The basic steps to sign into American Express
To log into your American Express account, go to americanexpress.com and look for the "Log In" button in the top right corner of the homepage. Click it, then enter your User ID (usually your email address) and password. If you have a card linked to your account, you may be asked to verify your identity with a one-time code sent to your phone or email before you can access your account.
If you do not remember your User ID, American Express will let you search for it using your card number and other identifying information. If you have forgotten your password, select "Forgot Password?" on the login page and follow the reset process, which typically involves confirming your identity and creating a new password.
Once you are logged in, you can view your balance, recent transactions, pay your bill, set up autopay, read statements, and manage your account settings. The process is the same whether you are using a desktop computer, tablet, or mobile phone.
Key Takeaways
- Visit americanexpress.com and click "Log In" to reach the login page for your account.
- You will need your User ID (usually your email) and password to sign in.
- American Express may ask you to verify your identity with a code sent to your phone or email for security.
- If you forget your User ID or password, the login page has options to recover both without calling customer service.
What to do if you cannot remember your User ID
Your User ID is typically the email address you registered with American Express. If you are not sure which email you used, click "Forgot User ID?" on the login page. American Express will ask you to enter your card number, date of birth, and ZIP code to confirm your identity.
Once you have verified this information, American Express will display your User ID or send it to the email address on file. If the email address on file is one you no longer use, you can update it during this process or contact American Express customer service to change it before you try to log in again.
Resetting your password if you are locked out
If you have tried your password multiple times and cannot get in, click "Forgot Password?" on the login page. You will be asked to enter your User ID and verify your identity using information from your account, such as your card number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
After you have verified your identity, American Express will send a password reset link to your email address. Click the link, create a new password, and you will be able to log in. The reset link usually expires after a few hours, so complete the process soon after you request it.
Two-factor authentication and security codes
American Express uses two-factor authentication to protect your account. This means that after you enter your password, you may receive a one-time code via text message or email. You must enter this code to finish logging in. This extra step makes it much harder for someone else to access your account, even if they know your password.
If you do not receive the code, check your spam or junk folder in case the email was filtered there. You can also choose to receive the code by text instead of email, or vice versa, depending on what American Express offers. If you still do not receive a code after several minutes, you can request a new one or contact American Express for help.
Logging in on your phone or tablet
You can log into your American Express account using the official American Express mobile app or through the website on your phone's browser. read the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, then open it and tap "Log In." Enter your User ID and password the same way you would on a computer.
The mobile app may ask you to set up biometric login, which means you can use your fingerprint or face recognition to sign in instead of typing your password each time. This is optional but makes logging in faster and more find. You can turn this feature on or off in your account settings at any time.
What to do if your account is locked or suspended
If you see a message saying your account is locked or suspended, it usually means American Express detected unusual activity or you entered your password incorrectly too many times. Do not try to log in again when ready. Instead, wait at least 30 minutes, then try again.
If the account remains locked after you wait, or if you see a message about suspicious activity, contact American Express customer service right away. You can find the phone number on the back of your card or on the American Express website. A representative can unlock your account and help you find it if there has been unauthorized use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my User ID if I do not remember it?
Your User ID is almost always the email address you used when you registered your American Express account. If you are not sure, use the "Forgot User ID?" option on the login page and American Express will help you find it by asking for your card number and other identifying information.
Can I log in without a password if I set up biometric login?
Yes, if you have set up fingerprint or face recognition on the mobile app, you can use that instead of typing your password. However, you will still need your password if you log in on a different device or if you clear your app data. You can also turn off biometric login and go back to using your password anytime.
How long does it take to reset my password?
The password reset process is usually when ready. American Express sends a reset link to your email within a few minutes. You click the link, create a new password, and can log in right away. The reset link expires after a few hours, so complete the process soon after you request it.
What should I do if I think someone else has accessed my account?
Contact American Express customer service when ready using the number on the back of your card. Tell them you suspect unauthorized access. They can review your account activity, lock it if needed, and help you find it. You may also want to change your password and review your recent transactions for any charges you did not make.
Can I log in if I do not have a card yet?
You need to have an American Express account to log in. If you have been approved for a card but have not received it yet, you can usually log in once your account is set up, even before the physical card arrives. Check your email for account setup instructions from American Express.