The Minimum Requirements for American Express Cards [2024]

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Table of Contents

• The Value of an American Express Relationship
• Minimum Requirements for an American Express Card
• Getting Started
• Best Personal Cards for Good to Excellent Credit
• Best Business Cards for Good to Excellent Credit
• Cards for Bad Credit or No Credit
• Why Did I Get Denied by American Express?
• Reconsideration Line
• What Is the Easiest Amex Card To Get Approved For?
• How Long Does It Take To Be Approved for an American Express Card?
• Does American Express Do a Hard Pull for Existing Customers?
• Final Thoughts

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Key Takeaways

• American Express typically recommends a good to excellent credit score (around 670 and above), though there is no set credit score that will guarantee approval.
• Other factors are also considered, such as your employment status, income, and your history with American Express.
• The maximum number of American Express cards you can hold is 4 credit cards and 10 charge cards.

Accepted in over 170 countries, American Express is a key worldwide card issuer and payment processing network. And while Visa is the most accepted card network globally, a recent Nilson report found that American Express cards are accepted at 99% of places in the U.S. that accept credit cards.

The increased acceptance is positive, but you’ll also find that American Express produces a uniquely diverse lineup of cards aptly suited for any consumer who has good to excellent credit. We’ll dive deeper into what it takes to qualify for an American Express card shortly, but first, let’s consider the value of doing business with the company and some of the benefits you can expect. Then, we’ll review some of the best cards American Express has to offer.

Let’s move forward with the information you’ll need to have the best chance of being approved for an American Express card.

The Value of an American Express Relationship

While earnings, redemption options, and benefits vary by card, you’ll find a wide range of value-added features and benefits on American Express cards.

Credit Card Earning, Redemption, Travel and Shopping Benefits, and More

• Earn Membership Rewards points or cash-back.
• There are Select travel rewards cards, cards that earn on everyday purchases, or low-interest card options.
• Travel benefits and protections include car rental insurance, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage insurance.
• Cards offer shopping protections such as cell phone coverage,purchase protection, and extended warranty.
• Amex Offers can save you money and help you earn more rewards.
• Select cards do not charge foreign transaction fees or have annual fees.
• Select cards have introductory 0% APR periods to save you interest charges on purchases and/or balance transfers.

Additional Services

• High-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit
• Traveler’s checks
• Prepaid cards and gift cards
• Corporate cards
• Free credit report via American Express MyCreditGuide

Bottom Line: Selecting any American Express card and developing a positive credit history with the card issuer can lead to a long-term relationship of rewards-earning, good-value travel redemptions, savings, protections, travel benefits, and more.

Minimum Requirements for an American Express Card

Minimum Requirements for an Amex Card Approval

While there is no set score that will guarantee that you will be approved for an Amex card, you generally need good to excellent credit to qualify for the best (premium) American Express cards. Leading credit bureau Experian defines a good credit score as 670 or better and a very good credit score as 740 or better. American Express has been known to pull credit primarily from Experian. Given that, if your score is 670 or higher, you should have reasonably good approval odds.

There is also a limit to how many Amex cards you can have. Amex has confirmed verbally that there is a limit of 4 consumer or business credit cards and, additionally, a limit of 10 charge cards.

Welcome bonus offers may be limited to once in a lifetime and not be available if you have previously had the card for which you are applying.

How To Get Preapproved for an American Express Credit Card

Despite the name, getting preapproved for an American Express card does not automatically guarantee that you will be approved.

That said, American Express offers an Apply With Confidence feature that makes the process much easier for those who are interested in their credit cards.

Essentially, Apply With Confidence allows you to see if you’ll be approved for a card before you actually submit your application. All you need to do is fill out the application details as you normally would, and then American Express performs a soft pull on your credit to determine if you will be approved for the card.

If so, then you can proceed to submit your application with the full confidence that you will be approved. If not, you can decline to submit your application, without making any impact on your credit score.

Additional Requirements Based on Data Points

You cannot be approved for more than 2 consumer cards within a 90-day period. Plus, you cannot be approved for more than 1 consumer card every 5 days.

