The Highlights

American Express is a core bank to the points strategy. But because it has looser approval strategies, we recommend applying for Amex cards after Chase and Capital One. (Amex Membership Points review can be viewed here>)

Amex Business cards don’t show up on your personal credit report. That’s a great advantage because you can get Amex cards virtually any time without it impacting your points strategy. Additionally, if you’re an existing Amex card holder and apply for an Amex Business card, you won’t even get a credit inquiry on your credit report.

The ‘bad” news? Amex has a “one bonus per lifetime” per card limitation -- so generally, you want to wait for special limited-time offers to maximize the points on the only time you’ll be allowed to get the bonus. You can qualify for variations of that card, however. For example, you can get the Amex Delta Gold bonus one year… then later get the Amex Delta Platinum card, and the Amex Delta Platinum Business card when their bonuses are beefy.

Amex is a virtual treasure trove of points that you can qualify for nearly anytime. Just don’t abuse it. We recommend keeping at least one Amex card with an annual fee long term, showing you’re a loyal customer. Other approval rules are below>

When points appear

American Express points usually show up 1 or 2 days after the charges are finalized. Normal spending will always post a day or two after the following statement has closed.