19 credit cards that can get you $1,000 or more in first-year value
As credit card annual fees continue to climb, it’s natural to start questioning how much value you’re getting from adding a new card to your wallet. This is especially true since multiple cards out there charge no annual fee.However, there can be solid reasons to pay an annual fee. Many popular rewards cards come with an annual fee but provide outsize value in the form of statement credits, welcome bonuses and other quantifiable perks.Let’s examine our top cards, which actually provide more than $1,000 in value in your first year of card membership.MethodologyHere are the four factors we considered to arrive at these values:Welcome offer: We assigned a dollar amount to a card’s welcome offer based on TPG’s January 2026 valuations.Annual statement credits: We counted credits toward travel, dining, resort stays and other categories.Quantifiable perks and benefits: We added benefits that can be assigned a specific dollar amount. This means we excluded factors that aren’t as quantifiable, such as lounge access and elite status. We also excluded anniversary benefits that only apply to the second year of card membership.Annual fee: We subtracted the annual fee from the card’s overall value. Even after subtracting this amount, all the cards listed still provide more than $1,000 in first-year value.Finally, note that just because a card didn’t make this list doesn’t mean it can’t provide this type of value. Cards not on this list can provide value on a case-by-case basis.Related: Are premium credit cards worth the annual fee?Cards that provide $1,000-plus in first-year valueCardWelcome offer value*Total potential first-year value Annual fee Net first-year value <strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/7758?pid=7758&name=The%20Business%20Platinum%20Card%C2%AE%20from%20American%20Express&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>The Business Platinum Card® from American Express</a></strong>$4,000Up to $7,209$895 (see <a href=”/tc/7758?pid=7758&name=The%20Business%20Platinum%20Card%C2%AE%20from%20American%20Express&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $6,314<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/22504813?pid=22504813&name=American%20Express%20Platinum%20Card%C2%AE&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>American Express Platinum Card®</a></strong>Up to $3,500Up to $6,704$895 (see <a href=”/tc/22504813?pid=22504813&name=American%20Express%20Platinum%20Card%C2%AE&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $5,809<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/10965?pid=10965&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Reserve%20for%20Business%E2%84%A0%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/10965?pid=10965&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Reserve%20for%20Business%E2%84%A0%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$3,075$5,215$795$4,420<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/221211836?pid=221211836&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Reserve%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>Chase Sapphire Reserve®</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/221211836?pid=221211836&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Reserve%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$2,563$4,911$795$4,116<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/10977?pid=10977&name=Citi%20Strata%20Elite%E2%84%A0%20Card&issuer=Citi” target=”_blank”>Citi Strata Elite℠ Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/10977?pid=10977&name=Citi%20Strata%20Elite%E2%84%A0%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$1,900Up to $2,720$595Up to $2,125<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/6344?pid=6344&name=American%20Express%C2%AE%20Gold%20Card&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>American Express® Gold Card</a></strong>Up to $2,000Up to $2,424$325 (see <a href=”/tc/6344?pid=6344&name=American%20Express%C2%AE%20Gold%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $2,099<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/7763?pid=7763&name=American%20Express%C2%AE%20Business%20Gold%20Card&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>American Express® Business Gold Card</a></strong>$2,000Up to $2,395$375 (see <a href=”/tc/7763?pid=7763&name=American%20Express%C2%AE%20Business%20Gold%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $2,020<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/221211974?pid=221211974&name=Ink%20Business%20Preferred%C2%AE%20Credit%20Card%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/221211974?pid=221211974&name=Ink%20Business%20Preferred%C2%AE%20Credit%20Card%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$2,050$2,050$95$1,955<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/6389?pid=6389&name=Marriott%20Bonvoy%20Boundless%C2%AE%20Credit%20Card%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/6389?pid=6389&name=Marriott%20Bonvoy%20Boundless%C2%AE%20Credit%20Card%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $1,850 (if you can maximize each free night at 50,000 points)Up to $1,850$95Up to $1,755<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/22125056?pid=22125056&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Preferred%C2%AE%20Card%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/22125056?pid=22125056&name=Chase%20Sapphire%20Preferred%C2%AE%20Card%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$1,538$1,804$95$1,709<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/capital-one-venture/”>Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card</a></strong>$1,638 (includes travel credit)Up to $1,758$95Up to $1,663<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/7752?pid=7752&name=United%20Quest%E2%84%A0%20Card%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>United Quest℠ Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/7752?pid=7752&name=United%20Quest%E2%84%A0%20Card%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$910Up