American Express offers plenty of credit cards, each with its own unique benefits.
From time to time, American Express® gives bonus Membership Rewards® points when you upgrade or switch cards in the Membership Rewards® family, like the Green, Cobalt, Gold, or Business Gold.
These bonus points usually come with a minimum spending requirement on the new card. You’ll often find targeted offers in your American Express® online account or by email, so it’s worth checking regularly.
Here’s how to make the most of American Express® upgrade and switch offers.
What are Amex® Upgrade and Switch Offers
Unlike first-time welcome offers, upgrade and switch offers are for existing cardholders. You’ll earn bonus Membership Membership Rewards® points without applying for a brand-new card.
You’ll receive a new welcome bonus simply by upgrading your card to a higher tier or switching it within the same American Express® card family.
You’ll also benefit from any perks that come with the new card without impacting your credit score.
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Best American Expres Membership Rewards® Cards
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$1,380 First-Year Value
5x Amex® MR points per $1 on eats & drinks*
$156 Annual Fee ($12.99 Monthly)
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Upgrade and switch offers are only available within the same American Express® card family.
This means that you won’t be able to switch from a Marriott Bonvoy® card to a Gold Card, for example.
Past Upgrade and Switch Offers
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Bonus points usually post 8 to 12 weeks after the offer ends, even if you meet the spending requirement earlier.
Should You Upgrade or Switch Your Amex®?
You’ll want to apply for a new American Express® card first and earn the full welcome before considering an upgrade or switch. This gives you the best value. Upgrade and switch offers let you “double dip” by earning a second welcome bonus on the same card.
Plus, you won’t overpay card fees, since upgrading or switching comes with pro-rated charges only.
When Should You Upgrade or Switch
When considering upgrading to a higher tier card, like moving from Gold to Platinum, you’ll want to be sure you’ll actually use the extra benefits enough to make the higher annual fee worthwhile.
Upgrading or switching from the no-fee American Express® Green is a great opportunity to earn more points if you’ve been keeping it only to maintain access to your Membership Rewards® points.
Upgrade if the bonus offer is worth more than the annual fee. Switch if the new card and its bonus better fit your spending habits.
When Should You Not Upgrade or Switch
You should keep your current card if it already matches your spending habits well. As you may not be approved for the same card again. This is particularly true when considering switching from the American Express® Cobalt.
Top Offers
Wondering which credit card to get next?
Check some of the best credit card offers in Canada.
Top Offers
Wondering which credit card to get next?
Check some of the best credit card offers in Canada.
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American Express® has a once-in-a-lifetime rule for welcome bonuses. This means that you won’t receive a welcome bonus again once you’ve already earned it on a card.
Upgrade and switch offers give you another path to earn a welcome bonus on a card you’ve already held.
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From points newbie to booking your first trip.
Learn how easy it is for Canadians to earn points. Choose the best credit cards and programs. Make your first redemption for almost free travel.
Points Beginner’s Guide
From points newbie to booking your first trip.
Learn how easy it is for Canadians to earn points. Choose the best credit cards and programs. Make your first redemption for almost free travel.
Bottom Line
American Express® upgrade and switch offers on Membership Rewards® cards like the Green, Cobalt, Gold, and Business Gold can be an easy way to earn plenty of points without applying for a new card.
You should only consider these offers if you’ve already earned the welcome bonus on the card you’re upgrading or switching to. Applying for a new card first will always give you the best value.
