Navigating customer service can sometimes feel like a maze, but when it comes to a financial institution like American Express, knowing the direct routes is crucial. If you're in the UK and need to get in touch with American Express, whether it's about your card, a transaction, or a general query, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to do it.
So, are you ready to simplify your Amex contact experience? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Identify Your Need – Why Are You Contacting American Express UK?
Before you pick up the phone or open a chat window, take a moment to clarify the purpose of your contact. This seemingly simple step will save you significant time and ensure you connect with the most appropriate department. Are you:
Checking your balance?
Disputing a charge?
Reporting a lost or stolen card?
Asking about your Membership Rewards?
Applying for a new card?
Having trouble logging into your online account?
A merchant trying to accept Amex?
Each of these scenarios might lead you to a different contact method or a specialized team, making your journey much smoother.
Step 2: Utilize Online Services – Your First Port of Call
For many common inquiries, American Express's online services are designed to be your primary resource. They offer a wealth of information and self-service options.
Sub-heading: The American Express UK Website
The official American Express UK website (
Contact Us Page: Always start by visiting the "Contact Us" or "Help & Support" section. This page typically lists specific phone numbers for different card types and services, as well as information on online chat and frequently asked questions.
FAQs: Before contacting a representative, check their extensive FAQ section. You might find an immediate answer to your question, saving you time.
Support Centre: Look for a "Support Centre" or "Customer Service" link. This often leads to a comprehensive hub for managing your account, understanding benefits, and getting assistance.
Sub-heading: Logging into Your Online Account
Your online account is arguably the most powerful tool for self-service.
Account Management: Once logged in, you can view your statements, check your balance, make payments, activate a new card, and manage your personal details.
Secure Message Centre: Many online accounts offer a secure message centre. This allows you to send a message to American Express directly and receive a reply within your account, which is ideal for less urgent, sensitive inquiries. This is often a great alternative to phone calls if your query isn't time-sensitive.
Live Chat (When Available): American Express often provides a "Live Chat" function within your logged-in account, particularly for travel-related queries or general customer support. The availability of this feature can vary, and you might need to navigate to specific sections (e.g., "Manage My Bookings" for travel chat) to find it. Be aware that some users have reported inconsistencies with the chat icon appearing, especially for newer accounts. If it's available, it's a quick way to get real-time assistance.
Step 3: Direct Phone Lines – For Immediate Assistance
When online resources aren't sufficient, or you need immediate assistance, calling American Express is your best bet. Be sure to have your card number handy as you will almost certainly be asked for it to verify your identity.
Sub-heading: General Customer Service Numbers
General Customer Services: For most personal card inquiries, the main customer service number is 0800 032 7216 (toll-free from within the UK). If you're calling from overseas, the number is +44 (0)1273 675 533.
Operating Hours: Typically Monday – Friday, 8 am – 6 pm, and Bank Holidays, 9 am – 5 pm.
Sub-heading: Card-Specific and Specialized Phone Numbers
American Express often has dedicated numbers for different card products and specific services. Always check the back of your card first, as it usually has the most relevant contact number for your specific product.
Here's a general guide to some common categories, but verify on the official Amex UK website or your card itself for the most up-to-date numbers:
Centurion Card: 0808 100 50 50 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 667 272 (Overseas)
Platinum Card: 0800 917 8054 (UK) / +44 (0)1293 820 925 (Overseas)
Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card: 0800 917 8050 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 696 933 (Overseas)
British Airways American Express Cards: 0800 917 8020 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 576 445 (Overseas)
Platinum CashBack Credit Card & American Express Rewards Credit Card: 0800 917 8047 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 696 933 (Overseas)
Nectar American Express Credit Card: 0800 917 8015 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 576 904 (Overseas)
Membership Rewards Programme: 0800 917 8053 (UK) / +44 (0)1273 863 863 (Overseas)
Operating Hours for Membership Rewards: Available 7 am-11 pm, 7 days a week.
Authorisations (24/7): 0208 55 11 111
To Accept the Card in Your Establishment (Merchants): 0800 339 911 (Mon-Fri, 8 am – 6 pm)
Merchant Customer Services: 0800 032 7216 (Mon-Fri, 8 am – 6 pm)
Reporting Fraud/Unrecognised Charges: 0800 917 8047 (UK) / +44 (0)800 917 8047 (Overseas)
Travellers Cheques Lost and Stolen: 0800 587 6023 (24/7 assistance)
Remember: Call volumes can be high during peak hours, so be prepared for a wait.
