Adding an Amex Cardmember to Your Account
If you’re wondering whether adding a supplementary (also called additional cardmember) American Express card is worth it—spoiler: it absolutely can be.
Just like using a referral link to apply for a card, a supplementary card is a great way to boost your points return with minimal additional effort.
What Is an Amex Supplementary Card?
A supplementary card allows the primary Cardmember to add another person—like a partner, family member, or trusted friend—to their American Express account, sharing many of the card’s benefits. All charges made on supplementary cards are the responsibility of the primary cardholder.
How Many Supplementary Cards Can You Add?
Most Amex cards may offer up to six supplementary cards as part of your membership. Additional cards may cost extra, depending on the card type.
For example:
The Platinum Card: One supplementary Platinum card is complimentary, with up to four more available— at £285 each.
The Gold Card: Comes with one free additional Gold card; extra cards cost £45 each.
British Airways American Express Credit Card: Additional cards are complimentary
Top Reasons to Add a Supplementary Card
1. Earn Bonus Points or Avios
Amex often runs bonuses for the first supplementary card added:
Currently (August 2025), bonuses include:
| Card Type | Supplementary Card Bonus (August 2025) |
|---|---|
| Platinum Card | 5,000 Membership Rewards points |
| Gold / BA Card | 3,000 Membership Rewards points |
| American Express Credit Card | 2,000 Membership Rewards points |
| British Airways Amex Credit Card | 9,000 Avios |
| BA Premium Plus Credit Card | 3,000 Avios |
| Marriott Bonvoy / Nectar Card | 3,000 Points |
| Platinum Cashback Card | £5 Cashback |
Tip: these bonuses typically apply only to the first supplementary card and must be added via the correct Amex link to qualify.
2. Accelerate Bonus Spending Targets
Combining household spending onto one account makes it easier to reach sign-up or annual spend thresholds for big rewards—like the £3,000 bonus threshold on the Gold Reward Card.
3. Share Premium Benefits
With The Platinum Card, your supplementary cardholder gains access to:
Global Lounge Collection (including Priority Pass)
Hotel elite status (Hilton, Marriott, Radisson, Melia)
Eurostar lounge access
Worldwide travel insurance, car rental perks, and more
Note: With Preferred Rewards Gold and other cards, supplementary holders get Amex Offers, travel accident insurance, and purchase/refund protection—but not all perks like lounge access.
4. Double Up Offers or Cashback
Supplementary cards are treated independently for Amex Offers and statement credits. You can often register the same (or different) offers on both your main and supplementary card—potentially doubling the value.
Tip: Check full T&C’s at AmericanExpress.com
How to Maximise Value
| Strategy | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Add supplementary card after account approval | Ensures you receive any first-card bonus (sign-up stage often excluded) |
| Use separate logins | Each cardholder can log in independently to claim Amex Offers |
| Know the limits | Verify how many cards you’re allowed—usually 2 free, with specific terms for Platinum and Business cards |
Try this Today
1. Check your card’s current supplementary card allowance.
2. Use the dedicated Amex link from your card account to apply for the first supplementary card—this is often required to trigger the bonus.
3. Make the most of shared benefits, especially for travel, insurance, and elite perks.
4. Log in with each card to stack Amex Offers or cashback deals.
Updated for 2025, UK-based travellers and points-seekers: your Amex supplementary card is a simple way to boost rewards, get more benefits, and maximize value.
Discover more from Take me to the Points
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.