Money Management

Amex, Marriott Brings Enhanced Welcome Bonus to Bonvoy Brilliant Card

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With vaccine distribution continuing across the United States, there’s now real hope that travel may return in earnest later this year. Ahead of that, a number of co-branded travel credit cards have increased their offers. The latest to get in on this trend is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express card, which is now offering a welcome bonus worth up to 125,000 points.

Currently, new Bonvoy Brilliant cardholders can earn 125,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points when they spend $5,000 in purchases on the card in their first three months. For comparison, the previous public welcome bonus offered only 75,000 bonus points. On top of the bonus points featured as part of the new offer, cardholders can also earn up to $200 in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants made during their first six months of card membership. Be aware that the card does carry a $450 annual fee, which is not waived for the first year.

Beyond the welcome bonus, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant includes plenty of point multipliers and perks attuned for travelers. First, the card earns 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels. Additionally, cardholders can score 3x points at U.S. restaurants (including take-out and delivery), 3x points on flights booked directly through the airline, and 2x points on all other eligible purchases.

As for other benefits, cardholders enjoy up to $300 in statement credits for eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels each year. What’s more, every year after your cardholder anniversary, you’ll receive one Free Night Award (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) to be used to participating properties. Bonvoy Brilliant cardmembers will also have access to more than 1,200 airport lounges via Priority Pass Select. Lastly, international travelers will be happy to hear that the card does not charge any foreign transaction fees.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express card is just the latest travel-centric co-branded card to unveil an enhanced offer. Most recently, Delta’s line of SkyMiles credit cards from American Express saw welcome bonuses climb as high as 90,000 miles. Of course, these offers also arrive as the travel industry looks to rebound after seeing demand plummet just over one year ago.

Like with other increased offers that have been announced as of late, this current Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant offer could be a great opportunity for travelers to cash in before their next trip. Moreover, while the main appeal may be that bonus (along with the up to $200 in statement credits), a card like the Brilliant could also be a keeper thanks to its strong point-earning potential, annual Free Night Award, and other perks. With that in mind, if you are considering this offer, be sure to apply by May 12th, 2021.

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