Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the preceding 18 month period are ineligible for this offer. Previous and existing bank-issued American Express companion cardholders are eligible for this offer.
AmEx Explorer: 160,000 MR Points (Worth $800) + $395 Credit + $400 Travel Credit ($3000 Spend in 3 Months - $395 Annual Fee) » All Comments
Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the preceding 18 month period are ineligible for this offer. Previous and existing bank-issued American Express companion cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the preceding 18 month period are ineligible for this offer. Previous and existing bank-issued American Express companion cardholders are eligible for this offer.
@polarq: Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the preceding 18 month period are ineligible for this offer. Previous and existing bank-issued American Express companion cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Does supplementary card count?
Would be great if this could be clarified. Otherwise I feel like 99% of OzBargainers won’t be eligible for the deal.
99% of OzBargainers are probably Amex Primary Card members.
It's clarified in almost every popular Amex credit card deal
It does not count.
What do you think? Take a wild guess.
I'm given to understand that in practice if you have a Qantas Amex card you may still get the points? Is anyone able to shed some more light on this please?
Don’t believe so. In the past yes, but ever since they’ve updated their tnc’s to read “any card product”, all of that’s gone out the window.
I believe the only exemption is the DJ’s card range that for some reason still gives the sign-up bonus even if you’ve got any Amex card apart from a DJ’s card.
No you won't. No other Amex allowed (except if you're a supp)
What about velocity Amex?
Do corporate Amex cards count?
Doubt it. Company takes on the risks
Company takes on the risks
No they don't.
They can aportion the risk to the cardholder.
Does David Jones Amex card count?
Likely. Still AMEX
I'm surprised that this hasn't been answered properly yet. No! A supplementary card holder doesn't mean you're an account holder. The main account holder still takes on all the risks (for the bank) .. so if you're a supplementary card holder that hasn't held an account in the last 18 months you're eligible to apply. They may still reject you based on your credit ratings etc but you certainly can apply. Good offer IMHO
$400 Travel Credit every year.
What is that worth ?
you should ask joe
joe mumma?
Valid point.
Even if you managed to spend it on flights, chances are you'd need to spend it on the Amex Travel booking site, which is sub-par and often a little more expensive than others.
Also, doubt you'll get to use it much this year and maybe much of next year.
Does the credit expire if you don't use it?
On Amex Platinum it does expire every year. The year starts with the date of approval.
@huuuuugo: They’ve been extending the expiry of travel credits since last year. Well least they’ve extended my Explorer ones.
@georgegates5: Do you mean if you can use multiple credits in one booking? No, unless you’ve got the higher end cards (I.e. Platinum charge or centurion)
100%. Their website is incredibly hard to use and is more expensive than others. In addition, your $400 credit can only be used once, e.g. if you book something for $200, you don't have $200 remaining, it's all used up and you don't get to use it for later.
I personally would not recommend this card alongside with the considerably high fee's, only makes sense if you are spending a lot of money yearly and want the points.
$800 bonus seems good reason to get this card, and there is no fee for the first year. you can cancel it after that.
I don’t think it’s an awful card. Granted, I personally see the $400 travel credit as being worth around $300 as my experience is the Amex Travel Sites on the upper end price wise and often has less options than other places, but the earn rate of 2:1 on all purchases other than government things makes it a pretty reliable points earner. If you are using it as a day to day card I’m guessing you’ll easily come ahead on points.
Amex does have higher earners in terms of points for certain areas, but you often have to think about where you are spending. Platinum Edge for example is great for petrol and groceries, but drops off for other things. On that note though if you can wear the annual fee and can spend the combined $600 travel credit, for points earning this card for everyday shopping coupled with a platinum edge for groceries and petrol should allow for some solid points earning. You’d want to get value out of the travel credit but.
I really don't get all the downvotes about this comment. I'm simply trying to help share my opinion and experience from having this card? Didn't know this community is so toxic
As much as i want to go for this one i feel most Ozbargainers will be in the cool off period after the recent offers.
One thing to note is do you actually have to reach a minimum spend on this?
Nothing's outlined in the description, if you literally just get the points for opening this is an incredible deal.
Is this correct? 160,000 bonus Membership Rewards (worth $800 in Gift Cards) + a $395 Statement Credit when you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of approval.
Just saw that, cheers.
Just to clarify the American Express membership point scheme is the same as the American Express Qantas Frequent Flyer Scheme in that having a card in one would preclude the other?
Also keen to know as I've heard otherwise anecdotally
I think that’s how it works now.
Anyone know the easiest way to find out how long since your last AMEX account closed? Want to avoid having to call up.
if you just want a rough idea, look for the last bill sent to you in email
good suggestion, thx.
Check your credit rating report. It might be there.
Where do you put the points once you cancel within a month or 2 of signing up..?
Your Marriott Bonvoy account
Seems far to good to be true.. I am into it!
3k minimum spend might be tricky on AMEX but hope for best
Woolworths, Energy Bill, PayPal
3k minimum spend might be tricky
If it's an eligible spend, see if you can pre-pay a year's worth of private health insurance. Check also that you won't be paying a surcharge for using AMEX.
Agreed, and also prepay your electricity bill, gas bill, water bill
You can pre-pay bills with variable costs?
@Russ: Sure can….. It will just be a credit on your file, if you need to hit the target spending, electricity and gas companies are happy to take your money.
Telcos are also happy, Been doing it for years.
Private health only can pay up to 12 or 14 months in advance, but still.@Russ: Find your old bills, can pay in post office or online with the same payment methods but with any amount you like :D
@illz: You can always always switch your electricity or gas company after you have made the payment, hint hint
Could you pay your car registration with VicRoads?
Vicroads does not take Amex maybe use a 3rd party payment app
Vicroads does not take Amex maybe use a 3rd party payment app
Looks at my AMEX Essentials card in disgust
Normally I can't be bothered with points hacks but missing out on this is a kick in the guts.
This is a really good deal. Makes me wish I haven’t got an Amex card. Can’t recall the last time the Explorer had no AF in the first year.
Can you transfer these points to other rewards programs such as Velocity or Qantas? And is doing so worth it?
Yes, you can transfer to the following partners. Krisflyer is generally good value, you would get 80K Krisflyer miles from this.
I'll be cancelling my Explorer tomorrow.
Already cancelled 2 x edge cards.
Been with amex for 22 years, they have zero customer retention bonuses any more.
Best to get the points and cancell the card, wait 18 months and repeat
I'm thinking of cancelling too. The travel credit is too restrictive (can't use a promo code) and always cost more for hotel/hire car bookings.
As for flights, booking directly with the airlines offers more flexibility and ease of making changes.How are you converting your points?
I tansfer to krisflyer.
Almost 1 million points now….just can't fly
Do Krisflyer points not expire?
Edit: I see it was answered below - 3 years
But where do you put the points whilst waiting 18months for the next batch?
Transfer to krisflyer.
You have 3 years to use themDoes each point have its own expiry or is it based on activity? I have 300k amex ones that I was thinking about shifting somewhere so I can cancel the card. Do krisflyer ever have promo offers to switch points?
@JuryWheel: They recently had a 15% bonus.
I wouldn't hold your breath for another promo until international travel opens up again
Do it! They don't give a sh**
This comment should in the top.
bit out of touch with AMEX.. haven't had one for many years, whats the accepted strike rate these days?
$65k income? I am working 48 hours a week for $50k………….Guess I need to work alot more hours to reach that $65k mark…………..pass!
Taht's the average Income in Asutralia according to Main Stream Mideas.
$65k is the average? If its true that means I need to work 62 hours a week to reach that $65k average……..
