Is the Hilton Aspire Amex card truly worth its annual fee?

Even with a significant $550 annual fee (see rates and fees), the value is undeniable due to its Hilton Honors elite status, statement credits, and impressive rewards rates.

The standout feature of the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is the Hilton Honors Diamond status, which provides bonus points on hotel stays, complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and access to executive lounges.

Today, we’ll delve into the details of the Hilton Aspire Amex and explore why it justifies the annual fee.

The details for the Hilton Aspire card have been independently gathered by Dinogo. The information presented here has not been reviewed or supplied by the card issuer.

Outstanding welcome bonus

Right now, the Hilton Aspire Amex is providing 175,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card ownership. While this isn't the highest offer we've encountered, it aligns with our application criteria.

As per TPG's September 2024 valuations, Hilton Honors points hold a value of 0.6 cents each, meaning the welcome offer is valued at approximately $1,050.

Excellent earning potential

As dedicated Hilton fans, cardholders can expect their Hilton Honors points to grow rapidly with impressive earning rates. The card offers 14 points per dollar spent on stays within the Hilton portfolio, covering hotel accommodations and incidentals billed to the room and paid with your Aspire card.

Cardholders also earn 7 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com, rentals with select car rental agencies, and dining at U.S. restaurants (including takeout and delivery). All other purchases earn 3 points per dollar spent.

Designed for Hilton enthusiasts, this card provides excellent earning rates for stays at Hilton locations. However, it underperforms for everyday expenses, offering only a 1.8% return based on our September 2024 valuations—a standard cash back card typically provides better value for daily purchases.

Premier status

The primary consideration for determining if the Hilton Amex Aspire is worthwhile is the elite status. Cardholders are granted complimentary Diamond status with Hilton, which TPG regards as one of the top hotel elite statuses.

Diamond elite status provides a 100% bonus on points earned during all Hilton stays, equating to an additional 10 points per dollar—a significant advantage for cardholders. Diamond members also benefit from complimentary room upgrades, including suites (subject to availability), as well as breakfast or a food and beverage credit. Furthermore, cardholders gain access to executive lounges at eligible properties.

Given the extensive advantages of Hilton Diamond elite status, the $550 annual fee might be justified for the perks that enhance your hotel experience.

Credit reimbursements

Cardholders can earn up to $400 in statement credits each calendar year for qualifying purchases at participating Hilton resorts. This benefit is divided into two $200 credits, available from January to June and from July to December. The credits can be used for dining, activities, spa services, and, even better, room rates and taxes.

Additionally, cardholders are eligible for up to $200 in annual statement credits for airline purchases, distributed as $50 each quarter, for airfare bought directly from an airline or through AmexTravel.com.

Moreover, cardholders can receive up to $100 Hilton property credit when booking a minimum two-night stay at Waldorf Astoria or Conrad properties via HiltonHonors.com/aspirecard (or by phone using the booking code ZZAAP1).

In addition to travel credits, the Aspire offers an annual statement credit of up to $199 for a Clear Plus membership. Clear is an expedited security program available at over 50 U.S. airports, stadiums, and large venues. If TSA PreCheck lines are lengthy or unavailable, Clear members can utilize dedicated security lanes with their kiosks to expedite airport security.

Additional perks

Hilton Amex Aspire cardholders can earn up to three free night awards each year.

The first free night award is granted upon account opening and again on the cardmember anniversary each year. Cardholders can earn a second and third night reward by spending $30,000 and $60,000 on the card within a calendar year, respectively.

Senior credit cards editor Matt Moffitt utilizes his free night awards to enjoy stays at luxurious accommodations when he travels to New York City, where cash prices are typically very high.

The Aspire grants complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status upon enrollment in the Emerald Club program (terms apply) and offers travel protections such as trip delay reimbursement*, trip cancellation, and interruption insurance*.

Cardholders also benefit from cellphone protection*, providing up to $800 reimbursement per claim for repairs or theft of a device, as long as the wireless bill for that cellphone line is paid with the Aspire card. There is a cap of two approved claims per 12 months, each with a $50 deductible.

Enrollment is necessary for certain benefits.

*Eligibility and benefits vary by card. Terms, conditions, and limitations apply. For details, visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Conclusion

The Aspire is a worthy addition to your wallet if you're a loyal Hilton guest who often stays at Hilton properties. You'll enjoy elite status perks, a robust earning rate with Hilton, and valuable statement credits.

Conversely, for those who only occasionally stay at Hilton locations, a lower annual fee Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card or a general travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be more suitable.

Discover more: Hilton Amex Aspire review