What you need to open an American Express account

American Express has different account types — a personal credit card, a business card, or a bank account — and each has its own opening process. For a personal credit card, you will need to be at least 18 years old, have a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, and provide basic information about your income and employment. American Express will check your credit history, so having a credit score helps, though some cards are designed for people building credit for the first time.

If you are opening a bank account with American Express Bank (their deposit account service), the requirements are similar but the process is slightly different. You will still need identification and a Social Security number, but you will also need to fund the account with an initial deposit, which varies by account type.

The entire process can be done online, by phone, or in person at an American Express office. Online is usually the fastest — you can complete it in 10 to 15 minutes and often get a decision within minutes to a few hours.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a Social Security number or ITIN, proof of identity, and information about your income to open any American Express account.
  • Credit cards can be opened entirely online and you may receive a decision within hours, while bank accounts require an initial deposit and take one to two business days to set up.
  • American Express checks your credit history, but offers cards for people with limited or no credit history.
  • You can open an account on the American Express website, by calling their customer service line, or at an American Express office location.

Opening a personal credit card online

Go to the American Express website and select the card that matches your needs — they offer different cards for different spending patterns and credit histories. Click the button to open an account and you will be asked for your name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number or ITIN.

Next, you will enter information about your annual income, employment status, and whether you rent or own your home. American Express uses this to assess risk. Be honest — they verify income on some applications, and lying can result in account closure later.

Review the terms and conditions, which explain the annual fee (if any), interest rate, and rewards structure. Then submit. American Express will run a hard inquiry on your credit — this is a formal credit check that temporarily lowers your credit score by a few points. You will receive a decision by email or phone within minutes to a few hours, sometimes the next business day.

If you are approved, your card number will be provided when ready, and you can use it for online purchases right away. A physical card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Opening a bank account with American Express Bank

American Express Bank offers savings accounts and money market accounts. The process starts on their website or by phone. You will provide the same personal information as for a credit card — name, date of birth, address, and Social Security number.

The key difference is that you must fund the account with an opening deposit. The minimum varies by account type, but is typically $25,000 for a money market account and lower for savings accounts. You can fund it by transferring money from another bank account or by mailing a check.

Once you submit your process and make the deposit, the account usually activates within one to two business days. You will receive login credentials by email so you can manage the account online.

What happens after your account is approved

For a credit card, your first statement will arrive 30 days after your first purchase. You will have a grace period — usually 21 to 25 days from the statement date — to pay your balance in full without interest charges. If you carry a balance, interest accrues at the rate listed in your terms.

For a bank account, you can begin depositing and withdrawing money when ready. American Express Bank accounts are FDIC-insured, which means deposits up to $250,000 are protected if the bank fails.

American Express will send you a welcome package with your card or account details, a PIN if applicable, and information about online access. Set up online banking right away so you can monitor your account and set up automatic payments or transfers.

If your process is declined

American Express will tell you why — usually because of a low credit score, too much existing debt, or a short credit history. You have the right to a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once per year at annualcreditreport.com. Check it for errors.

If your score is low, you can reapply in a few months after paying down debt or correcting errors on your report. American Express also offers cards specifically for people with limited credit history, which have lower approval requirements.

If you were declined for a bank account, the reason is usually the opening deposit requirement or a problem with your banking history (such as unpaid overdrafts at another bank). Ask American Express what the specific reason was before reapplying.

Choosing between American Express and other banks

American Express is known for customer service and rewards programs, but it is not the only option. Traditional banks like Chase or Bank of America may have lower minimum deposits for bank accounts and more branch locations. Credit unions often have lower fees and more flexible lending standards.

If you are new to banking or rebuilding credit, compare the annual fees, interest rates, and minimum balances across a few options. American Express is a solid choice if you want strong customer service and don't mind the higher minimum deposits for bank accounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. American Express offers cards for people with no credit history, though approval is not may provide. If you have never had credit before, you may need to start with a secured card, which requires a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit.

Can I open an account if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You will need to provide it during the process, and American Express will verify it with the IRS.

How long does it take to receive my physical card?

American Express typically mails cards within 7 to 10 business days of approval. You can use your card number for online purchases when ready after approval, even before the physical card arrives.

What is the minimum deposit for an American Express Bank account?

The minimum varies by account type. Money market accounts typically require $25,000, while savings accounts may have lower minimums. Check the American Express website for current requirements, as these change.

Can I have both a credit card and a bank account with American Express?

Yes. You can open both separately. They are managed through the same online login, so you can view both accounts in one place.