to $1,920$350Up to $1,570<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/11038?pid=11038&name=Bilt%20Palladium%20Card&issuer=Bilt” target=”_blank”>Bilt Palladium Card</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/11038?pid=11038&name=Bilt%20Palladium%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$1,400 (includes Bilt Cash)Up to $2,000$495Up to $1,505<strong> <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/6230?pid=6230&name=World%20of%20Hyatt%20Credit%20Card%20PID&issuer=Chase” target=”_blank”>World of Hyatt Credit Card</a> </strong> (see <a href=”/tc/6230?pid=6230&name=World%20of%20Hyatt%20Credit%20Card%20PID&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $1,530 (if you can maximize each free night at 18,000 points)Up to $1,530$95Up to $1,435<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/221410949?pid=221410949&name=Citi%C2%AE%20%2F%20AAdvantage%C2%AE%20Executive%20World%20Elite%20Mastercard%C2%AE&issuer=Citi” target=”_blank”>Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®</a> </strong>(see <a href=”/tc/221410949?pid=221410949&name=Citi%C2%AE%20%2F%20AAdvantage%C2%AE%20Executive%20World%20Elite%20Mastercard%C2%AE&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$1,550Up to $2,030$595Up to $1,435<a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/capital-one-venture-x-rewards-credit-card/”><strong>Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card</strong></a>$1,388Up to $1,808$395Up to $1,413<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/10987?pid=10987&name=Atmos%E2%84%A2%20Rewards%20Summit%20Visa%20Infinite%C2%AE%20Credit%20Card&issuer=Bank%20of%20America” target=”_blank”>Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card</a></strong>$1,523 (including the Global Companion Award)$1,643$395$1,248<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/7840?pid=7840&name=Delta%20SkyMiles%C2%AE%20Reserve%20Business%20American%20Express%20Card&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card</a></strong>$1,000Up to $1,730$650 (see <a href=”/tc/7840?pid=7840&name=Delta%20SkyMiles%C2%AE%20Reserve%20Business%20American%20Express%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)Up to $1,080<strong><a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/oc/7559?pid=7559&name=Hilton%20Honors%20American%20Express%20Aspire%20Card&issuer=American%20Express” target=”_blank”>Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card</a></strong>$750Up to $1,559$550 (see <a href=”/tc/7559?pid=7559&name=Hilton%20Honors%20American%20Express%20Aspire%20Card&data-testid=ratesFees” target=”_blank”>rates and fees</a>)$1,009*The welcome offer value is determined using TPG’s January 2026 valuations and is not provided by or reviewed by the issuer.Now that we’ve introduced the 19 cards providing at least $1,000 in first-year value, let’s dive into the specifics to help you decide which is best for you.The Business Platinum Card from American ExpressFor small-business owners, The Business Platinum Card from American Express can yield a ton of value in the first year, thanks to the array of perks on the card.THE POINTS GUYMost benefits come as statement credits, many of which specifically connect to business-related expenses.Quantifiable benefit Perk detailsValueWelcome bonusEarn 200,000 points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership$4,000, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/”>valuations</a>Dell statement creditUp to $150 back on U.S. purchases directly with Dell Technologies and an additional $1,000 after spending $5,000 on purchases with Dell each calendar year**Up to $1,150Hotel creditUp to $600 each calendar year (up to $300 in semi-annual statement credits) on prepaid bookings with <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/amex-platinum-hotel-credit/”>Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection^^ properties</a> made through American Express Travel; The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stayUp to $600Indeed statement creditUp to $360 each calendar year (up to $90 in quarterly statement credits) on all Indeed hiring and recruiting products and services to post open positions and find talent**Up to $360Adobe statement creditUp to $250 annual statement credit after spending $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe each calendar year (subject to auto-renewal)**Up to $250Clear Plus statement creditUp to $209 credit toward an annual Clear membership for expedited airport security (subject to auto-renewal)**Up to $209Airline incidental statement credits on one selected airlineUp to $200 in statement credits per calendar year on incidentals, such as checked bags and inflight refreshments, on one selected airlineUp to $200Hilton statement creditsUp to $200 each calendar year (up to $50 in statement credits per quarter) for eligible purchases made in the Hilton portfolio; separate enrollment in Hilton for Business required**Up to $200Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits$120 credit for Global Entry every 4 years or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four or 4 1/2 years**Up to $120Wireless creditUp to $120 each calendar year (up to $10 in statement credits per month) for purchases made with U.S. wireless telephone services**Up to $120**Enrollment is required.^^Eligible charges vary by property.Total potential first-year value: Up to $7,209Annual fee: $895Net first-year value: Up to $6,314To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.Apply here: The Business Platinum Card from American ExpressAmerican Express Platinum Card