You can apply for a business card and a consumer card on the same day and Amex could combine the credit inquiries.

Some consumers may currently hold 5 or 6 Amex credit cards but then would be declined for any further additional cards.

In addition to having good to excellent credit and the rules on how many cards you can have or apply for, American Express will also review credit report information including your payment history and credit utilization.

Bottom Line: You will need good to excellent credit to be approved for an Amex card. You can generally not receive a welcome bonus offer if you have had the same card in the past, and there is a limit to how many Amex cards you can have.

Getting Started

Prior to applying for any card, there are risk-free steps you can take to improve your chances of approval.

Check To See if You Have Offers

One way to find out if you have American Express card offers available to you is to utilize the CardMatch tool. You’ll find the risk-free CardMatch tool simple to use, the results appear instantly, and there is no effect on your credit score.

Having offers available does not guarantee you will be approved for those specific cards, just that you may be more likely to be approved for these cards.

American Express has its own tool for finding out if you have existing card offers.

What Credit Score Do You Need for an American Express Card?

There is no set credit score that will guarantee that you will be approved for any American Express credit card, even if you have a perfect 850 credit score.

In fact, your credit score is just 1 factor that American Express takes into account when determining whether you will be approved for a new card. The credit issuer also takes things into account like your income, employment status, your history with American Express, the amount of credit American Express has extended to you already, and more.

All that said, most applicants who have a credit score of 670 or higher generally have reasonably good approval odds for the full suite of American Express cards.

Know Your Credit History

Knowing where you stand when it comes to credit history is critical to qualifying for a new credit card. You’ll want to obtain a copy of your credit report, mostly to check it for any errors. You can get a free copy of your credit report via annualcreditreport.com.

Additionally, you’ll want to determine your credit score. You can do this for free via tools provided by existing credit card issuers or through Credit Karma, which is also at no cost to you.

Bottom Line: Prior to applying for any credit card, you should do a risk-free search for any existing offers you may have available to you, and also obtain your current credit report and credit score.

How To Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying

If you are looking to improve your credit score before you apply for an American Express card there are a few things you can do.

The first is to pay down any balances you currently have on your credit cards. This will lower your overall credit utilization, which is a big factor in how your credit score is determined.

Another option is to get added as an authorized user to a trusted family member or friend’s credit card who has a strong credit score and manages their credit responsibly. This signals to credit card issuers that someone else trusts you with their credit, and can help improve your score in the meantime.

Lastly, if your credit score isn’t where you’d like it to be at the moment, you could also simply let additional time pass. This is because the longer your credit cards remain open, in good standing, with low balances, and without any missed payments, the higher your credit score will increase month after month.

Best Personal Cards for Good to Excellent Credit

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More (at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges,Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $199 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Hailed as the best of the best in the premium travel rewards card circle, the Amex Platinum card comes with worldwide lounge access to over 1,300 locations, travel and shopping benefits and protections, and hundreds of dollars in statement credits.

Plus, the card recently added cell phone protection with up to $800 in coverage for stolen or damaged cell phones. There is a limit of 2 claims per 12-month period, and a $50 deductible applies to each claim. Additional terms and conditions apply.

American Express ® Gold Card

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More (at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
• Get the American Express ® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards ® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards ® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin’ Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Dunkin’ locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points + up to $100 back. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Gold card is a travel rewards card that functions well as an everyday spending card.

You’ll get the best of both worlds with elevated earnings at supermarkets, on dining, and on travel. Plus, at redemption time, you can use your points for flights via AmexTravel.com or the Amex transfer partners.

Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Learn More (at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

• 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.

• Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
Card Highlights
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday ® Card.
• Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

While you’ll earn cash-back on every purchase you make, purchases made at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and U.S. online retailers earn more. You’ll also save with access to Amex Offers, premium car rental protection, and the ability to redeem rewards for statement credits.

American Express ® Green Card*



The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card can provide a great way to accumulate Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit, and at restaurants.

All information about American Express ® Green Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This card can provide a great way to accumulate Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit, and at restaurants.

