| American Express has a reputation of exclusivity and | | | | consider. Look at the options available and prioritize |
| prestige, but in reality they offer charge card and credit | | | | which features and terms are most important to you. |
| card options for people of all wealth brackets, from | | | | 3. Compare all of your options. While the first card |
| those with a moderate income to the super-rich. Here | | | | offer you look at may seem perfect, it is always |
| are five tips to help you choose the right American | | | | worth looking at all of your options. That way, you can |
| Express Card for you: | | | | either confirm that it is the perfect card for you or find |
| 1. Know your credit needs and habits. American | | | | something even better. |
| Express offers both charge cards, which must be paid | | | | 4. Read the fine print. Always be careful to read and |
| off monthly, and credit cards, which can be paid off | | | | understand all of the terms that apply to a credit card |
| over time. There are many levels of service and fees. | | | | offer before applying. Consider how the fees, interest |
| Options range from the Blue, which offers no annual | | | | rates, grace periods, credit limits and rewards |
| fee and online purchase protection, to the Platinum | | | | programs will apply to your use of the card. |
| card, which charges a hefty annual fee but includes a | | | | 5. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If there is anything |
| wealth of perks such as a travel service and | | | | you don't understand while reading through the terms |
| concierge service. Consider your spending habits, | | | | and features of a card, don't be afraid to ask |
| payment habits and income before deciding which | | | | questions. American Express has a well trained |
| card to apply for. | | | | customer service department that will be happy to |
| 2. Consider which features are most important to you. | | | | help you understand all of the details. |
| Even looking only at cards appropriate to a specific | | | | To find and apply for an American Express credit |
| income bracket, there are generally several options to | | | | card, Beth Derkowitz recommends Find Credit Cards. |