 $10 monthly credits for UberEats and Shake Shack respectively, so I’ve already gotten 12,000 points back this year already! I’m looking to total about 30,000 by the end of the year, and if we combine my enthusiasm to use monthly statement credits and MR points at a minimum of 1 CPP, I average $540 of value every year.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm glad you appreciated this one! And based on your spending habits, this card seems pretty perfect for you and that's all that matters! Keep getting that value!!

[@lewis20002000]

What would all that spending get you if you used the AF BBP with no AF and no monthly fight to get your AF back.

[@johnytran1856]

YESSSSSS!!! You can finally look into completing the CAP 1 DUO!! Savor One is waiting bro!!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahaha that may get on the list! We’ll see 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@SectionChief]

Applying for a card where you don't 'fit' the target demographic of its features/benefits in the first place and then coming across as dissatisfied when the card is doing exactly what it says it was going to do and didn't change or reduce any features is a all to common amongst 'content creators' recently. Really more like bonus chasing; keep it real.

[@HockeyJock]

Part of keeping it real - is being willing to admit you may not have done the math. I sure didn’t when I got the gold card. Yet I now realize how much dining spend I have to do at 4X just to break even. In his case. This is a line of work for him - he needs to use and understand cards in the Amex ecosystem as a part of being able to do what he does… so simmah down and give him a break, sheesh 😂

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

In making this video I hoped to do exactly what you said at the end there. I could have easily shied away from sharing this information and cancelled without any explanation, but instead I decided to share the fact that I do not fit the target demographic and while I got a lot of value from it due to a welcome offer and retention bonus, that doesn’t mean the card is for me, hence the decision to cancel. I can see why you’re upset at content creators if you’re not a welcome bonus hunter, but just know that everyone plays the credit card game differently and there’s no one correct way. Hopefully you understand!

[@rg8162]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficialsuch a professional and apt response - kudos to you! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@gsctrading7215]

Makes sense to cancel. The problem Amex now has is the increased competition from banks issuing cards with better rewards, SUB structures and travel partners. Amex keeps underestimating that strong competition by increasing annual fees and further complicating their already annoying coupons.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I’m glad you resonated with the decision! I think you’re right here. Maybe they’ll make some positive changes to it with the refresh, but the competition outside of Amex keeps getting better and better!

[@SpartanOfFinance]

shocked "pikachu" face.....

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hey us KZbinrs gotta KZbin am I right? Thanks for being here so early boss! 🥉

[@SpartanOfFinance]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I sometimes feel like the last guy on the train as I have been mulling over the Gold card for months. I got the 150k for Business Gold (295AF) but that card is Meh long term. I may be their target demo (high earner with hungry children) so do it for a year if I can get the biggest bonus possible. Then I most likely switch to Citi Premier. I just wish Citi had Brit Air and Aeroplan as I got awesome value from them for short haul domestic trips. Keep up the great content!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

@@SpartanOfFinance I completely get it dude. Fortunately we have a ton of great options out there these days, so I feel like you can't really go wrong. As goals change, so can our cards!

[@OfficialChadsMoneyMinutes]

They gave me that same offer for my green card and i took it to maintain some versatility in points earning and not paying any money out of pocket.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That makes a lot of sense. If I didn't have cards giving me exactly the same earning categories, I would have considered it stronger. But for now, I'll focus on other ecosystems!

[@bradytaylor3445]

This is a great video. It's all about the individual and if the card fits their setup. Platinum is the biggest culprit of this as many shouldn't really have it. I use it for the hotels and flights and get it reimbursed through my employer so I don't actually have to spend money to get the points, and i use the benefits with gold on my personal spending. If you cant get the card to work for you, you're looking at the wrong card.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thank you so much! I completely agree with your take here. It's all about getting cards that fit your natural spend and travel habits!

[@lewis20002000]

Our situtation is pretty much the exact same, the $250 af worked for me bc I used the $240 credits religiously, but the increasing af and the monthly fight to mitigate the af has worn me out. I want simplicity too. I am replacing my supermarket spend with the no af BBP.

