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Consumer Affairs


Amex Blue

American Express


Consumer Complaints & Reviews

Amex charges $75 a year for their reward point program. I was late by 1-day to make a full payment on my card. I called to have the points reinstated as a courtesy. Amex rep told me that they did this one time in 2008 (4 years ago) and they cannot do this again.

Well if that the case, why waive the charges at all. If I am paying an annual fee, they should as courtesy allow 1 reinstatement of points after full payment. Can you imagine, being late 10 years from now, paid $750 in fees to the program and told they cannot waive it. Pure greed!

I have applied for an AmEx card, and I was following the AmEx customer care, regarding the status from 30-Jan-2011, till 3-Jan-2012, and stopped following them as I felt it is useless to spend time with them. I was told that the card is booked with Blue Dart on December 29, 2011, and a tracking number was provided (43818702701). I could not track the parcel in the Blue Dart website, and even Blue Dart customer care could not help in tracking.

On January 2, after repeated calls, and questioning the details, AmEx told us that Blue Dart does not have collection center in Marthalli, and they have registered the parcel in speed post. I seriously doubt their claim, since we do receive AmEx cards delivered by Blue Dart regularly. I need to travel on Friday (6-Jan-2012) evening to Mumbai, and then Saturday early morning to Seoul. As of today, 5-Jan-2012, I am waiting for the card, but received no updates.

I had a great regard for American Express, and now it looks like they are same like any other provider, except their customer care is sweeter, polite, and wish the customer more often than providing useful information. What makes me angry is that such a professional company misleads, and does not accept their mistakes, and to mitigate the situation, they get the personal mobile number for updates, and never update the customer.

I had a blue American Express card for many years. It was never a problem, I always paid on time. Then I decided to open my own business. I applied for and got Plum Card for businesses, Gold Card for businesses. I've never used the Plum Card, used the gold card twice and of course paid as I was supposed to. I might add that my credit score has been in the high 700's, which is excellent. Out of nowhere in late March 2011, American Express suspended all three of my cards with instructions that I call them!. Of course I called assuming that someone has stolen my identity. Lo and behold, that was not it! Out of nowhere American Express decided that they needed to review my finances. They wanted me to fill out a request form that they could send to IRS and request up to five years of my tax returns! I was certainly not going to do that and told them, "This is ridiculous." They then proceeded to advise me that they can and would cancel all my cards and this would have an adverse affect on my credit history.

They have cancelled all three of my cards, which I have had no problems getting any credit, now I cannot get any! I would like to be able to do something about this as it is ridiculous that this can go on. I do not want their cards anymore, but I simply cannot accept that they can do whatever they want and I am sure many people sign this form and give them the okay to actually request and get copies of up to five years of your personal tax returns! This is ridiculous and should not be allowed!

I received an Am Ex gift card and used it while in Florida, on January 28th, prior to leaving Florida that night. I used the card in Seattle two days later and was denied as not enough on card. I got information and saw the charge duplicated on January 31st in Florida. I contacted the merchant and the only way charge could occur was if the card was swiped; Am Ex confirmed but would do nothing.

I went through hell with Am EX representative; hung up calls, language issues and the typical no service of a financial company. I then cancelled all of my companies Am Ex cards, personal cards with Am Ex and walked away from more than 20 years of working with them.

Don't do business with companies that are unresponsive! My loss was $42.16 and several hours of my time; their loss was closure of 27 accounts ($52,678 of business).

I am an attorney and have a client who was harmed by American Express. I am looking for other persons who reported to American Express that their card had been used without their permission. In my case, AE sued and claimed that my client had never reported the theft of the card. That claim by AE was easily proven false. Anyone else have similar experiences?

I recently closed my AmEx Blue account because the company moved my entire balance of $9,800 from the purchase interest rate of 12.54% to the cash advance interest rate of 25%. I have been complaining to them for over a year now. My last cash advance was over 10 years ago and my cash advance limit is only $200. For the last 10 years, I have never taken out a cash advance. You would think that 10-year old transactions would be paid off by now. AmEx keeps sending me letters saying they only keep records for seven years so they can't verify if I took out a $9,000 cash advance. How? With only a $200 limit.

Purchases were showing up for one month under the correct interest rate and then they moved to the cash advance rate. Now, since the account is closed, my monthly payments are increasing! Last month, it was $193, this month $222. My monthly payments should decreased since the account is closed but they are going up. AmEx told me that my minimum payment is going up since that's all I pay. I have filed complaints with the FTC and the Louisiana Consumer Protection agency.

American Express has an elitist mentality that shows through their customer service. They seemingly operate just like any other credit card company but they portray themselves as elite, and they try to attract customers that find the elitism appealing. I myself opened up accounts-- both credit and charge cards--- and everything seemed okay until there were payment disputes.

My sole method of managing my accounts were through the internet/account online services. American Express did not competently provide me the service through the means in which they allow. The telephone service is great until you have technical questions or specific questions regarding your account. They spend a lot of time pitching and reeling people in and then after they have you, they throw you into a bucket with the rest of 'em.

The incentives are not that rewarding, and if anything goes wrong, such as a payment error, they will treat you like a crook. They are relentless and rude with the amount of badgering they do, even with customers who have a long and reliable history with them. American Express is horrible.

I am a lawyer seeking to identify other American Express credit card holders who were victims of the company's practices in breaching their cardholder agreement. If you have a complaint, I will review it and take on the case on a contingency basis. I personally was a victim of their practices and believe it's time to file a class action suit against them. If interested, please contact me at: **.

I have an American Express Blue credit card and I pay all my balances on time. Once, Amex notified me that there was a dubious transaction. We agreed to cancel my credit card and Amex sent me a replacement card. After receiving the card, I called up Amex to activate it over the phone and I was somehow directed to an Amex customer service agent. The agent confirmed me that my card was activated and then asked me whether I heard about Amex Zync card. I told them that I haven't heard of that card. She told me that the card offers a connect package that gives me 20% discount on my monthly cell phone bill. I was surprised to hear that such a benefit exists and checked it online while I was speaking with her on the phone. I couldn't find it online so I asked her to check with her supervisors whether such benefit really exists.

She lied to me that the benefit is real. I did the math along with her for 10 minutes to see how much I will save over one year after paying for the annual fee and the connect package fee. She convinced and tricked me into signing up for these new cards. Now after receiving the card, the Amex rep told me that such a benefit does not exist. I asked her to go through the recorded phone conversation when I was signed up. I was lied again that those conversations were not recorded. This is the second time that Amex people lied to me.

How can Amex prove that I accepted the card if they didn't record the conversation? I didn't sign any paperwork because I was signed up over the phone! I asked them whether they can take out the annual fee for the rest of time that I keep the card and I was told that I can cancel the card. That was easy for them to escape. I told them that I am not going to cancel that card because it would be a negative mark on my credit history (opening and closing a credit account in one month). Now, I am deeply hurt with Amex who cheated and lied to me. Please do not believe Amex's promises.

I applied for an Amex Blue card in June. It was my first Amex, but they approved me with a $2000 credit limit. At the end of last month, they called me asking me to fill out an IRS transcript request for and freezing my account even though I had never carried a balance and always paid on time. I did what they asked, they called a week later and said I had one more chance because the first copy I sent them was ineligible.

I have had The Blue Card from American Express for about 10 years. They were extremely generous with the credit line with the economy that was good. I have never been late with a payment to AMEX or any other payments I make to accounts that I owe. As soon as my the payment amount shows up online, I schedule the date for my payment to come out. I had looked on the AMEX site and scheduled my payment and I had an open credit amount of $7,800. I had not used the card in almost a year, and decided to charge an amount of $500 toward a home improvement project. My card was declined! I had just looked at the open credit before I left home.

I called to speak to a manager, and she told me my credit line was in the process of being decreased, but she would be glad to let the amount go through. I told her not to do me any favors. I will never use AMEX again. It would be nice to get a notice of some sort other than waiting until I decide to make a purchase and they jerk the credit limit away. They told me if I would send them my check stubs showing my salary, the would raise the limit. How disgusting! Also, how discriminating. They sure didn't ask for a salary when the opened my account due to excellent credit. Nor did they ask for my salary when they kept upping my credit limit due to excellent payment history.

My husband also has a card. I pay his account as well, they haven't asked for his salary, nor have they taken his open credit away. I pay both of our bills, because I want to make sure they are paid on time or early. My husband nor I will never use their card again, and would not recommend them to anybody else. The embarrassment caused, because I have always paid my bills on time, and they made me feel as if I was trying to steal something that I had earned due to having paid my bills on time.

Cancelled my Blue and Gold Card Accounts without notice. No late payments, no over limits. Decision was based on my credit report. Yes, I have a house in default (investment) that is in the process of a loan modification.

I have been a loyal customer since 2004. I have made several payments a month to pay down my revolving debt. I was called and harassed by AE to pay $8k all at once. I told them they were insane and asked them to work with me since they have seen my credit history of always paying on time including paying over 35K in total. I paid the 8k and they told me when would I be making an additional payment of $4k for next month? Unbelievable, unprofessional, and inconsiderate. I explained my husband has been laid off for the past 6 months and asked if they could put me on a payment plan.

Until today, I had been an American Express card holder for 25 years. On February 8, 2010, I changed from a Delta Airlines card to a Costco card.
The new Costco card had a credit limit of $5000, which I asked to be increased to $10,000. In February, I was told by Customer Service, reached by calling the number on the back of my Costco card that I could not apply for a credit increase until April 8, 2010, which would be 2 months after opening the account.

On April 8, 2010, I applied for a credit increase on the Amex website. I received an email stating that American Express had completed the processing of my application and provided a website link to view the details. The website link had an error message stating that Amex was sorry, but the site was undergoing maintenance. I tried 3 or 4 times over the following week to view my application status.Today, April 14, 2010 once again I was unable to view the status and instead called the telephone number provided on the website, and I spoke with Linda.

Linda said that April 8th was too early to apply for an increase because it was not 60 days or more from February 8th until April 8th. She offered to submit a new credit increase request and I agreed. After being placed on hold, Linda came back and stated that I would have to provide further documentation because my total credit line from both the Delta and the Costco card exceeded approximately $31,000. I could not convince her that the Delta card had been canceled in February and eventually asked that she cancel all American Express cards. She transferred me to Abby in customer service stating that she cannot cancel accounts. Note that I also received an email reference again, stating that the processing of my application was complete.

Abby listened as I explained the above situation and transferred me to David. I believe that both Abby and David are with the Customer Service Department.

David stated that the department responsible for processing credit increase requests cannot see that my Delta card had been canceled 2 months ago. More surprisingly, he said that he could find no requests for credit increases at all! Ultimately I screamed and insisted that he cancel any and all cards, and hopefully he did so.

American Express doubled my finance fee's right before the legislation took place. I disagreed with the change and wanted the decision in writing but they refused to send it. I tried calling Amex again on 3/17 and spoke to Robert and he said they were not any APR offers for my account. I explained that I disagreed with the decision and they said there was nothing they could do. Please let me know whether I can dispute the decision. This decision is causing financial burden.

I deployed to Iraq in Feb 09 and contacted Amex and entered into an extended monthly payment plan for a 12 month period. At the 8 month, my account was cancelled and the account was listed as a charge off with an effective date of March 2009 even though I was never late on the agreed payments, paid more than the minimum and even paid the full balance off in 10 months. I spoke with a customer service rep who informed me that it was the companies option to report this as a charge off instead of an agreed payment plan. All I want is a fair credit reporting. I am not asking for the card to be re-opened and I would even be agreeable to AMEX completely removing themselves from my credit report.

My husband and I had a line-of-credit credit card with American Express with an interest rate of 9%. Last year AmEx raised our interest rate to 30% (we never made a late payment). We decided to close the account and pay if off. I called AmEx and asked for a break with the interest rate since we were good customers - only to be told "no".

We continued to make payments to pay off the account and last month we made what we thought would be our last payment. We paid online and at least two weeks before the due date only to receive a statement this month with us still owing $90 in interest! I called and asked AmEx to write off the interest only to be told "no". So now I really know that AmEx does not care about the consumer at all. What a horrible company to deal with!

Can a creditor increase the APR(interest rate) on a cancelled card? American Express cancelled my blue card after I fell behind on my gold card payments for just a few months. I then made arrangements to pay the gold card off and did. Keep in mind, I had never before been behind with my payments before this, ever, and was not told at the time that they were cancelling my blue card. Needless to say, American Express cancelled my blue card. I had and have never been late with payments on my blue card. Again my question is, can American Express or any credit card company legally continue to increase the APR on the remaining balance of a cancelled card? American Express has increased the interest rate twice since the card was cancelled and within the past several months. Your input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

We had an AmEx credit card. When we moved from CT to NC in 2003, we notified them of new address. We received several statements, always paid on time although the statements arrived with very little time to pay. Suddenly, we received a statement two months late as sent to former address in CT. I paid the amount and interest, but refused to pay the $35 late fee. Subsequent bill included a second $35 fee, and no customer service ability to change or eliminate them. We closed the account, but it continued to accrue late fees and interest up to over $200 now. I explained the circumstances many times to many people, but never got it resolved.

One person said that I should have noticed missing a month's bill and just paid it without the statement. I told her we were in the process of an interstate move, and I was not concentrating on what bills I did not receive! They continue to call our house on a regular basis, but will not speak to me, only to my husband who is never home when they call. He has been in Afghanistan more than home since we moved here. I can't believe they are still calling us over this paltry amount. What terrible business practices! AmEx listed our credit, which I'm sure caused us to pay more for our mortgages. I put an explanation on the credit report, but I doubt that anyone reads it.

I am a holder of an American Express Blue card. I used to have several American Express cards years back. I just got off the phone with them, and they raised my interest rate to 28% for no good reason. There was a constant beeping noise in the background, and the customer service rep laughed. Wow, is this a joke? I used to like this company at one point. Now, I cannot stand them.

Today is the first time I have spoken to a person who spoke fluent English since I have had this card. I think they are getting a lot of complaints, and they better look out. My mom has been with them for over 40 years. If she did not have all the points on her card, she probably would have left them by now. Paying this outrageous interest when I have no job is painful, I will not forget. I will not ever have anything good to say about American Express ever again.

I opened an American express blue card and used it to but a camcorder then paid it off for 1 year I would buy things on it and pay more then the min. and then pay off the card.Then I get a letter that they dropped my limit to 600.00 no late payments and never paid the minimum.So the for three months I would use the card and pay the balance off,then they closed the account. Now on my credit report it says ACCOUNT CLOSED BY CREDIT GRANTOR.So now because I had a American express card it has damaged my score and they closed my account because I had too many accounts.How can they decide that I am only allowed 7,000 of debt ,no outstanding car loans,no mortgage, and I make 40,000 to 60,000 a year.So the time invested with them was a loss.

We have had our account for 10 plus years. I (not my husband) missed one payment by accident. It was only $15 due, though 95% of the time we pay in full. They slapped a $39 late fee (on a less than $600 balance) which is in agreement with our "contract". Plus, they are jacking the "fixed" 12.99% interest rate to Prime Rate + 23.99%. (The 12.99% was 9.99% until we left a small remaining balance in October 2008. In all fairness, AMEX may have already planned to raise it due to the business climate.)

