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At O1ne Mortgage, we prioritize consumer credit and finance education, ensuring you make the best decisions for your financial future. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of credit cards or seeking the perfect mortgage solution, we’re here to help. For any mortgage service needs, call us at 213-732-3074. Our team of experts is ready to assist you.
Is American Express Accepted Everywhere?
American Express is one of the four major payment networks in the U.S., alongside Mastercard, Visa, and Discover. Within the U.S., most retailers and merchants accept American Express credit cards. However, if you’re planning to travel internationally, it’s wise to have a backup payment method. Here’s what you need to know about using your American Express card both domestically and abroad.
Where Can I Use My American Express Card?
In the United States, American Express boasts a 99% acceptance rate among merchants that accept credit cards. This includes most major retailers and restaurant chains, as well as many small businesses. American Express is also accepted by merchants in several other countries, though acceptance rates can vary depending on where you travel. If you’re visiting a large city in one of the following countries, you may find it easier to use your card:
- Australia
- Canada
- India
- Mexico
- Singapore
- United Kingdom
Where Is American Express Not Accepted?
While American Express is generally accepted by all major retailers in the U.S., there are some exceptions. For instance, Costco, a wholesale club, only accepts Visa credit cards at its warehouses and gas stations. For online purchases from Costco, you can use either a Visa or Mastercard credit card.
Additionally, many small businesses, such as local restaurants and boutique shops, may not accept American Express credit cards. If you’re unsure about a merchant, look for the American Express symbol on the door of the business or near the cashier. Alternatively, you can use the card issuer’s map to search for specific merchants or find all merchants within a specific area.
For international travel, American Express acceptance can be inconsistent. Even in countries where you can find merchants in larger cities, you may have a harder time outside of those metropolitan areas. In countries not listed above, it’s best to bring a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.
Why Isn’t American Express Accepted Everywhere?
American Express charges higher merchant fees compared to other payment networks, which can be a deal breaker for many small businesses. While merchant fees can vary depending on the card type, American Express merchant fees tend to be higher than those charged by other payment networks.
That said, American Express boasts that transaction sizes for its cardholders are 65% higher than non-Amex cardholders. The company has made significant efforts in recent years to improve its acceptance rate with smaller businesses.
The Bottom Line
If you have an American Express credit card, you likely won’t encounter many businesses in the U.S. that won’t accept your card as a payment method. However, it’s still a good idea to have a Visa or Mastercard credit card or debit card as a backup.
If you’re planning a trip to another country, it’s wise to bring a Visa or Mastercard credit card or debit card with you, even if the country has a higher acceptance rate for American Express than others. Also, ensure you have a card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee, which can be as much as 3% of each international purchase.
At O1ne Mortgage, we understand the importance of having the right financial tools at your disposal. Whether you’re looking for advice on credit cards or need assistance with mortgage services, we’re here to help. Call us at 213-732-3074 for any mortgage service needs. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with the best solutions tailored to your financial situation.