[@Ritchie_The_CEO]

Did the rep become significantly less friendly when they didn’t convert you? The one time I turned down the retention offer and really cancelled an Amex card the rep did a complete 180 in their tone.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahah now that you mention it they did kinda change on me pretty quick. I just kept turning down all their offers and they eventually just started copying and pasting terms and conditions that I had to read through to figure out exactly what I needed to say to confirm the cancellation 🤣

[@shawn.credit]

Amex never questioned me closing my Amex Gold or tried to get me to keep it. I assume that their aggressive tactics have went away or too many folks ask for retention offers and they just don't even bother anymore.

[@JacobsPointsAndProfit]

Good choice. I don't think the Gold card would fit me well. Also, Clear is definitely not worth it. The TSA Precheck line is shorter than Clear for me 9/10 times

[@jun.oshima]

Affirm

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It all depends on the individual for sure. And I agree on the TSA precheck line too.

[@Confu5ed5]

Would love for this video to have a section explaining what you did/can do with remaining Amex points if you are wanting to cancel. Sure there are different strategies?

[@Vincent12]

As a pilot that will always have to eat out a lot it’s great, but I understand

[@justinjohnson4278]

I considered this as my “food” setup but I saw myself sort of needing to go out of my way to use the credits like you mentioned, I never normally eat at five guys and I never use the 3rd party ordering services cause they add a good 25% increase to everything, instead I could use the altitude go for 4x on dining (on top of that with the $15 streaming credit, I’m essentially getting almost 10x back since I spend so little on streaming to begin with) and the AAA card for groceries including neighborhood Walmarts for 5x, yes it’s a little “inconvenient” to carry 2 cards instead of 1, but that still seems easier than trying to manage all the coupon book credits

[@jacobcoughlin1822]

Your logic about the effective annual fee is so important. I have been binge watching credit card videos and I think you’re the first person who acknowledged that you’re effectively getting no value, if you have to go out of your way or change your spending habits to get the perks…..

[@Sergio-er1ez]

Most of my grocery shopping is Costco as well, I use my venture x.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Same here right now!

[@ClayDaddy5]

What is Venture X multiplier for Costco?

[@Sergio-er1ez]

@@ClayDaddy5 2x

[@jaxpon2010]

​@@ClayDaddy5 2X

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

@@ClayDaddy5 2x as it falls in the "everything else" category

[@TheRich330]

Clear plus TSA is definitely worth it, depending upon which airport you travel the most. At MCO it’s a lifesaver.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It’s definitely airport dependent, good point.

[@yourcreditcolleague]

I'm right there with you about the annual fees. It's easy to forget how much you're actually paying just to hold these cards sometimes. I went from paying down $2,500to $870 and it's a fantastic feeling. Found the Amex Marriott cards suited me best so I kept them.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm glad you resonated with that! I'll be following a similar path to you early next year. I'm glad those Marriott cards are serving you so well btw!

[@Anthonydr]

Im also looking to cancel my gold when the AF posts in December. Looking to eat less outside food so savor one is a better fit for me right now, not to mention they’re planning to hike the AF.

[@antiquehealbot6543]

I got this card for elevateed sign in bonus only and planning to cancel after first year. I think this will be my first and last Amex card I'll ever use.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

The bonus I got on it was awesome for sure! It's well worth it for that alone. Of course these days it could be worth getting the Green first to make sure you get all the charge card bonuses, but I didn't go that route.

[@Zevach97]

Perfectly said bro. Cancelled mine as well simply because my spend won’t be maximized with this card anymore, especially with the refresh. I’ve been enjoying Chase a lot lately, def will have to keep my eye on the that Citi card, great video man 💪🏼

[@TheCreditFrog]

Dude if I got a retention offer like the one you did, I would straight up bust out laughing. What an odd retention offer but glad you turned it down. Welcome to the NoGold club! I think the Citi Strata Premier makes sense for you and it’s nice to not have two monthly credits anymore!

