American Express is primarily known for credit cards, not checking accounts. If you've seen ads for an "Amex checking bonus," it's important to understand what's actually being offered—and what isn't.
American Express does not currently operate a traditional checking account product in the United States. Amex offers credit cards, charge cards, and some savings products, but a full-service checking account with a debit card isn't part of their lineup.
What you may have encountered instead:
This distinction matters because checking account bonuses and credit card bonuses work in fundamentally different ways.
If you're looking at Amex products, the bonuses typically tied to accounts come from credit and charge cards, not checking accounts. These bonuses usually require:
Qualifying criteria that vary:
Bonus structures differ by card type:
The value depends on how you use the card and whether you can meet the spending requirement without changing your normal behavior.
Amex Bank of Delaware does offer high-yield savings accounts. Savings account bonuses operate differently than credit card offers:
Key variables that affect your decision:
A savings bonus is typically a one-time offer; the ongoing value depends on the account's interest rate relative to other banks.
Since financial products and offers change frequently, confirm these details directly with Amex:
If you're evaluating where to open a checking account, Amex likely isn't in the conversation. If you're considering an Amex credit or savings product, focus on whether the ongoing benefits (rates, rewards, features) work for you—not just the sign-up bonus. A one-time bonus is a secondary factor; how you'll actually use the account matters far more for long-term value.
