Have you recently been approved for an American Express card and are eagerly awaiting its arrival? The excitement of getting a new credit card, especially one with the prestige of Amex, is understandable! But the waiting game can be a bit nerve-wracking. Let's break down exactly how long it typically takes to get your American Express card in the mail and what you can do to track its journey to your mailbox.
Step 1: The Initial Waiting Period ⏳
So, you've just received that glorious "approved" message from American Express. Congratulations! Now, the question on your mind is undoubtedly, "When will it arrive?"
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| How Long Does It Take To Get My American Express Card In The Mail |
How long does it typically take?
Generally, after your American Express card application is approved, you can expect to receive your physical card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. This is the standard delivery timeframe for most new and replacement Amex cards. Keep in mind that "business days" usually exclude weekends and public holidays.
Why does it take this long?
Several factors contribute to this timeframe:
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Processing Time: Even after approval, American Express needs to process your new card, print it with your details, and prepare it for shipment.
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Security Measures: For your security, credit cards are not simply thrown into the mail. They often go through secure handling and shipping processes.
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Mail Service: The speed of the postal service (like USPS in the United States) also plays a significant role. While Amex dispatches the card, the final delivery is in the hands of the postal system.
Step 2: Understanding Instant Card Numbers
Did you know that you might not have to wait for the physical card to start using your new Amex benefits? American Express offers an Instant Card Number feature for eligible card members.
What is an Instant Card Number?
This feature allows you to immediately access your new card number, expiration date, and security code online after approval. This means you can start making online purchases or add your card to a digital wallet (like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay) even before your physical card arrives.
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
How to get it:
If you're eligible, you'll typically be invited to get your Instant Card Number right after online application approval, or you might receive a link in your welcome email. This is a fantastic way to begin enjoying your card's benefits without delay!
Step 3: Tracking Your American Express Card
Once your card has been dispatched, you'll naturally want to keep an eye on its progress.
Sub-heading: Online Tracking for Replacement Cards
For replacement cards (e.g., if yours was lost, stolen, or damaged), American Express often provides a tracking option directly through your online account.
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Log in: Go to AmericanExpress.com and log into your account.
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Navigate: Look for "Account Services" or "Card Management."
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Find Tracking: There should be an option like "Replace a Card" or "Card Delivery Status." Here, you can often see the date your replacement card was requested and track its shipping status.
Sub-heading: Tracking for New Cards
For newly approved cards, direct tracking numbers for standard delivery might not always be immediately visible in the same way as replacement cards. However, you can generally gauge the delivery window based on the 7-10 business day estimate.
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Check your Application Status: While not a live tracking system for the physical card, you can often check the status of your application online using your mobile number or application reference number. This can confirm if your application has been approved and the card has been dispatched.
Step 4: What to Do if Your Card is Delayed
Sometimes, despite best efforts, things don't go as planned. If the 7-10 business day window has passed and your card still hasn't arrived, don't panic!
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Sub-heading: When to act:
It's generally a good idea to wait a full 10 business days before taking action, as there can be minor delays with mail service.
Sub-heading: Contacting American Express Customer Service:
If your card is significantly delayed beyond the expected timeframe, it's time to reach out to American Express directly.
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Phone: Call the customer service number typically found on the Amex website or on any correspondence you've received. Be prepared to provide your personal details for verification.
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Online Account/Chat: You might also be able to initiate a chat or send a secure message through your online Amex account.
When you contact them, explain that you haven't received your card and provide them with your application details or account information. They can investigate the delivery status and, if necessary, arrange for a replacement card to be sent.
Important Note: For security reasons, if a card is suspected to be lost in transit, American Express will often cancel the original card and issue a new one with a different card number to prevent potential fraud.
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Step 5: Activating Your New Card ✅
Once your American Express card finally arrives, the very last step is to activate it before you can start using it!
Sub-heading: How to activate:
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Online: The easiest way is usually to visit the American Express activation page (the URL will often be on a sticker on the card or in the accompanying pamphlet) and follow the on-screen instructions. You'll typically need your card number and some personal identifying information.
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Phone: You can also call the activation phone number provided with your card.
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Amex App: If you have the Amex mobile app, you may be able to activate your card directly through the app after logging in.
Sub-heading: Important Activation Tips:
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Sign the back: Once activated, immediately sign the back of your card in the signature panel. This helps prevent unauthorized use.
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Update recurring payments: If this is a replacement for an existing card, remember to update any automatic or recurring payments (subscriptions, utilities, etc.) with your new card number and expiration date to avoid service interruptions.
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Destroy old cards: If you're replacing an old card, make sure to securely destroy the old card by shredding it to protect your information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About American Express Card Delivery
Here are 10 common questions related to receiving your American Express card in the mail:
How to check my American Express card application status?
You can generally check your American Express card application status online by visiting the Amex application tracker page and entering your registered mobile number or a 14-digit application reference number.
How to get an American Express card faster?
To get an American Express card faster, utilize the Instant Card Number feature if eligible, which allows digital use immediately after approval. For physical cards, you can inquire about expedited shipping options with customer service, though this may come with a fee.
How to track a replacement American Express card?
You can usually track a replacement American Express card by logging into your online Amex account, navigating to "Account Services" or "Card Management," and selecting the "Replace a Card" or "Card Delivery Status" option.
How to activate my new American Express card?
Activate your new American Express card online at
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How to find my Instant Card Number for American Express?
If eligible for an Instant Card Number, you'll typically be presented with it immediately after online application approval, or you'll receive a link to access it in your welcome email from American Express.
How to contact American Express customer service about a delayed card?
To contact American Express customer service about a delayed card, call the general customer service number listed on the Amex website or use the secure messaging/chat feature available when logged into your online account.
How to know if my American Express card has been shipped?
While a specific shipping notification might not always be sent for standard delivery, American Express typically indicates that your card is on its way after your application has been approved and processed. For replacement cards, you can often track shipping status online.
How to ensure my American Express card arrives securely?
American Express sends cards in discreet, white envelopes with the Amex logo and an Omaha, NE return address for security. Always ensure your mailbox is secure, and promptly retrieve mail to minimize the risk of theft.
How to get a new American Express card if mine was lost or stolen before arrival?
If your new American Express card is lost or stolen before you receive it, contact American Express customer service immediately. They will cancel the original card and issue a new one with a different card number to protect your account.
How to update my address for American Express card delivery?
If you need to update your address for American Express card delivery, it's best to do so before your card is dispatched. Contact American Express customer service immediately after approval if there's an address change, or update it directly through your online account if that option is available.
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