What are passkeys and how do they work?

Passkeys allow you to log in to your American Express^® online account without needing to remember complex passwords. With passkeys, you can log in using the same method you use to unlock your device, such as Face ID^®, your fingerprint, or your device passcode.

When you create a passkey, it’s saved in your password manager, such as Apple iCloud Keychain^® & Passwords or Google Password Manager. The next time you log in through a supported web browser, you’ll simply verify your identity on your device, and you’ll be logged in. No password required.

Setting up a passkey

You may be prompted to create a passkey when logging in to your Amex^® online account. Just follow the steps and your device will store it securely. 

Otherwise, you can create or manage a passkey at any time. Please follow these steps:

• Log in to your online account using a web browser
• Navigate to Account Services
• Click on Security and Privacy
• In the Account Security section, find Passkeys
• Click Manage and follow the on-screen instructions

Alternatively, use the direct link to access the Passkeys section in your account

Using passkeys across devices

If you have multiple devices synced to the same password manager account (such as Apple iCloud Keychain & Passwords or Google Password Manager), your passkeys will sync across those devices. This allows you to use your passkey on any compatible device connected to that account.

What to do if you lose or change your device

If your passkey is saved to your password manager account, you can access it on a new device after signing in to that same password manager account.

If it isn’t synced, you may need to create a new passkey for your Amex account. You can also rename or remove existing passkeys from your account settings.

You can still use your password

You can still use your password to access your American Express account. However, passkeys are a seamless secure alternative to passwords. 

Security and Privacy

Passkeys are designed for individual use. Some platforms allow sharing within trusted groups (such as family sharing or shared password managers). If shared, the recipient can authenticate to the account. 

If you remove a passkey from your Amex account, you should also remove it from your password manager to avoid being prompted to use it at login.

To learn more about how we protect your information, visit our Privacy Center.

Where you can use passkeys

Passkeys are currently available when accessing your Amex account online through a web browser. They are not yet supported in the Amex App. For the Amex App, we recommend enabling device biometrics for secure access.

Passkeys are supported on most modern browsers and operating systems that support secure login. Support depends on your specific browser, operating system, device hardware, and security settings. When you attempt to create a passkey, your device will let you know if it’s supported.

If passkeys aren’t available, you can continue using another login method.