What You Need to Know Before You Start
American Express Bank offers checking accounts directly to consumers, but the process and requirements differ from what you might expect at a traditional bank. You cannot walk into a branch or call a local number—American Express Bank operates online only, and accounts are opened through their website or by phone with their customer service team.
The account comes with a debit card, online banking, and bill pay features. There is no monthly maintenance fee, though some features (like overdraft protection) may have associated costs. Before you begin, understand that American Express Bank is a separate entity from American Express Company, the credit card issuer. This is a federally chartered bank, insured by the FDIC.
Key Takeaways
- American Express Bank checking accounts are opened online or by phone; there are no physical branch locations to visit.
- You will need a Social Security number, valid government-issued ID, and proof of current address to open an account.
- The account has no monthly fee, but overdraft fees and other service charges explore if you use certain features.
- Funding your account can happen through direct deposit, transfers from another bank, or mailed checks.
- The approval process typically takes one to three business days once you submit your information.
Documents and Information You Will Need
Gather these items before you start the online process or call. Having them ready speeds things up and reduces the chance you will need to submit additional paperwork later.
You will need your Social Security number, a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your ID and address do not match, bring both documents—the bank will verify both.
You will also need to decide on your initial deposit amount. There is no minimum deposit required to open the account, but you will need to fund it at some point to use it. Have the routing and account number of another bank account ready if you plan to transfer money electronically.
Opening Your Account Online
Visit the American Express Bank website and look for the checking account option. The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will enter your personal information, Social Security number, and address. The system will ask about your employment status and income, though this is for verification purposes, not to determine whether you may have access to.
After you submit your information, the bank runs a background check and verifies your identity. This is where most applications are approved or denied. The bank checks ChexSystems (a banking history database) and may review your credit report. If you have had accounts closed due to fraud or unpaid overdrafts, or if you have unresolved disputes with other banks, this can result in a denial.
Once approved, you will receive confirmation by email. Your account number and routing number will be provided so you can set up direct deposit or transfer money in. Your debit card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Opening Your Account by Phone
If you prefer to speak with someone, call American Express Bank's customer service number listed on their website. A representative will walk you through the same questions as the online form and can answer questions about features and fees in real time.
Phone applications follow the same approval timeline as online applications. The representative will verify your identity by asking security questions based on your credit history. Have your ID and proof of address nearby when you call, as the representative may ask you to confirm details from these documents.
After the call, you will receive the same confirmation email with your account details. The process is not faster by phone, but some people find it clearer to have questions answered when ready.
What Happens After Approval
Once your account is open, you can log into online banking when ready using the credentials provided. You can set up bill pay, view your balance, and transfer money between your American Express Bank account and other banks you own.
Your debit card will arrive separately by mail. Until it arrives, you can still access your money through transfers, ATM withdrawals (at ATMs that accept American Express cards), or by requesting a check from the bank. Some ATM networks charge a fee for out-of-network withdrawals, so check which ATMs are fee-free in your area.
Set up direct deposit if you receive a paycheck. This is the fastest way to get money into your account and often qualifies you for certain perks, like early direct deposit (receiving your paycheck one or two days before the official payday). Contact your employer's payroll department with your new routing number and account number.
Reasons Your process Might Be Denied
American Express Bank denies applications for specific reasons, most of which relate to banking history rather than credit score. A denial does not mean you cannot bank anywhere—it means this particular bank has declined your process.
Common reasons for denial include a history of overdrafts you did not pay back, accounts closed by the bank due to fraud or suspicious activity, or an unresolved dispute with another financial institution. If you appear in ChexSystems with a negative mark, the bank will likely deny you. You can request your ChexSystems report for free to see what is listed.
If you are denied, ask American Express Bank for the specific reason. Some denials are temporary—if you had a dispute with another bank that has since been resolved, reapplying after a few months may result in approval. If the reason is a pattern of overdrafts, demonstrating that you have managed another account responsibly for several months before reapplying can help.
Fees and Costs to Understand
There is no monthly maintenance fee for the checking account itself. However, other charges explore in specific situations. Overdraft fees are charged if you spend more than your balance; the amount varies but is typically $25 to $35 per overdraft. If you overdraft multiple times in one day, you may be charged multiple fees.
Out-of-network ATM withdrawals may incur a fee charged by the ATM operator, not by American Express Bank. Wire transfer fees explore if you send money to another bank outside the United States. Expedited card replacement (if your debit card is lost or stolen and you need it quickly) may have a fee.
Review the fee schedule on the American Express Bank website before you open your account. The fee structure can change, so check your account statements regularly to see what you are being charged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applications are approved or denied within one to three business days. You will receive an email notification with the decision. If additional information is needed, the bank will contact you by phone or email.
Can I have a joint account with someone else?
Yes. During the online or phone process, you can add a joint owner. Both people will need to provide their Social Security number, ID, and proof of address. Both will have full access to the account and the debit card.
What if I do not have a government-issued ID?
A valid government-issued photo ID is required. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can obtain a state ID card from your state's DMV. This process takes time, so plan ahead if you need one.
Can I transfer money from another bank to fund my account?
Yes. Once your account is open, you can link another bank account and transfer money electronically. This usually takes one to three business days. You can also deposit checks by mail or set up direct deposit from your employer.
What happens if I close my account?
You can close your account anytime by calling customer service or through online banking. Make sure your balance is zero or transfer any remaining money out first. The bank will send you a confirmation once the account is closed.