American Express recently tinkered with its initial sign up bonus for the Hilton HHonors Surpass Card in a way that should make it more attractive to a broader audience. While the card still offers up to 60,000 bonus points, as it has since its inception, you’ll now receive 40,000 points after your first purchase and an additional 20,000 bonus HHonors points after your first $3,000 in purchases. Previously, you would earn 40,000 points after your first purchase an an additional 2,500 bonus points for each of your first eight stays at a Hilton property within the first 18 months of your Cardmembership.

The card’s benefits include:

• Earn 9 points per dollar at Hilton properties
• Earn 6 points per dollar on everyday purchases at gas stations, drugstores, phone, cable and satellite TV and Internet
• Earn 3 points per dollar everywhere else
• 500 bonus points when you use your card to book your trip online at a Hilton-branded website
• Complimentary HHonors Gold Elite status for the first year. After the first year, you can maintain Gold Elite status by spending at least $20,000 each calendar year.
• Automatic upgrade to HHonors Diamond Elite status when your eligible spending reaches at least $40,000 in a calendar year.
• Complimentary PriortyPass membership (valued at $99)

What do I do with my HHonors points?
Given the number of redemption options you have in the HHonors program, figuring out the best use of your points can be daunting. One additional option you have available to you as a Hilton Amex cardmember are access to AXON reward rates. Depending upon the hotel category and length of your stay, they can often be your best value. If you want to delve into the gory details of your Hilton reward options, this FT thread is an excellent resource.

The Surpass card carries a $75 annual fee which is not waived for the first year. (Note that there is also a no-fee Hilton HHonors Amex, though it offers fewer perks and bonuses.)

For more info or to apply for the card, see this link.