Getting an American Express credit card can be a swift process, often allowing you to start using your card benefits much sooner than you might expect. But just how fast can it be? Let's break down the journey from application to card in hand.
Ready to Get Started? Let's Dive In!
So, you're eyeing that American Express card and wondering how quickly you can unlock its perks? Fantastic! The good news is that American Express is known for its efficient application and delivery process. While there are a few factors that can influence the speed, many applicants experience a surprisingly rapid turnaround. Let's walk through the steps to understand what to expect.
Step 1: The Online Application – Speed is Key!
The very first step to getting your American Express card quickly is to apply online. This is by far the fastest and most efficient method.
Sub-heading 1.1: Filling Out the Application
When you apply online, you'll be guided through a series of questions. Have your personal information readily available, including:
Full Name and Address: Ensure this matches your official records.
Date of Birth: For identity verification.
Social Security Number (SSN): Essential for credit checks in the US.
Income Information: Be accurate about your annual income.
Employment Details: Your current employer and how long you've been employed.
Accuracy and completeness are paramount here. Any discrepancies or missing information can lead to delays as American Express may need to verify details.
Sub-heading 1.2: The Instant Decision
This is where the "how fast" truly comes into play! For many applicants, American Express provides an instant decision on their application. This means within minutes of submitting your application, you could receive an approval or denial. This is thanks to sophisticated automated underwriting systems that quickly assess your creditworthiness.
What makes an instant approval more likely? A strong credit history, a good credit score, and meeting the income requirements for the specific card you're applying for.
Sub-heading 1.3: "Pending" Status – What it Means
Sometimes, your application might go into a "pending" status instead of an instant decision. Don't panic! This simply means American Express needs a little more time to review your information. This could be due to:
Slight inconsistencies in your application.
Further verification needed for your identity or income.
You might have applied for several credit cards recently.
You already have a substantial amount of credit with American Express.
If your application goes to pending, American Express generally provides an update via email within 5-10 business days. In some cases, it could take up to 30 days for a final decision.
Step 2: Immediate Access with an Instant Card Number
One of the most exciting features American Express offers is the Instant Card Number for eligible applicants. This can significantly reduce your waiting time!
Sub-heading 2.1: What is an Instant Card Number?
An Instant Card Number is your actual credit card number, expiration date, and security code that you receive immediately upon approval (if eligible) before your physical card even arrives in the mail. It's not a temporary number; it's the same number that will be on your physical card.
Sub-heading 2.2: How to Access and Use It
If you're approved and eligible for an Instant Card Number, you'll typically see the details displayed directly on the approval screen after submitting your online application. You may also receive a welcome email with a link to access these details after identity verification.
You can use this Instant Card Number for:
Online purchases: Enter the details just like you would with a physical card.
Adding to digital wallets: Load it into Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay to make in-store purchases using your phone.
This means you can start enjoying your card benefits and earning rewards right away, without waiting for the plastic to arrive!
Step 3: Physical Card Delivery – How Quickly Will it Arrive?
While the Instant Card Number gets you spending quickly, you'll still want the physical card. American Express is generally very efficient with its card delivery.
Sub-heading 3.1: Standard Delivery Times
For most American Express cards, you can expect to receive your physical card via mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval.
However, for some premium cards, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express and certain Delta co-branded cards, delivery can be even faster, often arriving within 2 to 3 business days.
Sub-heading 3.2: Expedited Shipping Options
American Express does offer expedited shipping for new cards, and importantly, it's often offered at no additional fee for many of its cards. If you need your card even faster than the standard delivery times, it's worth inquiring about this option immediately after approval. You can typically do this by contacting American Express customer service.
While rare for new applications, if you're getting a replacement card, expedited shipping is almost always available and also generally free.
Step 4: Activating Your Card and Starting Your Journey
Once your physical card arrives, the final step is quick and easy: activation.
Sub-heading 4.1: Simple Activation Methods
You can activate your American Express credit card in several ways:
Online: Visit the American Express website and navigate to the activation page. You'll need your card details and some personal information for verification.
Via the Amex App: If you've downloaded the American Express app, you can usually activate your card directly within the app by logging in and following the prompts.
By Phone: Call the activation number provided on a sticker on your card or in the card's welcome packet.
Sub-heading 4.2: Signing Your Card
After activation, it's a good practice to sign the back of your card in the signature panel. While not always strictly enforced by merchants, it adds a layer of security and validates your card.
Summary of Timeline:
Application to Approval (Online): Minutes (often instant) to 5-10 business days (if pending).
Access to Instant Card Number: Immediately upon approval (if eligible).
Physical Card Delivery (Standard): 7-10 business days.
Physical Card Delivery (Expedited): 2-3 business days (for premium cards, and generally available upon request).
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...)
Here are some quick answers to common questions about getting an American Express credit card:
How to Check my American Express application status?
You can check your application status online via the American Express Application Status Tracker, or by calling American Express customer service for personal cards at 877-293-3491 or business cards at 800-567-1085.
How to Increase my chances of instant approval for an Amex card?
Maintain a strong credit score, ensure all application information is accurate and complete, and avoid applying for too many credit cards in a short period.
How to Get an Instant Card Number from American Express?
If eligible, you'll typically see the Instant Card Number on the approval screen immediately after submitting your online application. You may also receive an email with access instructions after identity verification.
How to Request expedited shipping for my new Amex card?
After approval, you can often request expedited shipping by contacting American Express customer service. For many premium cards, it might be automatically expedited.
How to Activate my American Express credit card?
You can activate your card online at
How to Know if my Amex application is pending or denied?
If your application isn't instantly approved, it will typically go into a "pending" or "under review" status. You'll usually be notified of the final decision via email within 5-10 business days, or by mail if denied.
How to Speak to someone about my American Express application?
You can call the American Express reconsideration line if your application is pending or denied. For personal cards, try 877-293-3491, and for business cards, 800-567-1085.
How to Use my Amex Instant Card Number for purchases?
You can use it for online shopping by entering the card details at checkout, or by adding it to your digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) for in-store transactions.
How to Find the best American Express card for me?
Consider your spending habits, desired rewards (travel, cashback, points), annual fees, and your credit score. American Express offers a wide range of cards tailored to different needs.
How to Get a replacement American Express card quickly if mine is lost or stolen?
If your card is lost or stolen, immediately report it to American Express. They will typically offer free expedited shipping for a replacement card, often arriving within 1-3 business days.
