What You Need to Open an American Express Checking Account
American Express offers a checking account called American Express Personal Savings (formerly Amex Bank of Delaware), but the process and availability depend on which product you're looking at. If you're interested in a basic checking account through American Express, you'll need to start online at americanexpress.com or through their mobile app. The account requires a Social Security number, a valid government ID, and a current mailing address in the United States.
The application itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes and asks for your name, date of birth, address, employment status, and annual income. American Express will run a soft credit check (which does not affect your credit score) and may also check ChexSystems, a banking history database. You'll need to fund the account with an initial deposit—the minimum varies, so check the current requirement on their site before you start.
One important detail: American Express checking accounts are not available to all customers. If you already have an American Express credit card in good standing, you may have easier access. If you don't, American Express may decline your application or require you to open a savings account first as a stepping stone.
Key Takeaways
- You can start an American Express checking account application online at americanexpress.com or through their mobile app in about 10 to 15 minutes.
- You will need a Social Security number, valid government ID, current U.S. address, and proof of income or employment status.
- American Express will check your banking history through ChexSystems and may require an existing credit card or savings account before opening a checking account.
- An initial deposit is required to fund the account; the minimum amount changes, so confirm it before you apply.
- Approval typically happens within one to three business days, and you can begin using the account once funds clear.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Start by going to americanexpress.com and looking for the checking or savings account section. Click the link to open an account, and you'll be asked to choose between a checking account, savings account, or both. Select checking and proceed to the application form.
Fill in your personal information: full name, date of birth, Social Security number, current address, phone number, and email. Then provide employment details—your employer's name, job title, and annual income. American Express uses this information to verify your identity and assess risk. Be accurate; mismatches between what you enter and what appears in public records can slow approval or trigger a denial.
Next, you'll choose a username and password for online banking and set up security questions. American Express will then ask you to review and accept their account agreement and privacy policy. Read the fee schedule carefully—American Express checking accounts typically have no monthly maintenance fee, but overdraft fees and other charges do apply.
After you submit, American Express will display a confirmation number. You should receive an email within a few minutes. If your application is approved instantly, you can set up direct deposit and link external bank accounts right away. If American Express needs more information, they will contact you by phone or email within one to two business days.
What Happens After You're Approved
Once approved, American Express will send you a debit card by mail, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your account for online transfers and bill pay immediately, even before the physical card arrives. Your routing number and account number will be available in the app or online dashboard as soon as the account is open.
If you need to fund the account before your debit card arrives, you can transfer money from another bank account using ACH (Automated Clearing House). Set up the external account in the American Express app or website, and the transfer usually completes within one to three business days. Alternatively, if you have an American Express credit card, you can transfer funds from that card to your new checking account, though this may be treated as a cash advance with associated fees.
American Express will also set up online banking access immediately. You can view your balance, review transactions, set up bill pay, and manage your account settings from day one. Mobile app access is available for iOS and Android.
Documents and Information You'll Need Ready
Before you start the application, gather these items so you don't have to stop midway:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card)
- Your Social Security number
- Your current mailing address
- Your phone number and email address
- Your employer's name and your job title (or proof of income if self-employed)
- Your annual income or recent tax return if self-employed
- The routing and account number of another bank account if you plan to transfer funds to fund the new account
If you're self-employed or have income from multiple sources, have a recent tax return or profit-and-loss statement handy. American Express may ask for this to verify your income claim, especially if the amount you enter is high or inconsistent with your credit history.
Common Reasons Applications Are Declined or Delayed
American Express may decline your application if you have a negative ChexSystems record—this includes unpaid overdrafts, closed accounts due to fraud, or repeated NSF (non-sufficient funds) incidents at other banks. If this happens, you can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com and dispute any errors before reapplying.
Your application may also be delayed if your identity cannot be verified. This happens when the name, address, or Social Security number you entered doesn't match public records. If American Express contacts you about this, respond quickly with the information they request—a copy of your ID, a recent utility bill, or a bank statement showing your current address.
Another common reason for delay is a mismatch between your stated income and what appears in credit reports or tax records. If you recently changed jobs or had a significant income change, be prepared to explain this or provide documentation.
If your application is denied, American Express will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your credit report and ChexSystems report at no cost within 60 days of the denial. Review these reports for errors and correct them before reapplying with another bank or waiting a few months before trying American Express again.
Fees and Account Features
American Express checking accounts typically charge no monthly maintenance fee, which is a major advantage over many traditional banks. However, you will pay fees for certain transactions and actions. Overdraft fees apply if you spend more than your balance; the fee amount varies but is typically $35 per overdraft. American Express may also charge a fee if you use an out-of-network ATM, though they often reimburse ATM fees charged by other banks.
The account includes online bill pay at no charge, unlimited transfers to and from linked external accounts, and access to a large ATM network (American Express partners with various networks depending on your account type). Some American Express checking accounts also offer a small interest rate on your balance, though this rate is typically very low—often less than 0.01% annually.
Review the current fee schedule on americanexpress.com before you open the account, as fees and features change periodically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an American Express credit card to open a checking account?
Not always, but having an existing American Express credit card in good standing makes approval more likely. If you don't have one, American Express may ask you to open a savings account first or may decline your checking account application. You can call American Express at the number on their website to ask about your specific situation before applying.
How long does approval take?
Most applications are approved or denied within one to three business days. Some are approved instantly during the application process. If American Express needs additional information, approval may take up to five business days. You'll receive notification by email or phone.
Can I use my account before my debit card arrives?
Yes. You can transfer money between accounts, set up bill pay, and make online purchases using your account number and routing number immediately after approval. Your physical debit card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
What if I have a negative ChexSystems record?
American Express may decline your application if ChexSystems shows unpaid overdrafts or fraud. You can request your ChexSystems report for free at chexsystems.com, dispute any errors, and reapply after the negative items age or are resolved. Some banks are more lenient than others; if American Express declines you, try a different bank that specializes in second-chance checking.
Can I transfer money from my American Express credit card to my checking account?
Yes, but American Express typically treats this as a cash advance, which means you'll pay a cash advance fee (usually 3% to 5% of the amount) and interest will start accruing immediately. It's better to fund your account using a transfer from another bank account, which has no fee and takes one to three business days.