American Express has announced a significant increase in welcome bonuses for its Hilton co-branded credit cards. The enhanced offers will be available for a limited time, from October 1, 2025, through January 14, 2026, giving potential cardholders approximately 3.5 months to take advantage of the elevated rewards.
This temporary boost applies to both personal and business Hilton credit cards in the American Express portfolio. The timing of this promotion coincides with the fall travel season. It extends through the winter holidays, a strategic move likely designed to capture consumers planning travel during these peak periods.
Enhanced Welcome Bonuses
While specific details about the increased welcome offers weren’t provided, American Express confirmed that new cardholders who apply during the promotional window will qualify for the enhanced bonuses. These offers typically include Hilton Honors points redeemable for hotel stays across Hilton’s global portfolio of properties.
The promotion covers multiple cards in the Hilton lineup, including both consumer cards and business options. American Express and Hilton have maintained a long-standing partnership, offering a range of credit card products that cater to travelers from occasional vacationers to business professionals and luxury travelers.
Market Context
This limited-time promotion comes amid increasing competition in the travel rewards credit card space. Major card issuers regularly adjust their welcome bonuses to attract new customers, particularly as travel continues to rebound following earlier disruptions in the industry.
Hotel co-branded credit cards have become increasingly popular among consumers looking to maximize value from their spending and travel habits. These cards typically offer benefits beyond just points, including elite status, free night certificates, and various on-property perks.
Financial analysts note that such promotional periods often drive significant new account growth for issuers. For American Express, which has historically focused on premium card products, these enhanced offers represent an opportunity to expand its cardholder base.
Consumer Considerations
For consumers considering these offers, financial experts recommend evaluating several factors before applying:
- The specific point values of the enhanced welcome offers
- Annual fees associated with each card
- Ongoing earning rates for everyday spending
- Additional card benefits and perks
- Personal travel patterns and loyalty to the Hilton brand
Those interested in the enhanced offers should mark their calendars for the October 1 start date. American Express typically requires new cardholders to meet minimum spending thresholds within a specified timeframe to earn welcome bonuses, so planning application timing around major purchases may be beneficial.
The limited-time nature of these offers creates a sense of urgency for consumers who have been considering adding a Hilton co-branded card to their wallet. With the promotion ending in mid-January 2026, potential applicants have a defined window to make their decision.
As the promotion approaches, American Express is expected to release full details of the enhanced welcome offers, including specific point values and any additional benefits that might be included during this promotional period.
