marilaine
Oct 3, 07, 11:55 am
I'm currently an Optimum cardholder and have offers for a both a Platinum and a Rewards Plus Gold card. I'd like to upgrade to one of those since Optimum points no longer convert to frequent flyer miles. If accumulating points and the ability to convert them to FF miles is my main objective, is one card preferable to the other? Also, if anyone has upgraded from Optimum to an AMEX charge card, did your existing Optimum points transfer over to the new card (and, thus, available for transfer to FF programs)?
Optima is a credit card which participates in Membership Rewards Express. Plantinum and Rewards Plus Gold are charge cards. Generally, you cannot convert from one type to another. Instead, you should apply for one of the charge cards and just keep the Optima card in a safe place. When you apply for the charge card online you will provide your existing Optima account number, the rewards accounts should then be automatically linked and the Express points will be recognized as regular Membership Rewards points which are eligible to transfer to airline and hotel programs.
Rewards Plus Gold is slightly better for earning points because it awards a bonus on purchase from Membership Rewards transfer partner airlines and hotel chains. During the first twelve months you will earn one extra point per dollar on these transactions, one-half point thereafter.
Platinum offers greater benefits which can more than recover the annual fee if you understand the limitations and actually use them.