When it comes to earning travel rewards, not all banks play by the same rules. Chase and American Express are two of the biggest names in the game – and each has its own quirks. Not knowing them can make or break your strategy. YES, you need one!
If you’re just starting out, I recommend learning the Chase rules first (you can read that post [here]) before diving into Amex. Once you understand how these systems work, you’ll know when to apply, how to maximize your bonuses, and how to avoid getting stuck with wasted applications.
The points and miles world has rules for opening and closing cards – and American Express is no exception. They’ve tightened things up over the years, so understanding these details can help you plan smarter and avoid missing out on valuable welcome offers.
Amex’s Anti-Churning Policy
Back in 2018, Amex officially added anti-churning language to its terms. Basically, if they detect any “gaming” activity – like sending peer-to-peer payments, buying cash-equivalent gift cards, or closing accounts too soon – they can claw back your welcome offer.
💡 Tip: Keep your Amex cards open at least 12 months and stick to organic spend to stay safe.
Key Rules to Know Before You Apply
Here are the big ones every Amex fan should understand before jumping in:
1. Once-in-a-Lifetime Bonus
If you’ve ever earned a welcome bonus on a specific Amex card, you’re typically ineligible to earn that same bonus again. There are occasional exceptions (especially with targeted or “no lifetime language” offers), but as a general rule, assume you only get one shot per product.
2. 1-in-5 Rule
You can only be approved for one Amex credit card every five days. This applies to credit cards – not charge or hybrid cards.
3. 2-in-90 Rule
You can only be approved for two Amex credit cards every 90 days. Trying for a third within that window almost always ends in a denial.
4. Family Language
If you start with a higher-tier Amex card and earn the welcome bonus, you may be blocked from earning the bonus on a lower-tier card in the same family later.
💡 Strategy: Start with the lower-tier cards and work your way up.
The 5 Credit Card Limit
Most data points suggest you can only hold up to five Amex credit cards at a time. This limit doesn’t include charge cards (like the Platinum or Gold). Those are treated separately, and DPs suggest you can hold up to around ten charge cards – though that’s not an official number.
Amex Charge Cards
Charge (or “no preset spending limit”) cards include:
- The Platinum and Business Platinum
- The Gold and Business Gold
These cards don’t count toward the 5-card limit and can often be opened alongside your regular credit cards.
Other Rules to Keep in Mind
Pop-Up Jail
If you try applying for an Amex card and get a message saying you’re “not eligible to receive the welcome offer,” you’ve landed in pop-up jail.
This usually means:
- You haven’t put enough spend on your existing Amex cards, or
- You’ve been flagged for bonus-chasing or risky patterns.
Spend naturally on your cards and give it time – most people eventually get back in good standing.
1 of the Same Product Every 90 Days
Amex typically won’t approve you for the same card more than once within 90 days. That means if you cancel a card, you’ll need to wait at least three months before reapplying for it.
Marriott Co-Branded Cards
Both Chase and Amex issue Marriott cards – and the overlap can get tricky. Depending on which version you hold, you may not be eligible for the other’s welcome offer. Always double-check the fine print before applying, since these rules can block you from bonuses you’d otherwise expect.
Smart Amex Strategies
- Wait for a targeted or high-value offer – Amex is known for sending elevated bonuses directly to users.
- Start small, climb later – Begin with entry-level cards and move up to premium versions.
- Combine a charge card and credit card application on the same day – Some report this merges hard pulls.
- Avoid manufactured spending – it’s not worth risking a clawback.
- Keep cards open at least a year – closes or downgrades too early can trigger bonus reversals.
Financial Review Warnings
If your total Amex credit lines exceed around $35,000, some DPs suggest you could trigger a financial review. It’s not guaranteed, but if it happens, Amex may request tax or income verification before extending more credit.
💡 Bottom line: grow your relationship slowly and keep everything above-board.
Final Thoughts
Amex has some of the most rewarding cards out there, but the rules can trip you up if you’re not careful. With a little planning, you can navigate these limits, earn huge welcome offers, and build a solid setup that keeps paying off year after year.
Ready for more?
👉 Check out my full guide on Chase application rules [here] – or browse all my points and miles posts [here] for more tips on maximizing your travel rewards.
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This post was written by a guest contributor in collaboration with iCruiseApp Travel & Tours. While the author is not a travel agent, our travel agency is proud to support diverse voices and perspectives that inspire your next journey.
