With credit card annual fees on the rise, you may be wondering what value a new card can truly bring, especially when so many options come with no annual fees.
Nonetheless, there are compelling reasons to consider cards with annual fees. Many leading rewards cards offer significant value through statement credits, introductory bonuses, and numerous other tangible benefits.
Here, we explore our top card selections that can provide over $1,000 in value during your first year of membership.
Methodology
We evaluated the following four criteria to determine these values:
- Welcome offer: We quantified the card’s welcome offer based on Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations.
- Annual statement credits: We included credits related to travel, dining, hotel stays, and more.
- Measurable perks and benefits: We added benefits with a specific monetary value, excluding less quantifiable perks such as lounge access and elite status and anniversary benefits applicable only in the second year.
- Annual fee: We deducted the annual fee from the card’s total value. Notably, all the cards listed here still deliver over $1,000 in value during the first year, even after accounting for this fee.
It’s important to note that just because a card is not mentioned in this list does not mean it lacks value. Other cards may offer significant benefits depending on individual use cases.
Related: Are premium credit cards worth the annual fee?
Cards That Provide Over $1,000 in First-Year Value
| Card | Welcome Offer Value* | Total Potential First-Year Value | Annual Fee | Net First-Year Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Business Platinum Card® from American Express | Up to $3,500 | Up to $5,249 | $695 (see rates and fees) | Up to $4,554 |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | $1,600 | $3,314 | $695 (see rates and fees) | $2,619 |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) | $2,050 | $2,316 | $95 | $2,221 |
| Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees) | $1,845 | $1,845 | $95 | $1,750 |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Up to $1,638 | Up to $1,758 | $95 | Up to $1,663 |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) | $1,230 | $2,166 | $550 | $1,616 |
| Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card | $1,388 | $1,808 | $395 | $1,413 |
| American Express® Gold Card | $1,200 | $1,624 | $325 (see rates and fees) | $1,299 |
| Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card | $1,050 | $1,849 | $550 | $1,299 |
| Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card | $1,295 | $1,715 | $650 (see rates and fees) | $1,065 |
*The welcome offer value is based on Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
Information about the Hilton Honors Aspire Card has been independently compiled by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Now that we’ve showcased the 10 cards that offer at least $1,000 in first-year value, let’s examine each card in detail to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
The Business Platinum Card from American Express
This card is perfect for small business owners, providing exceptional value in the first year thanks to its extensive perks.
Many benefits come as statement credits, particularly those linked to business expenses.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 150,000 points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months, plus a $500 statement credit after spending $2,500 on qualifying flights booked with airlines or through American Express Travel within the first three months (Offer valid until June 30) | Up to $3,500, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Airline Incidental Credits on One Selected Airline | Up to $200 in annual credits for incidentals like checked bags and refreshments | $200 |
| Hilton Statement Credits | Up to $50 per quarter for eligible purchases at the Hilton portfolio; up to $200 annually | $200 |
| Dell Statement Credit | Up to $200 annually for Dell purchases in the U.S.; may change on July 1 | $400 |
| Indeed Statement Credit | Up to $90 quarterly on Indeed services for hiring and recruiting; up to $360 annually | $360 |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credits | $120 for Global Entry, or up to $85 every four years for TSA PreCheck | $120 |
| Clear Plus Statement Credit | Up to $199 toward an annual Clear membership for expedited airport security | $199 |
| Adobe Statement Credit | Up to $150 annually for Adobe purchases, including Creative Cloud (subject to renewal changes) | $150 |
| Wireless Credit | Up to $10 monthly for U.S. wireless services; up to $120 annually | $120 |
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
- Total Potential First-Year Value: Up to $5,249
- Annual Fee: $695
- Net First-Year Value: Up to $4,554
In addition to the quantifiable benefits, the Amex Business Platinum offers elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required) and access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, featuring over 1,400 lounges.
For a comprehensive review, check out our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.
Apply here: The Business Platinum Card from American Express
The Platinum Card from American Express
This card is ideal for luxury travelers and offers a broad range of benefits.
