The Premium Card Guide: Who Actually Qualifies

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Airport lounges. Concierge service. $300+ in annual travel credits. 5x points on every purchase.

These benefits used to be reserved for the ultra-wealthy. Not anymore.

Today, many premium credit cards approve applicants with average incomes and good (not perfect) credit. The requirements are more accessible than most people realize.

The problem? Most people never apply because they assume they won’t qualify.

This guide breaks down 5 of the best premium cards available today — what you get, and how to check if you qualify.

5
Premium Cards Reviewed
$300+
In Annual Credits
100K+
Welcome Bonus Points

💎 What Premium Cards Actually Offer

Before diving into specific cards, here’s what “premium” actually means:

✈️
Airport Lounge Access
Skip the crowded terminal. Free food, drinks, WiFi, and comfortable seating.
💵
Statement Credits
$200-$300+ back annually for travel, dining, streaming, and more.
Higher Rewards
3x-5x points on travel, dining, and everyday purchases.
🛡️
Premium Protections
Trip cancellation, rental car insurance, purchase protection.

💳 The 5 Best Premium Cards

Click on any card below to check if you qualify:

Best Overall Value
Capital One Venture X
Premium benefits at the lowest cost
100K
Bonus Miles

✈️ Unlimited Lounge Access 💵 $300 Travel Credit/Year ⭐ 10x on Hotels
Easiest to Get Approved
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Perfect first premium card
60K
Bonus Points

⭐ 5x on Travel 🍽️ 3x on Dining 🔄 14 Transfer Partners
Best for Dining & Groceries
American Express Gold
Maximize everyday spending
$240
In Annual Credits

🍽️ 4x Restaurants 🛒 4x Supermarkets 🚗 $120 Uber Credit
Best for Frequent Travelers
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Maximum travel perks
$300
Travel Credit/Year

✈️ Priority Pass Lounges ⭐ 10x on Hotels 🎁 75K Bonus Points
Most Prestigious
American Express Platinum
The ultimate luxury card
1,400+
Airport Lounges

✈️ Centurion Lounges 💵 $200 Hotel Credit 🎁 100K+ Welcome Bonus

🎯 Which Card Is Right for You?

👉 New to premium cards? Start with Chase Sapphire Preferred

👉 Want lounge access? Capital One Venture X

👉 Spend a lot on food? American Express Gold

👉 Travel frequently? Chase Sapphire Reserve

👉 Want the best of everything? American Express Platinum

🏁 Ready to Upgrade?

Premium credit cards aren’t just for the wealthy. Many people with average incomes qualify — they just never check.

Click on any card above to see if you’re eligible. It only takes a minute, and checking won’t affect your credit score.

You might be surprised what’s available to you.

📌 This content is for educational purposes only. Credit card approval depends on individual factors including credit score, income, and existing debts. We may receive compensation if you apply through links on this page. Always read terms and conditions before applying.

Sources: The Points Guy, NerdWallet, CNBC Select. Annual fees and benefits current as of December 2025.

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