How to Apply for an American Express Credit Card

American Express is one of the most widely known and accepted credit cards. As an added perk, AmEx also offers great rewards and customer perks. It offers a variety of cards to appeal to each type of card user, whether that means larger credit limits, membership miles or cash back.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have a strong credit history to apply for a credit card. American Express is one of the more difficult cards to obtain, so a clean credit history is important. If you have a shaky credit history, you may want to consider building your history through co-signed loans or putting utilities in your name before applying for an American Express card.

2. Check out the features of each card by going to the American Express website. It offers many ways to help you choose, including a questionnaire to determine the best card for you. Some things to consider: your credit history, your desired credit limit, your desired rewards (cash back versus incentives), your travel needs, your average monthly balance, your need for access to entertainment benefits. American Express offers great access to events and travel perks, but if you won't use them, you may be better off with a simpler card.

3. Read all the terms and conditions involved with the card. Be aware that many cards have annual fees, so you'll need to know all fees involved with the card you're applying for. Print out the current agreement when applying so that if you have any disputes, you will have proof of your contract.

4. Once you decide on which one you want, press the icon for the card and click on the "Apply Now" button.

5. Fill out all personal information on the next page.

6. Press "Continue to Verify" and verify on the next page.

7. You're done for now. However, if you have a recently changed address or any confusion with your application, American Express will call you for confirmation. You have the option of confirming over the phone or asking them to send you a supplementary application to confirm your identity.

8. Call to activate your card when it arrives, then you may begin to use it.