American Express Essential Credit Card
The American Express Essential Credit Card offers a range of benefits including Membership Rewards Points earned on eligible purchases, no annual fee.
Updated 14 April 2025
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The American Express Essential credit card is one of American Express' products. Featuring a relatively high points earn rate which is uncapped, the card provides American Express's high quality service benefits. Of the 200+ credit cards reviewed by Stay or Go, this card ranks among the best 10% for earning $100 back in value, such as on a gift card, for an average spend of $5,000 per month. Further, the product has no annual fee, including up to 55 interest free days. As a result, this card is one of only a limited number that offer an ongoing $0 Annual Fee.
Considering its key features, this card is most suitable to someone who wishes to be rewarded for their spend. Other benefits include no additional cardholder fees. Please note, that commonly in the Australian market, acceptance of American Express cards for payment in comparison to Visa and Mastercard isn’t as broad. Also, there is a greater level of merchant surcharging on American Express cards in comparison to Visa and Mastercard, noting that Visa and Mastercard can also attract surcharging by some merchants.
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Earn Membership Rewards Points
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1.25points per $1 spent
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$0 annual account fee
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No additional cardholder fee
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Up to 4 additional cardholders
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3.00% international transaction fee
Other fees may apply.
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18.99% p.a. variable purchase rate
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Up to 55 interest free days on purchases
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Smartphone Screen Insurance
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Purchase Protection Cover
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Refund Protection Cover
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Buyer's Advantage Cover
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Before applying for this product, you should read the Target Market Determination (TMD) available here on the American Express website.