How to Obtain and Use the Perks of an American Express Black Card

Do you ever dream of going to exclusive locales and being able to spend unlimited amount of money. American Express (AMEX) has turned this dream into reality by creating the Centurion Card or "The Black Card" in the fall of 1999. There are roughly 10,000 Black Card members currently worldwide who enjoy the perks of limitless spending. Read on for the requirements and benefits of an AMEX Black Card.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Obtain and Use the Perks of an AMEX Black Card

1. Despite its status as the world's most elite credit card, the Black Card requirements are basic. You must have an annual cash flow of $250,000, an United States billing address, and an exceptional credit history. The Black Card is generally given by invitation only, but any AMEX cardholder who believes they can qualify can request that their account be reviewed.

2. AMEX assigns a personal concierge with an email address and a direct phone number to each cardholder. Their job entails gaining impossible dinner reservations and obtaining tickets for sold out shows.

3. If a cardholder loses their wallet or purse, AMEX will arrange to cancel all of their credit cards and have new cards issued immediately.

4. If a cardholder is more than 100 miles from home, AMEX will offer medical, legal, and financial assistance. They will replace lost passports, misplaced prescriptions, arrange for an air ambulance, and monitor medical treatments.

5. A Black Card cardholder enjoys private access to a number of high-end retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. The cardholder member can also request the assistance of a personal shopper during their store outing.

6. AMEX extends the term of the manufacturer's warranty by three years on all purchases on the Black Card.

7. Cardholders are given access to 530 hotels worldwide and entitled to free room upgrades, late check-out time, and a complimentary breakfast for two.

8. The travel perks is where the Black Card earns it keep. The top benefits include a personal travel consultant, first class seating flight upgrades, a complimentary ticket on transatlantic flight ticket purchases, access to buying flight time on private jets, and annual credit toward the payment of a space flight reservation.

9. If a cardholder's flight is delayed a day or more, AMEX allots them $250 for hotel, transportation, and other expenses. If a member makes it to their destination and their bags are delayed for longer than three hours, AMEX allows up to $500 for their expenses.