We will be 12 days late with the payment. My husband plans to call (he is the account holder) and talk with them. After reading the horrible things that have happened with Blue and Platinum card holders, he will not be calling them except to cancel. Well, after the balance is zero and we cash out our rewards points. In call centers, every call is recorded. They can be pulled by representative, time, and date.

I hope Warren Buffett realizes that this company is not one that has anything they can pull out of the vault with any magic. Credit scores have nothing to do with our situation. It was just one event-a 12 day late payment. Unless recently redeem rewards points factors into the AMEX equation? "Fixed" 12.99% interest rate converted to Prime Rate + 23.99%, currently 27.24% effective in in two months unless card is cancelled.

I have been an American Express customer for more than 25 years. I have paid my bill on time and had a good relationship with the company. When I went to make a purchase about 4 months ago, it was declined. I called

the company to find out why. I was told me credit limit had been reduced to less than half of what it was. I said okay and used my card less.

Several weeks later they came back and increaded my interest rate. I said that was the last straw. I would cancel the card and pay the balance at my current rate. Did that for about 3 months and now they have sent my new bill with a much increased rate. I called to find out why and reminded them I had cancelled the card and was paying it off. They told me the rate had been increased across the board and regardless I had no options. I plan to pay the balance this week and I will never have anything to do with this company again. When the economy improves and they are again calling people to get them to join, I hope we all remember how we were treated during these hard times.

today i got a phone call that my credit limit has been decreased by half. amex states it is due to me not making sufficient payments although i pay 10 x's the amt the min payment is on a regular basis. they also said that in reviewing my credit through experian they were not comfortable with the amt i owe although i have never ever been late and i had a lot of credit inquiries lately (i have a fraud alert on my credit so i get notified of credit infquiries and there had been only 2 for a mortgage and car purchase). the representative was rude and kept talking over me. i have been a credit card holder with sony and bank of america for much longer and i have never been approached with this kind of nonsense!!! i thought amex would be a good card to have but i think i was wrong and more so after reading all the complaints on this site which are so similiar to my story.

In January of 09' I received a letter from American Express stating that due to my credit score they were reducing my limit from 7600. to my card balance of 2600. I quickly pulled my credit report from the big 3 and paid extra for my credit score. Absolutely no late payments and all accounts were in good standing with a credit score of 720. I called AX and they said that it was due to late payments on other accounts. This was false as I have never been late and the majority of the time I pay all of my cards off when the bill gets in.

This caused my credit score to drop 100 points the next month and then BOA followed suit and did the same.

Last month I paid the balance of my AX card ($2501.10) off and yesterday I received a letter that my account was canceled with a new statement wanting an additional $13.09 in interest.

American Express and all of the other big companies that have taken money from the American public to keep from failing due to there greed can wait until I am dead and try and get there $13.00 dollars from me.

After being a loyal customer with American Express ( Since 1988) and millions of dollars in business with excellent history they decide to cut my credit limits without ever calling or notifying to their intent. They claim delinquent reports on my credit files but nothing has changed and when I reviewed my report nothing shows up

After several calls and no straight answers I have cancelled their card after a (good 20 year + relationship. All outstanding balances on this profitable card (for them) has unfortunately also been paid in full.

Amex does not deserve my business or any business. Do not do business and as a business owner do not accept American Express... as they clearly are not loyal to their good customers. If they continue to drive away their good customers they will suffer in the future. Loyalty is earned and works both ways.

Weeks ago I enrolled in the American Express auto payment option that I maintain on all of my lines of credit. Today I checked and found that the first auto payment is scheduled for mid November. There is no reasonable reason that American Express would take 2 months to enable my auto payment option. It is obvious that American Express intentionally to put me into a situation where I would rely on them to perform the task in a reasonable amount of time and when they didn't be forced to pay interest on my account.

This is compounded by the fact that American Express changed my credit limit from $35000.00 to $2,000.00 when I changed cards even though I have perfect credit and maintain a 75% equity stake in a million dollar home which I auto pay and extra 30% in principal every month.

If I was to use my American Express card as I did previously I would go over my limit unless I made periodic payments to reduce the balance.

It is obvious to me that American Express has taken a predatory position against their customers.

I have been an American Express customer since 1992. I have one Optima and one Blue Cash card. I have always paid in full for all my cards and I have an A credit rating. I have put my Blue Cash card aside and simply keeping it as a tool to keep my credit score high. I have not used it for several years. What happened was I had this $19.99 email account automatically billed to my AE Blue Cash account once a year and I didn't realize I had a charge until it's after due so I called to see whether as a courtesy, the late charge could be removed. I was told NO because I it happened a year ago also so I told the representative how disappointed I was given that I have been a good card holder for years before I hung up.

Just now I received a letter from American Express stating "your recent actions go against of your account and have triggered a pentaly Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of Prime rate + 23.99% for 12 consecutive billing periods. It also says the only way for me to opt out is to call them and in that case my account and any additional cards ont he account will be cancelled. LOL they must be kidding me. What a smart way to treat their paying customers. It's like they are playing this 'who is bitchier game' instead of running a smart business lol. I have never had a problem having visa/master/discovercards to remove a late charge as a courtesy if it happens only once in a blue moon as we are only human and they should work with their honest paying customers instead of against us.

I'm not gonna give them the satisfision to call them and cancel the cards to possibly affect my credit score. I'm just gonna play smart keep the cards and not have any charges on it ever for my benefit lol.

I have been a customer of American Express for over 12+ years. We had a 32K credit limit with a 9.99 interest rate. In January we had a balance of 27k which we paid off in May. On month later we received a letter telling us that they were dropping our credit limit by 2500.00....ok, not a big deal. However, the drop was done because GMAC had incorrectly reported us 30 day late on one of our mortgages. I called GMAC and it was an error on their part and they would get that fixed ASAP. GMAC even faxed me a letter explaining that this was an error on their part and that it was being fixed.

I than called American Express and informed them of GMAC error and customer service stated that they only pull by profile and make a decision once a year. American Express are liars....they have been pulling my credit every month on the 22nd for the past six months. Recently, I have received notification that not only are they lowing my credit limit to what I owe, they are raising my interest rate 15.59. I was so upset with this news that I called AE and told them that I would like to opt out of the increase and close my account. I was told that I could NOT opt out and that I had no other option but pay the high interest rate. They just lost a customer for LIFE!

My complaint is not much different than most others. My husband and I have been an American Express Card member for almost 10 years. We both use our card quite often, or used our card quite often. This year we have been hit twice with interest rate hikes. This last time, I contacted customer service to see if they would please lower our rate, because we have always paid all of our bills on time. The customer service rep, explained there was nothing they could do. I later called back and spoke to a supervisor. She also told me there was nothing they could do. With all the complaints that we have read about American Express cancelling and dropping credit lines and hurting good customer's FICO scores, we are now both worried that any day we are going to get one of those letters as well.

At the beginning of the year we both had good FICO scores, because we know all the ways a bad FICO score can hurt individuals. We have an appointment to meet with a financial advisor to help us set up a budget in order for us to have our bills paid in 5.5 years. If they do something to hurt our FICO score, we will take whatever action available to us against American Express. I haven't read any where in their agreement that they are allowed to hurt individuals FICO scores for being a good paying customer. Had I known this about American Express. I would never have opened an account with them. We both have high credit lines, which they awarded us for excellent credit. We both also owe a lot on each card, which we will get paid. Seem that American Express is using whatever means available to them to regain the money they have lost in the bad economy. In this case they are using their good customers.

In the last year, AMEX lowered our limits twice without any advance notice.
Now they have informed us that they are raising our rates on three accounts by 25%-50%!AMEX has taken this action against millions of good customers.This is an action that their own VP testified before Congress in 2008 that AMEX did not do unless a customer was late with AMEX!
We have never been late with AMEX and they callously disregard the false testimony given to Congress.

We have chosen never to use their products and avoid merchants who accept them. They are in our minds opportunistic vultures. We have been "valued customers" since 1990 according them. HA!

Buyer Beware! American Express changed my interest rate on a promotional offer; they may do the same to you!

Last year, I transferred a balance to my AMEX. The offer was for a 3% up front transfer fee and 1.99% until the balance was paid off.

Exactly one year later, they increased my interest rate to 12.99%. I have never been late, my credit score is the same and there is no reason that they should have changed my rate.

I asked for documentation as to how and why they changed my rate and they said that they did not have it.

Customer service was very short and they made no attempt to keep my business.

I will NEVER do business with these guys again. This was a clear bait and switch and unfortunately, I do not have the documentation to prove it.

Please, don't do business with these seedy characters.

I am an executive member w/ Costco Warehouse and the only card they take is their American Express. Reward dollars are also attached to your purchases. Recently I discovered they raised my rate from 13.99% to 27.99% without notice. I was told they can not lower it because my payment was late (they say 3 times this year). Even though I always pay more than required and often the entire amount the month the payment is due, if it is even 1 day late they raise the interest rate. Most of the time I don't even carry a balance.

With a credit score of over 900, and the fact I always send them their money,they have no business charging that ridiculous rate. I closed my card. Is this type of practice even legal? The whole purpose of charging interest is for them to make extra when the account isn't paid off immediately. There's no reason to raise the interest rate like this. I have had my other Visa card for years and they never raise the interest if your payment is late or even if you miss a payment which happened a few years ago when I was unemployed.

American Express has raised my interest rate twice in the last 10 months, the last time to a variable rate in order to prevent customers being able to opt out of the increase and close accounts without interest going up. Both increases were made in order to beat Congress' deadline of credit card reform. Plus, they have increased all their other rates except their overlimit fee, which was dropped. I have been a user for 15 years and never gone over limit, been late, or paid less than the minimum.

American Express sent outletters informing their Blue card holders that effective October 1, 2009 their APR will go from a fixed rate of 9.9% to 11.99% plus prime rate. I have had this card for over 6 years and I have never been late and pay more than the minimum. The only reason I got the card was becasue it was advertised as a guaranteed fixed rate.

When I called American Express they said that the new law states that credit card companies can no longer have fixed rates. This is not true.

On Aug 07/09 I received a letter from American Express informing me that starting October 01/09, they will be changing my annual "fixed" rate to a "variable" rate. These changes apply to existing balances and future balances on my account.

I have been a customer of American Ex for many years (12yr's) and have "never" been late. I have "always" paid early and paid much more then the monthly minimum amount billed. I can (slightly) understand their changing the fixed rate for "Future" charges but not for "previous/past" charges.

I received a letter from American Express stating that my interest rate was going up. I called customer service and was told that ALL customers were receiving this letter and that ALL Ccustomers rates were going up. My interest rate jumped from 11.25 to 17.00 percent. Even though I pay my bills on time every month, no late payments, I pay much more than my balance and I have excellent credit my rate is going up with all of the customers who default etc.

I received this letter on August 13,2009 and the hike went into effect on August 1, 2009. I thought that the credit card companies had to give you some kind of advance notice if they were raising rates. The representative informed me that the reason for the hike was because the company is financially in trouble. I asked him if they took the stimulus money and he said yes. How is it that a company can take our tax payer stimulus money and then increase our rates so high all at once? This is outrageous. A 7 percent hike in rates because I have been a good and faithful customer. That will teach me to pay my bills on time and make sure that my credit is excellent!

I always make full balance payment on my credit cards. I was late 3 days for one statement payment with American Express so I was charged a late fee of $15. I have to live with that because it was my mistake though it was my first time paying late. Then, when I received the statement, I discovered they incurred finance charge not only on the balance amount that was late but on future purchases that were supposed to be due in the next billing cycle.

I called and asked them. I was told that by paying one cycle late, I forfeit all the grace period for the future payments. The finance charge will stop only until I make the next full payment, so I will still see finance charge the next cycle. Only 2 cycles late will it stop assuming I make full payment. (I think this is what I understand.) I told them that was unheard of and it made me feel wanting to cancel the card. The operator said "Do you want me to cancel the card for you now? I can do that." It made me even angrier that they do not seem to value their customers.

However, eventually, she did try to cancel the finance charge for me for this period so that it will not automatically recur in the future. I have Citibank MC and had made a couple of late full payment in my 19 years of history with them. Citi is reasonable and works with you. But American Express feels like a predator.

I am an American Express Blue card holder. I received a letter dated August 5, 2009 notifying me of changes in terms to my credit card. I contacted American Express asking if I could opt out of the change in terms and was told that despite the change in law protecting consumers from these types of changes, American Express is sending the letter in advance of the law's enactment which commences on August 20, 2009. Therefore, American Express is raising the rates on millions of their customers before the legislative changes take effect.

I called and asked to speak with Kenneth Chenault, CEO of American Express and got one of 30 executive assistants. Stephanie Fogelman, despite outright agreeing with me, did confirm American Express' intent to circumvent the changes in the law. I am a Platinum card holder and business card holder as well as a Blue holder.

I have had an Amex card for four years, always paid on time and usually over the minimum payment. The first of July they sent me a letter stating they were canceling my card, using the high debt ratio for a reason. I have had the same cards for a long time and they have never lowered my limit or had any other contact with me. The odd thing is last month, July, I paid down my debt by $1200.00 (I came into a little money). I also paid off three other cards.

Anyway, I received the letter and couldn't believe it. I called a rep and was treated with little respect, she was about to hang up when I said it was pretty fishy that after paying them down by $1200.00 that I would out of the blue get a cancelation. I asked if it was possible that it could show that I canceled the card instead, helping my credit score. She said NO. Well I paid them another $700.00 and left myself with a $35.00 balance. I think the average joe with a good payment record is being targeted unfairly. We try to do the right thing in this failing economy by paying down our cards, then they can come along and give you a right hook and we have NO recourse.

In June, 2009, I changed the setting of the Auto-Pay on my American Express account from making the minimum payment to paying the entire statement balance. When I received my bill for the month of June, I was shocked to see a string of finance charges and late fees because the American Express Auto-Pay system had not paid the account in June.


On July 22, I called customer service, who explained that the American Express computer system does not make any payments for 30 days after changes are made to the Auto-Pay setting. However, no such warning had appeared when I had made those changes; hence, I had naturally expected Auto-Pay to pay the bill. When I complained about the circumstances, the customer service representative credited me for the finance charges and late fees that had been assessed as a result of the nonpayment, which was the result of Auto-Pay. I paid off the entire bill on that date.


On seeing my July bill, I was shocked that finance charges of $39.10 were charged to my account on July 29, despite the fact that I had paid off the entire bill in July. According to customer service supervisor Ricardo Lawrence, this charge was still being accrued from the non-payment of the June bill (because Auto-Pay did not pay it). He refused to credit my account for the finance charge.

Given that this finance charge was accrued because Auto-Pay did not pay any of the bill in June (despite my having set it up to pay the minimum amount previously), and charges related to this problem had been taken off the account, I find it absurd and unfair that I am being charged this finance charge.

I recieved a lestter from this credit card company. This company inquired into the credit bureau and decided to close my account due to too may account balances, too many inquiries and high credit limits with other companies.Despite their decision, I have never made a late payment with this Crdit card nor any other company.

