Q: What is the credit score required to be approved for an American Express card?

A: We all know American Express is famous for catering to the well-to-do, but those aren’t the only people who can score an AmEx. The minimum credit score needed for an American Express largely depends on which card you are applying for.

Below I will talk about my estimates for the credit score requirements on some of their most popular cards. But before I proceed please understand the following…

• These are my personal estimates only, based on various customer credit card reviews and feedback I have gathered on this site and elsewhere.
• Even though Credit Card Forum advertises American Express cards, they do NOT disclose information like credit score requirements to their advertisers.
• The credit score needed for not just an AmEx, but any credit card, constantly changes depending on economic conditions. My estimates below are for average economic conditions in the post-crash era (2011 onward).

Green Card?

This card has been out for over 50 years (since 1958!) and of course there are now several charge cards above the AmEx Green card.

It’s a charge card, which means your balance must be paid in full each month. For this reason, it’s a lower lending risk than a regular credit card since the customer can’t use it to carry debt. Because of this charge cards seem to have loose credit score requirements. Not to mention, you’re paying an annual fee for them which probably helps, too.

If you have low score simply due to a limited credit history (and not credit mistakes) you probably have a good chance at getting approved. I have heard credit scores in the mid to high 600’s getting approved for the Green Card. However, I have heard of even better luck with the new Zync American Express, which also happens to be a much better card in my opinion, too.

Gold Card?

Of course this is a step up from the Green and as expected, will require a slighter higher credit score. Fortunately, it is also a charge card and therefore the same things mentioned above also apply to it.

The minimum credit score needed for an AmEx Gold card will probably be in the low 700’s. The premium version – the Premier Rewards Gold Card – will likely be a bit higher, probably in the 725 to 750 range. Here’s my AmEx Gold card review.

Platinum Card?

Ah… the elusive Platinum card. Something everyone wants but no one can afford! It’s $450 fee is steep, but is actually worth it if you travel frequently and go first-class all the way. It’s also a charge card.

There are two sides to consider. Yes, it is their most premium card (not counting the Centurion) and for that reason alone, a high credit score is to be expected. However on the flip side, you are agreeing to pay $450 annually, which certainly must help your case!

For these reasons I do not believe the credit score needed for the AmEx Platinum card is outrageously high. My estimate would be you need a credit score range similar to the Gold Premier Rewards card. Several years ago (around ’06 or ’07) I actually knew a 19 year old that had obtained a Platinum under his own credit, but I don’t think that would be likely to do now. Check out this review of the Platinum American Express to learn more about it.

Blue card?

Unlike the examples listed above, this one IS a credit card and for that reason it does have tough approval requirements.

I remember during the peak of the credit crunch in early 2009, I called up AmEx customer service on my Blue account to ask for a credit limit increase and was denied. The rep told me “I am seeing people with 830’s that are only getting a $2,000 limit right now on this card.” Fortunately, the economy has since recovered and I’m sure that isn’t the case today. Based on what I have read, I would estimate the AmEx Blue card’s minimum credit score requirement to be around 720, give or take a few points. Check out this American Express Blue Cash review to find out more about it.

Conclusion?

What credit score does American Express require? It all depends on the type of card you are applying for. As a rule of thumb, I would guess your chances are better with their charge cards. Among those the easiest to get right now is almost certainly the Gold Delta SkyMiles card.