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.
|