Originally Posted by
B3nder
while they can change the terms or even remove the feature entirely, I strongly disagree with this statement. The Amex terms clearly say they aren't responsible for coding of charges that qualify, that it's up to the airline to properly code charges. Yes, if the airline coded the charges not as incidentals, Then they would not qualify for manual credit. But we are clearly NOT violating any terms by making valid charges that are simply coded to satisfy the incidentals reimbursement.
If you want to get technical, Amex is clearly violating their own terms by applying the $100 cap. Terms say its based solely on coding for automatic redemption (same as category %s) but they're adding arbitrary additional rules on top that are undisclosed. Buy several early bird on one itinerary and Amex won't approve it automatically because of these undisclosed additional constraints.
They're not violating anyone's terms. They explicitly state that if the charges are legitimate and do not post within 4 weeks, then you should call and have them applied. Exact language:
American Express relies on accurate airline transaction data to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 4 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. See terms & conditions for more details.
In any case, this doesn't change the fact that if charges are automatically posting and under the terms, they shouldn't be, you should use them immediately, because if they stop working tomorrow, you have no recourse.