While on a recent vacation, attempted to use my AMEX blue card at a car rental company. When it was declined, I was surprised as I was no where near the credit limit. Upon returning home, there was a letter from AMEX stating that "due to the economy" it was necessary to reduce my credit limit. With a high FICO score, this surprised me.

My bill is always paid on time, never late. I don't think they would have a leg to stand on if they claimed my debt to income ratio was high. I calculated my debt to income ratio, and it's only 15%! I will more aggressively pay down my balance and take my business elsewhere.

What a fantastic business model AMEX has...penalize good customers for no reason. That should help their business when folks close their accounts and rightfully take their business elsewhere.

AX has consistently lowering my credit limit. This is having a bad reflection on my FICO score. I have been an excellant customer for years. I have always paid either ahead of time or on time and never been late.

I called AX and ask if I was a good client, they said that it appeared so. I have always made more then the minimum due and yet they keep lowering my credit level. This is hurting my credit score. They seem to be penalizing us good customers to make up for the losses of the bad ones.

Just another American Express customer that has had their account canceled without so much as a courtesy letter. Always paid in full and on time. To add insult to injury they made off with 4,700 in rewards ponts that my husband and I worked very hard to earn. Will never use their cards again. Apparently this is the new Amex; if you have the means to pay on time and in full every month, they don't want you anymore as they can't make enough from you. Best part... already they are changing their tune and want to reinstate us with a new card - HA! Not a chance. When the economy finally rights itself I hope they never need any of these good customers to return to them and their thieving ways.

In late May, I received a telephone solicitation for American Express Open business charge card. I responded to various questions and was told I was "pre-approved" with "no set spending limit." I received the card in early June and started using it immediately. On June 18 or 19, an American Express representative called me out of the blue and started making pointed financial inquiries.

I asked how to verify that the caller was, in fact, calling from American Express and not just phishing. She told me to call the number on the back of the card I had just received in the mail about two weeks prior and ask for Ms. Johnson. I did so later that day.

Because Ms. Johnson did not do the courtesy of providing her extension number or specific instructions for how to get back to her personally, I was caught in a voice mail labyrinth for a considerable length of time. I finally reached her desk, and my call went straight into voice mail. I left a message, including my name and phone number and never heard back from her.

Then on June 26, with no warning, my card stopped working. When I called on June 27, I was told that American Express had put a hold on my card because they had not yet received "requested financial information" from me. I explained that no one had requested financial information from me, except Ms. Johnson, who had never called me back. After speaking with a second person on the phone, I received an e-mail that said, "American Express recently requested that you complete and return ..."

At that point, American Express had requested nothing from me. As mentioned, I had been told I was pre-qualified, with no set spending limit, for the card that I received. And, although Ms. Johnson indicated that they would be seeking some additional information from me, she failed to call me back, never mailed or e-mailed a request for information, and did not alert me to the fact that my card would be frozen. American Express was wrong to shut off the card without warning. I have an excellent credit rating and had NEVER experienced the humiliation of a store clerk telling me that my card was rejected.

Ironically, I had originally had a wonderful conversation with the salesperson who got me started on the AmEx card, and I was intending to--and had already started to--move most of my business expenses from my Visa to AmEx. Unfortunately, now these monthly expenses, including several that are key to my business, are now bouncing because of the hold put on the card. I called to complain and, again was unable to reach Ms. Johnson and was told by two different people that they could do nothing to help me and that it would take at least three days to process the requested documentation once I faxed it to them.

A third supervisor (whom I reached only after multiple calls) finally stated that she would temporarily add $3,000 credit so that immediate bills would not bounce. However, the damage was done. In less than a month, American Express trashed a credit rating I built and preserved for years. They had no business saying I was pre-approved with no set spending limit and then putting a hold on the card before the second bill even came due. In fact, I paid the first bill ahead of the due date and was prepared to do so with the second. Their practice, in this case, was fraudulent, and their customer service was utterly and completely lacking.

Jun 15, They are calling me in daytime 10 days prior to the bill due date (my business AE card) and threthening me to make payment right away or suspend all my AE accounts. I refused to pay that day and advised them I will pay before the due date (Actually the autopayment was set up to pay on Jun 18).

In addition, I asked for a supervisor to explain why I was getting a call for payment is not due yet. As a result, no suprevisor or any manager is avaiable at that time from top to the bottom. All my AE cards were suspended after the call.

I called them back asking why my personal card (with a credit balance) was suspended. They explained to me it is the same profile. I don't understand how AE has the right to take hostage on my personal card which has a credit balance to push me for payment on a business card which has 10 days to the due date.

Today, I received a letter from AE again saying I have outstanding balance. The issue date is Jun 18. I checked the account, I have 4.59 credit balance on it. How the hell this can happen? what should I pay AE? I am so frustrated with this company's business practice. I am very frustrated and I can not focus on my work due this experience.

I knew they charge high interest rate so that I was very careful to ensure the payment required get paid before the due date. I am a costco customer and I need this membership card. With this experience, I feel upset everytime I go to Costco with my AE costco rebate card.

I have only been a amex card holder thru Costco since 2008. at the beginning it was great. The reason being lured to the incentive cash rebate you get specially when you use it to dine and buy gas using the card. I've always pay on time and pay off the balance at times making 3 payments online evrymonth. Then around first part of this year they just reduced my credit limit in half. their reason is because i have a delinquent mark on my credit report which is due to my mortgage being modified.

i called them up to find out where they based their decision. I figure at least i still can use the card. Then 2 weeks ago i tried to use the card to buy gas on long trip. It was decline, same journey different state tried it again to purchase gas and samething. I called customer service and they said my card is cancelled. same reason because of my mortgage being delinquent(still under modification) Again i tried to be rational about it, So i just ask about the cash rewards that i have and they said i will have to call the dept.

I recaive a letter by mail about the same thing. It now says i have 90 days to call and redeem my rewards or they will forfeit it. i just called them today and the person i spoke to says he can not do anything because my card is already cancelled. Now this is really something. I never heard of this kind of bad customer relation suppose to be with amex. But i guess i'm wrong since i now find out how many people are complaining about the same situation that amex did to me.

I for sure would join immediately any class action suit or complain action againts american express. I also am thingking if i should still renew my executive membership with Costco, since they are affiliated with them as of this time.

I have had an American Express card for about 1 1/2 years now. Me and my husband used this card wherever is was accepted. Every month we would pay off the balance and was never late. 2 days after I paid the bill, the card was canceled. They did not even try to contact me about this. Is this even legal? I called them about 2 days after it was canceled. thinking maybe something in the system was wrong. They told me something about my debt and they received something about my credit from experian. Needless to say, I will never again do business with them again.

Our American Express Blue Cash wwent from $15K credit limit to $3400 without notice. Today I learned they cancelled out Costco Amex Card without notice - first they said they usually send an email to warn the cardholder - not true we did not get one and then when i asked for the address for legal correspondence she said they sent me a letter yesterday 06/18/09 when they closed the account even though we have had a good standing with them since 2005 because in this economy to Amex our debt to credit ratio is too high and we might be too risky to keep.

NO notice whatsoever - being declined while making a purchase that is embarassing - to save us the worry that this might happen later I closed our Amex Blue Cash.

I have been a member since 2000. A few months ago for no reason they up'd my rate from 9% to 12%..blamed the economy when I phoned and questioned. A few days ago when I went to setup my next payment (I have never paid late since 2000), I notice my "reward points" are gone and that it states my account has been cancelled.

They said based on Experian reporting my debt to credit ration...etc..well I just bought a new car, I have student loans, and a mortgage...all of which are not in default NOR do I have trouble making my payments, in fact I typically pay MORE than the payments amounts. They say that I am more than welcome to apply for another card. Hmmm strange, why so they can then give me a huge interest rate? Why not let me keep my account that I have had since 2000?

In Feburuary of 2009 I made a payment of 3000 dollars on an account balance of 6300. I meant to pay 300. As soon as I realized my mistake I cancelled my payment and paid the minimum payment instead.

American express lowered my credit limit to 3300 even though my balance is over 6000. They now charge me an over the limit fee every month.

I do not see any where in the contract that says they can or will lower your limit after they allow you to build up your debt and then charge an overlimit fee. Really unfair business practice.

Have AMEX Blue Card. Haven't used it or carried any balance in a few years. Receive a letter yesterday telling me that they were closing the account (that part is fine) due to delinquencies, debt/income ratio, and possible other variables. They also stated that, because of this, I might receive a negative rating/comment on my credit report. What???

How can that be when the account is $0.00 balance and has never been late or even used for that matter.

If they want to close the account, fine-but why threaten me and create a cause that it's the customer's fault when it was simply their decision to close the account.

June 6,2009 (between 4pm and 5pm MST)I received a call from AE telling us they were lowering my credit limit with them because of derogatory credit report information, specifically, several past due accounts, with Experian. I immediateley went online and ordered my credit report. My credit report shows NO delinquincies (except 1 30 day past due in 8-07, due to a lost check in the mail).

I called AE back and spoke with Helena, the Mgr of Credit Operations. She continued with the derogatory info accusations and said there was no other supervisor to speak with. She would not share her info. Instead, her resolution was for me to call Experian and write to her supervisor (who doesn't accept phone calls). She also noted on the acct for Upper Mgmt to call us, in the next 7-10 days, or "possibly longer". This treatment is unaccepteble. Their calls are recorded... Please help!

I was in a middle of a trip and my American Reserve Card was denied and soon I found out that my account was cancelled a day before. A couple of months before, my credit limit was cut from 10,000 $ to 2,300 $ arguing that it was because of my credit history. I printed my credit history and talked with one of their Representatives who agreed that there was nothing wrong in it. However, that was a lost fight with AMEX.

As several of the comments posted here, I have been a client of AMEX siince 1991, not missing any payments ever. The Supervisors I spoke with did not give me any reasons other than my credit history that, as I explained, it was not true. Also, a letter was written by AMEX the same day of the cancelation, according to them but I have not received anything.

Amex deciding to lower a credit limit from 23,400 to 8,000 with no notice. Brings the limit lower than what is owed (11K) so now I will get socked with over the limit fees each month? And my credit ratio % will be greatly affected, thus hurting my FOCI score even further - how can they continue to do this to people?

I have had an American Express Blue for Business credit card with an $8,000 credit limit since 2004. I have not used the card for several years and my balance has been zero for all that time.

On 05/26/09 I checked the status of my account online and confirmed that my credit limit was $8,000. On the same day I charged $525.00 on the card. Later that evening I received a voicemail message on both my home phone and my office phone asking me to call them back about a business matter on my credit card.

When I checked my email I had received a message, from American Express, at 8:52 PM on 05/26/09 entitled "Notice of Credit Limit Reduction" advising me that "Your revised credit limit for purchases is now $1,000.00. The new cash advance limit is $200.00."

On 05/27/09 I phoned AMEX per their request and was informed verbally of the reduction in my credit limit without any explanation other than "we all need to make choices about how we spend and save. For us, that means carefully reviewing the spending and debt profiles of our Cardmembers - and making some difficult decisions. Unfortunately, we have had to make the decision to lower the credit limit on your account." I have checked my credit report online and confirmed that ALL of my accounts are shown paid UP-TO-DATE!

I will pay the $525.00 in full when I receive my statement and I will then cancel the credit card. It's not possible, as a small business, to do business with a company that is unreliable. When you need them they are not there.

have been playing games for months i always pay bill have never been late husbands credit is good reduced my limit recently told us we had to pay bill before it was due and suspened account i do not understand they said experian credit report was bad no true we always pay the bill have never been late never missed a payment and have paid it early several times how do they do this to consumers

Recently received a letter reducing my credit limit. I gave it little thought and pushed aside. I was scheduling a payment and saw a ad for a free credit report and score through their website, so I checked it out. I figured I would check with their reporting credit company and them to see why my credit score was lowered.

My credit was in perfect condition, excellent credit score. I called Customer service. They explained it was due to debt ratio and opening numerous account. I've opened zero and my debt ratio has not changed at all.

I check inquiries, and it didn't even show they did a check on my credit report. It just doesn't add up. There was no one to speak to, and according to them whomever makes these decisions is not available and there is no one to speak to ever on it.

I am nervous this will affect my credit score that I've worked for years to maintain. I will try to pay off the account before they do any more damage to my credit. I would not "go into business" with this company! Something has to be done, their practices are harmful to their consumers.

received an acct from fed ex blue in sept 07. no interest for 1 year. made every payment on time, and paid the card off in full in july 08. feb 09 received a letter saying they were cancelling my account, and that the action may result in negative reporting to the credit services? called and got no where. don't mind my account being cancelled/closed,

but am furious about any negative reporting; especially since i had a zero balance, paid them in full, and never was late! am trying desperately to hang on financially. was laid off in dec 08. this infuriates me to have a negative ding, on something like this.

I am a Canadian now living in the USA as a permenent resident and Married to a US citizen who is a Doctor.

In Canada I have two American credit cards, first onr is unlimited and the second has a limit of 10,000. I have been a card carrier since 1981.

I retired in 2007 as and Independent Foresic Auditor /Taxes/Accountant at a gross income of 85,000 dollars.
I also have a business in the US Recording studio/Composing for lyricists/and Producer of CD's etc.

I own an house on a lake in Canada plus 9 lots all paid for. In the USA we just sold a house for 700,000 dollars...may wife also has a pension income of 65,000, plus 18,000 and another income of 45,000.plus we own our home here in the US 100%...She is semi-retired as I am.

Here we go I applied for an US American Express Card with our income at 150,000 per year.....Now remember I applied for the Card....Get this I was refused the card...you know what I want as to a credit limit $ 1,000 US dollars..not 10,000 or 20,000 as I do on my Canadian cards..with no balances but a credit of 500 dollars to me..wow I'm such a risk...PS My wife is also in the " Who's Who in America " for her medical field and achievements for years of services in California and the USA.

That's it, I'm sure American Express reads this site ( They will know me.) and I'll never get a card for sure.....I really don't care, it's the principal. period..

I received a letter dated April 7, 2009 from American Express stating that my credit card had been canceled. At this point, I did not owe anything on my credit card, and had always maintained the account in line with the contractual agreements on the card. This cancellation process was totally abrupt, unexpected, and sudden, without any prior notices - especially at a time where households like myself are struggling with stabilizing and managing financial resources.

Not only did American express cancel my credit card, they also canceled all the reward points I had acquired with the card (over 16,000 reward points) without any explanation. These reward points are a valuable currency for acquiring gifts --- and are one of the main reasons why me, and many others have remained loyal to the Amex Blue Card (I have been a member since 2003). These points can be translated into actual dollars.

In fact, sometime ago, Amex actually had a promotion to exchange 10,000 points for $100. So not only did Amex cancel my credit card without a legitimate basis (since I don't owe anything on the card), they have also robbed me of my reward points which could amount to upwards of US$150. This is a legitimate amount Amex owes me because the reward points are wired into the credit card contract. If they weren't there, I would have made purchases to get those rewards using a different credit card.

Of the credit card companies I use, American Express is the only one that has taken this action and illegitimately so. At this point, I am no longer interested in owning an Amex credit card, but I need to company to pay me back my reward points. This is a legitimate amount they no owe me.

