What you need to do to open an American Express checking account

American Express offers checking accounts through American Express Bank, a federally chartered bank separate from the credit card company. To open one, you go directly to American Express Bank's website, provide personal information (name, address, Social Security number, date of birth), verify your identity online, and fund the account with an initial deposit. The whole process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account becomes active within one business day.

You do not need to be an American Express credit card holder to open a checking account with them. The bank treats the checking account as a separate product with its own terms and fees. Once your account is open, you receive a debit card and online access to manage your money.

Key Takeaways

  • You open an American Express checking account directly through American Express Bank's website by providing your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth.
  • The account requires an initial deposit to fund it, and the amount varies depending on the specific account type you choose.
  • Your account becomes active within one business day, and you receive a debit card and online banking access.
  • American Express Bank is a separate entity from American Express credit card services, so you do not need a credit card to open a checking account.
  • The bank may conduct a background check using ChexSystems, a banking history report system, as part of the account opening process.

Information you will need to provide

Have your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and a government-issued photo ID ready before you start. American Express Bank will ask for these during the online process. You will also need to choose a username and password for online banking access.

The bank verifies your identity by asking questions based on your credit history and public records. These questions are designed so only you can answer them correctly. If you have limited credit history or have moved frequently, this step may take longer or require additional documentation like a utility bill or lease agreement.

Initial deposit requirements

American Express Bank requires an opening deposit to fund your new checking account. The minimum amount depends on which account type you choose, as the bank offers different checking products with different features and fee structures. Check the current requirements on their website, as these minimums can change.

You can fund the account using a debit card, another bank account, or a wire transfer. If you fund it from another bank account, the transfer typically takes one to three business days to complete. Once the deposit clears, your account is fully active.

What happens after you submit your process

American Express Bank reviews your process and runs a background check through ChexSystems, a system that tracks banking history and account closures. This check does not affect your credit score. If the bank approves your process, you will receive confirmation by email within a few hours to one business day.

Your debit card ships separately and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, you can use your online banking account to transfer money, set up bill pay, and manage your account. If you need when ready access to funds, you can request a temporary digital card number for online purchases while you wait for the physical card.

Account features and what to expect

American Express Bank checking accounts come with online banking, a mobile app, a debit card, and bill pay functionality. You can deposit checks using mobile check deposit, which lets you photograph a check and submit it through the app. The bank does not charge fees for basic account maintenance, though specific fees depend on your account type.

ATM access varies by account type. Some American Express Bank accounts offer access to a network of ATMs without surcharge fees, while others may charge for out-of-network ATM use. Review the fee schedule for your specific account type before opening it so you understand what costs may explore.

If your process is declined

American Express Bank may decline your process if ChexSystems shows a history of unpaid overdrafts, fraud, or other banking problems. If this happens, you will receive a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a copy of your ChexSystems report and dispute any inaccurate information on it.

If you are declined, you can try again after addressing the issue on your ChexSystems report, or you can explore checking accounts from other banks that may have different approval standards. Some banks specialize in accounts for people with banking history issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an American Express credit card to open a checking account?

No. American Express Bank is a separate bank from the credit card company, and the checking account is a standalone product. You can open a checking account without any credit card history with American Express.

How long does it take to get my debit card?

Your debit card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after your account is approved. You can use online banking and bill pay when ready while you wait. Some accounts offer a temporary digital card number for online purchases right away.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

American Express Bank requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to open an account. If you do not have either, you may not be able to open an account with this bank, but other banks may have different requirements.

Can I use this account if I have had banking problems before?

It depends on what those problems were. ChexSystems tracks overdrafts, fraud, and account closures. If your report shows serious issues, American Express Bank may decline you. You can request your ChexSystems report to see what is listed and dispute errors before trying again.

What is the difference between American Express Bank and American Express credit cards?

American Express Bank is a federally chartered bank that offers checking and savings accounts. American Express credit cards are issued by a separate division. The two operate independently, though they share the American Express brand name.