The company, better known as Amex, was founded in the United States. It is the world's largest issuer of credit cards, according to the company's website. The brand is aimed at people with higher purchasing power, providing benefits and convenience to its customers. Today you will learn how the American Express Credit Card works and why it's worth getting one.
In Brazil, the card issuers are: Bradesco (main) and Banco do Brasil. With a minimum income of 5,000 reais, you can try to apply for an Amex card, the American Express Green.
Benefits of applying for an American Express credit card:
It's worth highlighting that the company also offers benefits on your purchases. You buy a product or service and accumulate points according to your bank's rewards program.
Customers of the brand also get discounts at an online bookstore, at São Paulo MASP, where you can get double tickets, in addition to other discounts. It doesn't stop there, but also offers additional benefits such as concierge service, travel insurance, and baggage assistance.
Use the airport VIP lounges when traveling with your American Express card. These exclusive rooms are designed for you to relax in comfort while waiting for your flight. When your card is issued by Bradesco, you can count on the Livelo Points Program, which accumulates points for every dollar spent or the equivalent in reais.
Customer well-being. That's what the company looks like. In their opinion, American Express's mission is to be the most respected service brand in the world.
American Express Card: Discover the most popular international card on the market
For people who travel frequently and need fast and widely accepted payment methods, the American Express card can be an attractive alternative on the market.
Offering insurance, advisory services, and access to VIP lounges, the Amex card can currently only be issued by Bradesco in Brazil.
In addition, the payment solution also offers an exclusive points program which, compared to other cards in the same segment, can be an excellent reason to use it.
How do I apply for an American Express card?
American Express cards can be requested online, by phone, or at Bradesco branches. Existing bank customers can also request these products through online banking, the Bradesco Cards app, or directly with their account manager. The best cards may be more difficult or challenging, but they are not impossible.
It's important to point out that the best credit cards may not be available for online application; the way to obtain them is to find a bank branch or contact a consultant. It's possible to find advisors by searching online, but it's important to be careful and ensure the person is actually connected to the bank, especially before sending any personal documents.
It's best to speak with consultants who have already applied for cards for someone they trust. I've already opened two Bradesco cards (including the Platinum Card) through a consultant and had no problems.
Is it worth getting an American Express card?
It's clear that the Green and Gold versions of the card are very weak; I mean, they're very limited in terms of benefits and points. The market offers several other cards that offer up to 2.5 points per dollar, access to VIP lounges, annual fee waivers based on spending, and are much less stringent in terms of application requirements.
On the other hand, the Platinum Card has many advantages and an interesting number of points. The partnership with Bradesco Cartão VIP Lounges is very useful for those who travel a lot in Brazil and pass through the country's main airports with accredited rooms. Access is unlimited and allows free entry for a companion. Although I haven't received the metal version of the card, I always have the TPC in my wallet and I'm happy with it.
If you are not immediately approved for the Platinum Card, it is worth applying for the Green or Gold Card and, depending on your spending volume and relationship with the bank, requesting a category upgrade. The request can be made through the call center or chat.
Important tips for getting your American Express credit card:
If you apply for an American Express card and your application is rejected, don't give up! Check the waiting period before submitting a new application and try again. It might be a good idea to choose a lower-tier card next time and request a card upgrade in the future.
Minimum income is not an insurmountable barrier. There are several ways to prove income. A pay stub, income tax return, or even another credit card statement can be used. Banks are paying more attention to the fact that they can deduct payments from your officially declared income.
Check your credit history. This tool, especially the Serasa Score, is being increasingly used by banks to analyze the financial situation of customers, particularly when applying for a new credit card.
The higher your score, the greater the likelihood of your proposal being approved. It's important to check it regularly and maintain healthy financial habits to prevent it from dropping
Remember that a credit card can be a friend or a malicious person. When used consciously, they can bring many advantages.