Unlocking the Power of American Express with MobiKwik: A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, financial explorers! Ever wondered how to combine the premium benefits of an American Express card with the convenience of a digital wallet like MobiKwik? You're in the right place! While directly "getting an American Express card in MobiKwik" might not be the exact phrasing, MobiKwik did partner with American Express to launch a co-branded prepaid card in India, and it also allows you to manage and pay your existing American Express credit card bills. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, dispelling myths and providing clear, actionable steps.
Ready to dive into the world of enhanced digital payments? Let's get started!
Step 1: Understanding the MobiKwik-American Express Nexus – What's the Real Deal?
Before we jump into any "how-to," let's clarify what this partnership truly entails. It's crucial to understand that you do not directly apply for a traditional American Express credit card through the MobiKwik app in the sense of a standalone credit line issued by Amex.
The MobiKwik Blue American Express Card (Prepaid): Back in 2020, MobiKwik became the first non-bank Indian company to issue a co-branded prepaid card on the American Express network. This "MobiKwik Blue American Express Card" is a digital prepaid card linked to your MobiKwik wallet. It allows users to make payments at all American Express merchants in addition to MobiKwik's existing network. This is not a credit card that grants you a credit limit underwritten by American Express. Instead, it mirrors your MobiKwik wallet balance and allows for spending where Amex is accepted.
Paying American Express Credit Card Bills via MobiKwik: If you already possess a traditional American Express credit card, MobiKwik offers a convenient platform to pay your Amex credit card bills online. This is a significant feature that many users leverage for ease of payment and sometimes to earn rewards or cashback from MobiKwik itself.
So, while you're not getting a new credit card from American Express directly through MobiKwik, you might be interested in either the MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card or simply using MobiKwik to manage your existing Amex credit card payments. This guide covers both aspects!
Step 2: Acquiring the MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card (If Applicable)
If you're looking for the MobiKwik co-branded prepaid card that runs on the American Express network, here's how you'd typically go about it. Please note that the availability and process might have evolved since its initial launch in 2020.
Sub-step 2.1: Download and Set Up the MobiKwik App
For Android Users: Head over to the Google Play Store.
For iOS Users: Open the Apple App Store.
Search for "MobiKwik" and download the official app. Make sure it's the genuine application.
Once downloaded, open the app. You'll need to sign up or log in using your mobile number and a One-Time Password (OTP).
Sub-step 2.2: Locating the American Express Card Option
After logging in, navigate through the app. Look for the American Express logo – it was typically located at the top right corner of the home screen during the card's initial launch.
Tap on this logo or a similar prompt that indicates an American Express offering.
Sub-step 2.3: One-Click Issuance (if available)
The MobiKwik Blue American Express Card was designed for a quick, digital issuance. If the option is still available, you might find a "Get Card" or similar button.
Follow the on-screen instructions. The process was touted as "1-click" and taking only a few seconds.
Important Note on KYC: For this prepaid card to function fully and for higher limits, you will likely need to complete your Full KYC (Know Your Customer) process within the MobiKwik app. This usually involves video KYC and submitting identity and address proofs. Without Full KYC, there might be limitations on the amount you can load or spend.
Sub-step 2.4: Understanding Limitations and Features
Prepaid Nature: Remember, this is a prepaid card. Your spending limit is tied to the balance in your MobiKwik wallet. You need to load money into your MobiKwik wallet to use this card.
Digital Avatar: This card is primarily designed for digital use. While it uses the American Express network, it's integrated with your MobiKwik wallet for online and QR code payments where Amex is accepted.
Key benefits typically included features like SuperCash (cashback) on purchases and other promotional offers at the time of its launch. Always check the current benefits and terms within the app.
Step 3: Paying Your Existing American Express Credit Card Bill with MobiKwik
If you already own an American Express credit card (e.g., Membership Rewards, Platinum Travel, SmartEarn, etc.) and want to use MobiKwik for convenient bill payments, here's the step-by-step process.
Sub-step 3.1: Launch the MobiKwik App
Open the MobiKwik application on your smartphone.
Ensure you are logged in.
Sub-step 3.2: Navigate to Bill Payments Section
On the MobiKwik home screen, look for the "Recharge and Bill Pay" section.
Alternatively, you might see a direct option for "Credit Card Payment." Tap on whichever is more readily available.
Sub-step 3.3: Select "Credit Card Payment"
Within the bill payment options, choose "Credit Card" or "Credit Card Payment."
Sub-step 3.4: Enter American Express Card Details
You will be prompted to enter your American Express credit card number. Carefully input the 15-digit number from your card.
The system might automatically detect that it's an American Express card once you enter the initial digits.
Sub-step 3.5: Input Billing Amount
Enter the amount you wish to pay towards your American Express credit card bill. This could be the minimum due, the total outstanding, or any other amount.
Double-check the amount to avoid any errors.
Sub-step 3.6: Apply Coupons (Optional)
MobiKwik often has cashback offers or coupons for bill payments. Look for a section to "Apply Coupon" or "View Offers."