[@runforrestrun2428]

I would say the wells autographed journey card is better! I just hope they add more welcome transfer partners soon!!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahah right dude?! I felt disrespected 🤣 The CSP is definitely gonna get some good use from me now which is exciting! It's weird having two Citi cards in my wallet, but I'm kinda digging it.

[@jokho3750]

I was thinking of applying for the new white gold AMEX, and after I saw ur video when u were talking about the annual fee of 250 and rn, it's 325🤣🤣, so I decided to just be with ur side and ignore them👍🏻 but I need u to make a video about the new gold credit for robinhood

[@seigejet]

If your organic spend fits the card, then it's a no brainer. For me, splitting time between Northeast and SoCal, hitting those credits is pretty easy and I would've spent that without the card. Otherwise the correct move is to evaluate how much value you would get out of it and decide accordingly.

[@theeyeplaylists]

My way for the credits is just checking my uber eats account to see if I’ve used that one yet, and then making a note every month for the dining one. There are 2 restaurants a mile away from my place for the dining credit so it’s super easy for me to make sure I get those $240.

[@silverapple2011]

I agree on all points. Also what makes you want to keep the Citi Strata Premier? To me, the $100 off a $500 one night hotel stay seems terrible. The hotels I go to are around $150 per night, not $500.

[@KevinYang]

Can't cancel the Amex Gold if you never got it in the first place (welcome bonus rules...) 😬. Another great example of regularly re-evaluating one's setups to see if they still work for your current lifestyle, both from the earning AND redeeming perspectives! Never gave it too much thought, but the point about Amex being more international focused is a good one! I guess fortunately it's been working out for my plans that way haha

[@jun.oshima]

No, it's not international by any means. I've used the card in many restaurants and so many instances only get X1 for other category coding on points. Not to mention the low acceptance rate internationally.

[@KevinYang]

@@jun.oshima I was actually referring to the transfer partners! But actually had really good Amex acceptance during my travels, even to the smallest cities within Malaysia for example

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahah fair point! Reevaluation is super important to me. Especially with my strategy of adding cards mainly for their bonuses since that leads me to add cards that may not fit my goals after the first year or two. I'm glad you're still getting such good use from their transfer partners though. I plan to do the same!

[@KevinYang]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial Definitely! On that note, my Amex Green might be on the chopping block

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

@@KevinYang 🫣

[@HowToCredit]

Great breakdown Spencer!!!

[@BimmerWon]

I’ve preached from the high hills about why this card is ass but no one believed me. Now my sentiment is being felt by the masses. BEHOLD!!! I AM THE CREDIT CARD PROPHET!!! WAY TO PUT THE “EX” IN AMEX!!!

[@lewis20002000]

I hear you.

[@markg813]

What do you like as a replacement? I'm considering canceling my gold card in september

[@KingGreen78]

Tbh,i been trolling these guys for yrs saying just that,when they all were echoing the same narrative, i said it's a targeted card for a specific group of spender,so how can you rank it as best overall card? It was just silly

[@MontyTheCardNerd]

That retention offer HAHA I hope no one ever takes it and Amex will stop offering it. Anyway great stuff, I think a lot of credit card enthusiasts who chase sign up bonuses and keep track of 5x quarterly categories may be surprised at how little spend goes on the Amex Gold.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Right dude?! Super annoying haha. And I completely agree with your last sentence too. That was definitely the case for me here!

[@hankfink]

I got the same retention offer, and when I declined they offered 15K MR points for $2000 spend in next 12 weeks

[@KevinGonzalez33470]

I canceled mine today after two years. Great card but given my current and future spending trends plus the implications of the (almost certain) future refresh, I’m out. They also offered Me a retention offer which I declined.

[@travis-travels]

Most Amex (and you could argue Chase) cards force you to go out of your way to use their coupon book of credits

[@redrocklawncare]

Hey Spencer, I love your content and watch you a lot. Look i just got approved for the amex gold as my first amex card after 6 years of rebuilding my credit and getting into the 700s in all 3 bureaus. Can I accept it and then apply for say a business gold or business blue plus and just get a soft pull? I heard that once you get your first card with a hard pull then every other card with amex is a soft pull. Or what would be your strategy. Thanks Chad and Hookem Horns!