Or find a higher paying job. Smarter not harder etc
@DryScissors: Yeah true. What kind of jobs can a retail assist jump over to with will net higher paying jobs though? I actually have tried many many fields all sales related, car sales, house sales, solar sales, furniture sales, telco selling, even dating and adults shops, believe it or not, last month alone I have applied for 15 jobs and this is the result:
12 jobs no response
3 rejection emails
0 interview@Aerith-Waifu: The just group pay upto 55k + for their retial assitants, 60kish for store manager.
but its a bad industry for money.
try to do a carrer change@salin: Really 55k is insane. I will keep an eye out. I know its a bad industry, that's why I been trying to jump the industry for awhile now but its very hard to get someone else to look at your resume let alone getting an into the door interview.
@Aerith-Waifu: I am in the retail related industry for more than a decade.
If you cant get into a big retail coopertate and find ur way up to their head / support office, your carrer is doomed.
Better jump off the boat ASAP.
@Aerith-Waifu: Agent's Representative Certificate. Open for inspections for rental properties. Easy job, can work your way to being an assistant property manager.
@zan5hin: Agree.
Assiant Property Manager is a good start at Property industry and its not commission based.
@Aerith-Waifu: Think you'll find you need to upskill rather than trying to find a magical honeypot in a flooded, unskilled industry. Every different sector you mentioned is just the same iteration of a slightly different thing and none of them require any skills or quals, so you can't really expect to be paid dramatically different for them.
Go do a course in traffic management then work in a major city if you want to ride the unskilled money train.
*median not average
Average is something like $89kAdding onto this, the true average is much higher. People will have shell businesses and other ways to avoid having a large income and the tax liability that comes with it.
also there are two averages being thrown around nowadays:
- average of every adult in Australia
- average of full time employees
your $89k refers to the latter - very different these two.
You can include your partners income.
It's a very good dealYou used to be able to do that when it was household income, believe it’s now based on individual income.
News to me, thanks
@budgetman: Yeah they’ve worded their requirements differently. It used to actually say household income, but now says I.
How is this better than the ongoing ANZ Black offer? Perhaps just better for travellers?
Particularly, ANZ have the same $395 annual fee but I have a home loan with them with a package fee, so will not incur that. Should I go with ANZ Black instead of this?
Both deals suggest $800 back in gift cards for the bonus points. Both no annual fee first year. Although this card has $400 travel credit. Earn rates are similar but this deal suggests it takes less points to earn $100 gift card with Amex. ANZ card is Visa though so easier to find accepting places. I think you'll find a lot of people who signed up to the ANZ will be signing up to this too.
The ANZ black earn rate is capped at 5k I think, then drops to 1 to 1
*edit, yep from the web site (https://www.anz.com.au/promo/personal/credit-cards/rewards-b…):
"Earn 2 Reward PointsSuperscript:2per $1 spent on eligible purchases up to and including $5,000 per statement period.
Earn 1 Reward PointSuperscript:2per $1 spent on eligible purchases above $5,000 per statement period."
Correct, got the ANZ Black $800 gift cards now I've signed up for this also. Have a large tax bill to pay this year so I'll easily get the minimum spend. Love free money :)
Does ATO charge card fees? (and does Gov payment count towards spending requirement?)
@Meovel: Yes, there is a surchange, that usually makes it not worth it at best.
https://www.pointhacks.com.au/ato-points-earning-cards/#how-…@ssmac: Thanks mate, seems reasonable for spending 3000 purpose, I'll check the rate to bpay by sniip.
160,000 bonus Membership Rewards (worth $800 in Gift Cards)
How easy is it to claim these gift cards?
Is there a website I can see who accepts them? (or are they like a pre-paid card?)like very easy, you can just use points to cover like most charges on your card pretty much.
Use the points for flights with Singapore Airlines.
28000 miles for one way to Asia plus about $100 in taxes. Same for the return.
Or go business for 124000 miles plus about $200 in taxes.
Any tips to get accepted for a credit card? Never had one before. I tried a few months ago with a similar ANZ deal, but got rejected. Do CC companies reject you because of too low spending? Should I pretend I spend more than I do?
Amex approval is the easiest of all.
Good deal but
Only for new members.
Op put [New members*] in title
I assume the $395 is paid upfront and the credit comes way down the track?
Can't see a reason not to do this except I'm worried I won't hit $3k in spend, just paid for a lot of stuff pre-EOFY. Unless I can just buy a pile of giftcards.
CC rewards just keeps getting better and better. Jumped the gun for previous amex deal now there's this.
"American Express is offering a Point Hacks exclusive 160,000 Membership Rewards Points (worth $800 in Gift Cards) plus $395 back for new Card Members of the Explorer who spend $3,000 or more on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of approval."
- how do i find out what are considered "eligible purchases"?
awesome deal, but sad times for loyal amexers!
Any decent guides for churning credit card offers? I get the general idea of it but would prefer to read up on it to minimise risk of messing anything up I guess.
Search point hacks
So this can give me$800 in gift cards with no first year annual fee cost? Sound very much like a lovely bargain 👍😀
Pretty much, just costs you a credit check. But if you’re not getting a mortgage anytime soon, then doesn’t really matter.
Trying to decide between this deal and the Qantas Amex: 90,000 QFF Points + $249 Cashback ($249 AF).
which one is better?
I did realize that when you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of approval for explorer suits any type of purchases but Qantas AMEX is digital wallet.
Only on the 10 transactions of $25 or more for getting the AF back.
Amex Explorer only includes Amex Lounge. (Hilton Silver Status)
While Qantas Amex includes Qantas Lounge + Amex Lounge. Choose this if you want to fast track your Qantas points.
I have the same dilemma…
God damn what a bargain. What's the catch yo?!
It's Amex, lots of shops don't take it
Weird went through everything and it asked me to upload a document to proof my income. Closed it, redid it a little while later and it didn't ask me for any documents the 2nd time around.
They'd probably contact you later for the proof if they feel like asking.
Anyone knows if David Jones Amex card holder eligible?
Should be.
Hmmmm. I don't think so as it was also issued by American Express Australia Limited.
My applogies. Confirmed DJ Amex is eligible.
Freeskater - would you mind commenting on how you have confirmed this? I've found text saying that DJ bonuses are eligible if you hold other AMEX products, but not vice-versa.
@Valjew: I confirmed via chat with AMEX DJ, I was told DJ card holders still eligible for all other bonus offers. I think there was someone else echoed this somewhere in this thread.
I am not sure how strict they are with the 18 months rule.
I applied for one in January this year even though I already have another current Amex issued card.
I used a different billing address and the card was approved.
All bonus points and travel credit were received.I cancelled mine Jan 25 last year. Am wondering whether I should try my luck since I’m only a week or so off
Just do it. I just checked both of my cards, both have the same year for "Member Since".
This tells me they know I am the same person when I applied for the new card with new member benefits.I was able to receive new member benefits even though I already have an existing still active Amex card.
Out of curiosity, what was your first card and and what was the new one in Jan?
never heard of anything like this.
Out of curiosity, how old was your first AmEx card when you applied for the new one and are you the primary card holder of the first AmEx card????I am the primary card holder for both cards, the first one since 2010.
then, well done.
Another way to ask is if there are any others who have applied when already have an active Amex/ less than the 18 months window and whether the points were knocked back after the criteria is met. If there are others who have tried this and got knocked back, this may be an exception case. I suspect we don't know because not many, if any at all would apply in the first place. But for those who do, curious to hear the outcome.
Chances are that they can only match people based on name, dob and address. These are highly sensitive data, and unless they build an application system to detect these people automatically, they have to do this manually with risk of privacy breach. license or passport numbers are out of question.
So as long as you don't sign up using the same customer number or email, you may get away with it. The risk is $395.
I'll have to sleep on this tonight and check if it's worth the risk. I'm only 12 months in since I cancelled my Qantas Ultimate but have moved addresses since, and can use another email address. This deal might just be too good to not give a shot. Can always use the travel credit for work trips
I know it used to be like this when I started churning about 5 years ago… I think 8 had every Amex card and every sign up bonus inside 9 months! Then the 18month exclusion started being enforced.