If you have a valid coupon, apply it to potentially get a discount or cashback.
Sub-step 3.7: Choose Your Payment Mode
After entering the amount and applying coupons, proceed to the payment gateway.
MobiKwik offers various payment options:
MobiKwik Wallet Balance: If you have sufficient balance in your MobiKwik wallet, you can use this.
UPI: You can pay directly using UPI from your linked bank account. This is usually free of charge.
Debit Card: Link your debit card to make the payment. This is also typically free of charge up to a certain limit (e.g., ₹5,000 per month), after which a convenience fee might apply.
Other Credit Cards: You can use another credit card (Visa/Mastercard) to pay your Amex bill, but be aware that MobiKwik charges a convenience fee for this (typically around 2.5% + GST for other cards, and around 2.65% + GST for American Express cards if you are trying to load your MobiKwik wallet using an Amex credit card).
MobiKwik ZIP Pay Later: If you have MobiKwik ZIP Pay Later facility, you might be able to use it.
Select your preferred payment method.
Sub-step 3.8: Complete the Transaction
Enter any required credentials for your chosen payment mode (e.g., UPI PIN, debit card details, OTP).
Tap on "Pay Now" or "Confirm Payment."
You will receive a confirmation message on the MobiKwik app and likely via SMS or email once the payment is successful.
Sub-step 3.9: Confirmation and Settlement
While the transaction on MobiKwik is instant, the bank (American Express) may take up to 72 hours to reflect the payment in your credit card statement.
Keep your transaction ID handy for future reference.
Step 4: Important Considerations and Tips
Traditional Amex Credit Cards: To get a traditional American Express credit card with a credit limit, you need to apply directly through the American Express India website or their official channels. The eligibility criteria for these cards are more stringent, typically requiring a good credit score, a stable income, and Indian residency. MobiKwik is not the platform for this application.
Fees for Loading Wallet with Amex: Be mindful of the charges if you're trying to add money to your MobiKwik wallet using an American Express credit card. MobiKwik explicitly states a charge for this, which can be around 2.65% + GST. This is generally not advisable if your goal is just to pay bills, as it offsets any rewards you might earn.
Reward Points and Milestones: Some users strategize to use their American Express cards to load money into wallets like MobiKwik (despite the fees) to meet spending milestones on their Amex cards or earn reward points. Always calculate if the rewards earned outweigh the fees incurred.
KYC Status: For optimal functionality with MobiKwik, especially for higher transaction limits and specific features like transferring money to a bank account, ensure your MobiKwik KYC is complete (Full KYC).
Security: MobiKwik employs various security measures. Always use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be wary of phishing attempts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 related FAQs to help you further:
How to apply for a traditional American Express Credit Card in India?
To apply for a traditional American Express Credit Card, you must visit the official American Express India website (
americanexpress.com/in
How to check if I am eligible for an American Express Card?
American Express has specific eligibility criteria for each card, typically including a minimum age of 18, Indian residency, a good credit score (usually 700+), and a minimum annual income (which varies by card, e.g., ₹4.5 lakhs for SmartEarn, higher for premium cards). You can find detailed criteria on their website.
How to pay my American Express credit card bill online using MobiKwik?
Open the MobiKwik app, go to "Recharge and Bill Pay" or "Credit Card Payment," enter your Amex card number and the amount, choose your payment method (UPI, debit card are usually free), and confirm the transaction.
How to avoid charges when paying my Amex bill through MobiKwik?
To avoid charges, use UPI or your debit card to make the payment through MobiKwik. Using another credit card to pay your Amex bill on MobiKwik generally incurs a convenience fee.
How to link my existing American Express Credit Card to MobiKwik?
You don't "link" a traditional American Express credit card to MobiKwik in the same way you link a bank account. Instead, you enter your Amex card details each time you wish to make a bill payment through the MobiKwik platform.
How to load money into my MobiKwik wallet using an American Express Card?
You can load money into your MobiKwik wallet using an American Express credit card, but be aware that MobiKwik generally charges a convenience fee (around 2.65% + GST) for this transaction.
How to check my MobiKwik Blue American Express Card balance?
The balance of your MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card is directly linked to your MobiKwik wallet balance. You can check this balance within your MobiKwik app.
How to use the MobiKwik Blue American Express Card for online purchases?
When making an online purchase, select American Express as the payment method and enter the card details provided within your MobiKwik app for the MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card.
How to understand the difference between an American Express Credit Card and the MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card?
A traditional American Express Credit Card is a credit line issued by American Express, offering a credit limit. The MobiKwik Blue American Express Prepaid Card is a prepaid instrument issued by MobiKwik on the Amex network, where your spending is limited to the money you've loaded into your MobiKwik wallet.
How to contact MobiKwik customer support for payment issues?
You can typically find customer support options within the MobiKwik app under the "Help & Support" or "FAQ" sections. They often provide contact numbers, email support, or in-app chat functionalities.
