What could be better than earning rewards from money you’re already spending?  Over three million American Express cardholders nationwide have been enjoying this benefit of the Membership Rewards program.  The scope of this popular program has just expanded, with the addition of 13 new partners.

Membership Rewards allows cardmembers to earn a point for every dollar charged on eligible, enrolled American Express cards.  The points are then redeemable for a wide selection of brand-name merchandise and travel rewards at a nearly unending list of partners, including:

Airlines:

  Delta Air Lines, US Airways, Continental, Southwest Airlines, TWA, Hawaiian Airlines, Virgin Atlantic Airways, Korean Air, AeroMexico, EL AL Isreal Airlines, Sabena, Mexicana and LatinPass.

Hotels:  Marriott Rewards (Marriott, Renaissance, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, TownePlace Suites, Residence Inn), Priority Club Worldwide (Inter-Continental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Stayridge Suites), Hilton HHonors (Hilton, Conrad International, Vista), Best Western Gold Crown Club International and Starwood Preferred Guest (Westin, Sheraton, The Luxury Collection/St. Regis, W Hotels, Caesars, Four Points).

Car Rental:  Hertz, Budget Rent a Car, and National Car Rental.

Land and Sea Vacations:  Points can be redeemed at over 200 hotel and resort locations worldwide, as well as for an assortment of special vacation packages and cruises.

Retail:  Gift certificates or quality merchandise from American Express Financial Advisors, Caswell-Massey, Filene’s Basement, Godiva Chocolatier, Golf Academy, J&R Music/Computer World, The Learning Company, Linens‘n Things, Montblanc, Saks Fifth Avenue, Steiner Sports Marketing, Tourneau and 1-800-SEND-FTD.

In addition to the fine businesses listed above, the 13 new partners are:  Borders Books & Music, Champs Sports, Coach, Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Lady Foot Locker, The NBA Store, Royal Doulton, Samsonite Company Stores, The Sharper Image, Zany Brainy, Avis and Cathay Pacific Airways.

Membership Rewards points, which do not expire, can be redeemed for airline rewards beginning at 1,000 points and for merchandise rewards beginning at 2,500 points.  There is a $25 annual fee for the program, for which terms, conditions and fees may vary.  For additional information about American Express cards and services, visit their Web site at www.americanexpress.com.  To apply for a card, call 800-THE-CARD (843-2273).