Upgrading to BA Premium card, then instantly getting a refund?

[ArminTamzarian]

I’ve read Rob’s article on this, but just wanted to ask for my specific situation. Sorry, I’m not a huge spender, so have never had this situation before!

I’m hitting about £10,000 (maybe £12,000) on my basic BA card this year (in June time), and I hadn’t realised that the companion voucher is now only for economy. That’s changed!

So I’m thinking it makes sense to upgrade the card, but given its £250, it also makes sense not to keep it (for me). Some questions (all stupid, probably):

1. Do I have to swap to the premium card BEFORE I hit £10,000 / £12,000 to get the right voucher?
2. I understand the voucher lasts for 2 years. Do I have to have booked something with it before cancelling the card?
3. How easy is it to downgrade the card within a month or two? Massive aggro at the AMEX end, or not?

Thanks for any replies.

[aq.1988]

1. Yes, do it before you hit £10k. Certainly before £12k, as you’ll only get the Economy voucher then. If you do it between £10k to £11,999, then I believe you might have issues, you might get the Premium voucher but with only a 12 month validity, and have to call them to adjust it.

2. No, but Amex might say that you forfeit the voucher as they say you have to pay the taxes on your 241 redemption with that card. I believe in reality, you just need to pay it with any Amex, but they could start enforcing that rule at any time.

3. Some might consider it a bit cheeky to only pay 1 or 2 months, and claim the premium voucher, but I don’t think Amex makes it difficult for people to do it.