Applying for a new credit card can be an exciting step toward unlocking new rewards, benefits, or simply better financial management. If you've recently applied for an American Express card, you're likely wondering: how long does American Express take to review an application? Let's dive into the typical timelines, what might cause delays, and how you can stay informed throughout the process.
Step 1: The Initial Application and What to Expect Immediately ⏱️
So, you've hit that "submit" button on your American Express credit card application. Congratulations! Now, the waiting game begins, but often, it's a very short game.
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| How Long Does American Express Take To Review Application |
Instant Decisions: The Most Common Outcome
For a significant majority of applicants, American Express provides an instant decision. This means within seconds or minutes of submitting your application online, you'll see a message indicating whether your application has been approved or denied. This rapid response is due to sophisticated automated systems that can quickly assess your creditworthiness based on the information you provide and your credit report.
When an Instant Decision Doesn't Happen: "Under Review" Status
While instant decisions are common, sometimes your application might go into an "under review" status. This isn't necessarily a bad sign! It simply means American Express needs a bit more time to evaluate your application. This could be for a variety of reasons, which we'll explore in detail.
Step 2: Understanding the "Under Review" Process
If your application isn't instantly approved, it moves into a manual review process. Here's what that generally entails and the typical timelines.
What "Under Review" Means
When your application is under review, it means that an American Express representative needs to personally examine your application and possibly cross-reference information. This could be due to:
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Verification of information: Amex might need to verify your identity, income, or address.
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Credit report discrepancies: There might be something unusual or unclear on your credit report that requires a closer look.
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High volume of applications: During peak application periods, there might be a slight delay in processing.
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Existing relationship with Amex: If you have multiple Amex cards or a complex account history, they might review your overall relationship.
Typical Review Timeline
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
While there's no fixed time, if your application goes into "under review," you can generally expect to hear back within 3 to 5 business days. In some cases, it might take up to 7 to 10 business days. American Express aims to be efficient, but thoroughness is key for them.
Step 3: Checking Your Application Status
Waiting can be tough, but American Express provides easy ways to check the status of your application.
Online Application Status Tracker
This is the quickest and most convenient method.
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Visit the American Express Application Status page: You can usually find this link on the Amex website or by searching "American Express application status."
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Enter your details: You'll typically need to provide your 14-digit application reference number (which you should have received in a confirmation email after applying) or your registered mobile number.
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Submit and view: Your application status will then be displayed, showing whether it's still under review, approved, or denied.
Calling American Express Customer Service
If you prefer to speak with someone directly or have specific questions, you can call American Express's New Accounts line. The number is typically available on their website, but a common number for application inquiries is 1-888-826-3471. Have your application reference number ready to expedite the process.
Checking Your Email
American Express will also send you updates via email. Be sure to check your inbox, including your spam or junk folders, for any communications regarding your application.
Step 4: What Happens After a Decision is Made
Once American Express has made a decision, the next steps depend on the outcome.
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If Approved
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Confirmation: You'll receive an email confirmation of your approval.
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Card Arrival: Your new American Express card will typically arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some premium cards might offer expedited shipping, which you can inquire about.
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Instant Card Numbers: For certain cards and qualified applicants, American Express may offer an Instant Card Number immediately upon approval. This allows you to start making purchases online or add the card to your digital wallet even before the physical card arrives.
If Denied
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Adverse Action Notice: If your application is denied, American Express is legally required to send you a written notice (an "adverse action notice") explaining the specific reasons for the denial. This letter usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days after the decision.
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Understanding the Reasons: Common reasons for denial include:
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Low credit score or insufficient credit history.
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Too many recent credit inquiries.
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High existing debt or high credit utilization.
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Errors on your credit report.
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Income not meeting requirements for the specific card.
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Not meeting Amex's internal application rules (e.g., 1-in-5 rule, 2-in-90 rule).
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Reconsideration: It's sometimes possible to call the American Express reconsideration line and discuss your application with an underwriter. If there was a minor issue or something you can clarify, they might reconsider your application. This is not guaranteed but can be worth a try.
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Improving Your Credit: If denied, take the time to understand the reasons and work on improving your credit profile before reapplying.
Step 5: Factors That Can Influence Review Time and Approval
Several factors can play a role in how long American Express takes to review your application and ultimately whether it's approved.
Credit Score and History
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Excellent to Good Credit: Generally, a FICO score in the Good (670-739), Very Good (740-799), or Excellent (800-850) range significantly increases your chances of instant approval.
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Limited or Poor Credit: If your credit history is limited or your score is lower, Amex might need more time for a manual review, or you might be denied.
Income and Debt-to-Income Ratio
American Express, like other lenders, wants to ensure you can manage your credit responsibly. A higher income and a lower debt-to-income ratio generally lead to quicker approvals.
Recent Credit Applications and Accounts
American Express has specific rules regarding how often you can be approved for new cards:
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1-in-5 Rule: You can generally only be approved for one American Express credit card every five days.
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2-in-90 Rule: You can generally only be approved for two American Express credit cards within a 90-day period.
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"Once-per-lifetime" Welcome Offer Rule: For many Amex cards, you're typically only eligible for the welcome bonus once per lifetime for that specific card product. Applying for a card you've had before (and received the bonus for) might lead to a denial or a pop-up indicating you're not eligible for the bonus.
Accuracy of Application Information
Any discrepancies or errors in the information you provide on your application (e.g., address, income) can trigger a manual review and potentially delay the process. Double-checking your application before submission is crucial.
Tip: Reread sections you didn’t fully grasp.
Existing Relationship with American Express
If you're already an Amex cardholder with a good payment history, your application for a new card might be processed more quickly. Conversely, if you have a history of late payments or other issues, it could lead to a more extensive review.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Check My American Express Application Status Online?
You can check your status on the American Express application status page by entering your 14-digit application reference number or registered mobile number.
How to Contact American Express About a Pending Application?
You can call the American Express New Accounts line, often at 1-888-826-3471, to inquire about your application status.
How to Speed Up an American Express Application Review?
Generally, you cannot directly speed up the review process once it's pending. Ensuring all information is accurate on your initial application is the best way to avoid delays. If contacted for more information, respond promptly.
How to Know if My American Express Application Was Approved Instantly?
If you receive an immediate "Congratulations! Your application has been approved" message on screen after submitting, along with a confirmation email, it was an instant approval.
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
How to Get an American Express Instant Card Number?
An Instant Card Number is offered by American Express for certain cards to eligible approved applicants immediately after approval, allowing online or digital wallet use before the physical card arrives.
How to Reapply for an American Express Card After Denial?
First, understand the reasons for denial from your adverse action notice. Work on improving those areas (e.g., credit score, debt). It's generally recommended to wait at least 3-6 months before reapplying.
How to Improve My Credit Score for American Express Approval?
Pay all bills on time, keep your credit utilization low (ideally below 30%), avoid opening too many new credit accounts too quickly, and dispute any errors on your credit report.
How to Understand American Express Application Rules?
American Express has rules like the "1-in-5" (one card approval per five days) and "2-in-90" (two card approvals per 90 days) and a "once-per-lifetime" rule for welcome bonuses. Research the specific rules for the card you're interested in.
How to Find Out Why My American Express Application Was Denied?
American Express will send you an adverse action notice via mail detailing the specific reasons for the denial. You can also call their reconsideration line.
How to Prepare for an American Express Credit Card Application?
Before applying, check your credit score, review your credit report for errors, understand the credit score and income requirements for the specific card, and ensure your financial information is accurate.
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