Quantifiable benefits are just a portion of what the card offers.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 80,000 points by spending $8,000 within the first six months | $1,600, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Uber Cash | $15 monthly, plus an extra $20 in December (for U.S. services); up to $200 per year | $200 |
| Airline Incidental Credits on One Selected Airline | Up to $200 for annual incidentals like checked bags and in-flight refreshments | $200 |
| Saks Fifth Avenue Statement Credits | Up to $50 in semiannual credits; up to $100 annually | $100 |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credits | $120 for Global Entry, or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four years | $120 |
| Hotel Credit | Up to $200 for prepaid bookings with Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection made through American Express Travel (two-night minimum for The Hotel Collection) | $200 |
| Digital Entertainment Credits | Up to $20 monthly for select streaming services; up to $240 annually | $240 |
| Equinox Credit | Up to $300 annually for qualifying Equinox memberships | $300 |
| Walmart+ Credit | Monthly credit up to $12.95 for a recurring Walmart+ membership | $155 |
| Clear Plus Statement Credit | Up to $199 towards an annual Clear membership for expedited airport security | $199 |
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
^Link your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.
^^Eligible charges may vary by property.
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $3,314
- Annual Fee: $695
- Net First-Year Value: $2,619
The Amex Platinum card also includes lounge access and elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required). Benefits like rental car privileges and access to Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts, along with travel and purchase protections, are not quantified in our calculations.
Utilize the CardMatch tool for potentially higher welcome offers that could amplify your first-year value.
For additional information, refer to our comprehensive review of the Amex Platinum.
Apply here: The Platinum Card from American Express
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
This card is an excellent starting point for beginners in the rewards space.
The real value of the Sapphire Preferred lies in its generous welcome bonus, complemented by additional benefits relevant for its $95 annual fee.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months of account opening | $2,050, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Hotel Credit | Up to $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through Chase Travel | $50 |
| DoorDash DashPass Subscription | At least 12 months of complimentary DashPass when activated by December 31, 2027 | $96 |
| DoorDash Non-Restaurant Credit | Up to $10 each month towards non-restaurant purchases on DoorDash with an active DashPass membership | $120 |
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $2,316
- Annual Fee: $95
- Net First-Year Value: $2,221
Additionally, cardholders receive a 10% points bonus on their anniversary based on previous year’s spending, but this value is omitted from calculations since it depends on individual spending habits.
Those with an active DashPass membership can save $10 monthly on non-restaurant purchases from DoorDash, offering extra savings on everyday purchases.
For further details, visit our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.
Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
This card stands out for its attractive welcome bonus and robust earning structure, though the value from its earning structure will vary based on spending habits.
The lucrative welcome bonus significantly boosts the first-year value beyond $1,000.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first three months | $1,845, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $1,845
- Annual Fee: $95
- Net First-Year Value: $1,750
The card’s earning rates can also be very beneficial based on your spending habits:
- 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined purchases in categories like travel, shipping, advertising, and phone services
- 1 point per dollar on every other purchase
The $95 annual fee makes it an attractive option to stay for the long haul.
For more details, check out our full review of the Ink Business Preferred.
Apply here: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
Capital One Venture Rewards Card
Although this card has fewer benefits, it delivers a robust welcome bonus for its reasonable annual fee.
Maximizing rewards is best achieved by transferring miles to Capital One’s 15+ loyalty partners.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months, plus a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in the first year | Up to $1,638, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credits | Up to $120 every four years | $120 |
- Total Potential First-Year Value: Up to $1,758
- Annual Fee: $95
- Net First-Year Value: $1,663
Evaluate the value provided against the lower annual fee compared to the premium card options within the same brands.
For further insights, read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.
Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Reserve
The premium Chase Sapphire Reserve stands out due to its enticing welcome offer and flexible travel credit.
The Sapphire Reserve’s annual travel credit is notably flexible, making it simple to realize first-year value.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months | $1,230, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Travel Credit | Up to $300 each anniversary for a variety of travel purchases | $300 |
| Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus Fee Credits | Up to $120 every four years | $120 |
| Lyft Credits | $10 monthly in-app credit for Lyft rides | $120 |
| DoorDash DashPass Subscription | At least 12 months of complimentary DashPass when activated by December 31, 2027 | $96 |
| DoorDash Non-Restaurant Credit | Two separate $10 monthly credits for non-restaurant purchases using an activated DashPass membership | $240 |
| DoorDash Restaurant Credit | $5 monthly | $60 |
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $2,166
- Annual Fee: $550
- Net First-Year Value: $1,616
Note that our calculation does not include perks like lounge access or the ability to book premium hotels via Chase Travel, as these benefits are harder to quantify.
For a detailed review, visit our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.
Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The Venture X stands out with lounge access perks while maintaining a modest annual fee compared to other premium cards.