Step 4: Written Correspondence – For Formalities and Records
While less immediate, sometimes a written record is preferred, especially for complex issues or formal complaints.
Sub-heading: Postal Address
For general correspondence or formal complaints, you can write to:
American Express Services Europe Limited Department 77 (or specific department if known, e.g., "Bereavement Support Team") 1 John Street Brighton East Sussex, BN88 1AH United Kingdom
When sending written correspondence, always include your full name, contact telephone number, and your American Express account/card/membership/merchant number. Provide full details of your complaint along with any relevant documentation.
Sub-heading: Email Communication
While American Express generally prefers you use their secure message centre within your online account for sensitive matters, there might be specific email addresses for certain departments, such as bereavement support (ukbereavementsupport@aexp.com). Always exercise caution when sending sensitive personal data via unsecure email channels.
Step 5: Social Media and Other Avenues – For General Inquiries
While American Express doesn't typically offer direct customer service resolutions via public social media platforms for security reasons, these channels can be useful for general inquiries, service updates, or pointing you in the right direction.
Sub-heading: Official Social Media Pages
Look for their official accounts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. While you might not resolve an account-specific issue there, they can sometimes answer general questions or direct you to the correct contact method. Avoid sharing any personal account details on public social media.
Sub-heading: Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS)
If you have exhausted American Express's internal complaints procedure and are still not satisfied with their final response, you may be entitled to refer your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). This is a free, independent service that helps resolve disputes between consumers and financial businesses.
FOS Contact Details:
Telephone: 0800 023 4567 or 0300 123 9123
From abroad: +44 20 7964 0500
Email: complaint.info@financial-ombudsman.org.uk
Website: www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk
Step 6: What to Expect When You Contact Amex UK
Verification: For security purposes, American Express will always verify your identity, especially when discussing account-specific details. Be prepared to answer security questions and provide information from your card.
Card Number: Have your American Express card number readily available, regardless of how you choose to contact them.
Patience: While American Express is known for its customer service, call wait times can vary. Be patient and polite with the representatives.
Reference Numbers: If you're making a complaint or have a complex issue, always ask for a reference number for your interaction. This will make it easier to follow up if needed.
Documentation: If your query involves a specific transaction or issue, have any relevant documentation (receipts, statements, emails) at hand.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to contact American Express UK efficiently and effectively, ensuring your query is addressed promptly and accurately.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to report a lost or stolen American Express UK card?
You should call American Express immediately. The dedicated number for reporting lost or stolen cards is usually found on the back of your card, but you can also use the general customer service line for your card type or the main customer service number 0800 032 7216.
How to dispute a charge on my American Express UK statement?
Log into your online account and navigate to your transactions. There's usually an option to dispute a charge directly. Alternatively, you can call the customer service number on the back of your card or the main customer service line and speak to a representative about the disputed transaction.
How to activate a new American Express UK card?
You can activate your new card quickly by logging into your American Express online account and following the activation prompts. Some cards also offer phone activation by calling a number provided with the new card.
How to check my American Express UK Membership Rewards points balance?
Log into your American Express online account, and your Membership Rewards points balance will typically be displayed on your account dashboard. You can also call the Membership Rewards program dedicated line at 0800 917 8053.
How to find my American Express UK statement online?
Log into your American Express online account. You will find a section dedicated to "Statements" or "Billing," where you can view and download your current and past statements.
How to update my personal details with American Express UK?
You can usually update your contact information, such as your address or phone number, by logging into your online American Express account. For more sensitive changes or name changes, you may need to call customer service and provide supporting documentation.
How to contact American Express UK for business card inquiries?
American Express has specific contact numbers for various business cards. Check the back of your business card or visit the "Business Cards" section of the American Express UK website for the most relevant contact number, such as 0800 917 8043 for Business Gold and Business Platinum.
How to accept American Express payments as a UK merchant?
If you are a merchant looking to accept American Express cards, you can contact their merchant services by calling 0800 339 911 or visiting the "Accept the Card" section on the American Express UK merchant website.
How to make a complaint to American Express UK?
Initially, contact American Express customer service by phone or through your online account. If your issue isn't resolved to your satisfaction, you can escalate it through their formal complaints procedure, details of which are available on the "Complaints Procedures" section of their website. You can also write to them at their Brighton address.
How to reach American Express UK customer service if I am overseas?
If you are calling from outside the UK, you should use the international dialling code +44 followed by the relevant UK number. For general customer service, you can call +44 (0)1273 675 533. For card-specific numbers, check your card or the Amex UK website for the international contact number associated with your card type.
