$400 Cash back 
$431 First-year value The SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express is a great cashback-centric American Express card. If you’re looking to earn cash back with a high base rate, while also enjoying perks such as Amex Offers, this card is well worth considering.
Bonuses & Fees
As a welcome bonus, this card offers $40 cash back in the first 10 months when you spend at least $750, totalling $400 cash back.
This card has a $9.99 monthly fee for an annual fee of $119.88, along with no fee for adding additional users.
Earning Rewards
The American Express SimplyCash Preferred Card has a simple earning structure: you’ll earn 4% cash back on groceries and gas, and 2% cash back on all other purchases.
While other cards may have higher earning rates in a few niche categories, this card offers a very strong rate of return on two popular categories, and an unparalleled return on uncategorized purchases. If you prefer a slim wallet and frequently shop at stores that take Amex, this card offers a fantastic value proposition.
The card also has a refer-a-friend program. You can earn $100 for every successful referral, up to $1,500 per calendar year.
Redeeming Rewards
Your cash back on the American Express SimplyCash Preferred Card can be redeemed annually. It’s always issued automatically on your September statement, as a credit to your account.
Perks & Benefits
The SimplyCash Preferred Card by American Express comes with all of the standard perks of being an American Express cardholder, including Front of the Line event presale tickets, exclusive invites for American Express Experiences, and periodic Amex Offers for additional rebates and rewards on everyday spending.
Insurance Coverage
Despite not being a travel rewards credit card, the American Express SimplyCash Preferred Card actually comes with a fairly high level of insurance provisions:
- Emergency medical insurance: Up to $5 million of coverage for the first 15 days of your out-of-province trip, for travellers aged under 65.
- Baggage delay insurance, up to $500 (aggregate total with Flight Delay insurance), for items purchased within four days when your baggage is delayed – this is different from lost and stolen baggage insurance, which doesn’t cover delays.
- Lost baggage insurance for lost or stolen baggage, up to $500 of coverage total
- Auto rental collision/loss damage insurance: Comprehensive coverage for up to 48 consecutive days for cars with an MSRP of up to $85,000, which can help you save on the insurance fees that the car rental company would otherwise charge.
Additionally, the card also offers Purchase Security and Mobile Device Insurance, covering most eligible items you’ve purchased with your card should they be stolen or damaged within 90 days of purchase, as well as mobile device insurance in the event that a new phone or tablet is stolen, damaged or lost, for two years and up to $1,000.