Chip Lupo, Credit Card Writer
@CLoop
Yes, American Express does a hard inquiry on your credit report when you apply for a card, but it only takes place after you are approved for the card and choose to accept the offer. If your application is denied or you are approved but choose not to accept the card, there will only be a soft inquiry. This differs from other credit card issuers, where there will always be a hard inquiry when you apply regardless of the application results.
If you only have a soft pull because you were denied or chose not to accept the card, there will be no impact on your credit score. If you accept a card from Amex and trigger a hard pull, your score will usually drop by 5-10 points. Most people’s scores bounce back within 3-6 months with responsible credit management, but it can take up to 12 months. Waiting at least six months between credit card applications and keeping your credit utilization low are some examples of ways that you can minimize the credit score damage caused by hard pulls.
Note: This application experience is currently available for individuals applying for a U.S. personal card via WalletHub, on the American Express site, or by calling American Express and is not available if you apply for a card after you log into an existing Card Member Account.
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People also ask
What are the American Express credit score requirements?
You typically need a least good credit to be eligible for an American Express card. American Express cards are available to applicants with credit scores ranging from good to excellent credit.
If your credit score is below the threshold needed for an American Express credit card, it’s best to wait to apply until you meet the credit score requirement. You can check your credit score for free on WalletHub.
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How much income do you need for an American Express credit card?
To qualify for an American Express credit card, you need enough income to afford the monthly bill payments along with any annual fees. American Express does not disclose specific minimum income requirements for its credit cards, but the higher your income is, the more likely you are to be approved.
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The easiest American Express cards to get approved for are those that require a minimum of good credit for approval as opposed to excellent credit only. The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express and the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card are two of the easiest Amex cards to get approved for because they only require good credit.
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