American Express application rules

Welcome offer once per lifetimeIn the issuer's terms

American Express generally pays a card's welcome offer once per lifetime: if you have had that card before, you most likely won't get its offer again.

Green, Gold and Platinum familyIn the issuer's terms

Having a more expensive Membership Rewards card blocks the welcome offer on a cheaper one: the Platinum blocks the Gold, and the Gold or Platinum blocks the Green. To earn all three, apply Green, then Gold, then Platinum.

Delta SkyMiles familyIn the issuer's terms

On the personal Delta SkyMiles cards, you can only earn a welcome offer on a card more expensive than any Delta card you have or have had.

One card every 5 daysReported by applicants

American Express usually approves no more than one credit card every 5 days.

Two cards in 90 daysReported by applicants

American Express usually approves no more than two credit cards in any 90 days.

Five credit cards at onceReported by applicants

American Express usually lets you hold up to 5 of its credit cards at one time. Charge cards sit outside that limit.

Marriott Bonvoy cards across Amex and ChaseIn the issuer's terms

Marriott Bonvoy cards are issued by both American Express and Chase, and each card's terms can block its bonus if you recently opened, or recently earned a bonus on, a Marriott card from either bank.