A $650 annual fee sounds expensive. But for the right Marriott traveler, a few benefits can potentially cover much of that cost.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex is a premium hotel card with several benefits designed around frequent Marriott stays. The key is figuring out which ones you’ll actually use.
• 1. An annual free-night award
Each year after renewal, cardmembers receive a free-night award worth up to 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. You can also add up to 25,000 points to the certificate when needed.
• 2. Up to $300 in dining credits
The card provides up to $25 per month in statement credits for eligible restaurant purchases worldwide. That’s potentially $300 per year — but only if you remember to use the monthly credits.
• 3. Marriott Platinum Elite status
Automatic Platinum Elite status can provide benefits such as room upgrades when available, late checkout, welcome gifts and breakfast at participating properties.
• 4. A potentially valuable welcome offer
The offer cited in the source provides 150,000 Marriott points plus a $250 statement credit after $6,000 in purchases within the first six months. The offer ends Sept. 30, according to the source.
• 5. Extra travel benefits
The card also includes Priority Pass Select membership, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit and bonus points on eligible Marriott purchases.
The smarter take: The $650 fee doesn’t make sense simply because the card has a long list of perks. The math depends on what you would actually use. If you regularly stay at Marriott properties, can use the free-night award and consistently capture the dining credits, the benefits can offset a substantial portion of the fee.