[@MattClausen]

It IS a workhorse earner, but if it’s not working for you, this is a fair move. May not be able to get another Welcome Offer, but, you know what the card can do for you going forward. Or not, who knows with the refresh…

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Absolutely agree man! Just have to balance all of these new cards I want to add that have high annual fees while still utilizing the ones I already have, and unfortunately the Gold card was the first on the chopping block. More where that came from over time for sure!

[@travelpointsfamily]

Wow, you actually canceled it! You should always make sure you're getting the value you want from your credit cards. If you're not, cut it out.

[@WrldExplorer]

My annual fee is due this month. Not sure when the new annual fee will be , but if I’m still $250 when it hits, I’m keeping it one more year.

[@MrWhatsHappenin]

I got the same retention offer you got this year for the AMEX Gold for the 1CPP annual fee.

[@Koba123]

Completely agree with your decision Spencer. I’ve soured on this card also.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I’m glad you resonated with this one!!

[@MrSleepyhead32]

I never like to think of "effective annual fee" for cards. I see it like a benefits package. Is trading $250 worth receiving 4x on Dining, Groceries, 3x on Airfare, the $240 Dining and Uber Cash benefits, Hotel Collection, and the insurance and purchase protections. When I think of it like that, I am willing to pay it. You can't get your $250.

[@JiaKee99]

BILT is my go to for dining - I value their points more than any other points currency so I’ll take 3x over 3.1x wi the my CSP. I don’t think I’ll ever get the Amex gold, as I only ever open cards unless they’re keeper cards, and you made really good points- spending more to save money doesn’t actually save money.

[@DJOctober]

Super late to this one, but I had it on my list to watch! I'm glad to see you cancel a card that no longer brings you value, and can see that instead of accepting a retention offer, you can instead use whatever that spend (or points equivalent in your case) is towards a new Welcome Offer and/or filter that spend to maximize points based on current cash back or travel strategies! As much as I absolutely love the Business Gold card for the 4x categories, the new annual fee negates the value I would receive on the multipliers, even with the Walmart+ and GH/FedEx/Office Supplies store credit. My annual fee will be posted this month, and if I don't get an upgrade offer to the Business Platinum, I will be downgrading the Business Gold card to a Business Green and will instead focus on maximizing points based on spend, and when under 5/24 in May, I will focus on Chase business cards! Love your content. - Ivan

[@dkcoan792]

I went cash back, just for now, economy not worth it right now.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That’s a fair approach!

[@vickiarnold7300]

Great job on KZbin ❤

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thanks so much!!

[@The_Turd_Ferguson]

Max Rewards is trash and doesnt work. Nor has it ever. Really wish you credit card KZbinrs would stop pimping this.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate your comment Turd! As I mentioned in another comment below, MaxRewards has it's issues, but I've been finding a lot more success with it recently, specifically with their desktop app. They’re a smaller team constantly working on solutions and I support them and their product. I can understand why you don’t though! Also, sponsors are a massive way I'm able to continue producing this content, but you can always skip through that section of the video if you'd like.

[@asvdavis]

appreciate this so much

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I’m super glad to hear that!!

[@Hampfam]

Great video. I’m thinking about canceling my gold card too. It’s useless.

[@Itsmejabs]

I did actually cancelled it too - I don’t travel that much to justify the anni fee

[@craigryan5770]

LOVE THE GOLD AMEX ! you can use the points for Airline / Hotel rewards

[@dr.derekrobinson1920]

Really?

[@craigryan5770]

@dr.derekrobinson1920 Sure can link your Airline Miles program to your Gold Card I send my points to My Airline program Hilton is in there as well

[@callmeNeno]

I will be canceling my Amex Gold once annual fee is posted in October; I will be using my Verizon Visa Signature card for groceries & takeouts. A new refresher multipliers for Verizon Visa coming in August or September 4x on groceries dining and Gas no annual fee

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Switching to a bit of a cashback setup, I like it!!

