AMEX introduces new $0 annual fee Essential Credit Card

By Rebeccah Elley · · 2 min read
Fact Checked
Advertiser disclosure

It’s common knowledge that many rewards credit cards, come with high annual fees attached. Now American Express is going against the grain launching its new $0 annual fee Essential Credit Card this week.

The rewards credit card will earn users 1 membership rewards point for every $1 spent, which can be redeemed through 8 different airline rewards programs. Cardholders will also receive a $50 credit when they sign up and make purchases of at least $500 within the first 2 months.

RELATED: Woolworths replaces Qantas Frequent Flyer program with $10 off your shop scheme

The Essential Credit Card comes with a purchase rate of 14.99%, which is fairly low compared to the average rate in Mozo’s database of 17.40%. And AMEX is also targeting Aussies trying to pay off debt, offering a 0% balance transfer rate for the first 12 months.

In a statement American Express revealed it conducted extensive research and found that to tap into the older millennial audience, who are largely value seekers it needed to provide a card with flexible rewards and no fee.

Users of AMEX’s new credit card will also have access to Apply Pay when it launches in Australia later this year, which allows them to pay with their smartphone. To top things off, the AMEX Essential Credit Card comes with smart phone screen insurance, which means the card member can claim up to $500 in repairs two times a year if they crack their phone screen. But keep in mind, there is a 10% excess to pay per claim.

Are you looking for some new plastic for your pocket? Head on over to our rewards credit card section to compare deals today.

Credit card comparisons on Mozo - last updated 26 January 2022

Search promoted credit cards below or do a full Mozo database search. Advertiser disclosure
  • Apply By 28 Feb 2022
    Bendigo Bank Low Rate Credit Card

    0% p.a. on purchases for up to 18 months (Reverts to 11.99% p.a). Low annual fee of $45 and no fees for additional cardholders.

    Purchase rate
    Balance transfer rate
    Annual fee
    Rewards program
    0% p.a. for 18 months then 11.99% p.a.
    No current offer
    $45
    -
    Go to site
    Details
  • Virgin Money Virgin Australia Velocity Flyer Card - Bonus Points Offer

    Earn up to 100,000 bonus points in the first 4 months (conditions apply) and 0% Balance transfer for 18 months

    Purchase rate
    Balance transfer rate
    Annual fee
    Rewards program
    20.74% p.a.
    0% p.a. for 18 months and then 20.99% p.a.
    $129 $64 in the first year
    Velocity Frequent Flyer
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    Details
  • Featured Product
    MoneyMe Freestyle Virtual Mastercard

    Use your virtual card instantly once approved (typically within 60 minutes). Features include Tap n Pay with up to 55 days interest-free, transfer money to any bank account and exclusive access to MoneyMe perks. $0 annual fee for lower limits. Must be employed with decent credit history.

    Purchase rate
    Balance transfer rate
    Annual fee
    Rewards program
    16.99% p.a.
    No current offer
    $209 $0 - $149 based on credit limit, $5/month for balances over $20.
    -
    Go to site
    Details
  • Westpac Low Rate

    Enjoy a super low rate of 13.74% with 55 days interest free plus 0% balance transfer for up to 28 months at 1% BT fee. No annual card fee for the first year, $59 thereafter. New Cards only. Offer ends February 24th 2022. T&C's and exclusions apply.

    Purchase rate
    Balance transfer rate
    Annual fee
    Rewards program
    13.74% p.a.
    0% p.a. for 28 months and then 21.49% p.a. (1.00% balance transfer fee)
    $59 $0 in the first year
    -
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    Details
  • Bendigo Bank Platinum Rewards Credit Card

    Earn 1.5 Bendigo Rewards points for every dollar spent (T&Cs apply). Up to 55 days interest free, comprehensive travel insurance, purchase protection and extended warranty.

    Purchase rate
    Balance transfer rate
    Annual fee
    Rewards program
    0% p.a. for 12 months then 19.99% p.a.
    No current offer
    $89
    Bendigo Rewards
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    Details

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Credit Card Awards

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