With that said, you've perked my interest. Just under 14months into being sidelined, but the payoff here is huge - $0 fee for 160k points and $400 travel credit.
I'm tempted!
you can chat with amex rep and ask them. I did 2 months ago via chat, I asked them to let me know when is my 18 months period finish
Which card please
18 months is a lot! Wouldve jumped on it but i closed my amex account only 12 months ago :(
Dang, not eligible.
Checked with rep, after Westpac cancelled the Amex at the start of the year - was eligible.
Submitted app, really easily and conditionally approved in minutes. Thanks OP, wanted to get back to Amex.Did you swap over to the Elevate Premium or did you cancel?
Wondering if i am eligible if i have the Elevate Premium Amex which was the Amex Black by Westpac.No I didn't take their crappy replacement. I cancelled and took another deal elsewhere. So I had no amex since Jan.
Thanks for the great deal, applied and approved.
Strange amex website is giving 175,000 points away on the card: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/credit-cards/explorer-cre…
Your link shows a lot less for me:
Receive 50,000 Bonus Membership Rewards® Points
I think it's worth swapping 15k points for $395 back on the card in the first year.
Yes, be careful of cookies when you are browsing these offers.
"This offer may not be available if you leave the web page and return later."
It seems the 175K points on the Amex direct doesn't include a refund of the $395 fee, so yes this would be a better deal as it's fee free.
Does anyone know if it's still a rate of 4:3 when converting Amex points to airline points with the Explorer card?
No it's 2:1 now for most airlines.
It’s 2:1 across the board now for all as theoracle30 had mentioned.
Do these 2:1 get the bonuses that happen for like an extra 25% etc?
I remember seeing something along these lines for possibly AMEX cards?
I will be moving off a QANTAS AMEX to this and just wondering.
Cheers@warney: Ovassionally, but there’s no telling when these promotions happen. It’s just keeping an eye on your emails or frequent flyer websites such as OP’s or others.
Anybody can confirm if the Qantas Amex Premium is included in the list of cards issued by American Express Australia Ltd?
EDIT: yes.
Of course.
This or Qantas American Express Premium: 90,000 QFF Points ?
Definetely this….for me.
Trying to decide too.
Can you explain why (for you?)
Thank you.
flexible points (can transfer to a variety of reward programs/points)
no Annual Fee in first year
$400 travel credit for free
no brainer ….to me@PeeDee: There’s no conversion for the Qantas Amex Premium card, it earns direct to QFF and the 90,000 points is also Qantas points already so no conversion required.
It is also first year fee free, but has a few more hoops to jump through with having to spend $25 10x via the mobile wallet.
Are you eligible if you hold an Amex as a secondary card holder?
Yes.
can you point me to source of this information please?
I'll can be the source if you like. The advice you have received is correct. It's a long standing fact.
@DrRalph: Thanks. Haha. Could probably dig up the tncs somewhere, but DrRalph is spot on. It is a fairly long standing fact and has been discussed to infinity in all Amex card deals tbh.
Can the banks able to identify us as the same customer if we use different emails?
nice try - the credit report will be the same
Just got approved for Suncorp and already have a coles MasterCard. What’s are the chances of getting approved?
Nice. It's more than 2 years since I cancelled my AMEX card. Now it's time to apply it again.
does payment made on zip pay counts towards min spend ?
(adding amex to zip pay)
14mths since last amex cancelled… so close :/
how long would it take to approve the card?
You beauty! Rkn I have hit the 18 months so I'm in!
Never had Amex card, guess it's time I jump in.
Does anyone know whether Qantas Amex consider as card product issued by American Express Australia Limited?
Yes it does Mr Ma.
Mr Ma should have enough cash, doesn't need a credit card LOL
Is this or the ANZ Black Rewards card better?
"We have captured and are processing your application for The American Express Explorer Credit Card. We will notify you of the outcome within 5 - 10 working days."
Does that mean FO? :\
I've been rejected by AMEX twice (2016 and 2018) although I'm eligible probably because my Equifax score is just "average" (was "below average" until last month) while my Experian score is excellent. Amex seems to use Equifax.
na mate, I got the same and won't be declined :D
Got declined. Never applying ever again for AMEX now.
What does elegible expenses mean? I can't find information anywhere.
time to cancel my qantas discoveryy
I just signed up for the HSBC CC with 120k points with $3k spend in 3months as well..
I'm eligible for this…but just have no idea how I'm going to spend $6k. Anyone have any ideas? Are discounted Gift Cards (Woolies) Eligible? What other things could I buy?
I can help you spend $6k.. just pm me the card's detail
same here it is easy to spend $6000 you can change all the direct payment to these 2 cards and living expanse. also you can buy discount woolworth and coles card plus the 6% off fual card from shopback
Look into paying things in advance, examples:
- Health insurance will let you pay 18 months in advance.
- Council rates pay annual
- house, contents, car insurance all annual payment
- prepay utilities - water, gas, electricity - all mine allow me to pay any amount at any time and my account will sit in credit until I have bills to gobble up the credit.
- School fees pay full year rather than monthly.Gift cards:
- Coles or Woolies gift cards in bulk - downside here is that is money you don't get to spend on the next credit card minimum spend.
- Bunnings gift cards never expire
- any other planned bigger spend in next year - gift card for thatI thought things like Council rates didn't count towards these sort of promotions?
I'm pretty sure I've gotten them to count by paying at the post office. Not sure if I'm dreaming or making that up though, can't hurt to try
Question: If I apply on Thursday, but it takes a week to get sorted (e.g. if they keep asking for more info) will I still get the bonus? Seems a pretty great deal.
I'm also curious
Thanks
Common sense dictates that the time of application should matter.
It actually depends on the tncs of the promotion. Some say apply by, whilst others say apply and be approved by. I haven’t looked into this one as am not eligible, but it should have some wording to that effect.
If its a 3 day flash sale I’m pretty sure it wouldn’t be “approved by” because not everyone gets approved in 60 seconds.
And if they open new accounts using this trick pretty sure people would close the account just as quickly which they wouldn’t want.
@expatOz: Hi 3zzy,
Could you please clarify whether you mean that even if it takes 1-2 weeks to get approved, as long as we applied during the 3 day flash promotion, the benefits would still apply to us?
What stores don't accept amex? What are "eligible" purchases?
if one can't spend $3k in 3 month, will $395 statement credit still apply or not?
How could one cash out the 16k points btw?
Must spend 3k in 3 months to get 395 rebate. Just saying 3k of Ikea batteries is feasible….
Are you powering your place with Ikea batteries?
I have Westpac Amex card but have cancelled Westpac and keep Amex.
So it is no longer Bank issues ?
Not sure if I would be eligible?Anyone got any hacks to easily meet the $3k spend? Can you buy gift cards? Fuel? Do any weed dealers accept amex?
hey guys - I chose the lowest credit limit of 3000. Is that okay?
Hey guys, slightly off-topic, I am still waiting for the $ 500 gift card from the ANZ platinum rewards card. The offer was from pointshack and had a condition of $ 1500 spend in 3 months which I finished back end of April (approved by end of March).
Is anyone in the same situation as me?
Thanks!
hi there. as far as I know, you won't receive a $500 GC from ANZ but if you have made the min spend in 3 months you will receive the 120000 ANZ Rewards points in your ANZ Rewards account. You can then convert the 120000 ANZ reward points to a $500 GC.
If you haven't created an ANZ Rewards account, you can create/register here https://anzrewards.com/
I have been checking the ANZ rewards account everyday for last 2 months and nothing :(
I have called them 5 times already and each time they have confirmed that they can see the points hack exclusive offer attached to my account.
