4 reasons to hold both the American Express Gold and Platinum

We know what you're thinking: Why pay hefty annual fees on two cards that earn the same type of points? Well, for us (and many others), it's entirely worthwhile.Indeed, the combined $1,220 price tag on the American Express Platinum Card® (see rates and fees) and American Express® Gold Card (see rates and fees) can be daunting. However, the earning rates and perks on these cards differ significantly.If you want to accelerate your earnings, maximize card benefits and protect your purchases, it can make sense to hold both the Platinum and Gold cards.Here are four reasons why.Earn two substantial welcome bonusesDuring the first year that you have a card, the welcome bonus is one of the most valuable benefits, if not the most valuable. Depending on the offers you're eligible for, you can earn up to 275,000 bonus Membership Rewards points between the two cards:Amex Platinum: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. (Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.)Amex Gold: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 bonu...