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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Balance Transfer?
A balance transfer is a transfer of money you owe another credit card company to your American Express® account. When you request balance transfers, we pay off the balances on your other credit cards (up to the amount that you indicate) and transfer those balances to your American Express account.

How does it work?
It's quite simple: Choose what credit card you want to transfer a balance from and the amount you want to transfer.

Why would I want to do a balance transfer?
Most people do not pay off their credit cards in full each month, they "carry a balance." If you are carrying a balance on your other credit cards, balance transfers can save you a lot of money in Finance Charges. Why? Because when you transfer balances to your American Express Card Account, we can give you a lower promotional interest rate and a bigger credit line.

Why does American Express want me to do a balance transfer?
It's simple. If you bring us your business, we can afford to give you better terms. If you have no balances with us, we can't afford to give you a promotional rate or a higher credit line.

Will American Express close the accounts from which I am transferring?
No, American Express cannot close another credit card account for you. You need to contact your credit card company directly to close an account.

Which credit card balances should I transfer to American Express?
You choose, but we recommend that you do a balance transfer from each credit card where you carry a balance.

Do they have to be major credit card balances?
No, you can transfer balances from your retail store cards or your gas cards. Transfer a balance from any credit card where you currently carry a balance.

Can I increase my Line of Credit to accommodate my transfer amount?
Yes, our web site will enable you to increase your line of credit, or you can call 1-800-255-5575.

Do I have to pay a fee to do a balance transfer?
Some transactions do require a fee to be charged. In those cases, you would be advised of the applicable fee. The fee will also appear on the same billing statement as the balance transfer. An "Actual Annual Percentage Rate" will als o appear on the billing statement and will reflect the fee incorporated into the APR applicable to the transaction.

   

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