Today, May 2, 2009, I have received a notice from American Express that has been canceled. I was indignant to this news because I paid my balance monthly and on time. I used to have $8000 credit limit and two months ago it was cut to $1400. Well, I realized the economy is bad may that is why it was cut to so low. They have notified that I have too much debt and I have too many inquiries on my account. Okay, debt I have but not much, 3000 on one account and 15000 on the other one. I am paying them off monthly, using the online banking.

I am surprised that American Express has done this and why not last few years before when I really had a lot of debt. They helped me before and I was happy with American Express. I have been a member since 2007. But closing my account with lame excuses such as being late, too many inquiries, having too much debt and etc; it is ridiculous and maddening. They are affecting my credit score.

I will be okay, but I will never use American Express and I will tell everyone how bad they are. If you are in process of applying for their cards, I hope this would be warning to you. Before you step into dealing with them, think of how much you can sacrifice your credit score, if you care for it at all. I definitely do. I am sure I am not the only one who has this same problem and if there is a lawsuit against them because of this issue, i would gladly join.

As with many of the consumers on this website, my credit was reduced by American Express with no warning and no notification of any delinquencies (there are none). Ironically, my credit limit was reduced to about $100 above my current balance. Imagine that. This only happened this week, so I have yet to see the effect on my credit, which is excellent. I will be extermely outraged if I discover a negative effect due to the BS by Amex!

May 2008 American Express kindly enrolled me in their CARE payment program on my Blue and Gold American Express cards. I received letters with the terms of the agreements. The Gold card was to be paid by the 29th of each month. Unfortunately, beginning in June 2008 American Express arbitrarily changed my due date. I called in each month to explain the error. In December 2008 the date was changed to 12/5/08. I talked with a young man whom told me not to worry as my letter clearly stated the 29th.

On the 10th of December I received an automated collection call but disregarded as per the 12/5 conversation although I did file a complaint with the FDIC on the 10th of December. On the 12th of December I was notified that American Express had turned me over to collections for non-payment - keep in mind this was 17 days before the due date.

American Express acknowledged the error after two letters from me and reversed the collections efforts as well as any adverse reportings to the credit bureaus. American Express then agreed to new terms. Unfortunately they did not abide by the terms as they set forth.

To date, April 2009, American Express has sent me three letters admitting errors and promising the errors will be corrected. There have been two cases opened with the FDIC and I have yet to see any resolution to the continued problems. In a letter dated February 4, 2009 the representative in the legal department at American Express wrote "I have confirmed that American Express' credit files reflect the calls you made to the Account Services Department, as well as the original terms set forth in the program entrance letter. Further, I can assure you that the system issue has been resolved." Since then I have written three more letters as each time I try to comply with American Express' terms I am unable to due to additional issues at American Express.

I attempt to follow the terms as directed by the American Express representative but run into road blocks. An example - in the same letter as above the rep requires me to call in to re-set up on the CARE program by the 9th of February. I contacted American Express at the number provided in the letter but was informed by the rep that I did not qualify for the program. After calling the FDIC I was contacted by a rep in the CARE program and a CARE payment was set up for the 18th of Feb. On the 16th of Feb I received an automated call "regarding an urgent matter". Again I was told, now by two, American Express reps that I was not eligible for the CARE program. I cancelled the 2/18 payment and wrote another letter to the American Express rep in the legal department. It gets worse from there.

I have all supporting documentation to back up my claims but am at a loss as to how to resolve this so I can continue paying off my debt???

Decrease in credit limit. One hour prior to being notified of AMEXs action via telephone, I had purchased an international airline ticket. After purchasing the ticket I was notified that my credit limit was decreased. Immediately I called back Continetal Airlines to confirm ticket booked and was told the charge was later declined. I was critical that I secure a seat on an international flight where seating availability and pricing is time sensitive.

I am on my way back home to see my sick Mother. This has caused my great inconvenience (time and money) to make numerous phone calls to both AMEX and Continental Airlines to try and resolve this situation.
In addition, every time I was able to reach an AMEX customer rep, I would receive a different answer to my inquiry. One of the rep specifically stated I had a public record on my account. After ending my conversation with her, I immediately went to Experian website.

After reviewing my credit summary, there is no indication of a public record. On my fourth phone call back to AMEX, I was told by another rep that no public record was listed as a reason. With such inconsistencies and lack of care to me as a long standing loyal cardholder, I cannot say how disappointed I am.

After 10 years of doing business with American Express (Gold, Blue and Delta Skymiles)and over $120.000 paid, American Express has been changing the monthly payment dates cycles for the past seven months so it looks in their books like we are always behind so they can collect Late Payment Fees. For the past 10 years, we have submitted payments to American Express on the 6th and the 12th of every month as agree and suddenly the payment schedule changed to the 23rd and the 4th of every month with no guaranties.

We have called American Express in several occasions seeking explanations about why our payment cycle is changing constantly and why we need to call every month to set them back up again to where they were. For 10 years we never had these types of problems and all of the sudden it shows that we are late all the time. We have canceled all of their cards and we are making the last few payments to bring those accounts back down to $0.00.

Never-the-less, we are being called and harassed every day by American Express to make faster payments with a higher interest rate. Even though our balance went down to $4000 our payments have tripled. Every time we called American Express to talk about these issues, we have been transferred to several agents with no clue on how to solve the problem. It does not matter who we talk to in American Express, we cannot get any of our complaints answered and situation resolved. As we stand today, we continue to make our monthly payment like we were, but American Express keep piling up late fees on top of late fees making our balance go up instead of going down.

on 2/25/09 i made a full payment $817.13 to my american express credit card account from my capital one checking online, after i submitted my payment,i found out the payment to my AE card will deliver 0ne day late. then i call my AE card customer service told them my payment will be one day late. then they told me just pay the minimum of $16 first after they told me how to set up a direct payment from my AE to my bank account.

i asked what about the finance charge, they told me they can remove the finance charge after i receive my next bill if i call them back, so i called them back but they denied. i was very upset because they lied to me, and i have charged $5000 on my AE account and i have to pay fiance charge for 2 period of payment. if they didn't say they can remove the finance charge before, i will not charge that $5000 to my AE, i will charge to my visa instead. i don't know you can help me or not, i don't mind paying $40 finance charges, but it was not right. i hope you can fine AE. Truly Yours.

I have both an American Express Corporate Card and an Amex Blue Card. My first negative experience was with the corporate card when I took a client out for a meal I went to use my Amex card it was denied since I knew I had $3,000.00 available credit, I could not understand why my card was declined. I contacted AMEX after arriving home concerned that there may have been fraudulent charges. I was told they had cut my limit to $1,900.00 and no they had not sent a notice but I would get something shortly in the mail. I explained I had never missed a payment and in fact paid 2 - 3 times the required payment. My income in fact had gone up.

The person on the phone was rude and basically said too bad the decision has been made. I now use my other cards for business. The latest was my wifes Blue Card. This card has also never been late and we have always had payments that were 3-4 times the required payment. We just received a notice that not only were they canceling the card, but it would also result in a negative on our credit report. My call to American Express was a waste of time.

When I contacted AMEX, they were rude and said too bad, that is the way it is. They believed that they have every right to put a negative on my report since they were canceling the card. My last statement prior to cancellation had a due amount of $25.00; I paid $750.00 cutting my total balance in half. How dare they put a negative on my credit report! We have never been late in paying any of our bills and have impeccable credit. Where do these people get off doing this to people who pay their bills on time? If anyone is interested in doing a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT, Count Me In. I have had it with Un-American Express and will never do business with them again

Negative Reporting on my Credit Report Embarrassment when entertaining a client

I have been an American Express card holder since the year 2000 and I have worked extremely hard to build the credit that I had. I currently have three credit card accounts with American Express. On my BLUE credit card between 10/17/08 and 11/18/08 statements my credit line was reduced from $48,000 to $40,000 (17%, within $750 of my balance). During the same time period they imposed a $1,700 credit limit on my one credit card which always had been unlimited. I had charged and paid each month more than $2,000 consistently for years on that card and now I had to scramble to move automatic payments, I had several charges declined after the limit was set and was left with egg on my face. After calling customer service several times they said this was due to a credit review and there was nothing that could be done about it.

On 4/2/09 I was notified that my BLUE credit line was reduced from $40,000 to $9,600 (76%, within $200 of my balance). After calling customer service and speaking with a manager they said this was due to a high debt/credit ratio and there was nothing that could be done about it. I have never made a late payment and I typically pay much higher than the minimum payment. At a minimum this is horrible customer service and at a maximum they have severely impacted my credit rating by increasing my debt/credit ratio.

My debt/credit ratio has not changed dramatically in over a year and my credit score is over 700, what they are doing is completely arbitrary. I would not be surprised if they lower my limit again in the near future as they are now creating a self-fulfilled prophecy by manipulating my credit. From the research I have done there are hundreds if not thousands of customers being affected in the same way and I am looking for a class action lawsuit to join if this can not be resolved immediately. I am so unhappy that I want to immediately cancel all of my credit accounts with American Express, the only reason I have not is it will hurt my credit scores even more.

I receive a letter dated 3/26/09 from American Express stating that my Blue Cash account has been canceled. They listed a number of reasons including two many inquiries last 12 months, number of accounts in delinquency amoung other reasons. I have not had this card for a number of years. It was paid off in full and I no longer use it. What right do they have to write such a letter to someone who has not had and not used their card in several years.

They have stated that their cancellation of my account under their so called circumstances may result in a negative report to consumer reporting agencies. What nerve. They did not even include a customer service number for me to call to speak to someone to handle this directly

American Express cancelled both of my credit cards without any warning even though I have never been late on a single payment. I tried to ask them why and the gave me a run around and hung up on me several times. Finally someone answered me and told they were closing my accounts not because of anything I Had done to their company, but because I had issues with my home mortgage. It is awful how this company treats people in financial hardship. TO this date no one has been able to tell me about my credit card rewards or if they will be honored.

I have been an amex customer for many years. Today I received a call to tell me that amex had to lower my credit line because I had too much revolving credit on my credit report. I have two businesses and run alot of items on cards to get the rewards and then pay them. I have not been late on any of my accounts and in regard to amex they actually have been paid in full every month without fail. I use this card for use with purchases at costco and the gas for my 3 company vehicles. I couldn't believe it and there is no one that really cares. There is just a bean counter who doesn't look at the relationship that many of us have had with amex.

I have 2 stores and I will be moving toward not accepting amex for payment because of the manner in which I felt I have been treated. I felt like I was alone today, but am quickly finding I am hardly alone. How sad is it that because of the irresponsibilty of other consumers and banking institutions the rest of us are are lumped into the same boat. To top it off our money is being used to bail out the above mentioned people. Does this not enrage you? I think amex owes all of us an intelligent explanation instead of placating us. I would never treat my customers this way.

I have American Express card since 2000,had always paid my balance each month so I don't have to pay any interest,As I always do, I don't bother checking my statement anymore as I know I paid it all up already, I wasn't aware of the counter charge after paying my last statement in their branch, six months after I received a letter from them saying they had listed my name on credit rating agency with a bad rating just because of $1.98 they had ruined my credit rating now I'm struggling to apply for another credit because of that, I never use my Amex anyway that's why I need another card because Amex is not widely accepted even when I was travelling in Asia. I don't recommend Amex to anyone

American Express put a dirt on my very clean name just because I seldom use their card, in a year maybe once or twice , they gave me $6,000 credit limit I'd be lucky to use a hundred of it in year, I don't recommend Amex to anyone, they offered you the card, and if you don't use it often enough they ruin you, how could you use it , when no one accptes it

Why are companies like American Express allowed to damage peoples credit because they were unable to manage their business properly. 1st they lowered my credit to amount owed making my credit score go down. Then I paid them in full and they cancelled my card cheating me out of $500.00 in travel bonus I was saving for my 50th birthday. I can understand they are having tough time, some busnesses are but how can they be allowed to damage people unchecked. My other credit card raised my rate also, I didn't sign up for that. I can understand raising it on new balances but on previous balance seems unfair and inappropriate.

I'd like to know what is being done to keep these credit card companies in check and stop them from ripping people off. They should not be allowed to cancel my card when I have 500 dollars in unredeamed points, that is stealing. They should not be allowed to raise my credit rate on previous balances. They are hurting the economy further by damaging my credit score.

Understand I am not some loser that doesn't pay her bils. I have never been late with these companies and have paid them and used their services in good faith. I have a good job with Oracle my company is solid I only owe about 1/3 of what my house is worth. I haven't done anything different then I have done in the last 20 years but all of a sudden because of their ineptitude Im being penalized and so is the enconomy in general because as you know I am one of thousands they are doing this too. Credit card companies need some legislation or punishment in the form of class action law suits they are out of control.

Greetings; I rec'd a letter from Amex Express telling me that my credit line of $5,000 had been decrease to $2,100...I thought this has to be an mistake. I call Amex Express and spoke with two Representative Larry ID#(NARB226)and Arch ID#(36814). They both agreed that my account had been decrease only because they ran a report report and there were something that were listed unsatisfactory, and that was the reason for my cc set-back. I was in utter shock and confused wondering why and what for, it surly can't be for being late...see...first of all u must understand that I have never been late I mean NEVER.

I had both Green and Blu cards accounts before closing out my Green card (I got tired of paying for the yearly fee for the card) I never been late or missed a payment. I paid my Green card off every month with nothing but less then a perfect track record. In fact, I have even paid twice within some months. Sooo...this is how Amex Express treats their solid customers who have been excellent in there paying commitments for over 6 years. I think it is deceptive and unethical practices.


American express blue card adds the interest to the principle balance of the higher interest portion of the amount owed as new activity so that the principle is increased monthly by the interest amount. Consequently the amount owed continues to increase and no purchase are being made!

For example:
total balance = 10,000
4000 at 17% anual interest
6000 at 4% annual interest
monthly interest $75

total payment $200

they will add the $75 to the $4000

and subtract the $125 from the $6000

This does not seem like it should be allowed!

Basically, I haven't had my account as long as some others here, but i'm a student and have had my account for 3 years. Always paid it ontime, never incurred any problems. My balance was $1940 of the $2000 available credit last August due to having to pay school bills. So I worked my butt off paying off this debt (among other debts on other cards) and had it down to about $1000 in December. Then my credit limit gets cut down to a grand from 2 grand and suddenly i'm AT my limit because of that with ZERO credit available.

I call and they give me all this BS about the credit bureau reporting this and that and the fact that the economy is causing them to crack down... and I was assured that it wouldn't affect my credit score, but low and behold it dropped by 20 points. lying cheating snakes. So then today I call them up to see if they could reduce my interest payments since they were pretty high, and they tell me that I no longer have an account with them. I said WHAT? Are you kidding me?

I asked them why and they gave me the same reasons that they gave for reducing my credit. Revolving balances too high, saying I paid too little each month based on how much I spent, and all this other complete BS. I asked why I wasn't given any warning, a call, an e-mail, and they told me that I should be receiving the notification letter in 7-10 days and that I should call experian to get a free credit report from them. I will NEVER EVER in my LIFE associate myself with AMEX again, and I hope they go bankrupt. I'm gonna be SO MAD if they get rescued by the bailout plan with they're shady practices.

American Express cancelled my card after more than 10 years of great payment history and never missing a payment with American Express. My husband has lately had some credit issues but like most people in the country he is working on resolving it.

