Originally Posted by
IkeEsq
Why would anyone spend $450 AF for 105K AA points that I can get for free?
Wrong math.
1) You get back $200 statement credit, so the net cost of the AF is $250.
2) Loads of people cancel their cards once their 100K posted within 37 days of the AF is billed and get full reversal of the AF. That means it is 0 AF, PLUS $200 statement credit.
3) If you do not do No.2), you still get a card that gives you lounge benefits (including those partners that now AA has reciprocal arrangements), as well as 0% forex fee. The Admiral Club's annual fee is $450, so you got it at a discount for the net cost of $250. Some may find this worth it.