The American Express Platinum Card is one of the best travel cards available for luxury travelers because of its extensive lineup of perks.THE POINTS GUYThese quantifiable benefits are only part of the equation.Quantifiable benefit Perk detailsValueWelcome offerFind out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.Up to $3,500, per TPG’s January 2026 valuationsHotel creditUp to $600 each calendar year (up to $300 in semi-annual statement credits) on prepaid bookings with Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection^^ properties made through American Express Travel; The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stayUp to $600Resy creditUp to $400 each calendar year (up to $100 in quarterly statement credits) for Resy purchases in the U.S.**Up to $400Digital entertainment creditsUp to $300 each calendar year (up to $25 in monthly statement credits) for select digital entertainment and streaming services**Up to $300Lululemon creditUp to $300 each calendar year (up to $75 in quarterly statement) credits for Lululemon purchases online and in U.S. stores, excluding outlets**Up to $300Equinox creditUp to $300 in annual statement credits for select Equinox memberships, including the app (subject to auto-renewal)**Up to $300Clear Plus statement creditUp to $209 toward an annual Clear membership for expedited airport security (subject to auto-renewal)**Up to $209Uber CashUp to $200 each calendar year (up to $15 per month, plus an additional up to $20 in December) toward U.S. Uber rides and Uber Eats orders^Up to $200Airline incidental credits on one selected airlineUp to $200 in statement credits per calendar year on incidentals, such as checked bags and inflight refreshments, on one selected airline**Up to $200Oura Ring hardware creditUp to $200 in annual statement credits for hardware purchase with Oura Ring each calendar year**Up to $200Walmart+ creditUp to $155 each calendar year (up to $12.95 in monthly statement credits) for one <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/credit-cards/walmart-plus-amex-platinum/”>recurring Walmart+ membership</a> (subject to auto-renewal; plus applicable taxes); Plus Up benefits are not eligibleUp to $155Uber One membershipUp to a $120 statement credit each calendar year that fully covers an auto-renewing $96 annual or $9.99 monthly membership**Up to $120Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits$120 credit for Global Entry every 4 years or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four or 4 1/2 years**Up to $120Saks Fifth Avenue creditsUp to $100 each calendar year (up to $50 in semiannual statement credits) for Saks Fifth Avenue**Up to $100**Enrollment is required.^Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.^^Eligible charges vary by property.Total potential first-year value: Up to $6,704Annual fee: $895Net first-year value: Up to $5,809To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.Apply here: American Express Platinum CardChase Sapphire Reserve for BusinessChase’s premium business card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business, is oriented toward high-spending business owners who could maximize the multiple credits offered by the product.THE POINTS GUYMany of the benefits are statement credits toward purchases that business owners may find themselves making.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.$3,075, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>The Edit creditUp to $500 each year (up to $250 from January through June and up to $250 from July through December) on stays of at least two nights booked through The Edit$500ZipRecruiter creditUp to $400 each year (up to $200 from January through June and up to $200 from July through December) for purchases made directly with ZipRecruiter through Dec. 31, 2027$400Travel creditUp to $300 in statement credits each account anniversary year for a broad suite of travel purchases$300DoorDash non-restaurant creditTwo separate $10 monthly credits toward non-restaurant purchases on DoorDash when you activate your DashPass membership by Dec. 31, 2027$240Google Workspace creditUp to $200 statement credit for purchases made directly with Google Workspace for AI tools for business through Dec. 31, 2027$200Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee creditsUp to $120 statement credit every four years$120Lyft creditsUp to $120 each year (up to $10 in monthly in-app credit) on Lyft rides through Sept. 30, 2027$120DoorDash DashPass subscriptionAt least 12 months of complimentary DashPass when you activate by Dec. 31, 2027$100Giftcards.comEarn up to $100 in statement credits (up to $50 from January through June and up to $50 from July through December) on gift card purchases made through giftcards.com/reservebusiness through Oct. 31, 2028$100DoorDash restaurant creditA $5 monthly promo for restaurant orders on DoorDash through Dec. 31, 2027$60Total potential first-year value: $5,215Annual fee: $795Net first-year value: $4,420To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business.Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve for BusinessChase Sapphire ReserveThe premium Chase Sapphire Reserve includes a long list of statement credits that help offset the card’s high $795 annual fee.THE POINTS GUYStill, the Sapphire Reserve’s annual travel credit is one of the most flexible credits available, making it easy to maximize that part of its first-year value.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 125,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.