I am a teacher for more than 31 years and I depend of American Express when I travel to conferences. This is very upsetting to me.

American Express cut my credit limit by more than 66% for no apparent reason. I've never missed or been late on a payment, have fantastic history. 10 hours before leaving on a business trip, my limit was decreased to the amount of my balance. This was the one card I counted on to be there for business and I have never been so insulted.

I was forced to obtain and carry cash on a week long business trip. They wouldn't even consider a partial increase to get me through the trip! I am just at a loss.

I just received my bill and noticed that the interest rate was 27.22%. I called AMEX customer service and they advised me that the reason for this was a second late payment. This most recent payment was 2 days late. I had another one this year that was 4 days late. That is it. To add insult to injury, they give a 20 day payment cycle total, before you are considered late. In this case, it took 6 days to get to me, leaving 14 days for me to pay the bill including mail time. A very very short window.

To me this appears to be a very predatory practice. Knowing that many of their customers will miss the deadline - and waiting to attack with an unusually high interest rate. In my case, I can pay off the bill and be done with it. For others, they are stuck paying the high interest rate making it even harder for them to pay their bills.

Forced me to pay the bill in full. For others, it would force them to pay a much higher credit card rate and make it much more difficult to ever get out of debt.

Two years ago when I started to take over a business I paid off and settled ALL OF MY DEBT. I kept one credit card, and only one. My American Express Blue Card. Being the responsible person, I even called and asked them to reduce my credit so I would not go over my personal spending limits. Mind you I may have had one late payment if that since then. Mainly late just due to forgetting to send in the payment.

Last week I find out that I can not make a charge to pay my cell phone bill using my Amex card. Upon calling American Express I find out that without any warning, they have placed a hold on my account as it is currently in review for 24 to 48 hours. Calling again later that afternoon I am told that my credit limit has been lowered due to serious delinquencies on my credit report. After careful research I do find a delinquency that is on my credit report and promptly have it corrected as I was not aware of it. Albeit the $100 serious delinquency is now resolved. Is this company serious?

I spend $8,000+ a month on my company Amex and pay it in FULL every month. I spend 2 to 3 thousand a month on my personal Amex and carry a monthly debt on that of approximately $1,000 to $2,000. I am not late nor am I in default anywhere... The way I see it, the small balance that I carry helps them EARN a living through the monthly interest that I pay.

So now I have paid in my account in full in less than 14 days since this debacle and I am looking into other alternatives for credit sourcing personally and professionally. My dollar amount is not a lot in comparison to some, but in comparison to others it's a lot of money. If I had one of my client that spent $3,000 a month and generated revenue for my company leave I would be distraught. I guess they don't value their customers like they used to. What a shame.

I had to put my business on hold for one day while I resolved this mini credit crisis. I lost countless hours on the phone and internet dealing with Experian, the debtor that I'm still not quite sure who it was, but I wasn't about lose my head over $100, and embarrassed every time I went to use my card. How is this allowed without ANY warning to it's customers.

I am a costco american express business card holder, i charged most of my expense including business purchase to my amex card. I ALWAYS PAID FULL for my balance for the past two years. On october 08, i got a new laptop and charge it to the newly open bestbuy card, and week later i realise amex drop my amex card limit from $2000 to $1400, without any letter of explanation. So i called up amex, and was told that my credit score was too low and my revolving balance was too high. I always felt that amex is a reputable company, so without any doubt i felt it was my fault. Nevertheless i went to check my credit score to make sure noting was wrong, i found out that my overall score was 720.

Last week, i log in to my amex account as usual and decided to print out my statement (i was on paperless bill) ,on the last page of my bill there was a sample of my rebate check worth $153. I immediately call up amex and explain to them that i switch to paperless and she agreed to send me a feb bill with the rebate check attached within this week. To my dismay and shock, instead of recieving my statement and rebate check, i recieve a letter saying that my account was cancelled. I call up and they say that i have too my enquires which is ridiculous and my revolving balance is too high, i only have two credit cards and i paid full so this is impossible.

This is UNACCEPTABLE, it came to my sense that they are finding ways to cancel my account so they can save that $153 rebate. Now that they cancel my account it affects my credibility, and its not worth it!! NEVER use amex in my life anymore. They are scammers. Affected my credit profile by cancelling the account, and lost the rebate of $153.00

I recieved a letter from American express, March 5, 2008, stating that their cancelling my account because of my credit report, i have high debt with other creditors, the total amount of payments in relation to my overall balance has been too low,revolving balance on my American express account is too high. Before that last Feb. 21, 2009 I've been paying my account almost in full amount to make my balances lower then after a few day of paying them they just make a recent review on my account and canceled it, and the cancellation of my account may result in negative report to the consumer reporting agency.

I don't think it's fair todo that, i've been trying to pay my monthly bill on time and last feb. 21, 2009 i've been trying to lower my account to them. They even charge me with renewal of my annual fee last December, now i can no longer use it because they already canceled it. and much worst it's gonna be a negative report on my part in which i've been trying to make it good. I just hope that they treat their cardholder in a fair manner.

I, also, had my card cancelled and my 20,000 rewards points confiscated. I was offered, and accepted, an Am Ex BLUE card about 8 years ago; I have used the card monthly, have never been late with my payments and almost always paid the full balance each month. I carry very little on-going CC debt on ANY of my cards. When I received the letter informing me of the cancellation, I called Am Ex and was stunned by the nasty, indifferent and obtuse responses of the customer service agents and managers I spoke to. I, like many of the others, was informed that a credit check through Experion indicated I had to much outstanding debt and my payment pattern showed to little payment per month on my outstanding balances.

As with the other writers, Am Ex would give me NO details as to specific reasons or specific debts that would indicate a problem, just a general A monitoring of your credit history has caused the decision to revoke your card. I can now see why my call was handled with such indifference, Am Ex must be doing this to thousands of their card holders, if not TEN thousands. The accumulated Rewards points that this will relieve Am Ex from ever having to redeem must be in the MILLIONS! Am Ex must have NO regard for their future as a card issuer. I am sure none of the people who have been so treated will ever WANT to deal with them again. This behavior will, surely, prevent any NEW customers from accepting their products when it becomes generally known. I would gladly take part in any class-action suit.

A loss of the value of 20,000+ Rewards points. Modest compaired to some of the others, but still a REAL loss of an item I had been saving for.

I have, or HAD, Amex Blue. I got the card in '05 and last October they closed my account WITHOUT telling me and when I tried to use it on a business trip, it was declined, obviously. After calling, I was told that it was closed for multiple reasons of which would be detailed in a letter that was being sent out...so...cancel my account, don't tell me and inform me AFTER the fact in a letter?

Well, moving from customer service (of which there is little service to be had) I talked directly to the section that issues cards to see if this would hurt my FICO score as I didn't know how they would report it on my credit report. Keep in mind, there was $0.00 on the card as I paid it off and I certainly didn't close the account so I didn't want it reflected poorly on me. Well, the lady I talked to offered to pull up my credit report and see if I'd taken a hit. In doing so, she OFFERED ME A NEW CARD because my credit score was good...Cancel my account, don't tell me, when I call to figure out what happened, offer a new one? Amex just failed in an epic way.

Having one less card with no balance lowered my income to debt ratio resulting in a lower credit score.

I have been a loyal customer and card holder of American Express for over 10 years. I am extremely disgusted by the way I have been treated by you and your company. I hold a Platinum Charge Card, a Blue Credit Card, and a Delta Sky Miles Card. After consulting your customer service department I was told not to pay off the cards and that leave a small balance on them would continue building credit with American Express. In Aug. 2008 I made a payment of $8000.00 on the Blue Card as well as a $3500.00 Payment on the Delta Sky Miles card. This is on top of the $2000.00 to $5000.00 I pay monthly on my Platinum card. My calculations are that I spend about $40,000.00 a year with you and this is how I have been treated.

After Paying down about $11,000.00 in balances on both the Blue and Delta cards which I was informed to do by YOUR companys customer service department instead of paying them off. YOU American Express lowered my credit lines to about $100.00 over the balances left. Wow I give you eleven thousand dollars and you penalize me! How dare you. This is bad business but still I kept all my cards with you after speaking to one of your Customer Service reps who informed me that they have reevaluated everyones credit lines during these tough times.

Well times are tough and I got laid off in December and start a new job March 16th. When I knew things could get tough I stopped using my Platinum charge card and decided after 2 months that I would not be able to pay the full balance which is around $2000.00 dollars. I called to pay $500.00 and to move the remanding $1500.00 to a line of credit which I could pay over the next few months. I had done this in the past and paid it off and was told it would not be a problem to do again.

After I was transferred to a specialist who could do this I was told I could not and that I needed to pay the full balance. I informed her I could not until the first week of April and that I would like to pay $500.00 and she told me that $500.00 was not acceptable. NOW you can wait on your money and as soon as I can pay the balance off I will cancel all 3 of my cards and never again will I do business with American Express again nor will I have anything good to say about American Express to anyone. Your company really disappointed me and when we come out of these hard times I hope American Express suffers for the way they have treated there trusted clients.

American Express put two subscriptions on my account: Shopper Discount and Travel Values Plus. I did not request these and refuse to pay. They have charged late fee, finance charges and over the limit charges until my acct. shows over $800.oo. I have been disputing this for months and now it is in the hands of a collection agency. Years ago they put Travel & Leisure Magazine on my account and I did not ask for that either.

I am being hounded by the collection agency and American Express to pay over $800.00 for these items. It is stressful and demeaningl. I consider it fraud and a challenge to my credit rating.

I have 1 month overdue with AMEX, last month I was settle more than I required for minimum amount and paid 14 days before due. AFter payment, my card was terminated and was force my them to pay the whole amount immediatly. I negotiate to settle payment they said they want me to pay now or issue posted date cheque. I don't have personal cheque and the force me to borrow someelse cheque. This is totally different from what their CEO mention in the mission to Card holder.

Like so many others, I found out today that my $18,000 credit limit with AMEX was reduced to $2,600. Less than six months ago the balance was $16,000 and I paid it down by $12,500. I called AMEX to obtain PIN for cash advance to pay a contractor to repair complete repairs at a rental property our small real estate business owns. We specifically paid down the credit card to use for emergencies in our small business. It's a small business credit card. AMEX should stop advertsing that they assist small business because the do not. They are helping cause small business to go out of business. Our credit rating is being affected by this as well.

The business credit rating is being affected. If I cannot make these repairs to the properties, I may lose a paying tenant and the other property I may not be able to rent again until I make the repairs. If I can't rent my properties, I can't pay the mortgage or taxes on these properties, which could lead to foreclosure and it goes on and on, just because AMEX arbitrarily drastically reduced my credit limit from $18,000 to $2,600.

On February 22, 2009 I made a small purchase using my American Express Blue card. The card was denied. I checked the account online and noticed the credit limit was reduced from $25,300 to $5,100. I called Customer Service and was told the reduction was due to delinquent accounts. I am a member of Equifax Credit Reporting and I follow my credit very closely. I knew this not to be true. But even talking with Sandra, the manager in the RLA department, she would not tell me why this error occurred and she would not transfer me to someone who could, because there is no one that can help you. She suggested I write a letter.

I spoke with the credit reporting department at American Express and they said my account was in good standing, but there was nothing they could do. So, I called Equifax. James looked over my account and saw that there were no delinquencies and my credit had no negative listings. He told me that the other credit reporting agencies would be reporting the same unless I received an alert that something negative was reported to them. There have been no alerts to this effect, and I would not expect any.

American Express is saying I have delinquencies listed on my credit report, Equifax says I do not have delinquencies on any account. American Express will not address this issue by phone immediately. This will affect my credit and I cannot have my credit improperly reported while I wait 3 to 6 months for a response from a letter. In this difficult economic time, receiving such false information with the likelihood of it impacting my much treasured credit report is devastating let alone exasperating. Please help me by giving me a contact at American Express who has authority to correct this problem. My financial and economic stability is being damaged for no reason.

I have been an american express card holder for over 18 years, and hold several cards including an american express business credit card. In the fall, American Express cut my credit lines for no reason despite my excellent record of paying my charges plus thousands of dollars on an American Express business credit card on a monthly basis.

When they cut my credit line in half (without notice) the balance I had on the card was over my new credit limit, which has now affected my credit score. And they raised my interest rate on the one business credit card to over 28%! Nothing about my financial circumstances has changed. I've called to discuss this with customer service and have gotten no where. I have asked for supervisors and finally was told to write a letter to Michelle at Consumer Relations,American Express. I have not received a response.

For such a loyal customer over all these years, the treatment I have received is shocking. As soon as i pay off the one business card, I'm cancelling all my Amex cards. And I'm spreading the word about the terrible treatment and consequences I've suffered as a result of their indiscriminate actions.

After many years of service with American Express and in excellent standing and my credit report showing in excellent standing they sent me a letter stating due to their problem money backings that they could no longer grant me the high credit limit I was accustomed to of 20,000 and they lowered my limit to the amount of aprox. 1800 in which I owed on the card in good standing I contacted them and informed them that this would hurt my credit rating due to the fact I had a high limit that I never abused and in return them lowering my limit would hurt my credit rating due to their bad money managment not mine. I am demanding that they correct the informatiion on my credit report.

They hurt my credit report rating at no fault of mine due to their poor money managment which caused my credit score to drop I want them to fix the information they report to the credit bureaus.

I want to share an AMEX credit line reduction story. I've held their Blue card for 5yrs+, did a balance transfer, never used card to make any purchases, always paid over required amount ($20-60) monthly, never missed a payment. A couple of months ago (4-5) they slashed my orig credit line to just above my current balance.($13k to $7500). I called to inquire abt it and it was a waste of time. The lady was rude and insisted my credit profile showed debt ratio too high and multiple credit checks (credit offers only). I advised them to never make me or any family members at my address another credit solicitation of any kind.(phone,mail,email).

I just opened the mail yesterday 2/18/09 and find another notice they are doing it again. Now that I've paid the account down they are again reducing it to just above the current balance ($6400). I really think they are trying to squeeze me out of the promotional 3.99% rate offer on my balance. Also, they are affecting my FICO. I use to have a high FICO of 750 but with AMEX's attack behavior I'm probably screwed now. None of my other cards or loans are late or missed. I have Chase & Citibank & Fidelity accounts (with balances lower than and only one higher than AMEX) and couple dept stores Macy's, Nordstroms (with $100-200 balances) and a SMARTCAR car loan $200/mo (with credit union) and none of them have done what AMEX has done. Isn't there a law against this and the method they are employing to ruin my FICO? Should I just move the balance to another card? I've heard you shouldn't close accounts as that too will affect your FICO?

One last note, Ive been working for the same company for over 20+ years, no mortgage (busy raising kids), I get 0% balance transfer offers all the time from other creditors,have 3 titles paid in full to 3 cars (all 2000 models). Over 100k in 401k along with Brokerage & IRAs and a nice amount in savings and could pay many credit accounts off but dont because Im told you have to keep your credit paying habits regular for your FICO score. I wish someone would really look into AMEX's behavior and put them on blast with the media. I will never take an account with them again and will tell others of this experience. They deserve to fail as a bank since your relationship nor ability to pay a debt obviously means nothing to them. I hope they didnt take TARP monies. I believe they are discriminating against me for some of the factors mentioned on the Good Morning America segment I saw not long ago. If there is a class action I will surely jump onto it with everyone!

