What you need to start an American Express checking account

American Express Bank offers checking accounts directly to consumers, though the process and requirements differ from traditional banks. You will need a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, a valid government-issued ID, and a way to verify your identity online—either through a video call or by uploading documents. American Express also runs a background check through ChexSystems, which looks at your banking history for things like unpaid overdrafts or fraud.

The account itself requires an opening deposit, though the minimum amount varies depending on which checking product you choose. American Express typically offers a few checking options with different features and deposit requirements. You can start the process entirely online through their website or mobile app, and the whole thing usually takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a Social Security number, valid ID, and proof of identity—either through a video call or uploaded documents—to open an account.
  • American Express runs a ChexSystems check on your banking history, which can delay or block approval if you have unpaid overdrafts or fraud flags.
  • The opening deposit requirement depends on which checking product you choose, and you can complete the entire process online.
  • The account opens within minutes if identity verification is when ready, or within one to two business days if American Express needs to review documents.

Steps to complete your account opening

Start by going to the American Express Bank website or opening their mobile app and selecting the checking account option. You will enter your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and contact information. American Express will ask for your address and may ask about your employment status and annual income—this is standard for banking compliance, not a judgment about whether you can open an account.

Next comes identity verification. American Express offers two paths: a video call with a representative, or uploading a photo of your ID and a selfie. The video call is usually faster and completes when ready. If you upload documents instead, American Express reviews them within one to two business days. Once identity verification passes, you will see your account number and routing number right away, even if the physical card has not arrived yet.

You will then choose your opening deposit method—usually a bank transfer from another account, a wire transfer, or a check deposit through their mobile app. The deposit must clear before you can use the account, which typically takes one to two business days depending on the method you choose.

What the ChexSystems check means for your account

ChexSystems is a banking history database that American Express checks when you open an account. It tracks things like unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, and repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees. If you have a recent mark on your ChexSystems record, American Express may deny your process or ask for more information before approving it.

You have the right to see what is in your ChexSystems file. You can request a free report from ChexSystems directly through their website. If there is an error on your report—for example, a closed account that was not your fault—you can dispute it with ChexSystems, though the process takes 30 days. If American Express denies your process because of ChexSystems, they will tell you that in writing and provide ChexSystems contact information.

Deposit requirements and account features

American Express Bank checking accounts typically require an opening deposit that ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the specific product. Some accounts waive the minimum deposit if you set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Check the current offerings on the American Express Bank website, because the products and minimums change periodically.

The accounts usually come with a debit card, online banking, mobile check deposit, and access to ATMs. Some American Express checking products offer cash back at partner retailers or rewards on debit card purchases. Read the fee schedule carefully—American Express charges overdraft fees, monthly maintenance fees (sometimes waived if you meet balance or direct deposit requirements), and fees for things like wire transfers or expedited card replacement.

Timeline from process to usable account

If you complete identity verification through a video call, your account opens when ready and you can see your account and routing numbers right away. You can then set up your opening deposit and begin using the account once that deposit clears, which usually takes one to two business days.

If you upload documents for identity verification instead, American Express reviews them within one to two business days. Once approved, you follow the same deposit process. Your physical debit card arrives separately, typically within 7 to 10 business days, though you can use your account number for online payments or transfers before the card arrives.

What happens if your process is denied

American Express will tell you in writing if they deny your process and will cite the reason—usually a ChexSystems issue, a failed identity verification, or information that does not match their records. If the reason is ChexSystems, you can request your report and dispute any errors. If the reason is identity verification, you can try again with different documents or call American Express to ask what additional information they need.

If you are denied, you are not locked out forever. You can reapply after you have resolved the underlying issue—for example, after you have paid off an old overdraft or after you have corrected an error on your ChexSystems report. Some people find it helpful to call American Express customer service before reapplying to understand exactly what they are looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open an American Express checking account if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. You will still need to provide valid identification and go through the same identity verification process. Contact American Express directly to confirm they can process your process with an ITIN, since requirements can vary.

What if I have a bad banking history or was denied by other banks?

American Express uses ChexSystems to check your banking history, so a bad record there can affect your process. However, denial from another bank does not automatically mean American Express will deny you—each bank has different standards. If you were denied because of an old overdraft or closed account, paying it off or resolving the issue before you explore improves your chances.

Can I use the account before my debit card arrives?

Yes. Once your account opens and your opening deposit clears, you can use your account number and routing number for direct deposits, bill payments, and online transfers. You can also use mobile check deposit through the app. You will need to wait for your physical debit card to arrive if you want to use it in stores or at ATMs.

How long does the opening deposit take to clear?

It depends on the method. A transfer from another bank account usually clears within one to two business days. A wire transfer clears the same day or next business day. A check deposit through the mobile app takes three to five business days. American Express will tell you the expected timeline when you choose your deposit method.

What if I want to close the account right after opening it?

You can close an American Express checking account at any time by calling customer service or through online banking. There is no early closure penalty, though you should make sure any pending transactions have cleared first. American Express will send you any remaining balance by check or transfer it to another account.