$2,563, per TPG’s January 2026 valuationsThe Edit creditUp to $500 each year (up to $250 from January through June and up to $250 from July through December) on stays of at least two nights booked through The Edit$500Travel creditUp to $300 each account anniversary year for a broad suite of travel purchases$300StubHub and Viagogo creditUp to $300 each year (up to $150 from January through June and up to $150 from July through December) for purchases with StubHub and Viagogo through Dec. 31, 2027. Activation is required$300Dining creditUp to $300 each year (up to $150 from January through June and up to $150 from July through December) for Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables$300Apple creditUp to $250 Complimentary Apple TV+ and Apple Music subscriptions each year. A one-time activation is required. These subscriptions run through June 22, 2027$288DoorDash non-restaurant creditTwo separate $10 monthly credits toward non-restaurant purchases on DoorDash when you activate your DashPass membership by Dec. 31, 2027$240Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus application fee creditsUp to $120 every four years$120Lyft creditsUp to $120 each year (up to $10 in monthly in-app credit) on Lyft rides through Sept. 30, 2027$120DoorDash DashPass subscriptionAt least 12 months of complimentary DashPass when you activate by Dec. 31, 2027$120DoorDash restaurant creditA $5 monthly promo for restaurant orders on DoorDash through Dec. 31, 2027$60Total potential first-year value: $4,911Annual fee: $795Net first-year value: $4,116To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.Apply here: Chase Sapphire ReserveCiti Strata Elite CardCiti’s premium travel card, the Citi Strata Elite Card comes with a solid list of quantifiable perks and statement credits.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about the card:Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerFor a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.$1,900, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Hotel credit<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Up to $300 off a prepaid hotel stay (minimum two-night stay) when booked through Citi Travel each calendar year</span>$300Splurge credit<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Up to $200 in statement credits each calendar year on your choice of up to two brands: 1stDibs, American Airlines, Best Buy, Future Personal Training and Live Nation.</span>$200Blacklane creditUp to $200 each calendar year (up to $100 in biannual statement credits) for Blacklane chauffeur bookings$200Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $120 every four years$120Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,720Annual fee: $595Net first-year value: Up to $2,125To learn more, read our full review of the Citi Strata Elite.Apply here: Citi Strata Elite CardAmerican Express Gold CardThe American Express Gold Card is one of the best cards out there for foodies because of its dining-focused perks.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about this solid Membership Rewards-earning card.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerFind out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.Up to $2,000, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Uber CashUp to $120 each calendar year (up to $10 per month) in Uber Cash toward U.S. Uber rides and Uber Eats orders^Up to $120Dining creditUp to $120 each calendar year (up to $10 per month) in dining statement credits at participating restaurants**Up to $120Resy creditUp to $100 each calendar year (up to $50 in biannual statement credits) for purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants**Up to $100Dunkin’ creditUp to $84 each calendar year (up to $7 in monthly statement credits) for purchases with U.S. Dunkin’ locations**Up to $84**Enrollment is required.^Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,424Annual fee: $325Net first-year value: Up to $2,099To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Gold.Apply here: American Express Gold CardAmerican Express Business Gold CardThe American Express Business Gold Card balances simplicity with high earnings for business owners all in on Membership Rewards points.THE POINTS GUYHere’s how the math works out on this card.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 100,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership.Up to $2,000, per TPG’s January 2026 valuationsFlexible business statement creditsUp to $240 in flexible business statement credits per calendar year (up to $20 per month) for eligible purchases at FedEx, Grubhub and office supply stores**Up to $240Walmart+ creditUp to $155 each calendar year (up to $12.95 in monthly statement credits) for one recurring Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal; plus applicable taxes); Plus Up benefits are not eligibleUp to $155**Enrollment is required.Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,395Annual fee: $375Net first-year value: Up to $2,020To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Gold.Apply here: American Express Business Gold CardInk Business Preferred Credit CardIn addition to the fantastic welcome bonus offered by the Ink Business Preferred, this card’s primary value is its earning structure.THE POINTS GUYRegardless, the Chase Ultimate Rewards points you’ll receive from the welcome bonus catapult this card’s first-year value to over $1,000.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening$2,050, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Total potential first-year value: $2,050Annual fee: $95Net first-year value: $1,955To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred.Apply here: Ink Business PreferredMarriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit CardThe stellar offer on the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card elevates it to this list.THE POINTS GUYThis card provides a fantastic bonus for Marriott loyalists to enjoy.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn five free night awards (valued at up to 50,000 points each) after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Certain hotels have resort fees. Additionally, you can receive up to $100 in statement credits (up to $50 biannually) after spending $500 on eligible airline purchases.Up to $1,850, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,850Annual fee: $95Net first-year value: Up to $1,755To learn more, read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless.Apply here: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit CardChase Sapphire Preferred CardThe Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best cards for beginners.THE POINTS GUYMuch of the value of the Sapphire Preferred comes from its welcome bonus. However, that’s not the only quantifiable benefit for its $95 annual fee.