Beginning to get worried now…
maybe, take it to PointHacks support and they can help sort out the issue.
if at all you manage to call the ANZ rewards again, get a confirmation that you made the min spend in 3 months and that you are eligible for the 120000 bonus points.
I hit spend limit on ANZ rewards in first month and got the bonus points with first statement. Redeemed and cancelled immediately after.
I took the ANZ platinum card deal on mid Dec 2020, then I got the $500 e-gift card on mid Jan 2021 (sent through email).
Check your email. They sent me an email with the egift card claim link.
Been checking junk & normal folders daily.
Sorry but where can I find eligible purchase description?
Wondering if I can use it to pay for my bill for house renovation?in my experience, with AmEx all purchases are eligible unless they are for gambling, annual fees charges or cash withdrawals.
Does that include international transactions
yes, international transactions are eligible unless they are gambling, annual fees charges or cash withdrawals.
@whey4000: yes, eligible.
you can also use PostBillPay if the biller doesn't support PayPal.
Also, you can have a quick web chat with AmEx CS from your login and they can confirm how far you are with your eligible spend. AmEx CS is one of the best teams I have ever dealt with.
@ck009: Is this a type of credit card? could I leave cash inside the card to pay bpay? How is the interest calculated? If I pay on time, there are no interest? How to get the $800 worth of gift card after eligibility met?
@ck009: I just checked https://global.americanexpress.com/rewards/gift-cards, the gift card doesn't include woolworths or coles, or TGG or jbhifi. What gift card do you recommend to claim?
Been waiting for an amex deal as I was under 18 month prohibition last round of food options. This is an absolute ripper, applied and approved.
Very happy with this one!What gift card do you recommend claiming for the reward?
Whatever suits your upcoming spend. For me it'll be BBQ galore or Amazon
"American Express don’t allow existing Card Members, even for different types of American Express cards (e.g. Charge, Credit or Business) to be eligible for bonus points offers for cards in a different family."
Seems like you can’t apply if you currently hold a business green AMEX? Anyone had a different experience?
you can always apply but won't be eligible for the bonus points.
Oh yeah, I was about to apply and just remembered I also actually have a green corporate amex, so I guess that also makes me ineligible for the bonus :(
I have accidentally closed the window on the details page, how do I continue the application?
Wait for the email asking you to upload documents.
If your application is under review with an answer if 5-10 working days, does that mean you're rejected?
Not necessarily, typically just means they wanna have another look at your application and perhaps ask for more documents or give you a call sometime to ask some questions.
Can anyone tell me how this one is better than the ANZ Reward Black Credit Card which has got no annual fees for first-year and got 180000 reward points($800 gift cards) for spending $2000 on eligible purchases for the first 3 month?
$400 travel credit would be one benefit.
The other benefit would be the greater range of gift cards, amex targeted offers, and phone insurance
Thanks. I'd really to like to see Coles/Woolies in the gift card range too.
Interested to know what the targeted offers would look like, but phone insurance is applicable only if you buy the phone outright or with a plan using the AMEX card.
what's the minimum limit on this card?
$2000
It was $3k when I got to that section(?)
It's definitely $3K
3k Minimum spend to qualify.
2k minimum credit limit.
Anyone know whether once you have received your cards, is there a way to confirm the offers you have on the card?
Just paranoid about amex messing up my bonus offer to the standard one instead of point hacks one. Dont want to waste the effort
once you receive and activate the card, contact the CS via the web chat and they can confirm the offer applied on your card.
Will they just reject the application or renegotiate about reducing the limit?
I've never owned a credit card before, so just a couple of noob questions.
when you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases.
What counts as eligible purchases?
Can I use this to pay for my house mortgage?
Can I use this card to deposit $3000 in a stable crypto, withdraw it straightaway, pay back the $3000, and get the rewards? Would that be eligible?
Most things you can buy on a credit card
I don't think any loan or mortgage repayments can be made with a credit card, at least with any lender I know of.
Unlikely, buying crypto on credit usually counts as a cash advance so you'll be pinged with a big fee to do so.
To add to this; you can use your credit card to BUY things directly. E.g.: as you would at a shop with cash.
You cannot use your credit card, at least without incurring cash advance fees, to convert it to cash or cash equivalents, such as to buy crypto or pay a mortgage payment.
At least in my many years of having credit cards.
Eligible purchases don't usually include anything that falls in to "cash advance" category. so the answer to both 2 and 3 is a solid no.
How would this affect refinancing a home loan?, what's a good credit check site?
Your borrowing power decrease with each credit card….creditsavvy is site to get your credit score.
CreditSavvy shows Experian score, AMEX seems to use Equifax. Your score might differ wildy between these two reporting bodies so double check. I have "Excellent" Experian score but just got declined for AMEX.
Any recommendation for websites to view Equifax score, without going through with an Equifax Credit Report?
They're not going to bump you up so far that you can't service your own pre-existing loan, they'll always take into account your total debt. The refinaner will assess quite the same. Meaning, most likely you wouldn't expect to be affected at all.
Saw this on Facebook the other day, but didn't pay attention. But applied online, took less than five min, including credit checks. Told me that I have been approved. Sweet. Now to cancel the other credit card. Thanks OP.
same here but i wouldn't cancel any card until i have this in my hand activated with no issues lol
I like this card. It's the only one I've hung onto past 1st year.
Wonder why? Is it the bonus points or travel credit?
Just applied,
never had a AmEx before, let see how that goes.Thanks OP
Regarding eligibility period - it might be worth calling up to confirm guys. I was advised of earlier date than I thought (may have to do with my last card being Qantas AMEX), therefore making me eligible for this offer.
Got a call today morning and it was not success. Not sure why though as have never been rejected.
did you get an email saying its approved when you submitted the application online? the call was after that?
No email said we will get back after 5-10 days which was yesterday and call came today morning.
It asks me
A recent payslip that shows your last 3 months' worth of income…
How is that possible?
My last pay shows shows my YTD up until end of June so I assume thats good enough? Else I whould suggest uploading payslips for the past 3 months (3 if monthly, 6 if fortnightly, etc)
Heck, I wasn't even asked ANYTHING and got declined. I hope this time they give a valid effing reason for declining in the letter they said they'll send.
Nah letter will be generic and no point in trying to get it manually review. I had it done and doesn't seem to do anything.
I already have an Essentials card and applied through this link. Got a call today and was approved.
What's the point for applying if you have already got the Essentials, as you won't be eligible for this promotion due to you are already an AMEX customer.
Now that you've been approved, I say keep the card, hit the spend in a month and see if points come through. If not, cancel the card after and you will get a prorated refund anyway of the AF. A small risk to take for a potential big pot of points.
Please keep up posted as to whether you receive the bonus points
Didn't even get asked for payslips or anything…
Just said would be in contact within 5-10 business days.Same, if you call they'll confirm your application has been declined. 5-10 days is "the time it takes for you to receive the letter"
Wtf. I only have 3 credit cards, totalling less than 30k, own my place outright and have a stable and comfortable income…
Yeah got declined 3rd time by Amex. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong but used to get approved from them all the time. Now since last year and this year have been getting declined. They're the only financial institute to decline me.
@nightelves: Don't be upset, as I know the tricks that AMEX plays all the time. This kind of promotion is purely for AMEX to track how many acquisitions they can get from time to time, so they can work out what level of sign up bonus they will do in the future. The approved budget for bonus points has been set in the back end, which means only certain number of applications will be approved, if the target has hit, then the remaining will auto get declined regardless. Each point costs AMEX money, so don't think you get declined is because your credit rating is bad. Also, AMEX assessment system is a real dumb, and if you think you are more than qualified to get the card, always call back to ask re-assess. Don't ask how I know, a relative family member works for AMEX.
