How to Open an American Express Bank Account

What you need to start an American Express bank account

American Express offers bank accounts through American Express Bank, a subsidiary that provides deposit products alongside their credit card business. To open an account, you will need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a valid government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address. The proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You will also need to decide which account type fits your needs — American Express offers checking accounts and savings accounts with different features and minimum balance requirements. The minimum opening deposit varies by account type, so check the current requirements before you start, as these can change. You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at an American Express Financial Advisors office if one is near you.

Key Takeaways

You need a Social Security number or ITIN, a valid photo ID, and proof of your current address to open an account.
American Express Bank offers both checking and savings accounts, each with different features and minimum deposit requirements.
The fastest route is opening online through the American Express Bank website, which typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Once your account is open, you can link it to your American Express credit card or use it as a standalone bank account.

Opening an account online

The online process is the most straightforward option. Go to the American Express Bank website and select the account type you want — checking or savings. You will be asked to enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, and current address. American Express will verify this information against public records in real time.

Next, you will upload or photograph your government-issued ID and proof of address. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work for the ID requirement. For the address proof, take a photo of a utility bill, lease, or recent bank statement. The system will review these documents, and most accounts are approved within minutes, though some may take up to one business day if additional verification is needed.

After approval, you will set up your login credentials and choose how to fund your new account. American Express allows you to transfer money from another bank account, deposit a check by mobile app, or receive a wire transfer. You will receive your debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening an account by phone

If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call American Express Bank directly. A representative will walk you through the same information — your name, date of birth, Social Security number or ITIN, and address. They will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history or public records.

You will still need to submit your ID and address proof, which you can do by mail, email, or through the American Express find portal after the call. The phone representative can answer questions about account features and help you choose the right account type for your situation. This route takes longer overall because of the document submission step, but it can be helpful if you have questions or prefer not to use the online system.

What happens after your account opens

Once your account is approved and funded, you can begin using it when ready for transfers and bill payments through online banking. Your debit card will arrive by mail, and you can set up it as soon as it arrives. American Express will send you login information and instructions for setting up mobile banking, which lets you check your balance, transfer money, and deposit checks by phone.

Your new account comes with online bill pay, which means you can pay other people or companies directly from your account without using a check. You can also set up direct deposit if your employer or a government benefit sends you regular payments. American Express provides FDIC insurance on deposits up to the standard limit, which protects your money if the bank fails.

Minimum balance requirements and fees

American Express Bank accounts have minimum opening deposits and, in some cases, minimum balance requirements to avoid monthly fees. The exact amounts depend on which account you choose and can change over time. Check the current requirements on the American Express Bank website or ask during your process, because falling below the minimum may result in a monthly maintenance fee.

Some accounts waive the monthly fee if you maintain a certain balance, set up direct deposit, or meet other conditions. Read the account terms carefully before you open, so you understand what you need to do to avoid fees. If you cannot meet the minimum balance requirement, American Express may offer a different account type that works better for your situation.

Linking your bank account to an American Express credit card

If you already have an American Express credit card, you can link your new bank account to it. This lets you pay your credit card bill directly from your bank account and set up automatic payments. You can also use the American Express mobile app to manage both your bank account and credit card in one place.

To link your accounts, log into your American Express profile online and go to the payment settings section. You will add your new bank account as a payment method by entering your account number and routing number. American Express will verify the account by depositing two small amounts (usually less than $1 each) and asking you to confirm the amounts — this typically takes one to two business days.

If you do not have a Social Security number

You can open an American Express Bank account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. An ITIN is issued by the Internal Revenue Service to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. The process process is the same — you will provide your ITIN where the form asks for a Social Security number.

You will still need a valid government-issued photo ID and proof of address. Some American Express locations may ask additional questions to verify your identity if you are using an ITIN, but this should not prevent you from opening an account. If you run into trouble, call American Express Bank directly and explain your situation — they can guide you through any extra steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to open an account?

Online accounts are usually approved within minutes to one business day. Phone applications take longer because you must submit documents separately, which can add several business days. Once approved, your debit card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but you can use your account for transfers and bill pay when ready.

Can I open an account if I have had banking problems in the past?

American Express checks your banking history through ChexSystems, a system that tracks closed accounts and unpaid fees. If you have negative history, you may be denied, but some banks offer second-chance accounts. Contact American Express directly to ask about your specific situation — they can tell you whether your history will affect your process.

What is the difference between a checking and savings account at American Express?

A checking account is for regular spending and bill payments, and it comes with a debit card and check-writing ability. A savings account is for storing money and earns interest, but you cannot write checks or use a debit card. Choose checking if you need to pay bills regularly, and savings if you want to set money aside and earn a small return.

Do I need an American Express credit card to open a bank account?

No. American Express Bank accounts are separate from credit cards and can be opened on their own. You do not need a credit card to open a checking or savings account, and you do not need a bank account to get an American Express credit card. The two products are independent.

What if I cannot meet the minimum balance requirement?

If your account has a monthly fee for falling below the minimum, you may be charged that fee each month. Some accounts waive the fee if you set up direct deposit or maintain a certain balance. Before you open, ask American Express whether they offer an account with no minimum balance or a lower minimum that works for your situation.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.