What Is A Black Card?

So-called “black credit cards” may be the ultimate status symbol, but there’s a lot of confusion surrounding what they actually are. The most popular black credit card is from American Express, and across the board, these exclusive cards offer superior perks and luxury rewards that other top credit cards simply can’t match.

Before deciding between a black credit card or one of the best rewards credit cards on the market, read on to learn what black cards are, how they work and why they’re so difficult to obtain.

What is a black card — and who can get one?

A black credit card is a type of extremely exclusive credit card that offers cardholders special luxury perks and benefits, along with access to exclusive events and other opportunities. These cards are typically reserved for the ultra-wealthy, who spend significantly high amounts on them, which is why they often have no credit limits.

Typically, the cards are available on an invitation-only basis, so the only eligible people are those who get asked to apply. Each issuer has its own requirements for who qualifies for an invitation, but those requirements typically include a spending threshold.

How to get a black credit card

While it’s only natural to desire an exclusive credit card, card issuers tend to be tight-lipped about how to receive an exclusive invite to a black credit card. Unfortunately, getting an invitation is usually the only way to obtain a black credit card of your own. With the exception of the Mastercard® Black Card™ from Luxury Card, you can’t simply hop online and apply for a black card just because you want one.

However, there are some steps you can take to get an invitation for a black card membership. For example, past media reports have suggested that you can get an invitation to apply for a black credit card from American Express once you spend an average of $500,000 annually on another American Express credit card.

How much do you have to spend to get a black card?

The threshold for entry into this elite echelon of card ownership is incredibly high, as are the annual fees. In some cases, black credit cards require you to spend tens of thousands — or even hundreds of thousands — of dollars on your card each year just to be considered.

Some black credit cards, including options from Chase, may only be available to select banking clients who have a high dollar amount on deposit or invested with the bank. However, no one knows for sure the internal dollar figure required for a formal invitation to black card status.

Should you accept an invitation to get your own black card?

If you’re on the verge of considering a black credit card, we would actually advise against it. Bankrate credit cards senior editor Courtney Mihocik states that she didn’t end up choosing a black card membership for her family, despite receiving an invitation. She felt that the hefty annual fee and rewards didn’t justify the cost for her family’s spending habits. The exclusive benefits and luxury perks offered by the black card also didn’t align with their travel preferences or financial goals. Instead, she preferred to focus on cards that provide more practical rewards and value for their lifestyle.

Unless your main goal is having a credit card that few other people have, as well as the potential event invite opportunities, you’re probably a lot better off with a premium rewards credit card that’s less exclusive.

For example, travel rewards credit cards tend to offer significant value in exchange for the financial commitment. Not only can you earn valuable rewards and a generous welcome offer, but you also get access to perks like annual travel credits and airport lounge access — both of which can provide hundreds of dollars in value. These types of cards also typically offer exclusive cardholder benefits, ensuring you receive perks that you won’t find with other traditional cards.

What are the benefits of a black card?

Black credit cards are luxury credit cards that offer a level of exclusivity not found with other cards. For some, this exclusivity is sufficient to justify getting the card, especially since it can provide access to events and opportunities unavailable with other cards.

Aside from that exclusivity, there aren’t many benefits available that you can’t also find with other premium cards. These benefits generally center around travel advantages, such as airport lounge access, elite status with airlines and hotels, travel insurance and protections and annual travel credits.

Best black credit cards — and two luxury alternatives

Funnily enough, black cards aren’t necessarily black in color. Not only that, but many don’t include the term “black card” in their names, either.

If your spending is high enough and you want access to exclusive perks, be on the lookout for an invitation to these top black cards and all their benefits — and don’t forget to check out our top picks for black card alternatives.

The bottom line

Black credit cards are the crème de la crème of the credit card industry. With high entry requirements and fees, black credit cards hold a well-earned reputation for exclusivity. Although card specifics, like invitations, are hard to come by, it’s likely that aside from bragging rights, you’ll be better served by a premium travel rewards credit card or another luxury credit card instead.

If you’re ready to start your search, our CardMatch™ tool can help you find a luxury card that best fits your needs.

*Information about The Centurion® Card from American Express and J.P. Morgan Reserve® Card has been collected independently by Bankrate. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.