[@shawn.credit]

That's a solid card, I have ATT so I can't get the Verizon card I have plenty of other Synchrony cards though with excellent rewards.

[@bagelsquare]

Just canceled my Platinum. i'm planning to double dip the current 50k/$2k upgrade offer to the Platinum that I have with whatever retention offer the Gold I get in a couple weeks. then i'll get 2 calendar years' worth of credits to use. I'll probably cancel the new Platinum card next year but for now, that all sounds great to me.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's awesome man. You're using the system to your advantage which is all we can do!

[@gerrick4291]

CLEAR is infinitely better the TSA Pre. Not that this is a reason to downgrade to a Green but CLEAR isn't worthless at all.

[@TheZombaslaya]

I feel like you should keep the Amex gold just to check out what the $325 benefits are going to be.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I could have done so for sure! But then again, I feel like the monthly credits are only going to become more annoying, and that's a big reason I wanted to cancel the card in the first place. I can always get another Gold down the line though, so I'm not too worried!

[@shawn.credit]

Always can reapply or for folks that downgraded they can always upgrade again. I went with the Amex Business Gold as the replacement the 4x gas stations is nice and it has some travel value and some easy to obtain business credits.

[@apollopierce6556]

I don’t think its fair to say “you should too” because a lot of people find a lot of value in the amex gold.

[@txdave]

Sure if you have a massive family and organically use uber eats. Probably not super useful for a single person that might get takeout sometimes at the elevated uber price.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Once you watch the video I hope you understand that I completely agree with you there! It's a great card for the right person, but a lot of folks who have it do not fit that demographic.

[@kevintyson1947]

​@@txdave what's crazy to me is that most of the people pushing this card are single men and women. I always wondered like what are they spending on to justify this card??

[@johnmckinstry6057]

Cancelling the Amex Gold card was an excellent decision! The Gold card definitely works well for some people, but for others it does not fit well into their credit card setup. It would not benefit me either at this time, because I don't really use Uber or Uber eats and I get most of my groceries at Walmart. Occasionally, I will get groceries at Aldi, Save-a-Lot or one of the local grocery stores but usually I spend less than $100 a month at those stores. I also find the monthly credits on some of the Amex cards to be slightly annoying. I know why Amex does that, but I think that many Amex card holders would still use their Amex cards regularly even with yearly credits. Maybe in the future, the Gold card will be a great card for you. I think it works best for people who can use the credits regularly, those who like a simple card setup, and those who are not consistently applying for new cards to chase welcome offers.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm glad you think so man! I completely agree with your takes here though. It's an awesome card for the right person, but it doesn't sound like you and I are that. Hopefully Amex turns a new leaf here soon and starts to make their credits a lot less annoying, but I don't think that's gonna happen unfortunately. Thanks for sharing all your thoughts as always man! I resonate with your takes heavily here.

[@YumDex]

I could never cancel the gold after a new rework is around the corner, imagine it being much better that you crawl back to it at the new AF? I put a lot of spending on it and I’m excited for the upgrade and YES, at a $250.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I definitely could’ve waited, but considering one of my main gripes with the card is it’s annoying credit structure and that’s what we expect them to do more of, I’m okay passing on that. I hope the new version is great though!

[@BoywithLoveeee]

Wait, you don’t like the card because you don’t wanna do the work to get those credits? Seems like not a valid point for me.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Well not exactly. If the credits fit your spending habits before getting the card that’s great, if not, you’re spending money you wouldn’t have before having the card, hence that can’t count in lowering your effective annual fee.

[@Rowdyyy_rod]

Why are you considering downgrading the venture x? That card does not miss 😱😱

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'll be talking about that in our next upload!!

[@De_Guatemala]

Here in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay this month, almost all restaurants accept AMEX...4% restaurants worldwide. Most KZbinrs thrive off referrals. I spend and get SUBS, no referrals.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's a fair point too! As I mentioned here, I could've kept this card open for referrals alone, but I didn't feel right about doing that and decided to make this video instead.

