Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex: rewards, fees and who it fits
What it earns
Annual fee: $0 introductory first year, then $150
| Earn | Where to use it |
|---|---|
| 2X | Delta purchasesPurchase directly from Delta. |
| 2X | Restaurants worldwideIncludes U.S. takeout and delivery. |
| 2X | U.S. supermarketsSuperstores and warehouse clubs excluded. |
| 1X | Everything elseNo category cap listed; eligible purchases only. |
Standard purchase rates, checked Sep 13, 2026. Issuer terms (opens in a new tab). Limited-time bonuses are separate.
TL;DR
- Worth comparing if you fly Delta and check bags.
- The fee becomes $150 after the first year.
- No, this isn’t the Amex Gold that earns Membership Rewards.
New here? How to read these guides
Start with the earning table and TL;DR. Then check who the card fits, a spending example and how to redeem. Compare the live offer before applying.
- Cash back
- A percentage back on eligible spending. 3% on $100 = $3.
- Points / miles
- 2X means 2 points per $1 spent. It does not automatically mean 2% back. Each program has different redemption values.
- Welcome bonus / SUB
- Extra rewards for meeting an offer's spending requirement by its deadline. SUB means sign-up bonus.
- Churning
- Opening cards for welcome bonuses. Start with one card you can manage, not a pile of applications. Fees, interest and overspending can erase the upside.
- Transfer
- Moving rewards to an airline or hotel program. Often a one-way move.
The first rule: pay your statement balance in full. Interest can wipe out the rewards.
Who this card is for
For Delta flyers who can use eligible checked-bag benefits. Count bags on trips you already plan, not imaginary trips to justify a fee.
What that earns in real life
Illustration: $400 groceries and $200 dining earns 1,200 miles at 2X. That alone is not a reason to pay an annual fee.
How to use the rewards
Eligible cardholders get 15% off Delta-operated award flights booked through Delta. Partner flights and taxes or fees are excluded. Compare the final miles-plus-cash cost.
Planning a trip with points? Award-flight search is coming. Get a beta invite →
Before you apply
Verify baggage and companion eligibility on your itinerary. This is not a Sky Club access card. Ignore credits that would make you book something you didn’t need.
Only spend what you can pay off in full. A welcome bonus is not worth interest or purchases you didn’t need.
Pay your statement balance in full. Interest can cost more than the rewards you earn.
Quick questions
Does Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex earn cash back or points?
It earns Delta SkyMiles. The multiplier counts points or miles earned per dollar, not a cash-back percentage.
What is the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex annual fee?
$0 introductory first year, then $150. Compare the ongoing cost with benefits you will actually use, not the advertised total.
Sources & what to double-check
Published Sep 13, 2026. Reviewed Sep 13, 2026. Offers can change.
- Current application offer, fees and welcome-bonus eligibility.
- Category definitions, exclusions and credit enrollment requirements.