Dreaming of that sleek American Express card in your wallet? Perhaps you're eyeing a Platinum Card for its travel perks, a Gold Card for dining rewards, or a Blue Cash Preferred for everyday savings. Whatever your aspiration, a common question arises: how long does it actually take to get your American Express card?
Let's break down the journey from application to activation, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: The Application Process – Your First Impression!
So, you've decided to take the plunge and apply for an American Express card. Are you ready? This initial step is where the clock starts ticking.
Online Application: The Quickest Route
Most people apply for American Express cards online, and for good reason! It's generally the fastest way to get a decision.
Speedy Decisions: American Express often provides an instant decision on your application within minutes. This means you'll know if you're approved almost immediately after submitting your information.
Applying "With Confidence": Amex offers an "Apply With Confidence" feature for many of its cards. This allows them to perform a soft inquiry on your credit, which doesn't impact your credit score, to pre-qualify you. If you're approved, it's then your choice whether to proceed with the full application, which will involve a hard inquiry.
Instant Card Number (for eligible cards): This is a fantastic perk! For many personal and business cards (excluding Amazon Business Cards), if you're approved, Amex may provide you with your actual card number instantly after approval. This means you can start making online purchases or add the card to your digital wallet (like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay) even before your physical card arrives in the mail. This significantly reduces the "waiting time" for actual card usage.
Phone or Mail Applications: A Slower Pace
While still an option, applying over the phone or via mail typically involves a longer processing time as it requires manual handling. For the quickest results, the online application is highly recommended.
Step 2: The Decision – Approved, Pending, or Denied?
Once you hit "submit," Amex's systems get to work.
Instant Approval: The Best Outcome
As mentioned, many applicants receive an instant approval. Congratulations! This is when the card delivery process begins.
Application Pending or Under Review: A Little More Patience ️
Sometimes, an instant decision isn't possible. Your application might show as "pending" or "under review." This usually means:
Manual Review: American Express needs to do a manual review of your application. This could be due to various reasons, such as needing to verify some of your personal information, a recent surge in credit inquiries on your report, or needing to discuss your income.
Contact from Amex: In some cases, Amex might contact you for more information to complete their evaluation. Be sure to respond promptly to any requests!
Timeline for Pending Applications: While there's no fixed timeline, if your application goes into review, it could take a few business days to a week or more to get a final decision. You can often check the status online or by calling Amex.
Application Denied: Don't Despair!
If your application is denied, it's certainly disappointing, but it's not the end of the world. American Express will typically provide a reason for the denial. Common reasons include:
Low credit score or insufficient credit history
High existing debt
Too many recent credit inquiries
Incorrect information on your application
It's crucial to understand the reason for denial so you can address it for future applications. You can also consider calling the American Express reconsideration line to discuss your application.
Step 3: Card Delivery – The Anticipation Builds!
Once approved, the next big question is: when will your physical card arrive?
Standard Delivery: 7 to 10 Days ️
For most American Express cards, you can expect your new card to arrive within 7 to 10 business days after approval. This is the standard shipping time.
Expedited Shipping: For Those in a Hurry!
American Express does offer expedited shipping for some of its premium cards and in certain circumstances:
Automatic Expedited Shipping: High annual fee cards, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, typically come with automatic expedited shipping, often arriving within 2 business days.
Requested Expedited Shipping: For other lower-tier cards, you might be able to request expedited shipping via FedEx for a fee (e.g., $10), which will be billed to your statement. You'll need to call customer service to inquire about this option after approval.
Important Note on Instant Card Numbers: Remember that even if your physical card is on its way, if you were eligible for an Instant Card Number, you can start using your card immediately for online purchases or through digital wallets, effectively bypassing the physical delivery wait time for many transactions.
Tracking Your Card's Journey ️
American Express provides tools to help you track your card's delivery:
Online Account: Once you have an online account (which you can set up even before the card arrives), you can often track the delivery status of your new card. Look for options under "Account Services" or "Card Management."
Application Tracker: Amex also has an online application tracker where you can enter your registered mobile number or application reference number to check the status.
Step 4: Card Activation – The Final Frontier! ✅
Receiving your card is exciting, but you're not quite done. You need to activate it before you can start making purchases.
Quick and Easy Activation Options
Activating your American Express card is a straightforward process and can be done in several ways:
Online: The most common method is to activate your card through the American Express website (
americanexpress.com/confirmcard Amex Mobile App: If you have the American Express mobile app, you can easily activate your card directly within the app.
By Phone: You can also activate your card by calling the toll-free number provided on the sticker on your new card or on the Amex website.
What to Do After Activation: Getting the Most Out of Your Card
Once activated, you're ready to enjoy your new American Express card!
Set up your online account: If you haven't already, create an online account to manage your card, view statements, set up alerts, and access benefits.
Explore benefits: Familiarize yourself with all the perks and benefits that come with your specific Amex card, from travel credits to purchase protection and extended warranties.
Meet welcome offer requirements: If your card came with a welcome offer (e.g., bonus points or cashback after spending a certain amount), make sure you understand the spending requirements and the timeframe to achieve them. American Express is known for offering a generous six-month window for many of its welcome offers, which is longer than many other issuers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to apply for an American Express card online?
You can apply directly on the American Express website. Choose your desired card and click "Apply Now." Fill in the required personal and financial information, then submit your application.
How to check the status of my American Express application?
You can check the status of your application online by visiting the American Express application tracker page and entering your registered mobile number or 14-digit application reference number.
How to get an American Express card faster?
Apply online for an instant decision. For eligible premium cards, expedited shipping is often automatic. For other cards, you might be able to request expedited shipping by calling customer service for a fee. Many cards offer an Instant Card Number for immediate online use.
How to activate my American Express card?
You can activate your card online at
How to know if I'm eligible for an American Express card?
American Express offers a "Apply With Confidence" tool that allows for a soft inquiry to see if you're pre-qualified without impacting your credit score. Generally, Amex cards often require good to excellent credit (FICO scores typically 670+).
How to deal with a pending American Express application?
If your application is pending, American Express may need more time for a manual review. They might contact you for additional information. You can also call their customer service to inquire about the status.
How to get an Instant Card Number from American Express?
If eligible, you'll be offered your Instant Card Number immediately after online approval, or via a link in your welcome email. This allows you to start using the card digitally before the physical card arrives.
How to find out if my American Express card has expedited shipping?
Expedited shipping is usually automatic for high-tier cards like The Platinum Card. For other cards, you'll need to confirm with American Express customer service if it's an option, potentially for a fee.
How to change my shipping address for my American Express card?
You should contact American Express customer service as soon as possible if you need to change your shipping address after approval but before the card has been sent out.
How to get a welcome offer on an American Express card?
Welcome offers are typically extended to new card members who meet specific spending requirements within a certain timeframe after account opening (often 6 months for Amex). Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of the offer when you apply.