[@wilmeralmonte3640]

The real and only reason is that you got the business card by looking for a Welcone offer and you had to cancel the personal one because you only have two months with the business card and to cancel it you have to wait a year and in that year you are also eligible for a retention offer

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm not sure I understand you here, but I think there may be some confusion. The Amex personal and business gold welcome offers don't impact each other at all, so that had nothing to do with my decision to cancel.

[@Urgento22]

you're always shitting on American Express

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

As I said in the vid, my stance has never changed on their cards. They're AMAZING for the right people, but a lot of us aren't that, including myself. I make videos for people similar to me, hence why I don't ride Amex as hard as others.

[@alexrod550]

I respect your opinion ..But I love this card...and will not cancel ....One thing I know most people that cancel ..end up applying again..I will keep mine Thanks,

[@shawn.credit]

Business Gold is a solid replacement and has travel value, I didn't want a mainly food earning $250 card. I have enjoyed my Business Gold card and don't regret cancelling my personal Amex Gold. I'm curious about the incoming changes to the personal Amex Gold time will tell if their good changes.

[@dayanareve1]

Same here, I love my gold card, I don t know why all the KZbinrs are cancelling their cards

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It all depends on the individual! As I mentioned, it's an awesome card and I'll always stand by that. I'm just not the right person for the card since I constantly chase welcome offers.

[@josephmerlin514]

What about the Venture X and Savor One Duo. I like Chase for the Hyatt reward redemptions, but hate the categories overlap. If chase would offer bonus categories like the venture/savor I would be all in with Chase. I have the Citi strata but don’t like that I cannot pay myself back for travel due to liking some Air BNB in some locations

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That duo is super solid as long as Cap1s partners fit your travel habits. It may be one I switch to one day!

[@henryh4468]

Does that mean you kept your MR points since you have the business gold?

[@ryanmartin7033]

Max rewards is trash. Only links Amex cards...not Chase....🤬. And no I'm not going out of my way to contact Chase to link my cards and/or change my password, etc. It's insane that 1/2 of their FAQ's regarding this issue.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

While they have their issues, I’ve had a lot more success with the app in recent past, particularly with the desktop version. They’re a smaller team constantly working on solutions and I support them and their product. I can understand why you don’t though!

[@jaykid007]

No need to go out of your way for airline credits. United travel bank is your answer.

[@truckertim4280]

Don't it hurt your credit to cancel

[@Moeman1823]

September is almost here for the Ritz!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Stoked for it!! Prepping now with this cancellation.

[@runforrestrun2428]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficialI’m also switching my marriot boundless for the ritz!!! The 85k free night award and the $300 travel credit alone justify the annual fee. 🫡

[@soapa4279]

It makes sense for you for sure. For me however, I spend a stupid amount of money on food and groceries so it makes sense for me to keep. At some point though, I need to run the numbers too and maybe settle on a 3X card with no AF. Like the Savor One.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Doing the math is always important! One way to look at it which was left by Jim down below is the following: "With a $250 AF, the breakeven of spend on dining and groceries of 4X vs. 3X on no AF card is $250 / .01 = $25000 per year or a little more than $2000 per month. " So without considering the credits, that would be the number you're looking for.

[@soapa4279]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial Ah thanks for sharing that! I’m actually heading torwards the same mindset as you as I’m starting to get sick of thinking about the monthly credits. The mental gymnastics of remembering that is outweighing the benefit.

[@transitengineer]

Ha, ha, ha. Back in the day, I remember when the American Express "Gold" card was $75 per month (smile ... smile).

[@hookshankhewitt5615]

Canceling mine as well. I just don't use the credits. And I use a card that I get 6x for groceries. So makes no sense for me .

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It sounds like you're making the right decision given your spending habits and setup!

