Yesterday was a big day for Marriott fans. Amex AND Chase both launched new mid-tier Marriott cards. Plus, sign-up bonuses and perks of existing cards changed. Let’s take a look.
New Marriott Cards
Introducing the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Amex card (affiliate link) and the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful card (non-affiliate link). The benefits are identical.
- 125k bonus points after spending $4k in the first three months
- 1000 bonus points per stay
- 6X points at Marriott hotels
- 4X points on grocery stores and dining (capped at 15k spending)
- 2X points on all other spending
- 15 elite night credits
- Gold elite status
- Free night (up to 50k points) after spending $15,000 in a year
- $250 annual fee
- Opening offer valid until January 11, 2023
Even if you don’t have plans for Marriott points, keep in mind that they transfer to many airline programs, including Alaska Airlines and American Airlines.
My take: The bonus is good, but the fee is hefty, and Gold elite status doesn’t get you much. The cards also require a lot of spending to get the free night. I think the Chase Bonvoy Boundless is a better deal (100k bonus, $95 annual fee, free anniversary night without required spending).
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card Refresh
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex card has had a makeover.
- 150k bonus points after spending $5k in the first three months
- Instant Platinum Elite Status
- Free anniversary night (at hotels up to 85k points)
- 25 elite night credits a year
- $300 statement credits at restaurants ($25/month)
- 6X points at Marriott hotels
- 3X points on dining and flights
- 2X points on all other spending
- $100 property credit at Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis brands for 2+ night stays
- Priority pass membership
- TSA pre-check/Global Entry credit
- $650 annual fee
My take: This card is good for those who stay at Marriotts often who could really benefit from the platinum elite status. But oh my, that annual fee!
Other Changes to Marriott Cards
Chase Marriott Bonvoy Gold bonus increased to 60k (was 30k). $0 annual fee.
Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless has a new bonus of 100k (previously was 3 free nights). $95 annual fee.
Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business (non-affiliate link) bonus increased from 75k to 100k. $125 annual fee.
Before you apply to any card, read over these Bank Application Rules. Chase’s 5/24 rule applies to the Chase cards.
What do you think of these new cards and changes to existing Marriott cards? Are you excited, or meh?
Author: Nancy
Nancy lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three kids. Her favorite vacations include the beach, cruising and everything Disney.
Tammie says
Don’t forget the bizarre Chase/Amex Marriott card bonus eligibility rules! Makes my head spin
Nancy says
@Tammie Yes, those rules give me a headache! They are detailed in the bank rules link above. You know it’s complicated when it requires a chart to keep track of all the rules LOL.