Ready to simplify your money transfers? Zelle is a fantastic way to send and receive money with friends, family, and others you trust, often in minutes! If you're an American Express user, you might be wondering how to get in on the Zelle action. Let's break it down, step by step.
The Key: American Express Rewards Checking Account
It's crucial to understand that Zelle integration with American Express is specifically for American Express® Rewards Checking accounts. You cannot directly link an American Express credit card to Zelle, nor can you use the standalone Zelle app with an Amex credit card. Zelle works by linking directly to a U.S.-based checking or savings account.
So, if you want to use Zelle with American Express, the first and most important step is to have an American Express® Rewards Checking account.
Step 1: Confirm You Have an American Express® Rewards Checking Account
Hey there! Before we dive into the fun stuff, let's make sure we're on the right track. Do you currently have an American Express® Rewards Checking account?
If YES: Fantastic! You're all set to proceed to the next steps.
If NO: Don't worry! You'll need to open one first. You can typically do this through the American Express website or app. Once your Rewards Checking account is active, come right back here to continue.
Remember: Zelle with American Express is only available through their Rewards Checking account, not their credit cards.
Step 2: Access the American Express App or Online Account
Now that you've confirmed you have your Amex Rewards Checking account, it's time to log in!
A. Via the American Express App:
Download the Amex App: If you don't already have it, head to your smartphone's app store (Google Play Store for Android or Apple App Store for iOS) and download the official "American Express" app.
Log In: Open the app and enter your American Express user ID and password.
Navigate to the "Pay" Section: Once logged in, look for a section or tab typically labeled "Pay" or "Payments." This is where you'll find options for managing your money and making transfers.
B. Via the American Express Online Account (Website):
Go to the Amex Website: Open your web browser and go to the official American Express website (americanexpress.com).
Log In: Enter your user ID and password to access your online account.
Find the "Pay" Section: Similar to the app, once logged in, locate the "Pay" or "Payments" section within your Rewards Checking account dashboard.
Step 3: Initiate Zelle Enrollment
This is where the magic begins! Within the "Pay" section of your American Express® Rewards Checking account, you'll find the option to enroll with Zelle.
A. Locate "Send Money with Zelle®":
Within the "Pay" section, look for a clear option that says "Send Money with Zelle®." It might also be under a "Transfers" or "Money Movement" menu.
B. Click "Get Started":
Once you've found "Send Money with Zelle®," simply tap or click on it, and then select "Get Started."
Step 4: Enroll with Your Email or U.S. Mobile Number
Zelle uses your email address or U.S. mobile number as your identifier for sending and receiving money. This is how friends and family can find you on Zelle.
A. Choose Your Enrollment Method:
The system will prompt you to enroll with either your email address or a U.S. mobile number.
Important Note: If you've already enrolled with Zelle through another bank or credit union using the same email or mobile number, Zelle will guide you through the process of transferring your enrollment to American Express. You can only have one active Zelle enrollment per email address or mobile number at a time.
B. Follow the Prompts:
Enter the chosen email address or U.S. mobile number.
You will likely receive a verification code to that email or phone number to confirm ownership. Enter this code when prompted.
Read and Agree to Terms: Make sure to read the Zelle Service Agreement and American Express's terms and conditions related to Zelle. You'll need to agree to these to proceed.
Step 5: Start Sending Money with Zelle®!
Congratulations! You're now enrolled with Zelle through your American Express® Rewards Checking account. You're ready to send, request, and receive money quickly and easily.
A. How to Send Money:
Select "Send Money": Within the Zelle section of your Amex app or online account.
Choose a Recipient: Select someone from your mobile device's contacts (if you've granted access) or manually enter their email address or U.S. mobile number. Always double-check the recipient's information to ensure you're sending money to the right person, as Zelle payments are generally irreversible.
Enter the Amount: Type in the amount you wish to send.
Add a Note (Optional): Include a memo for the payment (e.g., "Dinner last night" or "Rent").
Review and Confirm: Carefully review all the details before hitting "Send." The money is typically sent within minutes.
B. How to Request Money:
Select "Request Money": Also within the Zelle section.
Choose from Contacts or Enter Details: Select the individual from whom you'd like to request money or manually enter their email or U.S. mobile number.
Enter the Amount: Specify the amount you're requesting.
Add a Note (Optional): Provide a reason for the request.
Review and Send Request: Confirm the details and send the request.
C. How to Receive Money:
If someone sends you money via Zelle to your enrolled email address or U.S. mobile number, and you're already enrolled, the money will be sent directly to your American Express® Rewards Checking account, typically within minutes. No further action is usually required on your part!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about using Zelle with American Express, with quick answers:
How to use Zelle with an American Express Credit Card?
You cannot directly use Zelle with an American Express credit card. Zelle integrates with American Express only through the American Express® Rewards Checking account.
How to find Zelle in the American Express App?
Log in to the Amex App, go to the "Pay" section of your American Express® Rewards Checking account, and look for "Send Money with Zelle®."
How to enroll in Zelle if I already use it with another bank?
During the enrollment process with American Express, Zelle will prompt you to transfer your existing enrollment (tied to your email or U.S. mobile number) to your Amex Rewards Checking account.
How to send money to someone not enrolled in Zelle?
You can still send money. The recipient will receive a notification with instructions on how to enroll with Zelle through their own bank to receive the funds.
How to cancel a Zelle payment from American Express?
Zelle payments are typically instant and irreversible once sent. Always verify recipient details before confirming a transfer.
How to check Zelle transaction history on American Express?
Your Zelle transactions will typically appear in the activity or transaction history of your American Express® Rewards Checking account within the Amex app or online.
How to receive money using a Zelle QR code with American Express?
In the Amex App, navigate to Zelle settings, then "Zelle® QR code" to display "My Code." Share this code for others to scan and send you money.
How to send money using a Zelle QR code with American Express?
In the Amex App's Zelle section, select "Send," then tap the QR code icon. Allow camera access, scan the recipient's QR code, enter the amount, and send.
How to find out if my bank supports Zelle?
You can check the Zelle website (Zellepay.com) for a list of participating banks and credit unions. American Express National Bank (for Rewards Checking accounts) is a participating institution.
How to contact American Express support for Zelle issues?
You can contact American Express customer service through the Amex App, online chat, or by calling the number on the back of your American Express® Debit Card or on their official website.
