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How to activate an American Express credit card

Get spending with your new card in three ways.

Kliment Dukovski
Kliment Dukovski

Updated

Once your American Express arrives in your mail, your next step is to activate it. You can do this online, by phone or through the Amex mobile app. Whichever option you choose, the card activation process shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

How to activate your American Express card online

American Express cards don’t require you to enroll in an Amex online banking service before activation. To activate:

  1. Visit americanexpress.com/confirmcard.
  2. Enter your credit card number and the four-digit ID on the back of the card.
  3. Enter any requested personal information to verify your ID.

How to activate your American Express card by phone

Activate your card by phone in two steps:

  1. Call the number on the back of your card or 800-869-3016.
  2. Provide the required credit card and personal information, including your card and Social Security number.

How to activate your American Express card with a mobile app

Another option is to activate your American Express card using the Amex mobile app.

  1. Download the Amex mobile app from Google Play or the App Store.
  2. Tap to register for a new Online services account.
  3. Scan your card or enter the card’s information manually.
  4. Verify your identity.

Compare American Express credit cards

With your American Express credit card now active, you can start using it. With responsible spending, a time will come when you need a higher credit limit or additional perks that your card might lack.

For example, if you earn flat rewards on all purchases, consider applying for an Amex rewards card with boosted earnings where you spend most. The cards in the table below are excellent second-card options worth considering.

Name Product Filter values Rewards Purchase APR Annual fee
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
2% at US gas stations and select US department stores, 3% at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year, then 1% after that and on all other purchases
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)
$0
Apply now
View details
Earn a $150 bonus statement credit after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. Rates & fees
American Express Cash Magnet® Card
American Express Cash Magnet® Card
1.5% cash back on all purchases
0% intro for the first 15 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)
$0
Apply now
View details
Unlimited 1.5% cash back. Rates & fees
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
6% on select US streaming services, 3% on transit and US gas stations, 6% at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 annually, then 1% after that and on all other purchases
0% intro for the first 12 months (then 13.99% to 23.99% variable)
$95
Apply now
View details
6% cash back at US supermarkets. Rates & fees
American Express® Gold Card
American Express® Gold Card
3x points on directly-booked flights; 4x at restaurants; 4x at US supermarkets on up to $25,000 annually (then 1x points)
$250
Apply now
View details
Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide. Rates & fees
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
2x miles on Delta purchases, restaurants and at US supermarkets and 1x miles on all other purchases
15.74% to 24.74% variable
$0 intro annual fee for the first year ($99 thereafter)
Apply now
View details
Earn 50,000 miles after spending $2,000 in the first 3 months. Rates & fees
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Compare up to 4 providers

Bottom line

American Express lets you activate your card online, by phone or with the Amex mobile app. If you’re in a hurry, go for the online activation method or through the app — your quickest option. And if you choose an additional credit card from a different issuer down the road, activating your new credit card should prove a similar process.

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