American Express has introduced a new feature that allows eligible cardholders to redeem Membership Rewards points directly through Apple Pay during online and in-app purchases on iPhone and iPad devices. This integration streamlines the checkout process by enabling users to apply their rewards without leaving the Apple Pay interface.
To utilize this feature, cardholders should follow these steps:
- During checkout, select Apple Pay as the payment method.
- Choose an eligible American Express card from the Wallet app.
- Tap on the ‘Use Rewards’ option displayed under the card.
- Enter the number of points to redeem toward the purchase.
- Complete the transaction using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Eligible cards for this feature include the American Express Platinum Card, Gold Card, Green Card, and others that earn Membership Rewards points. When redeeming points through Apple Pay, every 10,000 points equate to a $70 statement credit, effectively valuing each point at 0.7 cents. This valuation is lower compared to the potential value of 2 cents per point when transferring to airline and hotel partners.
While this new redemption method offers convenience, cardholders should consider the value of their points. Redeeming through Apple Pay provides a straightforward way to offset purchases but may not maximize the value of points compared to other redemption options.
In summary, American Express’s integration with Apple Pay enhances the flexibility of using Membership Rewards points, offering a seamless and convenient option for cardholders. However, individuals aiming to maximize the value of their points should evaluate this method against other available redemption options.