Let’s assess the value this travel card can offer.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months | $1,388, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Capital One Travel Credit | $300 annual credit for travel bookings through Capital One Travel | $300 |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credits | Up to $120 every four years | $120 |
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $1,808
- Annual Fee: $395
- Net First-Year Value: $1,413
This card allows multiple authorized users for free. Additional benefits include complimentary cellphone insurance, access to Capital One’s Premier Collection of luxury hotels, Hertz President’s Circle elite status***, and travel insurance.
Be aware that the calculation does not account for the 10,000 bonus miles received at each card anniversary as this benefit only starts in the second year.
For more details, refer to our complete review of the Capital One Venture X.
***To enroll, access through Capital One’s website or mobile app. Note that enrollment through standard Hertz channels won’t automatically identify your eligibility, and further terms may apply.
Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
American Express Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is well-suited for food enthusiasts due to its dining rewards.
Here’s what makes this Membership Rewards card stand out.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months | $1,200, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Uber Cash | $10 monthly for U.S. services and Uber Eats; up to $120 annually | $120 |
| Dining Credit | Up to $10 monthly in dining statement credits at eligible restaurants; up to $120 annually | $120 |
| Resy Credit | Up to $50 in biannual statement credits for dining reservations; up to $100 annually | $100 |
| Dunkin’ Credit | Up to $7 monthly statement credits at U.S. Dunkin’ locations; up to $84 annually | $84 |
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
^Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $1,624
- Annual Fee: $325
- Net First-Year Value: $1,299
There’s a possibility of being targeted for even higher welcome offers (up to 90,000 points) via the CardMatch tool, pending changes.
To learn more, check out our full review of the Amex Gold.
Apply here: American Express Gold Card
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
The Hilton Honors Aspire is the premier offering in the Hilton cobranded card lineup.
If you frequently stay with Hilton, this card can deliver considerable value.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | Earn 175,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months (Offer ends April 29) | $1,050, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Flight Credit | Up to $50 quarterly for eligible flight purchases; up to $200 annually | $200 |
| Hilton Resort Credit | Up to $200 in semiannual credits for qualifying purchases at Hilton resorts; up to $400 annually | $400 |
| Clear Plus Statement Credit | Up to $199 towards an annual Clear membership | $199 |
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $1,849
- Annual Fee: $550
- Net First-Year Value: $1,299
Aside from the listed benefits, you receive complimentary Hilton Diamond status, a free night each year, and elite status with National Car Rental (enrollment required).
For more information, read our full review of the Hilton Aspire Card.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex offers a range of perks for stays at Marriott properties.
This card offers numerous benefits to offset the $650 annual fee and provide substantial first-year value.
| Quantifiable Benefit | Perk Details | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | 185,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 within the first six months (Offer ends May 14) | $1,295, per Flying Frugal’s April 2025 valuations |
| Dining Statement Credits | Up to $25 monthly for eligible restaurant purchases; up to $300 annually | $300 |
| Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credits | $120 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck every four years | $120 |
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
- Total Potential First-Year Value: $1,715
- Annual Fee: $650
- Net First-Year Value: $1,065
Along with the previously mentioned benefits, the card also includes 25 elite night credits, Priority Pass lounge access**, and various travel protections. The annual free night award (up to 85,000 points worth about $595, according to Flying Frugal’s April 2025 evaluations) is not included in the first-year value, as it is contingent upon card renewal.
**Enrollment required. Terms apply.
For additional insights, visit our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant.
Apply here: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
Bottom Line
A variety of travel credit cards can yield over $1,000 in value in your first year of membership. This guide outlines the dollar values of benefits where quantifiable. Many perks, however, remain subjective.
If you have a card that aligns with your spending habits, you can easily maximize your value beyond $1,000 based on your purchases alone. Conversely, if you do not fully utilize the benefits, such as lounge access, annual statement credits, or elite status, the overall value might diminish.
This serves as a starting point to explore which cards can deliver $1,000 or more in initial value for those able to maximize their benefits.
Related: Credit Card Perks and Benefits You Should Use Each Month
For Capital One products mentioned here, some benefits may be offered by Visa® or Mastercard® and can differ by product. Refer to the respective Guide to Benefits for more details, as terms and exclusions might apply.
For rates and fees associated with The Business Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees linked to The Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees applicable to the American Express Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees pertaining to the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, click here.
