Ever stared at that "Presale Code" box on Ticketmaster, wishing you had the key to unlock early access to your favorite artist's concert or a must-see sporting event? If you're an American Express Card Member, you're in luck! American Express offers some fantastic benefits that can get you ahead of the general public when it comes to snagging those coveted tickets. This lengthy guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Ticketmaster presale code with American Express. ️
Step 1: Are You an American Express Card Member?
First things first, let's confirm you're eligible. American Express presale access is exclusively for American Express Card Members. This means you need a valid American Express credit card or charge card. Prepaid American Express cards are generally not eligible for presales.
If you already have an American Express Card: Great! You're on your way. Proceed to Step 2.
If you don't have an American Express Card: You'll need to apply for one. Many American Express cards offer instant card numbers upon approval, which can be useful for immediate presale access even before your physical card arrives. Consider options like the Platinum Card, Gold Card, or Green Card, as these often have strong entertainment benefits.
Step 2: Understanding American Express Presale Types
American Express offers a couple of different ways to get early access to tickets, primarily through:
Amex Presale Tickets™ (formerly American Express Early Access)
This is what most people think of when they hear "presale." It grants you access to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the general public. These tickets are often for select events and specific seating blocks.
Amex Reserved Tickets™ (formerly American Express Access)
This provides access to dedicated ticket allotments for select events even after the general on-sale has begun, during a specified period. It's a great backup if you miss the initial presale.
Important Note: Both types of access require you to purchase the tickets using your eligible American Express Card. Prepaid cards are not accepted.
Step 3: Finding American Express Presale Events
Knowing where to look for these exclusive presales is key. Here's how to stay informed:
Sub-heading: American Express Experiences Website
The primary source for all American Express entertainment benefits is the official American Express Experiences website. Visit
americanexpress.com/experiences Filter by location or interest: The website allows you to refine your search to find events relevant to you.
Sub-heading: Ticketmaster Event Pages
Keep an eye on the specific event page on Ticketmaster.com. When an event has an American Express presale, it will usually be clearly indicated on the event details page, often with an "American Express Presale" or "Amex Card Member Presale" option visible during the presale window.
Sub-heading: Email Notifications & Social Media
Sign up for email alerts from Ticketmaster. Make sure your Ticketmaster account is set up to receive email notifications for your favorite artists, teams, and venues. Ticketmaster often sends out alerts for upcoming presales, including those with American Express.
Follow American Express and Ticketmaster on social media. They frequently announce presales and special offers there.
Step 4: Obtaining the American Express Presale Code ️
This is often where the confusion lies! Unlike some other presales that provide a specific alphanumeric code, the American Express presale typically works differently.
Sub-heading: Your American Express Card as the "Code"
The "presale code" for American Express presales is almost always your American Express Card itself. When you go to purchase tickets during an Amex presale on Ticketmaster, you will usually be prompted to enter the 10-digit customer service number found on the back of your American Express Card into the "Offer Passcode" or "Unlock" field.
Occasionally, the system might just ask if you are an American Express cardholder, and upon clicking "yes," it unlocks the access.
No physical code needed: You won't receive a separate email with a unique code. Your card information acts as your access key.
Sub-heading: The Payment Requirement
You MUST use an eligible American Express Card to complete the purchase. Even if you successfully "unlock" the presale with your card number, the transaction will only go through if you pay with the same (or another eligible) American Express Card. If you try to pay with a different credit card, your purchase will likely be rejected.
Step 5: Purchasing Your Presale Tickets on Ticketmaster
Once the presale begins and you have your American Express Card ready, here's the step-by-step process on Ticketmaster:
Log in to your Ticketmaster account: Make sure you're logged in well before the presale starts.
Navigate to the event page: Find the specific event you want tickets for.
Look for the presale option: On the event page, you'll see different ticket types. Look for the "American Express Presale" or "Amex Card Member Presale" option.
Enter the "code": When prompted for a presale code or to "unlock" the presale, enter the 10-digit customer service number from the back of your American Express Card.
Select your tickets: Once unlocked, you'll see the available seats and prices for the presale. Choose your desired tickets.
Proceed to checkout: Carefully review your order.
Pay with your American Express Card: This is crucial! Ensure you select and pay with the American Express Card you used to unlock the presale, or another eligible Amex Card linked to your account.
Confirm your purchase: Once your payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email with your tickets.
Step 6: Tips for a Successful Presale Experience
Presales can be competitive. Here are some pro tips to increase your chances:
Be Prepared: Have your Ticketmaster account logged in, your American Express Card details handy, and a stable internet connection well before the presale start time.
Know the Presale Start Time: Presales have strict start and end times. Be ready to go right when they open.
Use Multiple Devices (Strategically): Some users report success with having Ticketmaster open on a computer and a mobile device. However, avoid opening too many windows or tabs for the same event, as this can sometimes flag your activity.
Understand Dynamic Pricing: Ticketmaster often uses dynamic pricing, meaning ticket prices can fluctuate based on demand. Presale prices might be higher or lower than general sale prices depending on the event.
Read the Fine Print: Always check the specific terms and conditions for each presale. There might be ticket limits per cardholder.
Don't Give Up Immediately: If you don't get tickets right away, keep refreshing or trying for a few minutes. Sometimes more tickets are released, or others' carts expire.
Connect Your Card (Optional but Helpful): American Express allows you to connect your eligible Amex Card to your Ticketmaster account for easier access to Preferred Seating. While not strictly necessary for presales, it can streamline the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check if my American Express card is eligible for presales?
Most American Express credit and charge cards are eligible for presales. Prepaid cards are typically not. You can check the "Benefits" section on the American Express website for your specific card or visit
How to find the 10-digit customer service number on my American Express card?
The 10-digit customer service number is usually located on the back of your physical American Express Card, printed below the magnetic strip. It's different from your main card number.
How to use an American Express presale code if it's not the 10-digit number?
While rare, if a specific alphanumeric code is provided for an American Express presale, it will be explicitly communicated by American Express or the event promoter. Always refer to the official announcement for the event. However, in most cases, your card number is the key.
How to ensure I get tickets with an American Express presale code?
Presale access does not guarantee tickets. They are still subject to availability and demand. Being ready at the presale start time, having a fast internet connection, and using your Amex Card promptly will increase your chances.
How to know when an American Express presale is happening for a specific event?
Check the American Express Experiences website, the Ticketmaster event page, and sign up for email alerts from both Ticketmaster and American Express. Following relevant artists/venues on social media can also provide early notice.
How to connect my American Express Card to my Ticketmaster account?
You can usually connect your eligible American Express Card to your Ticketmaster account through your Ticketmaster profile settings under "Payment Options" or "Account Settings." This can streamline the process for American Express Preferred Seating and potentially some presales.
How to deal with an American Express presale code not working?
First, double-check that you're entering the correct 10-digit customer service number. Ensure the presale is active and you're using an eligible American Express Card. If problems persist, contact Ticketmaster Fan Support or American Express Customer Service.
How to get a refund if I purchase presale tickets and the event is canceled?
Ticketmaster's standard refund policy applies to presale tickets. If an event is canceled, you typically receive a refund automatically. For postponed events, policies vary.
How to know if American Express offers "reserved" tickets after the general sale?
"Amex Reserved Tickets™" offer dedicated ticket allotments even after the general sale. Look for this option on the Ticketmaster event page or the American Express Experiences website during the public on-sale period.
How to maximize my chances for popular events with American Express presales?
Beyond being prepared, consider if there are other presales (e.g., artist fan club, venue) you can also try, as some events have multiple presale opportunities. However, remember you'll still need to use your Amex Card for the Amex presale.