[@ajcab819]

What do you like to use at costco? I had cancelled my Costco membership last Sept because I was going hard on Amex cards. I recently restarted my Costco membership and realized how much easier it made life with regards to groceries so now Costco > Amex. I’m thinking C1 VX is the easiest for Costco? But I don’t really want to add another high AF card…

[@Edmuresrampantmanhood-dp3jd]

The AAA Daily Advantage has 3% back on wholesale retailers and gas, and 5% back on grocery stores no annual fee. Costco also has a card that offers 2% back specifically at Costco. Points is a little more difficult, most point cards I know about don't offer a bonus on wholesale.

[@iFrankie.]

Use chase

[@fogrunr5075]

First I thought... I wish it got 4X groceries worldwide. But then I realized...few businesses even want to see this card worldwide😂😂 Actually, I can use it for food delivery in the Philippines. But AMX makes the category General Merchandise and only gives me 1X. Chase Sapphire Reserve Visa, on the other hand, maintains the appropriate Dining category. I'm using Sapphire Reserve for 3X Dining .... WORLDWIDE. As well as with Citi Strata, WF Autograph, and Capital One SavorOne.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It's lack of international acceptance is definitely unfortunate for those living abroad. I'd take my CSR in that case too!

[@jwil4286]

I can’t cancel it. I never got it in the first place!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahaha fair enough!

[@NathanDuong2023]

I canceled this Goldcard last month

[@blakinsideandout]

Gotta love cancelation videos that cancel at least partially because of multiple of the same card

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

The more cards we add, the more overlap we see, and when that overlap occurs on high annual fee cards it may be worth downgrading or canceling one of them!

[@LogosBKC]

Yeah. Gonna be dropping my BCP for the BCE soon bc i can get grocery & Gas returns in other cards (Savor/Sams) not to mention that BCE online 3% is strong af Then I will likely be getting the Green and Gold just for the SUBs (&Flex) before getting a Plat due to the family rule. Let them all run for at least a year and likely cancel.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It sounds like you have a solid plan for sure!

[@keitho9066]

Between Amex offers and my normal spend this card is a no brainer. Pretty easy to use $20 a month between Uber and grub hub. Should be able to get 50k points annually no problem assuming I’m not chasing a SUB on something else.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That’s awesome man! It’s a super solid card if it fits your natural spending habits.

[@IanMaschal]

Could you put a piece of art over your circuit breaker box? I’m sorry it’s just been bothering me for about 100 videos now.😂😂😂😂

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahah the breaker box IS the art Ian! 🤣 Jk, that’s a good idea though, I appreciate it!

[@IanMaschal]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial just put a big Stan or big Luke fat head on it.

[@jsbatra]

Hope the KZbin mob doesn’t come after me like they have the Gold card. Its funny that you all have turned on this card even before they F;@& it up which i am confident they will.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

For the sake of those currently holding the Gold card, I hope they don't mess it up, but I don't have high hopes either tbh.

[@MrHawaiiboy510]

Side note: I have Clear you said it was pretty terrible, what should one be using instead of Clear? And why do you think Clear is terrible?

[@jun.oshima]

TSA precheck. I had both at one time, the time difference using TSA pre vs clear is nonexistent.

[@MrHawaiiboy510]

@@jun.oshima but you still have to wait in the first line with TSA pre check right?

[@jun.oshima]

@@MrHawaiiboy510 Same goes with clear, you still queue up at TSA line. Paying clear isn't worth it even with plat/green credits. You aren't buying time with clear, but paying extra for a nonsensical service. Get the GE, have your credit card pay for it, then you get TSA pre along with it.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I think it's pretty airport dependent, but I personally have Global Entry (which comes with TSA Precheck) and I get through the TSA line much faster than people with clear in a lot of cases.

