You can withdraw money from an American Express savings account through online transfers, ATM withdrawals, or by requesting a check

American Express Bank offers a few ways to move money out of your savings account. The fastest method is usually an online transfer to another bank account you own — this takes one to three business days. You can also withdraw cash at ATMs that accept American Express cards, though not all ATMs do. A third option is to request a check mailed to you, which takes longer but works if you need to pay someone who doesn't accept electronic transfers.

The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money and what you're using it for. If you're moving money to pay a bill at another bank, an online transfer is usually quickest. If you need cash in hand, an ATM withdrawal gets you money the same day. If you're paying a person or business by check, requesting one from American Express works but adds several days to the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Online transfers from your American Express savings account to another bank account typically complete within one to three business days.
  • You can withdraw cash at ATMs that display the American Express logo, though availability varies by location and ATM network.
  • Requesting a check by mail is an option if you need to send money to someone who doesn't accept electronic payments.
  • American Express savings accounts do not have a monthly withdrawal limit, but some transfers may have daily or per-transaction limits depending on your account.

Transferring money online to another bank

The most common way to withdraw from an American Express savings account is to set up an online transfer to a checking account at another bank. You'll do this through your American Express online account or mobile app. Log in, find the transfer or move money section, and select the external bank account you want to send money to.

If this is your first transfer to that bank account, you'll need to add it as a linked account first. American Express will ask for the routing number and account number of the bank you're transferring to. You can find these on a check, in your other bank's app, or by calling that bank. Once you've added the account, American Express will verify it by sending two small deposits — usually a few cents each — to that account. You'll need to confirm the amounts in your other bank's system, which can take one to two business days.

After the account is verified, you can transfer money whenever you want. The transfer itself takes one to three business days to show up in your other bank account. American Express does not charge a fee for outgoing transfers, but check whether your other bank charges a fee for receiving transfers from outside banks.

Withdrawing cash at ATMs

You can withdraw cash from your American Express savings account at ATMs that accept American Express cards. Not all ATMs do — most ATMs are part of networks like Allpoint, MoneyPass, or Cardtronics that partner with American Express. You can find participating ATMs through the American Express website or app by entering your location.

When you withdraw at an ATM, the money comes out of your account when ready. There is no fee from American Express for using a participating ATM. However, some ATM operators charge a fee for non-customers — this fee appears on your receipt before you complete the withdrawal, so you can cancel if you don't want to pay it.

If you use an ATM that does not accept American Express cards, the transaction will be declined. This is different from a debit card, where you might be able to get cash back at a store — American Express savings accounts do not offer that option.

Requesting a check from American Express

You can request that American Express mail you a check drawn on your savings account. This is useful if you need to pay someone by check or if you want to deposit money into another account at a bank that doesn't accept electronic transfers. To request a check, log into your American Express account online or call their customer service number on the back of your card.

When you request a check, tell American Express the amount and who it should be made out to. They will mail it to the address on file for your account. The check typically arrives within five to seven business days, though this can vary depending on mail delivery in your area. Once the check clears at the receiving bank, the money will be deducted from your American Express savings account.

Understanding withdrawal limits and timing

American Express savings accounts do not have a monthly limit on the number of withdrawals you can make, which is different from some other savings accounts. However, there may be daily or per-transaction limits on how much you can transfer or withdraw at one time. These limits vary depending on your account history and the specific type of account you have.

If you try to withdraw more than your daily limit, the transaction will be declined. You can contact American Express to ask what your limit is, or you can try withdrawing a smaller amount. Some customers find that their limits increase after they've had the account for a certain period of time or after they've made several successful transactions.

Transfers between your American Express accounts (for example, from savings to a checking account with American Express) are usually faster than transfers to outside banks. These internal transfers often complete the same day or next business day.

What happens if your withdrawal is declined

If you try to withdraw money and the transaction is declined, the most common reasons are that you've hit your daily withdrawal limit, you don't have enough money in the account, or the receiving bank account information is incorrect. Check your account balance first to make sure you have enough money. If you do, contact American Express to ask whether you've hit a daily limit.

If you're transferring to another bank and the transfer is declined, double-check the routing number and account number you entered. A single digit wrong will cause the transfer to fail. American Express customer service can help you verify this information before you try again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to transfer money from American Express to another bank?

Online transfers to another bank typically take one to three business days. Transfers between American Express accounts (if you have a checking account with them) are usually faster, sometimes completing the same day. Checks take five to seven business days to arrive by mail, plus additional time for the receiving bank to clear them.

Are there fees for withdrawing money from an American Express savings account?

American Express does not charge fees for online transfers to other banks or for withdrawals at participating ATMs. Some ATM operators charge their own fees, which you'll see on the screen before you complete the withdrawal. Other banks may charge fees for receiving transfers from outside institutions.

Can I withdraw money the same day I request it?

Yes, if you withdraw cash at an ATM, the money comes out when ready. Online transfers to other banks take one to three business days. Checks take five to seven business days to arrive, plus time for the receiving bank to clear them.

What if I need to withdraw more than my daily limit?

Contact American Express customer service to ask what your daily limit is and whether it can be increased. Some limits are temporary and may increase after you've had the account longer or made several successful transactions. You can also make multiple smaller withdrawals on different days if you need to access a larger amount.

Can I use my American Express savings card at any ATM?

No, only ATMs that display the American Express logo or are part of American Express partner networks will accept your card. You can search for participating ATMs through the American Express website or app. Regular bank ATMs that only accept Visa, Mastercard, or Discover will decline your card.