America’s Most Exclusive Credit Cards
As the number of people defaulting on their loans explodes, the credit card industry is naturally looking for a more dependable client base. American Express, Mastercard and Visa have all happened upon the same formula: exclusive cards for select customers. Non-millionaires need not apply. These cards offer unbelievable perks and undeniable status, in exchange for sometimes hefty annual fees and big-time charges each year on their plastic. Here’s a run-down on some of the most exclusive credit cards on the market today:
1. American Express Centurion (AKA the American Express Black)
The Centurion is the ultimate high-end card, with less than 10,000 issued worldwide. You can’t apply for the black card – it’s offered by invitation only. Usually though it’s been rumored that acceptance is based on a $200,000 per year spend with never missing a payment. The annual fee is $2,500 and you have to charge a minimum of a quarter-million per year. Besides being able to rub plastic with celebrities and fellow millionaires, what perks does the Amex Black give you?
• The card itself is total bling. It’s made from pure titanium, which will definitely get you noticed at the airport, since it sets off metal detectors!
• Recognized worldwide as the most prestigious credit card.
• Access to a 1-800 number linking you directly to a personal concierge, at your beck and call 24/7/365. There’s nothing your concierge can’t do – from basics like booking concert tickets to more personal services like getting you backstage at the Rolling Stones.
• Free companion tickets on international flights if you’re flying first class (and why wouldn’t you be?) plus 4 free domestic companion tickets every year.
• Bonus points for using Centurion’s personal jet and limo services.
• Free upgrades at the Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons Hotels.
2. American Express Platinum Card
Although not as exclusive as once thought to be, this card still packs in the perks. *Check your credit score before applying as to not embarrass yourself over the phone.
• Starwood Preferred Guest Automatic Gold Status which is good for room upgrades, bonus points, and more.
• Airport club access. Get access to airline clubs for Delta Crown Room, American Airlines Admirals Club, Northwest Airlines WorldClubs, and Continental Airlines Presidents Club around the world. Check the Amex site for locations.
• Premium Car Rental program status – good for upgrades when possible.
• When flying in the U.S., purchase a qualifying coach-class airfare on one of six major U.S. carriers, and receive complimentary airfare for a companion with the same itinerary as your own, up to four times a year.
3. Citi Chairman Card
The Citi Chairman Card offers alot of perks different from the Amex Plat and Centurion cards.
• Priority Pass – Access over 500+ international airline clubs around the world. Excellent for the global traveler.
• Automatic HHonors Gold Status – Instant gold status is good for perks such as room upgrades and free breakfast when staying at Hilton Hotels.
• Cleveland Clinic HealthLink complimentary membership – Memberhsip entitles you access to world-class medical services. 24 hour access to Cleveland Clinic professionals, Facilitated access to appointment scheduling and medical expertise and more.
4. Mastercard World
While no other card can touch the Centurion, Mastercard is certainly trying with its World Card. Offered exclusively to the company’s top 3% of card base – both in terms of income and annual spending – the World Card will run you less than $100 in annual fees. Some of the perks include:
• 24-hour concierge service
• 5 percent cash rebates on travel
• Free doubled warranties on purchases
• No limit on spending
Not to be outdone, VISA has its own exclusive card, the Signature. If you take home $125,000 a year, you may qualify for this chi-chi card. Fees vary, from $0 – $95, depending on the issuer. Perks include:
• 24-hour concierge service
• $1 million in travel insurance
• 1 travel point for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for free air fare with no blackout dates
• Free room upgrades and late checkout at the Ritz Carlton
• Free airport parking anywhere in the continental United States
• No spending limit
If you’re in the market for one of these cards – or at least trying to wrangle an invitation – make sure your income, spending power, credit score and credit history are all in the zone. To be an exclusive cardholder, you’ve got to prove you can afford to live the perk-filled lifestyle.
