How I’ve earned over $1,200 in value from my Amex Platinum in 7 months

When I tell people that I pay $895 per year (see rates and fees) for my American Express Platinum Card®, I'm usually met with confusion at how I could possibly justify that price tag.I love being able to respond by saying that I actually profit off of this card in terms of value each year — something that's ringing true once again in 2026. We've still got several months left in this year, and I've already earned over $1,200 in value from my Amex Platinum.And no, none of that value comes from a welcome bonus, since I've had this card for almost two years.Here's how I'm making an $895-per-year card pay for itself — and then some.How I earned $1,283 in value from my Amex Platinum in 7 monthsThe Amex Platinum offers a wide range of statement credits to help offset its high annual fee. While the quantity of statement credits is a turn-off for some, I actually find most of them very easy to use.Lifestyle statement creditsSo far, I've been able to take advantage of the following lifestyle perks on my Amex Platinum:BenefitHow I've used this benefit so farValue I've received so farUp to $155 each calendar year in statement credits for a Walmart+ membership* (up to $12.95 each month; Plus-Up...