How to Get an American Express Credit Card with a Low CIBIL Score

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Introduction

American Express (Amex) is known for offering premium credit cards with exclusive benefits such as rewards programs, travel perks, and excellent customer service. However, Amex has stringent eligibility criteria, including a strong credit score requirement. If you have a low CIBIL score, obtaining an American Express credit card can be challenging but not impossible. With the right strategies, you can improve your chances of approval.

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to secure an American Express credit card even with a low CIBIL score.

Understanding American Express Credit Card Requirements

1. What is a CIBIL Score?

A CIBIL score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 900, representing your creditworthiness. A higher score increases your chances of getting approved for credit cards and loans. Amex generally prefers applicants with a CIBIL score of 700 or above, but other factors also influence approval.

2. Factors That Affect Your Credit Card Approval

Even with a low CIBIL score, Amex considers other aspects when evaluating your application:

  • Income Level – Higher income can compensate for a low CIBIL score.
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio – A lower ratio shows you can handle additional credit.
  • Existing Relationship with Amex – If you already have a banking or financial relationship with Amex, approval chances improve.
  • Employment Stability – A steady job with a reliable income source can work in your favor.
  • Credit Utilization Ratio – Keeping credit utilization low signals responsible financial behavior.

Steps to Get an American Express Credit Card with a Low CIBIL Score

1. Check Your Credit Score and Report

Before applying for an Amex credit card, check your CIBIL score. Obtain a free credit report from CIBIL or other credit bureaus to:

  • Identify any errors or discrepancies.
  • Understand negative factors affecting your score.
  • Take steps to improve your creditworthiness.

2. Choose the Right American Express Card

Not all Amex cards have the same approval requirements. If your CIBIL score is low, apply for entry-level or secured Amex credit cards, such as:

  • Amex Optima Card – Designed for those rebuilding credit.
  • Amex Secured Credit Card – Requires a security deposit, making approval easier.
  • Amex Credit Cards with Lower Credit Requirements – Some co-branded or cash-back Amex cards have lenient approval criteria.

3. Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying

If your CIBIL score is below 650, take steps to improve it before applying:

  • Pay existing debts and credit card bills on time.
  • Reduce credit utilization below 30%.
  • Avoid applying for multiple credit cards in a short period.
  • Check and dispute any errors in your credit report.
  • Maintain old credit accounts to build a longer credit history.

4. Demonstrate a Strong Income Source

American Express considers income an essential factor in credit card approvals. If you have a low CIBIL score but a high and stable income, your chances improve. To strengthen your application:

  • Provide accurate proof of income, such as salary slips, tax returns, or bank statements.
  • If self-employed, show business revenue and financial stability.
  • Consider adding an additional source of income to demonstrate better repayment ability.

5. Apply Through an Existing Relationship with Amex

If you have a history with Amex, such as a previous card or financial account, your approval chances increase. Consider:

  • Maintaining a positive repayment history on any existing Amex accounts.
  • Using an Amex prepaid card or banking product before applying for a credit card.
  • Checking pre-approved offers from Amex based on your financial history.

6. Get Added as an Authorized User

Another way to build credibility with Amex is by becoming an authorized user on someone else’s American Express credit card. Benefits include:

  • Access to credit benefits without a direct application.
  • Improving your credit profile if the primary cardholder has a strong credit score.
  • Establishing a positive relationship with American Express.

7. Consider a Secured American Express Credit Card

A secured credit card requires a deposit as collateral, making it easier to get approved. The deposit acts as security for Amex, reducing risk even if your credit score is low. Over time, responsible usage of a secured Amex card can help rebuild your credit.

8. Apply Through the Right Channel

Applying through specific channels may increase approval chances:

  • Banking Relationship – If you have an account with a bank that partners with Amex, apply through them.
  • Pre-Approved Offers – Check if you qualify for any pre-approved Amex cards online.
  • Referral Programs – Sometimes, applying through an existing Amex cardholder’s referral link can improve approval chances.

9. Avoid Frequent Hard Inquiries

Each credit card application results in a hard inquiry, temporarily lowering your credit score. If denied, avoid reapplying immediately. Instead:

  • Wait a few months before reapplying.
  • Work on improving your credit score during this period.
  • Use alternative credit-building strategies like secured cards or credit-builder loans.

10. Leverage Alternative Credit Assessment Programs

Some credit card companies, including Amex, use alternative data for approvals. Consider:

  • Experian Boost – Links utility and phone payments to your credit profile.
  • UltraFICO – Evaluates banking habits beyond credit score.
  • Alternative Lending History – Some financial institutions accept rental and utility payments as credit history.

Alternative Options If You Are Not Approved

1. Consider Other Credit Card Issuers

If Amex denies your application, consider other credit card providers with lenient requirements, such as:

  • Capital One Secured Mastercard – Great for rebuilding credit.
  • Discover it Secured Credit Card – Provides cashback rewards while building credit.
  • Petal 2 Visa Credit Card – Uses alternative underwriting methods.

2. Use a Credit-Builder Loan

Some banks and credit unions offer credit-builder loans, which help improve credit scores by reporting on-time payments to credit bureaus.

3. Try a Store or Retail Credit Card

Retail credit cards often have lower approval requirements and can help build credit before applying for an Amex card.

4. Wait and Reapply Later

If denied, work on improving your financial profile and reapply after 6–12 months.

Risks and Considerations

1. High Interest Rates and Fees

If approved with a low CIBIL score, your credit card may come with higher interest rates. Always check the terms and conditions before accepting an offer.

2. Credit Limit Restrictions

You may receive a lower credit limit initially. Using the card responsibly can lead to credit limit increases over time.

3. Potential Hard Inquiry Impact

Applying for multiple credit cards at once can lower your credit score. Plan applications strategically to minimize negative impacts.

Conclusion

Getting an American Express credit card with a low CIBIL score is challenging but achievable with the right approach. By improving your credit score, demonstrating financial stability, choosing the right Amex card, and leveraging secured or alternative credit options, you can enhance your chances of approval. If denied, explore other credit-building methods and reapply later.

Patience and responsible financial management are key to obtaining an American Express card and building a stronger credit profile for the future.

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