@wxxnx: Good to know but not at all comforting. Its kind of fraud then if the system is not fair and affects someone's credit score without any gain. I'm definitely going for re-assement this time whatever it takes. Don't need the card so badly but won't take any sh!t from them anymore.
Well I have two cards totally 7k and with 70% ununsed credit. Stable income way above the min criteria and I've been rejected 3 times in 5 years. I asked them for a reason this time, they said its mentioned in the letter. Lets see.
@expatOz: See that's the thing that's stumped me. I have been approved for 6 different types of Amex but all of a sudden been getting declined everytime I ring up and check. Also their letter is so vague and the right to get it re-assess is so slim it's not even worth it.
@nightelves: @wxxnx @3zzy I've called them. they attempted to reassess with updates to my income etc. that essentially got me over the intial credit check line. the guy on the other side of the line was lovely, went through everything, identity check done, income check done manually with statements for mutliple rentals, hospital pay slips, etc. he said he had no clue why it was rejected since it was asking for everything as expected for an application and stated to wait for the letter then call back if any questions. he said himself I probably was more than qualified for the card but he's not sure what the criteria is for this card and admitted it's a little bizzare. weird and what a waste of a credit check -.-
@diazepam: But did you get approved or it was still declined? Because last time I did that it was still declined regardless.
@diazepam: He didn't do anything except just re-entered the information what you put in the application, it's still assessed by the system. Unfortunately, you were put into the wrong department. Re-assessing used to take at least 3 business days in the back office. Since he re-submitted the application again, now you got declined twice in AMEX system but only one credit check I think. Don't apply any AMEX within a year, as system will auto reject.
@wxxnx: So what's the correct department because I would like it reassess but like you said they're just confirm all the information that you have previously given to them
@nightelves: Wait for the letter and then call back, I did re-assessment about 6 years ago so not sure if that department still exists. All applications are being handed in offshore-Manila right now due to lock down in Sydney. I think offshore call centre just tells you the system's decision.
By law, they can't tell you the reason why you got declined, that's the same rule as other banks. But they can revoke the decision by manual assess.
@wxxnx: he said
1) one credit check
2) don't apply within 3 months for the same card - it'll auto rejectlike @nightelves , do you know which is the correct department? thanks!
How early would you receive the card? If approved in a day or so that is, I think I should be fine.
I have a pretty big birthday weekend in 2 weeks so would be nice to use the card towards the $3,000 spend minimum.
Or could I use the google pay option if the card doesn't come in time?I couldn't find any information about it online.
I just got approved an hour ago. Provided my payslips and rental income statement yesterday towards the end of the application. Had chosen a credit limit manually and I chose the lowest amount of $ 3000.
Also got a text saying card will be delivered in the next 7 business days.
Well this kind of answers my question I posted before seeing your comment.
Thanks!
Whats the minimum credit limit you can get on this card? Looked at their website but can't seem to find that information
Mate did you even read the discussion before asking? Its mentioned in the comment by wxmc 👆 just above yours
Hahah fk my bad, thats what happens when you skim read some of the comments - thanks for pointing out!
see my comment above. you can choose manually. min is 3k
thanks chief only just read your comment now 😊
I'm eligible for this card but only because my application three months ago for the Explorer was rejected - I was stunned. It was the first I've been rejected with Amex and when I called for more details, I was given no answers.
So I re-applied this morning because this deal is slamming, submitted my bonafides and then got the 'we'll get back to you in 5-10 business days' spiel.
Has anyone else received this and was still successful? I'm worried it's shorthand for 'computer says no'.
I'm worried it's shorthand for 'computer says no'.
that's exactly correct. see my comments above.
Yikes. It seems my stellar run gouging this mob to the tune of tens of thousands is behind me.
For what it's worth, I've been in the same job for 20 years, I earn over three times the minimum salary, currently have two cards (with a credit limit of 17,000) and own my own house outright. Yet still can't get a 3k Amex card.
Everything comes to an end. It was fun while it lasted!
In a similar situation as you so I'm pretty shocked too.
Also, apparently the credit limit you choose doesn't matter - the system spits out a maximum number and they give you a credit limit up to the maximum you've chosen. That's what I was told over the phone so doesn't matter if you apply for $0 or $100k.
I used to be fine with AMEX, but the last two times I have got this 5-10 day message.
If you don't get system approval within that 60 sec slot, then 99.9% of the chance is declined. "we'll get back to you in 5-10 business days" should be treated as we'll call you back in 5-10 business days to tell you in person that you application is declined as you don't meet AMEX criteria.
I got the 5-10 days generic email, but then was approved today.
I'm going to have to neg this deal based on:
1) rejection rate - many people (myself included) who have stated should be eligible based on income, assets etc.
2) AmEx criteria that is undisclosed
3) Not being able to provide reasons for rejection (completely automated by computing systems)
4) Stupid "5-10 business day response" when the call centre already knew the application was rejected
5) Requiring to call up and ended up wasting >1 hour of my time and still being rejected after providing payslips, rental statements etc.Kudos to those who got it, I feel like this was more of a gamble than an application and a waste of a credit check.
For what it's worth, I have a score on the borderline between very high and excellent on every credit provider.I'm in the same boat, higher salary, outright home, excellent credit rating on Equifax and Experian.
Rejected first time in Jan, asked me to wait 3 months
Another decline today
Their offshore new account team is damaging AMEX brand
I too am in this boat,. great rating, lots of income, the system said conditionally approved, then rejected on supply of proof.
She wouldnt tell me why "overall rating", sounds like they're going for people who can't pay, instead of the ones who can.What limit did you go for?
10k.
Apparently the credit limit you choose doesn't matter - the system spits out a maximum number and they give you a credit limit up to the maximum you've chosen. That's what I was told over the phone so doesn't matter if you apply for $0 or $100k.
5k
Applied and asked to upload documents. Received the 5-10 business days message. Will report back on what happens.
I'm in the same boat.
Update: Application approved.
Yeah it seems like they've raised their game. I also neglected to mention I have an excellent credit rating with Experian. So I'm not sure what is going on.
I just live by the dude's maxim - sometimes you bite the bar, sometimes the bar bites you.
I rent but fairly comfortably over the minimum wage requirement. I got an approved text message within seconds (no payslips etc).
I think this is targeted at us poor/young folk.
Early 20s here. Same situation but no approval yet :/. Did you have to submit payslip or anything
Submitted nothing except my credentials including license number. I've even got a NAB CC ATM. I've never had an AMEX.
How are you comfortably over 60k in your early 20s. Mining?
Very easy process, got the email saying 5 to 10 days, but then got confirmation email and text. Almost didn't read the limit page.
Is the document upload random as I didn't get asked for anything.
Yeh I never got any document upload section either, just did the credit check which was ultra fast answered the questions then got “we’ll contact you in 5-10 day” message plus email. My experian score is over 800 and my veda is over 900, got a home mortgage 1 car and 1 nab credit card, only 3 things total on my entire credit file so I guess we’ll see if I meet Amex’s criteria.
I was approved and have 3 mortgages and 4 credit cards. I do have an excellent history with AMEX though. (Had many cards with them for many years up until almost 2 years ago when the royal commission changed how beneficial AMEX was with earning points).
I'm the same also. Had 6 cards previously with them including the Amex Platinum. But somehow now cannot even get an approval even for a $3k credit limit. Doesn't make sense, they're like the new Citibank.
Yep I’ve been denied three or four times with Citi. Never been accepted and always met criteria. They’re they only ones who ever knock me back. Always successful everywhere else. Even ANZ after 4 churns welcomes me back.
Never used Amex before, can someone please share their experience with extra surcharge applied on Amex cards and perhaps on limited stores accepting the card altogether?
Many thanks
use it wherever no extra surcharge or use PayPal to pay online to avoid the surcharge
Thanks mate. I better keep my existing one for such cases.
Applied last night & approval SMS today. FAST.