On Sunday-February 7, 2009 I decided to pay off my outstanding balance of almost $2000 with American Express. I've had these card for years and it had always had a balance on it and I never once had a problem with AMEX. On Sunday-February 9, 2009 I decide to go to the grocery store and when I tried paying with my American Express Card it was declined. When I called AMEX they told me that my account had gone up for review and that after reviewing my account they decided to cancel my account because I am a risk.

I am unable to comprehend how all these years I've had an outstanding balance on this card, have only been paying the minimum payment all this time, yet was never considered a risk, nor much less penalized for it. However, no sooner do I pay the whole balance and it is canceled, and without any prior notification. No consulting with me, no nothing! Then the representative tells me that the account cannot be reopened. I have absolutely no say so in any of this. I don't understand. They cared enough about my feedback as long as I owed them money, but I soon as I pay my balance off my opinion is of no importance? I asked for the address to the corporate offices so that I may file a complaint and/or appeal, and was denied this information. I want to know if all of this is legal? Please.

First of all, not only was the whole experience very humiliating, but I was forced to go into an overdraft on my personal checking account because I was not aware of the canceled AMEX card when I went to the grocery store.

Was late 4 days on a $58.00 minumum payment on Blue Card. Supposedly recieved an urgent call regarding my account. Then froze all my accounts (Gold Green and Blue cards) allthough Gold and Green were not deliquent. I made payment (4x minimum amount and always pay more). Priviledges reinstated but the urgent contact us calls continued three more times. These were not computer generated, but actual people calling. Have had these accounts for 17 years and never had this happen ever. Charge priviledges suspended for a payment 4 days late! Get busy sometimes forget a due date pay the late fee and kick myself for being late has not happened more than a half dozen times in 17 years. This is a result of the catastrophy of mismanagement on Wall Stree and DC of all things financial.

I am writing this letter to you regarding my problem that I have been through for the last six months with American express. In May 2008, I applied for the gold reward American Express card. However, after I received the card, I realized that I really did not need it. Therefore, before I activate the card I called American Express customer services and I explained to them that I do not need the card and wanted to cancel it. So, the representative who assisted me was very nice and said that she was going to cancel it. I asked her if there is any fee that I would have to pay at this time, and she said that there is no fee since I did not activate the cart yet. I cut my card and through it in the trash as per the representative request.

At the end of June 2008, I received a bill for this card with amount due, so I called American Express Customer services again and I explained what happened and the representative told me that the card was not cancelled and still activated which was not what I asked in the first place. She was very sorry for the inconvenience and told me that she would credit me the amount due and then cancel the card. Since that time, I have had the same situation at the end of each billing period. I receive a bill, I call, and someone tells me that he was going to fix my problem, but it was never fixed.

One day I was trying to use my blue credit card at a retail store, and the cashier told me that my card was cancelled. So, I called American express again and I was told that all my cards were cancelled because of the amount past due that I have in the gold card. I could not believe that all my cards were cancelled because of a mistake that that some in such a big institution has made. I had two activated account, the reward green card and the blue from American express card. I have always been on time paying my bill, and tried to maintain my credit history clear.

However, the problem that I am experiencing with your credits will jeopardize my credit history. At the end of December, 2008, I spoke to a representative supervisor called Randi L, And explained to him my problem. I asked him that I could have paid the amount outstanding in the reward gold card since it is not a significant amount in order to avoid any problem in my credits. He told me that I supposed to be charged this amount in first place. He also said that he would credit my account the amount of $ 112.50 in the reward gold card and then cancel it, and then reactivate my rewards green card and the blue from American express.

Up to now, I am still paying my bills on the time for the blue card which is cancelled and I am not able to get it back. My request was very simple to cancel a card that I do not need, but now, I still see that the gold card is activated and the blue one is cancelled. I spoke to many representatives, and every one gave me different answer now I do not know what to believe and what to do. I am tired of talking to representatives that have no idea what are they talking about. Please, I need this problem to be fixed as I am not willing to mess up my credit for a mistake that I have not committed. I will attach copies of some letters that I have received form your company about cancelation and reopening for my accounts.

They dropped my credit line from $14,700 to $2,600 never been late and always paid on time. Now this has put me in a negative cash advance limit which they say they will not charge me for since they changed my limit, I have paid this balance down to $1,123.29 back in Nov. 2008. They said I had to many inquires, I have not applied for any credit all the inquires have been from credit card companies. This has now lowered my credit score and the amount of credit I am worthy of from all companies. They refuse to increase my limit back until they do their inquires again on accounts.

Has changed what my credit worthyness is with credit companies. Has reduced my credit score for refinancing my home now.

on 1/27/09 I received a letter from Amex stating my account has been canceled due to revolving accounts. I called customer service assuming this was some type of mistake,but i was informed by Pam the supervisor my account was canceled. I explained I have never been late or missed any payments on this credit card or any other credit cards.

My credit limit alloted was $2,000 and I had a balance of $598.00. I can't beleive american express not only canceled my credit card, but to add insult to injury this will also affect my credit score. when i asked to speak to another manager on duty ,because i was in disbelieve. Pam said she was highest ranking superviso in the company I WILL PAY OFF THE BALANCE... BUT I WILL NEVER DO BUSINESS WITH AMERICAN EXPRESS.

Answering an advertisement promising 0% interest on an $8,000 balance for one year, I took out an American Express Card in November. No terms had been discussed and I did not sign anything. I used the card to transfer part of another balance from another credit card. In December I made a payment of $160, which was a minimum payment plus late fees. I generally pay my bills once a month and am doing so again this month, January, actually, near the end of the month again.

Tonight, I received a call from a person who bearly spoke English, telling me that I had a bill due to American Express. After a long, painstaking effort to understand her words, I was sure there must be some mistake. After several calls, achieving no satisfaction, I finally spoke to a man who was quite clear about what had happened, and there was no doubt I was being charged late fees and balances on minmum payments and my account balance was $8,218,00 because I had been about ten days late on two payments in a row. I was trying to conceive of this. I was paying my bills each month and for just a matter of 10 days late two months I was being jumped up to a rate of 27% interest on money that was offered at 0%.

I might not have figured this out if I had not pushed quite some time for an explanation. I certainly never agreed to any contract giving American Express the right jump me up to 27% jump for being just a few days late on what started out to be a very small minimum payment. I cancelled the card and asked to speak to management and internal audit. I did talk to a supervisor, I was saying I understand the computations against me were probably right, but the policy certainly was not, because I never agreed to such conditions and bought nothing with the card except for the 8,000 transfer. The supervisor seemed a bit reasonable at first, but he kept going through the computations telling me that late two months is a serious issue and this policy is normal in the financial industry. I said it was not exactly normal to offer 0% interest and then jack it up to 27% on the first opportunity.

Believe there was breach of promise or implied contract. The adverting was deceptive and I was not properly informed as what the terms of the contract would be. This caused me great anxiety and frustration. Fortunately, I have a way to get rid of this lousy balance in about a week. I believe the payments, at 0% APR on 8,000, My payments by the end of February will be 8,218, plus $160, paid in December. That is a profit to American Express of $318 in just a few months, and they have done nothing to deserve it, believe I was promised $8,000 at 0%. This was misleading and wrong.

American Express says when you default two times in row, that is how the financal industry works. Well the financial industry is not working very well anywhere these days. There are more crooks than there are honest people. What gives them the right to charge 27% interest to someone like me who pays their bills every month, albeit a few days late? No one is perfect. There should be class action lawsuits against these sneaky tricksters. I have definitely gone through over three hours of grief because of this outrageous treatment. I think many other people have probably been taken advantage of this way. How can such advertising be anything but DECEPTIVE?

American Express reduced my credit limit from $4000 to $2000 without notifying me. When I asked why, they said it was due to information they received from my Experian credit report regarding too much available revolving credit. I have never missed a payment or went over the limit. I proceeded to close several accounts with zero balances that I did not use, including a second American Express card. Apparently, this action did not improve my credit from their perspective. Three months later, they closed my account without notice. I have a credit rating of 800 and have never been delinquent on any account ever.

I received a phone call on my job from American Express. Highly unusual so I immediately logged into my account to make sure everything was ok. I noticed that my avalaible balance had been reduced by 8k or so. I immediately contacted the company to see if that was a mistake. They told me they had mailed out a letter the day before (obviously I have not seen it yet) regarding the decision to lower the balance based upon my current high-risk balance. They acknowledged that it had nothing to do with my positive payment history and even noted that I have always paid more than the minimums but they just wanted to be careful.

I have been with AMEX for five years now and never had this happen to me and have actually had balances higher than the one I am carrying now. I am absolutely livd as this will raise my debt ratio and will likely have an effect on my credit rating. I just read a trail of notes just like this one and something undoubtedly has to be done. I think it is absolutely ridiculous they are doing this to what appears to be some of their best customers and masking it behind "the economy". Please advise on what action can be taken against them.

In the month of December 2008, I hosted a party for my Daughter and her friends and future in-laws. I told the family I would pay for the food, tip and tax part. They are to pay for all the drinks and tax. I ran my American Express card to pay for my part, my card was declined so I tried two more times. I called American Express upon returning home to ask why my card had been declined. I was told that was illegal to pay towards my business on my card. I do not understand why it is illegal, if I had gone to another restaurant it would of cost me double or triple the amount, so that is why we decided to host it at our place.

Also why would I have called if In was doing something illegal I then was told that I could no longer use any of my cards, since I had done a transaction on my business. I have been with American Express for many years and do not appreciate the way this was handled, I felt like I was a criminal to host my daughters party at our establishment.

Loss of all of my American Express cards and was also told that this would go on my trw.

I have had (past tense) my American Express Blue Card since September of 2005. I had a $25,000 limit and have paid my credit card bill on time, in full, every month. In fact, Ive paid every bill Ive ever received on time and in full. I have accumulated approximately 62,000 rewards points during this time frame that Ive had my AMEX Blue card. I had planned on using these points towards my honeymoon this October that I was literally in the process of booking with American Express Travel. This card was my primary card, and my only card with a credit limit large enough that I could use to schedule my honeymoon.

The following is a quick background on my credit history. I have, and have always had, an Excellent? credit score of over 750. Last month, I began the process of refinancing my home. I learned from the credit reporting agency that my bank was using that someone else's information was incorrectly attached to my Experian (only this agency) credit report because of "a very similar name." Both of the other credit agencies did not have any of this incorrect information and continued to show excellent scores. The incorrect information included one delinquent account and several accounts with balances near their credit limits. The incorrect information was immediately removed by Experian (on December 26th, 2008), and I was told my credit was now in perfect standing. I obtained an updated credit report showing all accounts in good standing and 0 delinquent payments.

I became aware last week of a promotion to be awarded a $350 statement credit as well as double reward points if I book travel with American Express Travel of at least $3,000. I spent several hours with the travel department planning my honeymoon.


On January 7th, 2009, I attempted to book my honeymoon through American Express Travel, and was notified that my card was declined. After several hours, three departments, and countless number of phone conversations with American Express, I learned that my card had been cancelled by American Express and that there was no reinstatement possible. I was not notified by anyone that the card was cancelled and was forced to suffer the embarrassment of having a charge rejected. Is this how American Express treats their customers? I was told I would have to apply for a new card.


I called American Express again (on January 7th, 2009) to find out more information on what exactly happened. I was again told that my card was cancelled TODAY and there was absolutely no way they could reverse the cancellation. They indicated it was cancelled because of an Experian credit report from December indicating a delinquent payment. When I told them that my credit report had incorrect information, and it was resolved, they said there was nothing they could do and that my card was cancelled and all of my reward points would be forfeited. I offered to send them an updated credit report proving I have NEVER had a delinquent payment, and that ALL accounts are in good standing and they declined. I asked how I could keep my points since none of these issues were through any fault of my own. I was told the points would be forfeited and I must apply for a new account. These points are worth (in vacation savings) of over $600 to me today.

I then spoke to an individual at the New Account department. I was notified that there was no way to open a new American Express account and to move the points to this account. The individual I spoke with told me that the points would be forfeited in 24 hours, and I would not have a card number populated until they sent out the new card. I was then told that since I couldnt have a card number populated immediately, that I could not be able to take advantage of the American Express Travel promotion of a $350 statement credit.

I have had an American Express Blue Card since September of 2005. I had a $25,000 limit and have paid my bill on time, in full, every month. I have accumulated approximately 62,000 rewards points during this time frame.

Upon refinancing my home (3 weeks ago), I learned that someone else's information was incorrectly attached to my Experian (only this agency) credit report because of "a very similar name." The incorrect information was immediately removed by Experian, and I was told my credit was now in perfect standing. I obtained an updated credit report showing all accounts in good standing and 0 delinquent payments.

I became aware last week of a promotion to get a $350 statement credit as well as double points if I book travel with American Express Travel. I spent several hours with the travel department planning my honeymoon. When the travel department tried to charge my credit card, they were told that the card was denied.

I called American Express and was told my card was canceled TODAY and there was absolutely no way they could reverse the cancellation. They indicated it was because of an Experian credit report from December. When I told them that my credit report had incorrect information, and it was resolved, they said there was nothing they could do and that all of my points would be forfeited. I offered to send them an updated credit report proving I have NEVER had a delinquent payment, and that ALL accounts are in good standing and they declined.

On 12/23/08, I tried to get a cash advance at 2 different bank ATMs, and neither could process my card. It wasn't denied, it just couldn't be read. I called AMEX, and they had no record of the card being swiped. Concluding that the card must be damaged, I put in to have a replacement sent, leaving my current card active. On 12/24/08, I tried another ATM, and lo and behold, it worked!

I called AMEX to ask them not to send the replacement card, and was told that my card had been cancelled. I asked to speak to a supervisor, because that had to be incorrect as I had JUST used the card successfully. Supervisor comes on, and says that as a result of a periodic account review, my credit score had gone down due to a high debt to something(can't remember exactly what he said) ratio, and from a number of inquiries into my account in the past 12 months. The only other accounts I have open are one other revolving credit card, and a car loan, and both had approx. the same amount of debt on them when I was issued the AMEX. I asked where he got his information - Experian.

So on 12/24/08 - 6 minutes after I used my card in the ATM, it was cancelled. I have really good timing! On 12/26/08, I submitted a request to view my credit report from Experian. There have been NO inquiries after I applied for the AMEX card. There is one previous to getting the card, and that was months before, so this information was available to AMEX before they issued me a card. I honestly believe that they cancelled the card in order to start collecting interest. I had a 0% introductory rate. I had just gotten the card in late September.

American Express has reduced my credit line from $32,000 to $16,800 when I currently have a balance of over $15,000. My past spending and payment patterns show over $1500.00 a month is charged on this card annually. 6 months ago American Express raised my credit limit. 3 months ago I sent a $14,000 principal payment on this account. I have nvere been late on any accounts with AMEX or any other lender and my credit score is 699 with no delinquencies reported. The action by American Express will cause the account to reach or exceed its limit before the end of the month. Then the over the limit fees will begin. All of my business advertising is done through this account. When the limit is reached all of my advertising will stop and my business will stop.

