Note: This article may be outdated. For the latest assessment see the updated review of this card.
I’ve used the Amex Gold charge card for some time and always wished it included an EMI option. I prefer not to use EMI frequently, but having the choice makes the card feel more complete. American Express introduced the Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC) to fill that gap: it offers many of the Gold charge card benefits while being a true credit card. That means you can carry a balance month-to-month and convert purchases into EMIs when needed.
- Difference between Credit Card and Charge Card in India
Is the Amex Membership Rewards Credit Card worth it?
- Joining Fee: Rs. 1,000 + tax
- Welcome Bonus: 4,000 Reward Points
The card awards 4,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points after you use the card three times within the first 60 days of membership, provided the annual fee has been paid. On its face the base reward rate is modest, but MRCC points do not expire. Additionally, making four transactions of Rs.1,000 or more in a month can earn you 1,000 bonus rewards, which helps boost the effective return.
Beyond points, membership in the Amex ecosystem unlocks a range of savings and partner benefits. From my experience these offers add significant value. Examples of savings I’ve used:
- 3.75% cashback on fuel at HPCL pumps through Amex fuel offers
- Substantial savings on international hotel bookings via Amex travel partner promotions
- Discounts on domestic hotels through Amex partner offers
- Regular discounts on domestic travel and bookings with partner portals
These partner offers are generally available across Amex cards, including MRCC. Combined with the card’s features, they make Amex cards compelling for frequent travellers and those who use partner services.
MRCC is a contactless card, allowing quick tap-to-pay transactions without a PIN for purchases under Rs.2,000, which adds convenience for everyday spending.
Amex MRCC and its competitors
Within the Amex lineup MRCC is positioned as an entry-level credit card. Competitors in its segment include:
- Citibank Rewards Credit Card
- SBI Platinum Card
Citibank’s rewards card has a lower base reward rate but occasional partner offers. SBI Platinum matches similar reward rates but may lack the same level of partner-driven benefits and service. In my experience, bank retention and partner offers can make a big difference when choosing between similarly rated cards.
Amex MRCC stands out for customer service and additional conveniences. Key benefits include:
- Zero liability for unauthorized transactions on lost cards
- Emergency card replacement worldwide
- Two complimentary supplementary cards with no additional membership fee (often with bonus points incentives)
Promotional offer: If you hold the Amex Gold charge card, MRCC can be issued as a companion card and remain free for as long as you retain the Gold card. At times Amex has also run limited-time promos offering lifetime fee waivers for applicants meeting income criteria, sometimes with a voucher incentive.
Features of the Amex Membership Rewards Credit Card
- Card Expert Rating: 4/5
- Reward rate: 0.5% base (accelerated categories up to 2.5%)
- Annual Fee: Rs. 1,000 + tax first year; Rs. 4,500 + tax thereafter
- Airport lounge access: Discounted access to 31 domestic lounges in India
- Foreign exchange markup fee: 3.5% + applicable taxes
- Special features: Attractive network and partner offers that add considerable value
Overall, the Amex Membership Rewards Credit Card offers a low entry barrier to Amex benefits, with access to partner deals, reliable customer support, and features that suit travellers and those who use partner services frequently. I’ve found Amex customer service notably helpful and personable, which enhances the overall experience.
Renewal fee waiver (current policy): The annual membership fee of INR 4,500 can be fully waived if your total Amex card spends in the preceding membership year are INR 150,000 or more. A 50% waiver applies for spends of INR 90,000 in the preceding membership year.
What’s your take on the Amex Membership Rewards Credit Card? Share your experience in the comments below.