Big changes for Hilton credit cards and increased welcome offers

Hilton offers some of the best credit cards for travel loyalist, with the opportunity to earn automatic elite status, complimentary breakfast, upgrades, bonus points, statement credits and more.
Recently, two Hilton credit cards, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, underwent some major changes. There are higher annual fees as a result of these updates, but there are also better perks. For a limited time, they’re also offering increased welcome offers.
Amex Hilton Surpass, which offers complimentary Gold elite status to all cardmembers, is increasing its annual fee from $95 per year to $150 per year (see rates and fees). It might still be worth it for the benefits alone, even with a $55 increase.
During the calendar year, cardmembers will still be able to earn Diamond elite status when they spend $40,000 on the card. Within a calendar year, you’ll still be able to earn a free night reward after spending $15,000 on the card.
The Amex Hilton Surpass card now comes with an annual statement credit of up to $200, which is one of the better new perks. Each quarter, Hilton gives away $50 in statement credits that can be used at any Hilton property.
Hilton has added a new bonus category to the Amex Hilton Surpass, where you can now earn 4 points per dollar on U.S. online retail purchases. This isn’t a very common category among travel reward credit cards, so it’s a great way to earn bonus points.
In addition, cardmembers will now enjoy complimentary Executive status at National Car Rental.