American Expresses actions will lower my credit score in 2 ways and possibly force me into bankruptcy. the first is by reporting a reduction in the credit limit requested by the card issuer. The second is the card immediately will show a high balance to limit ratio further affecting my credit score negatively. Without advertising my business and source of income wil come to an abrupt halt. American Express actions could possibly force me into bankruptcy. This will basically ruin my life. I have worked very hard to get where I am and I see it all crumbling before me abruptly due to no cause on my behalf. Please help me.

I have been an American Express Card member since 1973 in good standing with exception to a period of time my business was being embezzled from and I was forced to close an acocunt that had been compromised by an employee. I have pid my accoutn every month on time and always either paid in full or a large portion of the bill.

Recently, my son was injured in teh Middle East requiring me to fly to Europe to be with him. While there, my accoutn, which had acredit line of $8800 and a balance of $3600 had the line reduced to $3800!!! With no prior warning or notification! I was stranded in another country with no available credit what-so-ever on the only card I brought with me with an ailing son. I checked my account and everything was paid on time and my work status remained unchanged.

There was absolutely not indication as to why they would do this to me. I had to have family wire funds to me from my checking account to support my last week and pay for my flight home. I will never, ever again trust American Express and I will make certain that I do leave home without it. As for my business, I have removed my American Express Accepted Here signage and enocurage my clients to use Discover, Visa or MC. WARNING: DO NOT TRUST AMERICAN EXPRESS UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES!!!!

I had the money to pay for my expenses in Europe, but I had to go to a great deal of trouble to access my money as I had expected American Express to be available for my use, especially since I had never missed a payment at any time. It was like having teh rug pulled out from under me at a very stressful moment of my life.

American Express reduced my credit limit,and then send me an email after it was reduced.

I received a letter in the mail,stating they have reduced my credit limit due to pulling my credit report. They did not review the whole credit report and base their decision on the whole report. I have been a customer of American Express since May of 2006 and have not once paid them late. I called American Express to ask them why I was being punished for paying my bills on time. They said due to pulling my credit report. I asked them to specifically give me what was on my report that lead them to reduce my credit line and they could not give me a specific answer. I was givin an address to write a letter. Apparantly there are no human beings to talk to past the Supervisor.

Them lowering my credit line will affect my credit score in a negative way. Which will hurt me in refinancing my house in the next few months or having the ability to open any other lines of credit. I am a single mother of two children and have no family here where I live. I should not be punished for paying American Express ontime, no matter what is on my credit report. I have not done anything negative to them to warrant such a harsh punishment from them.

Reduced my credit lines on all 4 cards by a total of $44,000. I have never been late with a payment, always pay double the minimum balance due, and have never used more than 20% of my credit line. They say that Experian is reporting a negative entry on my credit report. When I pulled it, there was nothing there.

My credit score has dropped by 70 points due to the drop in available cushion of credit that I previously had enjoyed. My credit score because of this went from 734 down to 667.

I had an American Express card which was in good standing for over a year. Last October, due to my great credit history, they upped the credit line to $8000.00. Then in November, without notice to me or an explaination, they dropped my credit limit to $500.00 I'm tired of credit card companies treating their good customers like crap!

most likely impact is the loss of credit available to credit used - in the Fico score area

I have been an AMEX card member for about 10 years. I never carry a balance on my card. Last year at the same time AMEX canceled my card account because of blemish that showed up on my Experian report. I never received a piece mail or any type of warning that it was canceled. I had to find out when I tried to use the card. I had to acquire my Experian credit report and provide AMEX with it. They admitted there was a mistake and proceeded to send me a load of apology mail stating this will never happen again. It took about 3 months of constant phone calls to straighten out everything.

Recently (same time as last year) I received a letter from AMEX stating that my credit has been reduced to 1K, due to an Experian Report. I have spent hours on the phone with reps already to try to straighten this out again. The reps are again very unhelpful in working through this with me. I have explained many times that this is the same thing that happened at the exact same time last year. It seems like the only reason they didn't cancel my card this time was because of an asterisk next to my name due to the mistake they made last year. This is very frustrating for someone who never carries a balance and has been nothing but a good customer to AMEX.

I was just about to book my down payment for my wedding and would have been thoroughly embarrassed, again. Amex has now become a liability to me. I recently applied and was approved for my previous AMEX credit limit by a competing credit card company. Once my new card is received I will cancel my account with AMEX. I will never open another AMEX account again, nor will I let any friend or family. I am tired of spending 1/4 of the year trying to vindicate myself from their mistakes.

they cancelled my card without warning & refussed to refund me the annual fee

my credit report has a unnecessary blemish on it as a result of this companies cancellation

We got a card because we thought we must in order to join COSTCO. Later we moved two times in 3 months and were late on 2 payments because they wanted us to pay them online and we had trouble getting our computer hooked up. Even though we paid off what we owed in full as soon as I got my computer hooked up, they not only canceled our card but also reported us as bad credit risks. We are elderly and have had excellent credit all these years.

I don't mind that they canceled us, but reporting us like that is, to my mind, unforgiveable...especially to elderly people who just had to move twice like that. They are a bad, user-unfriendly company who should be reported to someone, so I am reporting this to you. We own 2 homes and have a big savings account. We do not deserve to be treated like bums.

Now we will have bad credit. Our regular bank has just knocked down our available credit from 6000 down to only 300 because of American Express's bad report about us. I am sure more damages will result as well.

4 Weeks ago my American Express card stop working we were over there limit. We called American Express when we were out of town and at the time and made phone payment with them. Still their card would not work. We called American Express and they informed us that the phone payment needed 3 to 5 days to process. But the payment was pulled out of are bank that same day. When we were back home about 15 days later we paid the card in full online and still their card would not work American Express. We called American Express and they informed us again that the online payment needed 3 to 5 days. We have called American Express many time and we just get more lies from their phone support.

01/12/2008 I had to Call American Express, we still could not user their card. The story this time shocks me they have changed are credit limit form 25k to 1k. They informed me I have 60 days to dispute this before they report are credit changed to other creditor. I ask them how to dispute they needed me to get a credit report from Experian and fax it to them. I did my score is 804 the fax number did not work! Why is American Express not listed on the Experian credit report? And I think in 60 days are score will be lower.

I need to work with American Express to fix this but the phone support just feeds more lies and no help I think it needs to be in writing. I think American Express is trying to put a end to the 5% cash back on my card and if so this is the wrong way to due business.

I need guidance to keep my company credit as good as it should be. With out are higher credit limit card many suppliers will fined it hard to sell to us.

I have been an AMEX customer for almost 10 years, starting with an AMEX Blue Personal Card. In that time I have almost 100% of the time paid off my bill in full (leaving 0 balance). I recently started a business and I mentioned this when I spoke with an AMEX representative because I was calling to let them know I would be making an unusually large purchase (within my limit). The person suggested opening a Blue for Business, which made sense to me so I did. I used it for a few months, again paying both cards in full. THEN another representative noticed that I pay my balances in full and suggested the AMEX Plum card. This card made sense for me, and I went ahead and applied for it.

Now because there was no limit on it I went ahead and made some large inventory purchases, each time informing AMEX what I was doing. Here's the kicker: I paid off my ENTIRE balance of about $25K then I noticed my accounts read that my accounts had been suspended. I called AMEX and I learned that I had to send them my tax information, and for those AMEX customers who do not know of it, this is thru their dreaded Financial Review team. In case you are wondering why I put that in quotations it is because they did NO REVIEW AT ALL. In this review they asked for my 2007 tax returns. When I opened up my Amex Blue for Business & AMEX Plum AMEX asked for my 2008 income! AMEX closed my accounts because based on my 2007 income I could not support the level of purchases... well... in 2007 I earned 45K, but in 2008 I earned 100K+ AND I TOLD AMEX JUST THAT DURING MY APPLICATION.

Now, AMEX has closed all my accounts, despite the fact that I have a ZERO balance on my AMEX Blue, have pad off my AMEX Plum, and only 2K on my Blue for business!!! After talking with AMEX a lot it appears that because I opened up those two most recent accounts my relationship became flagged... even though THEY ASKED ME TO. Now, I could care less if I have an account with AMEX. But I feel that they have committed fraud by asking me my 2008 income for OPENING my account, but CLOSED my account due to m 2007 income! Why is this bad? Because my credit will be affected...

I know that there are those out there who say that this will not happen to you but keep in mind these facts: 1. I am a 10 year customer of AMEX 2. I almost always pay off my bill IN FULL. 3. When I have not paid my bill in full I have never missed a payment 4. My credit score is 760-780, depending on which credit report you look at 5. At the time of this writing, I have 125K in equity in my home (based on the most current value), 60K business assets, 30K in liquid assents (that is CASH), 40K in various other assets.

No monetary damage, but the damage due to my credit score being lowered will be substantial.

I recently received my statement from American Express for my Blue from American Express card. When I signed up for the card years ago, I got it because it was a fixed 9.9% rate. I received notice on my card statement that they are raising the APR to 12.99% as of December 2nd 2008 due to the raising costs the company is experiencing.

I called customer service and they said that the law allows for the credit companies to do this and that there is nothing that I can do. I have been an outstanding customer, always making my payments on time. How is this fair to people trying to pay off their cards and the company can breach their own original agreement?!

With the horrible economy now, I am going to be forced to pay a higher APR for no reason whatsoever. I am going to lose more money because the company is changing their agreement without valid cause. If the company can say that they can change rates and fees because they are suffering an increase of cost in business, the consumer should be allowed to do that same with no consequences. It's an unfair business practice. Can't anybody do anything to help the consumers!?

The same thing happened to me as everyone else. Had a $30,000 line of credit as a small business owner and then all of a sudden was dropped to $16,000 which happened to be what I had outstanding at the time. They claimed it was due to my credit report but my credit report is fine. Now they announce they are no longer offering line of credit. They did this to try to get the bail out money. Talk about hurting small businesses!

AMEX FR (financial reviewed) me after extending me a new AMEX blue with 0% interest for 12 months. I made purchases for around 50% of the CL and my card was frozen...amex requested 4506-T form... fyi for all, d/n pay in full your account if amex FRs (financial reviews) your account...that is what they want you to do. i dont know the law, but i think that if amex closes one's account, one has time to pay off the balance.

last month i was approved for an blue sky american express card. I used about $1500 ,which was far below my available credit and made my first payment in half on time. when i went out grocery shopping my card was declined. i called amex and found out that the economy was bad so they closed my account. meaining i have an excellent credit score. why would they send out preapprovals if the economy is bad. This bank is the worst bank. Now this will show on my credit. and its not even my fault.

lowered my score.

One of the newer amex cards have thinner magnetic strips on the back. these new cards are not able to be swiped through our credit card reader, therefore making us manually authorize every single one of these transactions. manual authorizations cost us more through our credit card processing service. we're talking about .10 - .25 cents more on each transaction, exponentially multiplied on a national level. is it on us to buy new equipment to handle these newer cards? it is not feasible to stop accepting amex cards or to tack on an extra charge just for these type of cards. i've talked with several businesses in the area and they are all having the same problem with these cards.

our business is paying for these manual authorizations on a daily basis. it might amount to only several dollars a day, but multiplied by 365 days...etc. this is money out of our pocket. we have the equipment and we use their services. it is not fair for us to have to also pay for their faulty product.

I had an American express card for almost 8 years. Never late on payments, excellent credit with over 75K credit line with them. Once fine day, they decided to freeze all of my cards and asked for income proof. Afte all this 8 years of business with them, they wanted a income proof? How funny and ridiculous at the same time. Any how, I sent them eall the income proof documents liek paystubs, tax returns, employer letter for source income, etc.

After calling them more than 10 times, I finally get a response that they are going to cancel all of my cards with them with no further review. I was shocked and [upset] at them because they had no reason to do this with me. I provided them with all the documents which would proof my income (above than average american household incomer).

After they closed my accounts with them, thye reported it as they are closing on their will, etc. this costed me a whooping 75 points down in my credit score. All I wanted to know what went wrong and why I was subjected to this situation. Its also hurts because regardless how you balance your credit history , someoen will always screw things up //Please help

My due date has always been on the 5th of every month on our gold amex account and now it has changed to be earlier on the 25th without mine or my husband's consent. My husband's blue amex due date has changed without his consent as well. Also on the amex blue card I made a payment early and they did not reflect it toward the monthly payment due and I had to make an additional payment as well.

My husband gets paid only once a month and we pay all of our bills on the 1st of the month and are unable to pay them earlier in the month due to our budget restrictions. We just short saled on our original home and are trying to pay off large debt that incurred from carrying two mortgages and this is very hindering and unobtainable!


I have an American Express Blue card. We were orginally opened with 10k limit and shortly after raised to 12k. We ran up a balance of 9k+, at which point we opted to not charge anymore and pay down the balance. Shortly after that AX informed us that they were lowering our limit. So we just continued to pay our payments, which in most cases was over the minimum and always ontime. Since then they have lowered our limit about 3 times each time saying in review of our history and score.

When you look at their action, they are, in fact, creating the situation of our lower score. we are NOT charging more, but by reducing the limit, it makes the ratio look high. In addition they stated that our Mortgage company has a history of having bad credit customers (birds of a feather attitude?) Our Mortgage company was bought out by this bad company, it was not our choosing, but we are being judged by it. I want to just pay off the the card and close the account, but all the credit companies, say that is even worse for my score.

my credit reputation is being effected

As a merchant, I expected to be protected by the American Express Merchant Program. We sell business aviation flights on private jets. One of our clients was paying for some of their trips on their american express card. All paperwork has been submitted to American Express and was approved/blessed. Now they have taken the consumer side of the deal saying that they have issued a chargeback - totaling $85k, which we cannot afford.

The forms were approved/blessed by american express prior to being used, now they say they are no good. Avoid Amex Merchant Services - I'm losing my home over this mess.

American express cancelled my credit card because I had moved without my consent. I had contated them to update my address details but because they didn't update their systems they didn't get the information and assumed I wasn't going to maintain my payments, which is not true.

They then defaulted my credit file and now I have a bad credit rating and cannot get a loan anywhere. I refuse to pay the account as they are in the wrong. charter merchantile who is now handling the account constantly call me with harrassing calls, I cannot understand them when they spaek as their english is poor. This is a joke and I am very angry.

I too had an unfair credit review and my credit line reduced by half. when I contacted AMEX, they said that it was a new policy, and that I had too high a mortgage. I doscovered that my mortgage was being reported twice and corrected the information. AMEX would still not reinstate my credit without my first providing them with either 2 years of 1040's or last years W-2. Since my husband would not agree to this, I sent them a YTD paycheck and explanation. i have NEVER been late on this or any other payments, have paid the balance in full on this card a couple of times in the past, and have a very high credit score. I believe this is unfair business practice.

By putting my AMEX balance at the high amount, instead of the 50% it was, AMEX is negatively impacting my credit score for no reason other than, Nazi-like credit practices. I will now have a more difficult time getting credit and pay higher interest, because of their action. I believe this is a violation of consumers rights to do this especially without notice and without any reason.