Welcome Offer

Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express ® Green Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

40,000 points UP's Bonus Valuation*: Annual Fee See Pay Over Time APR Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850) Why We Like This Card

The American Express ® Green Card is an excellent all-around travel rewards card thanks to earning 3x Membership Rewards ® points on eligible travel and transit purchases and at restaurants, access to American Express transfer partners, and a reasonable annual fee.

Pros & Cons
• 3x points per $1 spent at restaurants worldwide, on all eligible travel purchases, and transit purchases
• Up to $199 per calendar year in statement credits after you pay for a CLEAR ® Plus membership with the Card.
• Up to $100 in statement credits annually when you purchase airport lounge access through LoungeBuddy with the Card.
• $150 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Card Highlights
• Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express ® Green Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on travel, including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and vacation rentals.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® Points on transit purchases, including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the US.
• $199 CLEAR Plus Credit: Receive up to $199 per calendar year in statement credits when you pay for your CLEAR Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the American Express ® Green Card.
• $100 LoungeBuddy: No airport lounge membership? No problem! Purchase lounge access through the LoungeBuddy app using the American Express ® Green Card and receive up to $100 in statement credits annually.
• Payment Flexibility: When it comes to paying your bill, you have options. You can always pay in full. You also have the flexibility to carry a balance with interest or use Plan It ® to split up large purchases into monthly payments with a fixed fee, up to your Pay Over Time Limit. You may be able to keep spending beyond your limit – you’ll just need to pay for any new purchases in full when your bill is due.
• Trip Delay Insurance: If a round-trip is paid for entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason delays your trip more than 12 hours, Trip Delay Insurance can help reimburse certain additional expenses purchased on the same Eligible Card, up to $300 per trip, maximum 2 claims per eligible account per 12 consecutive month period. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: No matter where you’re traveling, when you use your American Express ® Green Card there are no foreign transaction fees.
• $150 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

With a generous welcome bonus offer and the ability to earn valuable Membership Rewards points, the Amex Green card is a good entry-level choice. The card also offers 3x earnings at restaurants and on travel and has statement credits for LoungeBuddy purchases and a CLEAR Plus membership.

Pair it later with a premium American Express card to expand Membership Rewards redemption opportunities for travel and flights.

*The information regarding the American Express ® Green Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Best Business Cards for Good to Excellent Credit

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More (at Amex's secure site)

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 points UP's Bonus Valuation*: Annual Fee 19.49% - 28.49% Variable Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850) Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons
• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
Card Highlights
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card ® , here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $199 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR ® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card ® .
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
• APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

We like that the Amex Business Platinum card rewards common business expenses, offers statement credits that deliver savings, and comes with the same worldwide lounge access as the consumer Amex Platinum card.

» Related: The 8 Best American Express Business Cards in 2024

American Express ® Business Gold Card

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Learn More (at Amex's secure site)

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Welcome Offer

Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*

100,000 Points UP's Bonus Valuation*: Annual Fee 19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO ® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850) Why We Like This Card

The American Express ® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros & Cons
• 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
  • Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
  • U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
  • Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
  • U.S. purchases at gas stations
  • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
  • $375 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status
  Card Highlights
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
  • The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
  • *Terms Apply
  Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.49% - 28.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 6 months from date of account opening
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
  Rewards Center

  With its 4x points on common business purchase categories each statement period and up to $150,000 in purchases each year, you’ll earn lots of Membership Rewards quickly.

  Bottom Line: Applicants with good to excellent credit will have dozens of Amex cards from which to select. In addition to Amex consumer and business cards, it can often be easier to get approved for Amex hotel or airline-branded cards such as the Hilton Honors American Express Card or the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card.

  Cards for Bad Credit or No Credit

  American Express, similar to Chase, does not offer a public card option for consumers with no credit or poor credit. If you are in this situation, however, there are plenty of card options that can help you build — or rebuild — your credit.

  Why Did I Get Denied by American Express?

  There are a variety of reasons that you may have been denied for an American Express credit card.