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening$1,538, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/”>valuations</a>DoorDash non-restaurant creditUp to $10 each month toward non-restaurant purchases on DoorDash when you activate your DashPass membership by Dec. 31, 2027$120DoorDash DashPass subscriptionAt least 12 months of complimentary DashPass when you activate by Dec. 31, 2027$96Hotel creditUp to $50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel$50Total potential first-year value: $1,804Annual fee: $95Net first-year value: $1,709You’ll also receive a 10% points bonus on your cardmember anniversary based on the total amount you spent in the previous year. However, since the value of this perk depends on your spending activity, it’s not included in the above calculation.To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred CardCapital One Venture Rewards CardWhile the Venture Rewards card doesn’t have a long list of benefits, it offers a strong welcome bonus relative to its annual fee.THE POINTS GUYTransferring your miles to one of Capital One’s 15-plus loyalty partners is the best way to maximize your rewards.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, receive a $250 Capital One Travel credit to use during your first year.$1,638, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $120 every four years$120Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,758Annual fee: $95Net first-year value: Up to $1,663To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardUnited Quest CardThe United Quest Card offers multiple perks that send its first-year value over $1,000.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about this airline credit card:Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 70,000 miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.$910, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>United travel credit<div class=”mb-3 col-lg-3″>
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<p class=”small” data-testid=”umbraco-rich-text”>Automatic $200 in United TravelBank cash earned each year, including upon account opening</p>
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<p class=”small” data-testid=”umbraco-rich-text”>One $10 and one $5 monthly Instacart credit, ending Dec. 31, 2027</p>
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</div>$180Hotel creditUp to a $150 annual statement credit on prepaid reservations made through Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United® Cardmembers each account anniversary year$150JSX creditUp to $150 in annual statement credits on JSX flight purchases made each account anniversary year$150Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $120 every four years$120Ride-hailing creditUp to $8 in monthly statement credits for ride-hailing services, plus a bonus of $4 (for a total of $12) in December (yearly opt-in required)$100Rental car creditUp to $40 each for the first two Avis or Budget car rentals booked through United Cars each account anniversary year$80Instacart+ membershipComplimentary three-month membership to Instacart+. Membership is $9.99 monthly. This offer ends Dec. 31, 2027$30Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,920Annual fee: $350Net first-year value: Up to $1,570To learn more, read our full review of the United Quest Card.Apply here: United Quest CardBilt Palladium CardThe Bilt Palladium Card earns valuable Bilt Points and Bilt Cash, sending its first-year value up high.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about Bilt’s premium card:Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 50,000 Bilt Points and Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first three months. Plus, receive $300 in Bilt Cash.$1,400, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Bilt Travel Portal hotel credit<div class=”mb-3 col-lg-3″>
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<p class=”small” data-testid=”umbraco-rich-text”>Up to $200 biannually ($400 per calendar year) in Bilt Travel Portal hotel credit; must book a stay of at least two nights</p>
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</div>$400Annual Bilt Cash$200 in Bilt Cash annually$200Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,000Annual fee: $495Net first-year value: Up to $1,505To learn more, read our full review of the Bilt Palladium Card.Apply here: Bilt Palladium CardWorld of Hyatt Credit CardThe current offer on the World of Hyatt Credit Card is so lucrative that you’ll receive more than $1,000 in first-year value by maximizing it alone.THE POINTS GUYWorld of Hyatt’s award chart offers multiple sweet spots for loyalists.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn up to five free nights (redeemable at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort worldwide); earn three free nights after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus two additional free nights after spending a total of $15,000 in purchases in the first six monthsUp to $1,530 (if you can maximize each free night at 18,000 points), per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,530 (if you can maximize each free night at 18,000 points)Annual fee: $95Net first-year value: Up to $1,435To learn more, read our full review of the World of Hyatt Credit Card.Apply here: World of Hyatt Credit CardCiti / AAdvantage Executive World Elite MastercardThe Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard is the premium option for American Airlines loyalists. It provides a stellar welcome bonus and a few ongoing quantifiable benefits.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about the first-year value on this premium airline card.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerFor a limited time, earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 within the first three months of account opening.