American Express Schwab Investor Card vs Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card

Common questions

Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, American Express Schwab Investor Card or Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card?

The American Express Schwab Investor Card has a public bonus (10,000 Membership Rewards points, worth roughly $110), while the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card doesn't advertise one right now.

Is the American Express Schwab Investor Card's $0 annual fee worth it compared to the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card?

The American Express Schwab Investor Card has no annual fee, so the question is whether the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card's $249 fee is justified by its perks. If you'll use enough of the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card's benefits to clear $249 in value annually, it's worth it; otherwise stick with the American Express Schwab Investor Card.

Can I have both the American Express Schwab Investor Card and Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card?

Yes, since they're from different issuers (American Express and Cardless) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both, they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.

Should I get the American Express Schwab Investor Card or the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card first?

Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. American Express Schwab Investor Card: $1,000 spend in 6 months. Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card: no published min spend. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.