  It could be that American Express thought your credit score or income was too low, that you currently have large outstanding balances or missed payments, that you have too many recent inquiries or new accounts, your history with American Express and the amount of credit they have extended to you already, or many more reasons.

  All that said, American Express should list the reason or reasons that you were denied for the card you applied for in the decision letter they mailed to you.

  Reconsideration Line

  Even if your American Express card application is denied, all is not (yet) lost. Calling the Amex reconsideration line at 800-567-1083 could provide you with an opportunity to determine the reason for the denial and to provide any additional information that may reverse the decision.

  Making the effort to speak with a representative could possibly change the outcome or at least allow you to learn more about the reason for denial and what you can improve prior to applying in the future.

  You can read more about how to check the status of your Amex card application in our article on that topic.

  What Is the Easiest Amex Card To Get Approved For?

  While this can vary, objectively speaking, the easiest American Express cards to be approved for should be cards that require lower credit limits to be approved for or have no annual fee.

  This may include cards like The Amex EveryDay ® Credit Card, the American Express Cash Magnet ® Card, the Delta SkyMiles ® Blue American Express Card, and the Hilton Honors American Express Card, but this is not an exhaustive list.

  How Long Does It Take To Be Approved for an American Express Card?

  It is possible for you to receive an application decision immediately after you submit your application. In other cases where American Express requires more time to review your application, it can take 7 to 14 days for you to receive an application decision.

  Does American Express Do a Hard Pull for Existing Customers?

  Generally, no, American Express does not perform a hard pull for existing customers who apply for a new credit card during the application process.

  This means that if, for some reason, you were to be denied for a new card, no hard pull would be performed and there would be no impact on your credit. On the other hand, if you submit your application and you are approved for the new card, then American Express will do a proper hard pull and report this new account to your credit history.

  Final Thoughts

  There’s no doubt that the collection of cards offered by American Express is diverse. You’re sure to find a match regardless of your preferences if you have good credit or better.

  Keep in mind that the requirements we’ve mentioned are simply guidelines and that Amex could deny you a card even if you have good to excellent credit. Decisions are solely dependent on Amex’s internal criteria.

  Contrarily, Amex could also approve you with less than a 700 credit score after considering all other factors.

  Doing your homework up front to find qualifying offers, reviewing your credit report, and knowing your credit score can increase your chances for success.

  For the cell phone protection benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, coverage for a stolen or damaged eligible cellular wireless telephone is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions and limits of liability of this benefit. The maximum liability is $800, per claim, per eligible card account. Each claim is subject to a $50 deductible. Coverage is limited to two (2) claims per eligible card account per 12 month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

  The information regarding the American Express ® Green Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
  The information for The Amex EveryDay ® Credit Card has been independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
  The information regarding the American Express Cash Magnet ® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

  For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here.
  For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click here.
  For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday ® from American Express, click here.
  For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here.
  For rates and fees of the American Express ® Business Gold Card, click here.
  For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, click here.
  For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Gold American Express Card, click here.
  For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Blue American Express Card, click here.

  Featured Image Credit: Upgraded Points

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What credit score do I need for an Amex card?

  While Amex does not publish credit score requirements for its cards, we know that you will need a good to excellent credit score to qualify for an American Express card.

  Credit bureau Experian defines good credit as 670 or higher and excellent credit as 800 or higher.

  What credit bureau does Amex use?

  While American Express can pull from any of the 3 major credit bureaus — Transunion, Equifax, or Experian — it will most likely pull from Experian.

  What is the easiest Amex card to get approved for?

  While you will need a good to excellent score to qualify for any Amex card, a co-branded hotel or airline card may be the easiest to obtain.

  Additionally, entry-level cards such as the Amex Blue Cash Everyday card and cards that require just good credit would also be easier to obtain than premium rewards cards such as the Amex Platinum card.

  Is there an Amex card for bad credit?

  Amex does not issue a card that can be obtained with bad credit or no credit.

  There are, however, other card issuers such as Capital One that issue several cards that can be secured with bad or no credit.

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  About Christine Krzyszton

  Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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