$1,550, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/”>valuations</a>Prepaid car rental creditUp to $120 back on eligible prepaid Avis or Budget car rentals every calendar yearUp to $120Grubhub creditUp to $120 back on eligible Grubhub purchases every 12 billing statements (up to a $10 statement credit on each monthly billing statement)Up to $120Lyft creditUp to $120 in Lyft credits annually ($10 Lyft credit each month), but you have to take three eligible rides each month first to receive this creditUp to $120Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $120 every four yearsUp to $120Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,030Annual fee: $595Net first-year value: Up to $1,435To learn more, read our full review of the Citi / AAdvantage Executive card.Apply here: Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite MastercardCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardThe Venture X makes a splash in the premium cards space thanks to its non-quantifiable lounge access perks for a more modest annual fee compared to other similar options.THE POINTS GUYLet’s tally up the value you could receive from this travel card.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.$1,388, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/”>valuations</a>Capital One Travel credit$300 annual credit for travel bookings made through the Capital One Travel portal$300Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $120 every four years$120Total potential first-year value: $1,808Annual fee: $395Net first-year value: Up to $1,413To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Venture X.Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardAtmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit CardAlaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines loyalists can enjoy a premium card with the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card.THE POINTS GUYHere’s what to know about this excellent airline card:Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 80,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening.Up to $1,523, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a> (including the Global Companion Award)Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee creditsUp to $1201
<p>.every four years</p>$120Total potential first-year value: $1,643Annual fee: $395Net first-year value: $1,248To learn more, read our full review of the Atmos Rewards Summit card.Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit CardDelta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express CardThe Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card is an excellent option for business owners who frequently fly Delta Air Lines.THE POINTS GUYBelow are the quantifiable benefits on the card:Quantifiable benefit Perk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $12,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.$1,000, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Delta Stays creditUp to $250 per calendar year in statement credits for bookings through Delta Stays, Delta’s hotel travel portalUp to $250Resy creditUp to $240 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $20 monthly) for purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants**Up to $240Ride-hailing creditUp to $120 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $10 monthly) on select U.S. ride-hailing service apps**Up to $120Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits$120 credit for Global Entry every 4 years or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four or 4 1/2 years**Up to $120**Enrollment is required.Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,730Annual fee: $650Net first-year value: Up to $1,080To learn more, read our full review of the Delta Reserve Business Amex.Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express CardHilton Honors American Express Aspire CardThe Hilton Honors Aspire is the top-tier card in the Hilton cobranded card lineup.THE POINTS GUYIf you stay with Hilton regularly, the card’s benefits can be very valuable.Quantifiable benefitPerk detailsValueWelcome offerEarn 150,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.$750, per TPG’s January 2026 <a href=”https://thepointsguy.com/loyalty-programs/monthly-valuations/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>valuations</a>Hilton resort creditUp to $400 each calendar year (up to $200 in semiannual statement credits) on eligible purchases made with participating Hilton resortsUp to $400Clear Plus statement creditUp to $209 toward an annual Clear membership for expedited airport security (subject to auto-renewal)**Up to $209Flight creditUp to $200 each calendar year (up to $50 in quarterly statement credits) toward eligible flight purchasesUp to $200**Enrollment is required.Total potential first-year value: $1,559Annual fee: $550Net first-year value: $1,009To learn more, read our full review of the Hilton Aspire Card.Apply here: Hilton Honors American Express Aspire CardBottom lineMany popular travel credit cards can get you well over $1,000 in value in just the first year of card membership.If you have a card where you spend a lot each year within its bonus categories, you can easily get more than $1,000 in value from it just based on spending alone.But if you aren’t taking full advantage of the benefits offered by a card (such as lounge access, yearly statement credits or elite status), you could get less value from a specific card, as it isn’t suited to your needs.Hopefully, this gives you a starting point to see which cards can offer your wallet the most value.Related: Credit card perks and benefits you should be using each monthFor Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card from American Express, click here.For rates and fees of American Express Platinum Card, click here.For rates and fees of The American Express Gold Card, click here.For rates and fees of The American Express Business Gold Card, click here.For rates and fees of the Bilt Palladium Card, please click here.For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve Business American Express Card, click here.For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Aspire Card, click here.Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
