American Express Launches New Rewards Options

“We know Cardmembers are looking for ways to better manage their finances in this economic environment,” said Lynne Biggar, Senior Vice President, Membership Rewards Marketing and Partnerships. “These new ways to use points are another example of how we are providing greater choice, flexibility and value to our Cardmembers to meet their changing needs.”

New Feature: Use Points toward “Everyday” Charges within Online Statements

Through this new and innovative feature, consumer and small business Cardmembers enrolled in the Membership Rewards program have a new way to use points for the practical items and services they need. The feature allows Cardmembers to use points toward “everyday” expenses they charge to their Card, including groceries, gas, phone, wireless and cable bills, and more. Qualifying charges include those in several eligible everyday spending categories: Business Services (mailing/shipping, online advertising); Communications (phone, cable, internet); Merchandise and Supplies (groceries, wholesale clubs, office supplies); Utilities (electric, water); and Transportation (gas, transit). Redemptions start at just 1,000 points.

The feature is built right into the online statement, so it is easy to find when Cardmembers are reviewing their charges. It’s also simple to use. Cardmembers can redeem in three short steps after clicking the “Use Points for Everyday Charges” link on their online statement. Cardmembers can go to http://membershiprewards.com/everydaycharges to learn more about this feature.

Membership Rewards Specials

Realizing that today’s consumers are looking for greater value, the Membership Rewards Specials program offers consumers great deals on popular rewards, including electronics, travel, entertainment and much more. Offers are updated frequently, and Cardmembers can check back often for new items at membershiprewards.com/specials. The first series of offers, launching today, allow Cardmembers to:

• Receive 50% more Starpoints®, through September 22, 2009, when they transfer Membership Rewards points into a Starwood Preferred Guest® account
• Save 20% when they redeem for a Samsonite® Portico 4-Piece Luggage Set (while supplies last)
• Save 40% when they redeem for a Garmin nüvi® 550 (while supplies last)

And now, Platinum Card® and Centurion® Card members can take advantage of even richer offers available through the launch of Membership Rewards First® Specials. These Card members can access exclusive deals and value-added offers on their favorite rewards.

New Program Partners

The Membership Rewards program has also added a number of new program partners to enhance the practical rewards options in the retail and dining categories. Some of the new partners include Zappos.com, Chili’s Grill & Bar, Maggiano’s Little Italy® and Bonefish Grill®.