Originally posted on 07/13/2023 @ 4:36 AM
Amazon’s credit card offerings, specifically the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, provides various benefits tailored to maximize the shopping experience for Amazon Prime members. Like any financial product, it has its share of advantages and disadvantages. This article will delve into the pros and cons of the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card.
Advantages
High Rewards Rates: One of the most significant benefits of the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is its high rewards rates. Cardholders receive 5% back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market purchases, 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% back on all other purchases.
No Annual Fee: Unlike many credit cards that offer similar rewards, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card doesn’t have an annual fee, making it an affordable choice for regular Amazon shoppers.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: This card is an excellent choice for international travelers because it does not charge foreign transaction fees.
Visa Signature Benefits: As a Visa Signature card, cardholders have access to a host of premium benefits, including travel upgrade and savings, travel and emergency assistance, lost luggage reimbursement, and more.
Disadvantages
Requires Amazon Prime Membership: The most significant downside to the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is that it requires an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $119 per year as of my last update in September 2021. If you’re not a regular Amazon shopper, the cost of membership might outweigh the rewards you earn.
Limited High-Reward Categories: While the 5% back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases is attractive, the card offers only 2% back on restaurant, gas station, and drugstore purchases, and 1% back on everything else. Other credit cards may offer higher rewards rates in these categories.
High Interest Rate: If you tend to carry a balance on your credit card, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card may not be the best option. It has a relatively high interest rate compared to other cards, which could lead to costly interest charges.
Rewards Redemption Limitation: The rewards you earn can only be redeemed at Amazon.com or as a statement credit, which is less flexible compared to other credit cards that offer multiple redemption options.
In conclusion, the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card can be an excellent choice for regular Amazon and Whole Foods shoppers, especially those who can pay their balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. However, it might not be the best fit for everyone, especially non-Prime members and those who spend a lot in non-Amazon categories.
For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please visit the specific Amazon credit card website or contact their customer service.
