Navigating the world of credit cards can be a thrilling adventure, especially when it comes to earning rewards that can lead to dream vacations, exclusive events, or luxury experiences. American Express, a leader in premium credit cards, is well-known for its generous welcome offers and unique benefits. However, unlocking these rewards is not as straightforward as it seems. With a maze of rules and restrictions governing their credit card applications, it is crucial for both beginners and seasoned travelers to understand how to effectively manage these requirements to maximize their rewards potential.

American Express Welcome Offer Restrictions

Credit. American Express. The Platinum Card® from American Express.

American Express is known for its appealing welcome bonuses, which can be a major draw for those looking to earn significant travel rewards quickly. However, the company has specific restrictions in place to manage these offers. Understanding these rules is crucial for maximizing your benefits.

What Rules And Restrictions Are In Place

Here is a summary of the critical rules and restrictions in place, which determine your eligibility for welcome offers and card ownership.

The Once-Per-Lifetime Rule

The “once-per-lifetime” rule is one of the most significant restrictions imposed by American Express. This policy stipulates that you can only receive the welcome bonus on a specific card once in your lifetime. This means that even if you cancel a card and reapply later, you will not be eligible for the welcome bonus again.

American Express tracks your bonus eligibility using your Social Security Number, ensuring you do not receive multiple bonuses on the same card product over time. This approach is designed to prevent gaming of the system, where individuals repeatedly apply for the same card to collect bonuses.

Tip: American Express welcome offers with “no lifetime language” or “pre-approved” language are potential exceptions to this rule.

Note: There is some anecdotal evidence that the American Express “once-per-lifetime” rule expires. This means you can successfully apply for the same credit card and receive the sign up bonus after waiting for a period of 5 – 7 years. 

Credit Card Family Restrictions

Credit. The Business Journal. American Express Delta Skymiles Card Family.

American Express organizes some of its cards into families, which, as of 2023, have additional restrictions on top of the once-per-lifetime rule. Here are the major families of American Express personal cards (from “lowest” to “highest”):

• Membership Rewards
  • American Express® Green Card
  • American Express® Gold Card
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Delta
  • Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Marriott Bonvoy
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• Hilton Honors
  • Hilton Honors American Express Card
  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

In simple terms, American Express will not allow you to receive a welcome offer on lower-tier cards if you have previously held a higher tier card within the same card family. As an example, you will not be eligible for the sign up bonus on the American Express® Green Card if you previously held The Platinum Card® from American Express. When applying for the American Express® Green Card in this situation, you would receive the following, or similar, message:

“You may not be eligible to receive a welcome offer if you have or have had this Card, the Platinum Card®, the Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley, the Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Charles Schwab, the American Express® Gold Card or previous versions of these Cards.”

At the present time, the card family rule only applies to the Membership Rewards and Delta card families.

Tip: As with the once-per-lifetime rule, “pre-approved” offers from American Express are potential exceptions to this rule.

Note: The “credit card family” restriction only applies to personal cards currently. This means you are able to hold The Platinum Card® from American Express and still apply for the American Express® Business Gold Card and receive a welcome bonus. 

Limitations On Number Of Applications And Cards

American Express has specific rules regarding the number of card applications you can submit as well as the number of cards you can hold at one time.

Card Application Restrictions

There are currently two rules in regards to the number of credit card applications:

• The “1 in 5” Rule
  • You are only allowed to be apply for and be approved for one credit card every five days
• The “2 in 90” Rule
  • If you apply for more than two credit cards within 90 days, you will automatically be rejected for the third one

Note: These two rules do not apply for non-credit card applications (i.e. cards with no pre-set spending limit)

Being mindful of these limitations can save you time and effort in your application process and increase your chances of approval.

Card Type And Number Restriction

Another important restriction is the limitation on the number of American Express personal and business cards you can hold at any given time. Generally, you can have up to five American Express credit cards and ten American Express cards with no preset spending limit. Managing the number and type of cards you hold is essential to ensure you are eligible for new cards and their associated bonuses.

Other Welcome Offer Restrictions

American Express may also impose additional restrictions, such as requiring you to wait a certain period between closing a current card and opening a new card. Additionally, your eligibility might be influenced by your credit history and past relationship with American Express. If you have a history of late payments or account closures, you may face additional scrutiny during the application process. To maximize your chances of receiving welcome offers, ensure your credit profile remains in good standing and you maintain a positive relationship with American Express.

Related: The Best Credit Cards For American Express Membership Rewards

What Cards Are Affected

Credit. Frequent Miler. American Express Cards.

While most restrictions apply to the entire portfolio of American Express cards, some rules only apply to select cards:

• Once-Per-Lifetime: applies to all American Express cards (personal and business)
• Credit Card Family: applies to personal Membership Rewards and Delta cards only
• Application Limitation: applies to all American Express cards (personal and business)
• Card Limitation: applies to all American Express cards (personal and business)

Note: American Express welcome offers with “no lifetime language” or “pre-approved” language are potential exceptions to this rule.

Note: Rebranded or updated cards are not exceptions to these rules, unless explicitly stated.

American Express Pop Up Jail

One of the more frustrating aspects of applying for an American Express card is encountering “pop-up jail.” This occurs when you attempt to apply for a new card and receive a notification stating that you are not eligible for the welcome offer, despite meeting the general criteria.

If you find yourself in “pop-up jail,” it may be due to multiple recent applications or accounts, or because your spending patterns do not align with the intended use of a specific card or cards. To avoid “pop-up jail,” make sure you space out your applications and ensure your financial activities reflect responsible credit usage.

However, there are a few options after receiving the “pop up jail” notification:

1. Proceed with the application, knowing you will not receive the welcome offer;
2. Withdraw the application, before a credit check is performed, and reapply at a later date; or
3. Contact American Express customer service (via chat or phone) for an explanation and an opportunity to state your case.

Note: You can find some additional tips and tricks regarding American Express “pop-up jail” here: How To Escape Amex Pop Up Jail.

Conclusion

Understanding the application rules and restrictions for American Express is crucial for anyone looking to optimize their travel rewards strategy. By familiarizing yourself with these rules, you can make informed decisions and ensure you do not miss out on valuable welcome offers. Whether you are a novice eager to start your rewards journey or an expert looking to expand your portfolio, staying informed is key to maximizing your credit card benefits. By strategically navigating these restrictions, you can maximize your rewards potential and take advantage of the luxurious benefits that American Express cards offer.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company. 

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.