Fwiw I got the 5-10 days email also - I think it’s so an actual person can verify the documents you upload.same here
Great deal.
Clicked through pointhacks, applied and approved.
Wondering how could I know I will get these bonus when I receive my card? ThanksWhen you meet the spend it'll credit within a day.
thanks mate
do you have to be a pointshack member to get these benefits? or just click through the pionts hack link and thats it?
I just clicked through the link and applied. I am not a PH member.
cheers mate
Never applied for credit card just for points, but this one is tempting. What most of you do after 12 months, do you just cancel the card? I've free for life Citibank Signature card which I use for daily purchases, so Amex after 12 months is not as appealing with $400 fee even with a travel credit.
Cancel and wait for next deal
Would paying an ATO tax bill count towards the $3000 spend?
Would love to take it up, but wouldn't make the minimum spend otherwise!
Excludes government charges in most cases.
Government is excluded for points earning but it may be sufficient to trigger the minimum spend.
Perhaps check with AMEX. If you're anything like anybody else on here (if you're not, you ought to be), you probably don't care about the points earn but more about reaching the threshold spend.
First time applying for a credit card for points and benefits. I've got an existing one with home loan product. I meet the criteria comfortably for this card and I also received the we'll get back to you in 5-10 day message…. Quite disappointing if I'm not approved.
I got an email today with approval! Looks like a few others have as well after receiving the 5-10 days message.
Is it worth grabbing this or waiting for an Amex Qantas FF card in the future? New to credit cards but have high income.
Just clarifying, what do the expert point accumulators do with these points if the intend to cancel the card within the first year? I believe Amex dont allow you to keep points if you havent got a current card, is that right? DO you just transfer then out immediately to an airline and bank them there? Or are most just turning these into gift cards? (fyi, i have abt 300k in amex and was lookingat cancelling my card at some point and reapplying in 18 months to get another large amount but not sure what to do with the current points)
Transfer it out to airline or hotel loyalty programs. Popular one seems to be KrisFlyer although do note that KF miles expire 3 years from when they're transferred in or accrued.
KrisFlyer have an amnesty on their points, due to COVID.
So, not exactly 3-years, but it is what is now.The one really annoying thing about KrisFlyer is, their points expire in "tranches".
Every time, you redeem points, that bunch of points have their own expiry date, separate to other 'bunches of points'.
Redeem for the $800 in cash
I figured most would be banking for overseas travel..? (not sure if i should both with this method since i have 3 kids under 9 - business class upgrades arent going to be happening anytime soon!!)
These are AMEX points though, not Qantas points. So you loose value on transfer to another program.
Normally, I'd recommend you ditch this card as soon as you get the bonus points and after using the $400 travel credit. But there is a little known quirk with the Explorer whereby the following year's $400 travel bonus is triggered at the 11-month mark. This means if you hold your horses until June 2022, you'll have $800 in your skyrocket (DrRalph pointed this lark out in a separate thread). Then just cancel immediately after use before triggering the following year's annual fee. Itu saja as we say in this part of KL.
So depending on your plans, it may pay to hold on to this one for a wee bit longer than usual. I would probably do this, but Amex won't give me a card….sob sob (this is an amazing deal - everyone should jump on it!)
Very helpful comment!
This tip should be in the deal description. TY
During signup was asked if I want to get assigned maximum limit, which from what I understand is 50k - there is point having balance so high?
If you've got a high income, or put through large payments at a time, then probably yes.
If not, just choose the minimum, unless you've got a big purchase to put through (e.g. whitegoods or PHI that may be above the minimum limit). You can always pay off the balance and continue using it.
It'll also be a drag on your credit and may prevent you from acquiring or churning through other cards unless you've canned this one ahead of applying for the next.
thanks, selected 10k should me more than enough.
if you plan to cancel is soon no different. If you want to keep it. less limit is better as higher limit will impact you apply home load and another credit card
Max probably means the max you can get, not necessarily a fixed amount.
Approved for a 3k limit today, thanks OP
Is it worth calling them as I got rejection call today morning?
To talk about your feelings?
They aren't going to reverse it or tell you why you were rejected so it is pointless.
Applied last night. uploaded all the documents and got declined today. Never had issue with them before. Dont know why.
got approved today
After submitting the application last night, to which I attached last year's group certificate, I received the wait 5 to 10 business days result. Was approved earlier today.
Anyone not owning any property who got approved?
Did anyone get approved without having to submit documents?
Yep - just took me about 4 minutes to apply and was approved straight away. Make sure you put your drivers license number in etc. That way they can reference check straight away
I don't recall there being a place to put in driver's license number, but let's see how it goes. Thanks for replying
It's not a mandatory field, but i will always fill everything in to save myself any hassles later. Good luck
Yep I just got instantly approved too! I wish all cc applications were this easy
Instant approval here, no docs uploaded
Great deal thanks OP, took me several minutes to fill the application and was approved straight away. I last had an AMEX 2 years ago i think so they may have had my details from before
I have CPA Amex card. I assume I am not eligible??
Another newbie question - is there any reason someone who is completely new to this shouldn't sign up for both the AmEx and ANZ black deals?
Just make sure you can meet the minimum spend requirements.
I just applied using my ipad but thought the “do you wish to apply for the maximum credit limit” button said “do you wish to proceed” as in, complete your application the big green PROCEED button got me so I hit it. Guess I’ll find out shortly what Amex’s maximum credit limit is. Whoops
maximum credit limit is AU$ 50,00o,
from what i remember.
(i just saw it, in the application form)
does anyone know where you can get more information on what counts as spend? eg mortgage repayments, bnpl repayments
and can spend me repaid immediately?
signed up yesterday
got asked for payslips and then approved
(disclosure: my first Amex application)Applied.
Waiting 5-10 working days now.
Pretty straight-forward application.Tip:
Including driver's licence, in the application, speeds things up.After application, got approval SMS in about 14+ hours .
ETA for card is within 7+ days.
Does Anyone know if cancelling credit card in less than 12 months negatively impact your credit score?
Or i have been fed lies?
Update, didn’t get approved, my Experian score is 810 my equifax score is 915. I own a home (mortgage) with 40% equity, have only two results on my actual credit report which is my home from the application check and nab credit card. I honestly think this amex offer is a targeted scam and you need to be a potential victim of paying interest to them to qualify, unfortunately if you pay everything on time as your credit rating now shows in detail all late payments and on time payments I guess your stuffed. Makes no sense to me
Edit: I’ve negged this deal, it’s an obvious scam and will impact your credit file with a check when they damn well have a blatant criteria in place regardless how great your credit score is. I make double what the criteria sets out, no bad credit history, very high excellent credit scores across all credit reporting agencies, own home with 40% equity, never late ever with anything repayment wise, only have 1 credit card that I’ve had for years with nab. Their system is obviously pre set with a very specific criteria regardless of your credit history and it didn’t even ask me for any proof of income or anything knowing full well the system decline me before the application even got submitted but just got the “you’ll be notified in 5-10 days” message.
I don't think this deal is a scam.
However I do think credit card providers look for applicants who are more likely to not pay the full amount they owe before the payment due date, which would mean interest being charged and hence making them money.
In your scenario they saw that you are quite well off and hence able to easily make any repayments. So they don't want to 'easily' give you some cash for nothing.
In my scenario, I have got a home loan, investment property loan and I am the only applicant (have a partner but did not include her in). My salary is not super high but well above the minimum requirement they asked. I have also 1 more credit card with me right now, which I am waiting to cancel as soon as I get my gift card. So I am thinking they saw all this and thought may be he wants another credit card because he is having difficulty. When I say 'they saw all this' I mean their computers with the fixed criteria.
That is literally illegal and against responsible lending regulations
What percentage of your income do you save/invest per month?
Got approved immediately. I didn't even need to upload payslips or anything. Next day said the card is in the mail. Not sure what happened with you.
