Methodology
Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case (the card rating you see on a specific “Best” list). The rating for each card changes on different “Best” lists according to how a person looking for a card in that category may value certain card features.
The Amex cards on this list are rated by comparing them to other similar cards. For instance, the cards that earn flexible Membership Rewards points are compared to other flexible rewards cards, while cash-back-earning cards are rated by comparing them to other cash-back cards.
Depending on the type of card, factors considered may include:
- Annual rewards earning
- Welcome bonus
- Annual fee
- Rewards flexibility
- Introductory APR on purchases and/or balance transfers
- Ongoing APR
- Statement credits
- Additional cardholder protections and insurance
Forbes Advisor reevaluates the list of best American Express cards at least every 12 months to determine if any cards need to be added and/or removed. The list could be updated more frequently if there’s a major change to a card listed or a new Amex card is launched.
To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards.
Guide to American Express Credit Cards
Types of Amex Cards
Travel Cards
Cash-Back Cards
Co-Branded Cards
Pros and Cons of American Express Cards
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Many American Express cards offer robust benefits and/or rewards | There are few low-annual-fee card options |
| Amex is renowned for providing world-class customer service | Statement credits can be difficult to maximize due to fine print |
| Welcome bonus offers are often highly competitive | You can’t combine the rewards from Amex cash-back and travel cards |
How To Apply for an American Express Credit Card
Applying for an American Express card is easy. Here are the steps to take.
- Navigate to the webpage of the credit card you’d like to apply for.
- Click the blue “Apply Now” button.
- Complete the application to find out if you’re approved and if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer with no impact on your credit score.
- If approved, you’ll have the choice to accept the offer. If you do accept the offer, American Express will do a hard credit check on your credit report.
After you’ve been approved, you may be invited to receive an Instant Card Number that can be used immediately. Your physical card should arrive in the mail within seven to 10 days.
What Credit Score Do You Need for an American Express Card?
All Amex-issued cards require good to excellent credit, meaning you’ll likely need a FICO Score of at least 670. Worried you might not be eligible for the card you have your eyes on? Thankfully, all American Express consumer cards now offer an “Apply With Confidence” feature that lets you know if you’ve been approved with a soft credit inquiry that won’t impact your credit until you accept the offer.
How Many Amex Cards Can You Have?
While there is no written rule, it’s common knowledge that American Express limits each member to a maximum of five credit cards. This limit applies to both personal and business credit cards combined. However, it does not apply to hybrid cards that don’t have a preset spending limit. This means popular travel cards like the Amex Platinum, Gold and Green may not count against your five-card limit.
What is special about an Amex card?
John Taylor Garner
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
Toni Perkins-Southam
Credit Cards Lead Editor
Becky Pokora
Credit Cards Writer
Perhaps the best benefit of an Amex card is the confidence it instills in people when making a purchase. When almost anything bad happens, Amex covers you. Literally. I have purchased a new iPhone and dropped it while walking down the street a few weeks later. Purchase protection¹ replaced it for free with a brand new one. I have had countless merchants not give me what I paid for. Instead of arguing with them, I just call Amex up, submit a dispute and I’m fully refunded instantly. They almost always side with you, the customer. Confidence when making purchases is an incredibly valuable benefit.
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
Amex has loads of unique perks and benefits that make it special, but one of my absolute favorite reasons to hold an Amex card is the Amex Offers (enrollment required). I have saved hundreds, if not thousands, thanks to these valuable and useful offers.
Credit Cards Lead Editor
Amex in and of itself is not special, but there are lots of individual rewards cards issued by American Express that might slide right into your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for travel rewards and benefits or a card for dining, groceries or basic cash back, you’ll find an option from Amex.
Credit Cards Writer
Are Amex Cards Worth It?
Amex cards are usually the best fit for those looking for benefits beyond just rewards-earning. If you’re the type of person who would be sure to maximize extra card features like statement credits, transfer partners or lounge access, then an Amex card could be for you. But if you’re searching for simple rewards, you’ll probably want to look elsewhere.
Find The Best Credit Cards For 2025
No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.
To view rates and fees for American Express Platinum Card® please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for American Express® Gold Card please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card please visit this page.
¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I activate my American Express card?
You can activate your Amex card online, from the American Express app or by calling the number on the back of the card. Regardless of your activation method, you’ll need to provide your 15-digit card number and four-digit Card ID to finish setting up your card.
How do I use my American Express rewards points?
For Amex cards that earn Membership Rewards points, you can use your points to cover purchases, buy gift cards, transfer them to partners and more. To get started with any of these redemption options, log in to your account, navigate to “Rewards & Benefits” and then select “Earn & Redeem.”
How can you get an American Express card with bad credit?
There are currently no American Express cards designed for customers with bad credit. However, there are several credit cards for bad credit that other issuers offer while you work to build up your credit score. Also, Amex serves as the payment network for the Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® with Dining, Gas & Travel Rewards, which is available to those with fair credit.
How do you cancel an American Express card?
You’ll need to talk to a customer service representative to cancel your credit card. Call the number on the back of your card to start the conversation. If you’re outside the U.S., you can call collect at 1-336-393-1111.
Where is the security code on my American Express card?
Unlike Visa, Mastercard and Discover, American Express puts the security code on the front of its cards and uses four-digit numbers. You’ll find your CVV on the right side of your card.
