I learned that lesson, related to vendor purchase return credits (not AmEx credits), serendipitously a few years ago. New card, $3000 minimum spend, first statement had charges totaling $3100, store return credits totaling $300, balance $2800. Bonus posted as soon as the over $3000 charge posted, few days prior to the credits, never clawed back. I have a friend* who subsequently might have intentionally done the same thing . I love cruising, where you going and which cruise line?

Agree wholeheartedly (now), it’s the prudent thing to do.

(* US Navy aircraft carrier, circa late 1980s, all male 6000 person crew, Mediterranean deployment, common question after a liberty port call where some sailors and officers might have enjoyed the company of a lady: “Doc, I have a friend who has ….”, proper answer: “well put your friend up here on the table and we’ll take a look.”)