American Express
Earn up to 5x points on food, 3x on streaming, and 2x on transit with the Cobalt Card. $12.99/month fee. Flexible rewards and a generous welcome bonus.
The American Express Cobalt Card is an attractive choice for Canadians seeking strong rewards in everyday spending categories. You’ll enjoy 5 points per dollar at restaurants and on food delivery, 3x points on eligible streaming, and 2x on transit and gas. The $12.99 monthly fee totals $155.88 per year, making it easy to try without a large upfront commitment. To qualify, a minimum credit score of 725 is usually required.
How to Apply for the American Express Cobalt Card
First, head to the American Express website and complete the application form. You’ll need to provide your basic personal, employment, and financial information. American Express does not require a minimum income for this card. Once submitted, you can often receive a decision in minutes and, if approved, start using your card right away digitally while waiting for the physical card to arrive.
Key Advantages
The Cobalt Card stands out for its generous earning rates—5x on eats and drinks, 3x on streaming, and 2x on transportation. Points can be redeemed flexibly: for statement credits, travel, or transferred 1:1 to loyalty partners such as Aeroplan.
Another major advantage is the strong package of travel insurance, purchase protection, and no additional fee for authorized users—excellent perks for individuals and families alike.
Potential Downsides
One consideration is the monthly fee structure, adding up to a slightly higher total than some annual-fee cards. Also, American Express isn’t as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard across Canada, which may limit your usage in certain locations.
Keep in mind some redemption options, like merchandise, may present a lower value per point compared to travel rewards or statement credits.
Our Verdict
The American Express Cobalt Card is one of the best options for Canadians who spend frequently on dining, groceries, and travel. Its high earning rates, flexible redemption options, and rich insurance coverage easily offset the monthly fee for most users. If you’re keen to maximize rewards and value versatility, this card is worthy of serious consideration.