[@MrHawaiiboy510]

@@SpencerJohnsonOfficialok cool. Global entry it is

[@GEN512X]

I get the statement credit burn out. You have to do what makes sense for your natural monthly spend. But as the self proclaimed "Gold Card Defender of Her Royal Majesty" that I am; I must bid you a Royal Fare well from Old Goldie 🎉🎉🎉🎉 If one day you grow a large family and the terms of Old Goldie becomes attractive once again; She will welcome you back into the service of Her Majesty with Honorable mention! ✨️

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I completely agree with you Bruce! I doubt this is the last time I'll have this card in my wallet, but time will tell. Thank you for the farewell brotha! 😉

[@woodzy883]

I'm glad you canceled. You are practicing what you preach and not just saying it. That retention offer was trash. I would quite literally laugh them off the chat or phone or whatever. So im torn on the credits. So i pretty much use the dining and Uber credits to get myself breakfast/lunch at work. Would i normally get that meal? No, but i sometimes go whole days without eating, ." I get so wrapped up in work or stuck in my head that i forget to eat." But i hate losing money, so it forces me to actually eat something. Should i count it as an actual credit to reduce my effective annual fee or not?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I'm glad you agree with my decision here. Practicing what I preach is really important to me, so I'm glad you resonate with that too. And yeah dude, that retention offer was trash. As for your credit debate, it sounds like the credits are benefiting your life by causing you to stay healthy and work longer or at a higher efficiency, so I'd personally count that in lowering your EAF. Others may not say so, but for your situation, I think it should.

[@CallMeLani]

Very well explained thought process.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thank you Lani!

[@jun.oshima]

Good on you for taking the red pill, now you see🙂

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hahah glad you liked the decision!

[@Milkinporsche]

I find myself getting groceries more and more from costco as well, and I am sacrificing a slot for citi costco card.😅

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

That's fair enough! My VX covers me just fine at Costco, but the Costco card is of course a solid option too. Costco's been a lifesaver for me, that's for sure haha.

[@ronaldhu3zo]

My AF will post in a couple of months and am sure going to cancel! I was able to hit the old 90k SUB and every since late Nov. the card hasn’t been used at all since I’m also constantly working towards new SUBS

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Sometimes cards are great for the welcome offers and not much more! Maybe the card will make more sense for you one day when you stop going for welcome offers, but until then, it could be a good idea to save the $250/year.

[@sawhneyshivam]

Damm i was thinking to get the amex gold card but having chase trifecta makes sense

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

It all just depends on the individual tbh!

[@leadguitarmiked]

I’m in the same boat with switching my primary grocery spend to Costco. What’s your main Costco card?

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Right now I’m using the Venture X for 2x back which isn’t great, but also not bad.

[@kathykat8988]

chase freedom unlimited currently has a promo adding 1.5 pts to every category for the 1st year which makes the lowest catch all rate at 3x. i will def use it at costco and walmart. No af either and if you have a sapphire you can use those points with travel partners.

[@jimmyjames6492]

Adios AMEX GOLD. Thanks for the info + video!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Yes sir!!! Thanks for watching Jimmy!

[@Alexa0724]

Great video as always Spencer!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Thanks so much Alexa!!

[@drscrubs]

Save yourself time watching this video. He is canceling the Amex Gold personal because he has the Amex Gold business.

[@Immacu1ate]

Just get the USBAR and call it a day.

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Maybe one day!

[@zenvied1643]

arent all af tax write offs since you are a content creator

[@JuanGarcia-hr1wf]

Nice video Spencer on explaining your decision process leading to Amex gold cancellation

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

I appreciate you Juan!! While the card is awesome for the right person, it's not for everyone!

[@IanMaschal]

I can’t wait until they raise the fee and I can have a chance of getting this card. 25k on groceries is easy money

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Hopefully the credits they add are well worth it! I'll make an updated review on the card once that news is released I'm sure.

[@itsthegg98]

Guys don't get this credit card is a fraud get a Visa or a Mastercard they are so much better I had the green and the platinum worst service ever.

[@illpass95]

Cancelled mine after 7 years bec they didn’t want to give me a retention offer

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

They've been so weird with the retention offers later, I don't blame you!

[@shawn.credit]

No need for it when the Amex Business Gold is in your wallet already, at least the Amex Business Gold has some travel value and 4x gas stations and some useful credits!

[@SpencerJohnsonOfficial]

Fair point Shawn!