The AmEx Blue Sky credit card is a promotional program requiring a promotion code as part of the acceptance application. In addition to an applicant's SSN, DOB and other identity info, new membership representatives ask for the applicant's bank information SO THAT THEY CAN CONFIRM THE ADDRESS OF THE ACCOUNT. If one refuses to disclose that, they ask, instead, that the applicant fax a copy of his/her utility bill in order to verify the address. Then, once received by them, they indicate that that is not acceptable. Only knowledge of the applicant's bank and account information is acceptable.

I'M REALLY FEARFUL THAT THIS PROMOTION IS A SHAM . . . DESIGNED TO GET PERSONAL INFORMATION ONLY. Fortunately I was in a position to tell them to cancel my application, which they were going to do anyway. I don't think any card company should need one's bank account information and location just for address verification (unless they were performing a credit check). Even the AmEx card reps admit that most banks don't even give the informtion they ask for. VERY SUSPICIOUS! I don't trust the validity of the program.

Deceptive advertising and specification of requirements for application acceptance. The motive for eliciting applicant information is questionable. The cost is the loss of applicant's time and possible loss of identity from theft.

I have been an American express card holder since 2002. I pay more than the minimum due, most of the time I pay the entire balance off way before the due date. I recently in July of 2008 requested a balabce transfer from American Express to pay off 2 high APR credit cards. I spoke to an AExpress customer service rep who kept me in the phone for an hour and approved me for the balance transfer and sent me out checks to pay off other credit cards. i was informed ny the customer service rep that my APR would be 14.99% on balance transfers and the checks would arrive 7-10 business days. I have never done a balance transfer with American Express and I needed to use $3970.00 of my $9,000.00 line of credit.

Once I recieved the checks I used one check to pay off Chase credit card in the amount of $3,970.00. I paid off this account with the American express check and closed the account out. A week later I recieved a letter in the mail from American Express telling me the check was not honored and my credit line was reduced from $9,000.00 to $500.00, I have been a loyal paying custimer for 5 years.

I called american express and discussed this with a representative which was of no help to me so I requested a supervisor, I explained and read the letter I recieved and told her this was the lowest thing anyone has done to me and I wanted the check honored and my credit line put back. She told me they could not honor the check for $3,970.00 because when the check came in to them they reviewed my credit history and saw I had to much outstanding debt and my credit score was low ( which is 640 ) I said to her I have never missed paying any of my credit card ever and have always paid you people on time or the entire balance, she said she was sorry but still couldn't honor the check. I cried and sobbed and was in utter disbelief, how could a company stoop so low. eventually the supervisor only put my credit limit back to $9,000.00 and that was it.

This has caused me a great deal of stress and heartache. the credit card I payed off ( chase ) called me on saturday August 23 to tell me about the check payment and that now my account with them was over the limit and late and I needed to pay $483.55 to bring it current. This late mark will now be on my credit history and bring my credit score down and has given me the worse headaches in the world.

I have a couple of accounts open with American Express and even put $3000.00 into savings on one card. I have paid double or triple the monthly payment on my accounts. Twice, once in January 08 and August 08 I receive letters that Amex has to lower my credit limits due to my credit report. In both cases - I have paid for a credit report to see what the problem is and there isn't anything to speak of. I have 30 accounts in good standing and 2 derogatives from 1999 which were settled. Amex also stated that I have had too many inquiries in 12 months. I am not the one making inquires - I do receive offers in the mail all the time for credit cards but that is not myself applying.

In July 08 - Amex offered me a Starwood account with a balance transfer offer of 2.9% - so I thought I would transfer (2) other cards totaling $540.00. I got a letter denying the transfer and then another letter apologizing for the error. Then a week later I got a letter denying the transfer again and lowering my credit limits. I used to think that AMERICAN EXPRESS was the most prestiqeous card to have and was impressed that it was part of American heritage. Now - I think that they have incapable people working for them or they do not know what they are doing. I am glad I was not on vacation and depended on their card.

Due to this situation - I have decided to stick with other companies rather than Amex because they are not reliable.

American Express has reduced my credit line down to the outstanding balance withouth any notice neither by phone or by mail, I've realize that when I went to pay for Gasoline and my transaction was declined. I've call them inmediately and they said that experian have provide them with information about my credit that lead them to take this unfair action. First I have only one credit card and every month I pay 10 or 12 times the minimun payment the first day when my bill appears on my web account. I have only One Car Loan that is being paid the same way. I have no other creditors, or collections or income reduction and I'm triying to keep and excellent credit since I'm willing to buy a house in the future.

American Express will cause a damage on my credit score since my credit line was reduced about 25% (down to the outstanding balance) I will be qualified as a customer that have used the full line of credit and that will take my credit score to the ground, and the report will show up that a creditor have reduced my credit line and I will look like a customer not to believe on and no other lender will be able to open a credit line for me in the future or they will charge me astronomic APR's. All of this is happening withouth a bad or irresponsible behaviour from me and withouth any warning. This is unnaceptable.

American Express keeps declining my charges for no apparent reason except what they call enhanced security. I am not talking about questionable charges to no-name, overseas, fly-by-night, web sites. My last two declines were to Holday Inn and Garmin International, two highly respected corporate entities. When I call to unblock my account they tell me it is all handled by computers over which they have no control, and the only thing they can do is cancel my account if I am not happy with it.

Twice they declined charges to my email exchange host, causing literally thousands of dollars in engineering expense.

I have had an account with American Express for a year. They gave me a $13000 line of credit. They sent me a letter today stating they were lowering my line of credit to $8600.00, which maxes out my card. I have never been late on a payment, and have even paid more that the minium balance at times.

American Express will DAMAGE my credit score by doing this. IT will look like my card is maxed out now, which will lower my credit score I've worked so hard on to remain above 700 FICO. This is unfair, and seems illegal!

through no fault of their own my son and daughter-in-law both lost their jobs, and because of this had to put their home up for sale in New Jersey. They contacted all their creditors and told them of their position, requesting that credit interest rates be lowered until they ( my son and wife could find other positions) at no time did my son or his wife intend NOT to pay their bills and told all creditors that they would meet their responsibility's to the best of their abilities.

all creditors did their best to comply with my son's request. except American Express, who immediately put my son and his wife's interest up to the highest they could charge. My son phones Amex and was told by someone. sorry we don't lower interest rates, now my son is paying more money than he can afford to American Express just for the interest rate alone.

I have never been late with a payment to American Express Blue. I sent a $2500 payment to them in March. They took the money of which there was a $7500.00 credit limit and brought the credit limit down to $5500 and increased my finance charge.

When I first called the first person said you have wonderful credit, I don't know why this has been done. The second person told me that I had derogatory information on my credit report. None of my other creditors have done such a thing, because I have never been late with any of them. I told them I would never recommend anyone to them , because they are an extremely deceitful company.

Economically, I will never be able to reduce my debt with this company. Physically, an experience such as this in such horrible economic times when I am 62 years old has sickened me!

On January 17, 2007 four charges were charged to my American Express Blue card account. 2 plane tickets for $405.95 each, and 2 baggage insurance for $9.95. I called the same week as I check my statement online and I was told that the 2 smaller charges will be credited back right away and for the 2 larger charges I would have to file an investigation that would take a couple months, after which I would be refunded the money. I was told I would be contacted by mail and not by phone.

Late June they mailed me a letter stating that they were closing the investigation due to me not submitting any information. No information was requested of me nor do I have any information on the charges. When filing the investigation all they needed were the dates, amounts and they could see exactly what I was seeing on my account. Now I called back a couple months ago and filed another investigation, which they then closed again stating that I did not submit any information. When I called about this I was just given the runaround and transfered about. Also 1/28/08 there is another charge for a magazine I don't subscribe to. Your help in this matter would be greatly appreciated

My bill is going higher, higher finance charges, late payments etc etc.

I have been using American Express card for more than 6 years, never missed a payment and always made payments on time. In December 2007, I got a letter and couple convenient checks with 4.99% fixed APR for the entire time carrying the balance. In January, I decided to take this offer and wrote two checks. After one week, I found both of them were returned, because AE cut down my credit line right after those two checks got to their bank (American Express received them on Wednesday morning and my credit line was cut down in the afternoon).

I called their customer service twice. The first time the rep told me he would have the supervisor contact me in hours, which I've never got a call back. So next morning I called again, and was told that the credit reduction was because I charge too much on my another credit card issued by another bank in December.

American Express sent me the excellent offer, I took advantage of it, then American Express declined it on the same day when they found I used it.

I always paid my card balance in full but missed one payment and my APR went from 17.24/23.24 to 30.24/30.24.

I called them and they lowered the APR to 16.49/22.49 (charges/cash).

When I initially got the card, interest was 17% and had a $10,000 limit. Payments were being made and from August of 07 to September of 07 the interest rate jumped from 17% to 30% and my limit was lowered to 3,800. I called Amex about this, they said they looked at my history and saw that I do pay on time but was looking at credit availablility on other credit cards and did this because they felt my ability to pay was not good. How would they know this? They said they could not see the limits of other cards, just the available limits left on them. This was how they determined their actions they have taken w/my Amex card.

Due to a negative report from Alliance Financial Mgmt which is in dispute with Aetna Healthcare, American Express sent me a letter stating that my credit card account was cancelled. Aetna resolved the matter with Alliance Financial Mgmt 12-11-07 and is processing the payment to the hospital. I don't feel that my credit should be damaged due to Aetna/Hospital error.


I received a new American Express Blue Card three months ago. During this time I was contacted twice by phone to verify my identity to their security representative. I was then allowed to use my account, paying all balanaces in full and on time.

However, my experience with their new security policies became a nightmare in September, 2007 when I was notified by mail that my account was suspended pending further identity verification. When contacted by phone, the security representative explained that all new customers were required to undergo this additional screening procedure. I was told I had to fax them a copy of my Social Security card, bank records and utility bills. I explained that I would do so if I were applying for a mortgage, but wouldn't do it just for a credit card. I further objected to this policy as intrusive and excessive. I asked for alternative options but told there were none.

Also, I was told that punitive information would be placed on my credit reports should I fail to comply with all of their demands.

I refused their extortionate demands and cancelled my card. I received a letter confirming the cancellation with the following punitive statement: "You did not provide the banking information, financial statements, income tax return and/or other identification documents requested. Our cancellation of your account under these circumstances may result in negative reporting of this account to the consumer reporting agencies."

I want other consumer to be aware of this situation. I did not know or else would never have done business with this company. Their security demands significantly increase a consumer's risk of identity theft once these sensitive documents are out of the consumer's control.

I have 35 years of exemplary credit on my credit reports and now I have to monitor all three agencies for punitive information from American Express because I refused to comply with outrageous and threatening demands. Isn't this extortion?

American Express offers opportunities to try out new products like a SkyGuide Exec Club or a Wine club service. You sign up, they charge you some fee like $2.99 and then you try the product and they get the opportunity to keep you as a customer if you like the solution and they start charging you in 12 months. What do you get for your $2.99 and trying this product - a free Companion Ticket.

What they don't tell you is that when you go to use the ticket, they charge you the same price as two web fares. You don't get any discount at all, they price it high (in this case $500 for the ticket plus free companion) and then they announce on the next screen that you are getting some fantastic discount and then you see the discount and it is the same price as the 2 tickets on the web ($394.60).

In September of 2006, I was offered a credit limit of $12,200.00 on an AMX blue card. I had a balance of roughly about 3800.00 on it. I needed to sell my home. Due to market housing market being slow, I had to take a loss and pay the balance with AMX credit card balance transfer option. AMX was offering me a balance transfer rate at 3.99 APR. I did not hesitate nor did I want to max my credit card and so I took $7000.00 and paid towards closing of the house. They of course ran my credit report etc.

However on April 2007 they apparently ran my credit report again and found that I have too much credit. They dropped my limit to where my balance is and raised interest rate substantially, showing on my credit report that I now maxed my limit. This caused other credit card companies to follow suit. Discover, Chase both raised the interest rate to 23.99 and 24.99 percent respectively due to balance with AMX. I have pleaded AMX to reconsider but they would not.

We received the new Amex Blue cards with the RFID chips. I called Amex, asked for non RFID cards, they said they no longer provide them but they would disable the chip (how?). They said any purchase transaction made by an RFID reader would be rejected. But the chip is still active for anyone else who wants to silently get my info or track my shopping habits.

Well Amex, I took a drill to your precious RFID card because you make it easy to see where the RFID is. A 1/8 drill bit sent the RFID chip to hell.

AmEx silently embed these chips without notifying their customers or giving us an opt-out option.

American Express put a hold my credit card. They do not believe it is me. I already sent them a notarized copy of my driver's license, social security card, and copy of my pay check. Now they are asking for my W2 form. They cannot tell my why there is a hold on my card. A merchant tells me that I reported my card lost. This is not true. She also told me that they sent one to me on the 24th of January, which is also not true. They are believing the criminal and treating me like a criminal.

Our latest statement shows Balance Transfer rate of 6.99%. When I called them on November 1, 2006, they said it was 9.99% I told them that our statement said otherwise, so I faxed it to a supervisor there. She finally called back and told me she did not know why it appeared on the statement that way. She stated the only rate available was the 9.99%. I told her that they need to honor the rate on my statement.

They refuse to honor the rate on my statement, even with no expiration date on the percentage rate. She said that she would have someone else call me, but of course, no calls.

One year ago, I applied for an American Express Blue card. I listed approximately $8,000.00 in balance transfer requests. Before I had ever received the card, I received notification that balances had been transferred that totaled $2,675.00. Two weeks later, I received the card with a credit limit of $2,000.00. For over a year, I have been charged over-limit fees for having a balance above $2,000.00.

The bank that AMEX deals with approved the balance transfer, not I. I have never even used this card. I have written three letters and received absolutely no response. I have called nearly every month, but am now so frustrated, I don't know what else to do. Once I tried not paying the minimum due and when they called me I tried explaining again. I talked to one supervisor who agreed that the bank had made a mistake and that I needed to go ahead and make the payment then she would back me. Well, that never happened.

When I called back later, to talk to the same person, I was sent to the Canada office who told me they had no say over my account. I finally got someone who said they would ask for a credit extension, but I knew I wouldn't get it. I was never asking for additional credit. I simply want them to admit their error and credit me all of the overlimit credit fees since the card began. This has been a nightmare, so I hope someone can guide me as to what to do. I have copies of all the letters I sent as well as the notification letters of the original transfer balances. My balance that a year ago was $2,675.00 is now 2,813.00 because of overlimit fees and higher interest rates. I am frustrated beyond comprehension.

In October 1999, I was extended an offer for pre-approved American Express Blue which included option to transfer balances at 9.99% APR finance charge for the life of the balance. Subsequently the finance rate on the balance transfer amount increased from 9.99% to 23.99% due to late receipt of monthly payment. I have called periodically to complain and have sent letters indicating this increase is a direct contradiction of the terms offered as well as being completely outside of the terms set forth in the American Express Cardmember agreement.

I believe this constitutes consumer fraud, bait and switch and general misrepresentation on the part of American Express. My requests for credit to my account and reinstatement of the guaranteed finance rate have been denied and ignored. To date I have been charged over $1300.00 in erroneous finance charges, as well as potentially damaging credit reports resulting from payment issues surrounding the problem.


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