Approved yesterday after clarifying income with extra statements etc. Very easy to deal with over the phone, called them before applying to 100% check my 18months waiting period had expired. Actually impressed on the turn around considering they are swamped with applications from this deal.
I applied and now need to wait for 8-10 days. Let's see if the computer says Yes or No.
Applied Monday evening and approved Tuesday afternoon after uploading notice of assessment.
Much easier and faster than the last ANZ card but seems to be a coin flip with rejection judging from the comments.Got excited and applied 10mins ago, and was approved instantly. For context, I've got no previous CCs, a HECS loan, ~90K salary package, no outstanding loans or mortgage, living with family. Wasn't asked for any supporting documentation either. Will be reading all these comments in more detail to see how I can hit that 3K+ in 3 months. My plan so far is to order some supplementary cards to give my family to groceries/fuel/etc and they can just pay me back whenever they want :)
Just got a call saying my application got denied lol.
- No outstanding loans
- 2k credit card outside Amex
- No mortgage
- 100k income package
- great credit history
and they denied my application for 3k credit card, what a fkn joke
What percentage of your income do you save/invest per month?
On average 40-50% saved. Living with parents and have no expenses.
Hm not bad. I wonder what their algorithm didn't like.
My application was also just denied. Similar financial situation to you. No current credit card and had previously held an Amex before. My first time being rejected for any credit card. Bizarre.
Yeah same here haha
Its funny how they rejected me for this but I've got a pre-approval from a bank for more than 800k lol. Just annoying because this rejection affects my credit history. Wouldn't have applied if I knew there was a chance to get rejected lol.
It will have minimal, if any impact on your credit history… don’t worry, move onto the next one
From all the comments, a hunch they're not going for the ones with bigger incomes, no debt. Targeting those they will possibly make more $$$ from.
Applied Monday night. Got the usual they will respond within 5-10 days.
Didn't hear back. So called them 24 hours later and politely asked if they require any more info or docs from me.
The operator was helpful, said we have your docs already and did the assessment on the spot and approved me over the phone with a $6xxx credit limit. YMMV.
No other credit cards, no mortgage, no car loans, good credit history.Previous Amex card holder. Have been really happy with their products & customer service. Much better than the other banks in my experience.
Applied Tuesday mid-morning and received the 5-10 days.
Accidentally uploaded the wrong document (along with the correct document) so rang them this morning to make sure it was ok (as I also received the email with a link to upload documents). Told me they were going to check my account and that they would do the assessment then and there - which they did and I was approved. Text message came about 10mins after call.
Mortgage, credit card (ANZ - about to cancel as soon as the gift cards turn up). Approved for $3k limit.
Told that it was lucky I rang as they have a mountain of applications to process today.Nice one. Welcome onboard. Such a good offer…..
Applied just then, called up immediately after application, and then it got approved over the phone! Too easy. However, I was informed that the Card will take around 10 business days to arrive due to COVID delays, so that sucks.
Anyway to add this card to a digital wallet like google pay and start using it before the physical card arrives?
Just signed up, approved on the spot. Picked the 6k limit. Prolly the easiest/quickest application EVER.
Applied last night and uploaded proof of income docs. Just got the approval SMS.
Definitely a much better application process than ANZ and CitiApplied last night and uploaded June payslip as requested and was told 5-10 days for response.
Received approval sms and email today. Very quick and easy process. Easier than Anz, and 100 times easier than HSBC.
Approval email doesn’t advise credit limit, so I guess I got the amount I requested?Just applied, instant approval. Did not even need to load payslips, great process.
I got the 7-10 days email yesterday and got an approval email just now.
The value at $800 - is that based on converting points to gift cards? If so, which ones do they offer?
Quite a few…Amazon, DJ, Myer, Coles, Woolies, Westfield
Full list here: https://global.americanexpress.com/rewards/gift-cards?intlin…
Do you know if the Amazon gift cards work on .AU site or U.S. site only ?
I'd like to know this too. thanks!
@Emblex: Why don't you just get the Westfield giftcard. It is literally a credit card that you can use anywhere. It's so much better.
Approved!
Anyone get their card yet? I checked my letterbox several times for mail today haha.
Ok it arrived today.
Wow 4 days apply to card in hand. Amazing
Going to use it on a iPad Pro and a trip interstate next year then I’ll cancel before next year fee is triggered
It's no annual fee plus right on the 11th month they give you the travel credit again.
Thanks OP. Got approved right away even without uploading any document. So easy. Wish all applications are like this.
Once you've applied, do you receive a confirmation email or SMS?
Both. I also got an email and SMS a day after saying approved.
Thanks.
Is the deal still eligible if I applied yesterday but approved a few days later?
Ok just submitted payslips etc
Let's see what happens. Fingers crossed 🤞
I would say ring them to avoid delay…
Calling now cheers
Approved over the phone. Nice os rep did a great job. Handled very smoothly.
I like how they said welcome to American express family haha
But I'm worried now. I got a Amex through Qantas within 18 months . Would that still count?
@agalea101: As in you got an Amex issued Qantas card (discovery, premium or ultimate) in the last 18 months? I would say you probably won't get the points or statement credit, but hey, weirder things have happened.
If you've already applied for it, just hope you get it.
@squarepants: Ah it was through Qantas deal similar to this. Issuer was Amex though
Can't remember the exact card though not directly through Amex.
The only reason why I knew was when I checked for email I saw Amex in sept last year lol
Ah well I reached out to op for clarification
.. hope it's positive 🤞
@agalea101: Dont think you will be eligible but you should have confirmed while on the call. I have Amex CPA Gold card and I was told that I was not eligible when I told them about my existing card.
@agalea101: I called them they said it's already rejected. Letter has been sent out if I want to challenge it can call them once I have the letter with me.
What's the number you rang them on? I had a missed call from Amex but when I try to call the 1300 number back it says the line is busy.
Yeah 1300 number I called and chose 1st option for cc
Applied and uploaded docs on13th, got an approved email on 14th!…..Will keep checking the mailbox:)
Applied on the 14/07. Received a call this morning to confirm details and then 10min later received approval SMS.
I didn't need to supply any supporting docs. They just wanted to confirm my work email (gov) by getting me to read back a code they sent.
- Applied this morning & called to follow-up as other comments did to speed up approval process
- Operator reviewed bank statement and approved on the spot, approval SMS received immediately whilst on phone.
75k income
no mortgage
have HECs
have ANZ Platinum Card w/ 15k limitDid you call immediately after you applied the card? What do you say? Something like “hi can I get an update for my credit card apply process?”
Called shortly after I submitted (within the hr). Basically just asked to see if my documents got uploaded properly and they then just go through your application to review - pretty easy!
called this morning and they said i still have to wait for their back team to process my application lol
@LegoLexus: Just an update, they called me back just now and went through the application, asked me to provide the payslip, and got approved straight away!
How long ago did you get the anz card. Similar situation but got rejected. :(
Got the ANZ card around mid-april. The AMEX operator initially assessed my bank statement incorrectly by assuming the income deposited into my accounts were gross pay (before tax), but they were all net pay after tax. I had to recorrect her and say it was all after tax (their requirement is min 65k gross).
So if you submitted a bank statement only, there might be a chance whoever was assessing yours might have interpreted gross/net income incorrectly.
Do i need it to be approved by 15th Thursday or just need to apply by then?
I assume, it would be so long as you’ve applied as they suggest a 5-10 day waiting period. As others have suggested would call up to speed up the process.
Did as others suggested, uploaded docs then called and got verified immediately. Got the SMS confirmation.
Very easy.
Got a we will notify in 5-10 working days. Do i call up or wait for the subsequent upload doc email?
Call them
Applied today. Got approved with no documentation requested. American Express is the best.
Thanks OP!
