 TITLE: What Is a Platinum Credit Card? CONTENT: What Is the Difference Between Platinum and Preferred Credit Cards?\n-------------------------------------------------------------------\nCredit card issuers choose various names and adjectives for their products without adhering to any sort of industry standard. What one issuer calls a platinum card may be very different from what another issuer deems platinum.\nWith some credit card issuers, platinum cards are more prestigious than preferred cards. Take the card offerings from American Express, for example. Annual fees on these cards range from $95 (after an introductory annual fee of $0 for the first year) for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express up to $695 for The Platinum Card® from American Express. Both come with rewards programs, but the benefits jump considerably from the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express to The Platinum Card® from American Express, with popular added features such as airport lounge access. Additionally, The Platinum Card® from American Express works differently from a traditional credit card in that it allows you to carry a balance for certain charges, but not all.\nWith other issuers, platinum cards are less premium than preferred cards and are actually basic cards without rewards. As an example, Capital One Platinum Credit Card lacks rewards but is attainable by those with \"fair\" credit.\nIn other words, when you see the name of a credit card, don't assume it's out of reach for you or comes with certain features. Always read up on a card's benefits, requirements, and terms and conditions so you know if the card might be right for you and your wallet. END