Are American Express cards really accepted everywhere in Canada?

Yes, far more than they were 10 years ago. American Express Canada added more than 96,000 new merchants in 2018 alone, and acceptance keeps growing. The notable exceptions are Costco (Mastercard only) and some small independent retailers. For most day-to-day transactions, groceries at IGA and Metro, restaurants, gas and online subscriptions, American Express goes through without a problem.

Which American Express card is best for everyday groceries?

The American Express Cobalt® Card is the clear grocery champion in Canada: 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on groceries, restaurants and food delivery, up to $30,000 in annual spending in those categories. With a milesopedia valuation of about 2.1 cents per point, the effective return tops 10% in travel value, which no other card in the country matches.

What are the best uses for the American Express Gold Rewards Card and the Platinum Card?

The American Express® Gold Rewards Card shines on gas, drugstores and travel with 2 points per dollar, which makes it a good complement to the Cobalt. The American Express Platinum Card® is more of a premium travel tool: 3 points per dollar on restaurants and travel, annual credits of $200 in travel and $200 in dining, access to Centurion and Priority Pass lounges, and automatic Hilton and Marriott elite status.

How can I pay my taxes or my rent with an American Express card?

You can use third-party services such as PaySimply or Plastiq to pay your taxes, rent, tuition or supplier invoices with your American Express card. These platforms charge a service fee of 2.5% to 3%, but when you are working through a large minimum spend requirement (for example $10,000 on the Platinum Card), the welcome bonus is worth far more than the fee.