Got the 5 days message, called and was approved immediately.did you call them like straight away after you applied? what did you say over the phone, simply just say "hi can i have an update on the credit card apply process?"
Yes, kind of. I started by saying I would like to understand if the document I have uploaded is sufficient for you to process my application, or would you need supporting documents :)
did they approve over the phone? i just called them this morning and the lady said i will still have to wait for their back team to process my application, haven't asked me to provide any doc yet.
@LegoLexus: Just an update, they called me back just now and went through the application, asked me to provide the payslip, and got approved straight away!
yay approved after almost 24hrs
Just finished spending the $2k for the ANZ Black, now I need lockdown to end to pay for some overdue birthday dinners, plus supermarket gift cards and maybe rent if it doesn't incur too much surcharges, then I'm set!
Does it matter if we don’t get approved today, as long as the application is submitted?
yes i think as long as you submitted, should be eligible for the offer if you got approved later.
Anyway to add this card to a digital wallet like google pay and start using it before the physical card arrives?
Unfortunately not
Dam what about online purchases? Guess no go too?
No you’ll need to wait until you get the card
Got rejected. Been getting rejected from Amex a lot lately. And not sure why. Recently got approved with ANZ almost instantly.
Are you guys putting in accurate expenses re: daily expenses, loan repayment, rent etc?
I have 3 other cards with a total limit of $34k, currently renting with a $280k mortgage. Salary exceeds the minimum for this. Never ever missed a payment
Rejected straight away?
They called me to double check all the numbers I put in (salary, expenses, credit card limit etc) then was told I was rejected
Yeah I've tried different combination from the past three Amex rejection and I'm not sure what it is that they are using to approve or decline someone.
$34k existing CC limits? That’s around $1,300 added to your monthly expenses. Chances are you failed serviceability due to that.
Doesn’t matter if you don’t put accurate living expenses, they would use the HEM benchmark
It’s annoying. I got rejected in the past with amex with a lower cc limit. Haven’t missed a payment and credit score is pretty high
Applied last night at 11pm. Got the 5-10 business day email. Called this morning, asked if I am actually full time and then on hold to be approved.
Currently 36k in other CCs (only applied last week for 15k ANZ), mortgage, dependant, well above min income.I kinda BS the loan repayment and daily expenses. Were you accurate with yours?
Loan repayment no, others are already pretty low they usually get questioned
Applied on the 14th and was approved.
Received a call which I missed this morning from 02 9271 1111 and they left a message to call them back on 1800 411 790 saying they were from American Express. Tried calling that number back but it kept ringing out with no answer, so I called the number on the Amex website and after verifying my details they said they had no record of any calls going out to me. Very Strange.
I applied on 13/07/21 and received the card today (16/07/21). The application process was also insanely fast, they didn't even ask for any payslips or anything. My only question is if there is any record of the deal I signed up to on my account and how long after I can expect to wait for the points after reaching the spending requirement?
Yeah I didn’t get any written details on the bonus deal either.
Edit: ok just call them, they can confirm welcome offer on your account. So all good.
I am in the same situation, cannot believe how smooth the whole application is and how quickly the card has arrived.
I still have credit from my cancelled flights with Amex Travel. I wonder what would happen to the credit if I cancelled my card
Approved on 13 July 2021.
Card arrived on 16 July 2021.
Using the Amex mobile app, I confirmed with chat support that this offer applies to my card.Dang you guys are lucky. I was approved on same day but no card in mailbox today.
Same dates - going to chat to see if the offer has been applied - thanks for the tip!
May I ask what chat did you use to confirm this offer was applied to your card?
It's the option to chat with support in the iOS Amex mobile app.
Hi,
First time Amex card holder. Got some questions.
Received my card as well as the supplementary/additional card for the wife.
Does the supp/additional card counts as towards her credit check?
When activating her card does it get added to my account?
Is there any benefit of the supp/additional card?
Is there any option to cancel the supp/additional card since it hasn't been activated yet?
Also is there a way to lower your credit limit since i set mine to auto.
Thanks
No doesn't effect credit rating. Easy to change tour limit via app
thanks mate.
found the limit in the app. jumped on the chat and asked support about the credit rating but they couldn't give me an answer.Like literally in finder there is no credit application on file but does show I have an Amex.
Amex isn't retarded like ANZ and Suncorp and have amazing customer service.
Supplement card is the same account but your wife's name will be marked on the transactions.
Benefit is to help accumulate points. But if you have NFC kinda a moot point.
Benefit is to help accumulate points.
And take advantage of multiple Amex Statement Credit offers
Quickest approval - signed up online and within 2 hrs received a call from Amex to confirm identity - didn't even need to submit any documents. Was informed over the phone I was approved for a 20k limit. Received card today. No previous CC with Amex and have only ever had one previous card which was ANZ black
Signed up on 13th evening, got approved immediately and received the card on 16th. That's gotta be the quickest i have received any card! No calls/documents to upload nothing. Being a previous amex holder 3 years back probably helped.
Now to find if the actual offer that claims to be here has been applied to my card - because it doesn't mention anything about that on the leaflet, it's the standard offer they have mentioned there ($395 annual offer and $400 travel credit).Download the Amex app when you activate your card and speak to then on the web chat to confirm the points hack deal.
thanks mate, too easy.
Edit: looks like chat's not available during weekend/or Sunday. I'm gonna try tomorrow.
Thanks op great cc deal to come back to after a a few years off, for those of you that didn’t see in earlier comments if you keep the card until the 11th month it triggers the next round of $400 dollar credit which you can use then close the card before AF is charged effectively getting you $800 in travel credit. Apologies to the original commenter could not find the comment again to give full credit.
When is the next annual fee charged, a year to the date from approval?
Would assume so but best to ask webchat
Do you after entering the 11th month, but before the final date of 12-month anniversary ?
When does that travel credit arrive into the account ?
Can travel credit balance still be used after a card is closed ?
To the first point I believe so but best to ask Amex webchat for confirmation
Thanks.
It's a good tip to follow up on :-)@whyisave: I called them up & asked them this question,
and they kind of said that this is what happens (eg. entering in the 11th month),
but the lady wasn't so sure herself
i didn't press on with my question as i had many other questions.
Is the travel credit a credit that you see sitting in your Amex travel account, or is it just "spend over $400, get a $400 statement credit"? If it's the latter I'm guessing that if the above is true, you can't stack the two $400 credits (once the 2nd credit comes, you must have used or lost the 1st)?
Can’t stack the credit it’s in the terms and conditions
Does this being sent via auspost?
Yes
Received letter over the weekend. Called today morning questioning the reason now they have asked for financial details which I provided. Not sure if I will still be eligible now that the offer is expired.
Can I use the travel credit to book tickets for someone else?
Yes
Just received the card today. I am a bit worried that I didn't receive any email or anything saying I am on this promotion. Should I call them up to double check that I am eligible for the reward points after 3 months?
btw, does anyone know how much foreign exchange fee for this card?
i got my card today too. I just created an account and once logged in you can do a webchat with a rep. I asked him if he could see the pointhacks offer attached and he said yes. You can do the same.
Regarding the fx fee, read one of those pamphlets they included in the mail…….or ask the rep.
thanks, will webchat tomorrow! in regards to the fx fee, I found it in the letter. it's the usual 3%.
Had received the 5 to 10 message earlier. Received an email now that it has approved and card will be sent in a few days.
I applied middle of last week and the card arrived today, in my hands.
The whole online application, approval SMS and credit-card in hand, took about 3 working days.
Very quick turnaround !
Their customer service support, over the phone, was prompt, courteous,
helpful, spoke good English & resolved my queries straight away.
The AMEX rewards / online account is also quite nice.I've had Citibank, NAB, ANZ, Westpac cards before and this AMEX experience
(from application, approval, card delivery, customer support, online account) has been the best for me.
It's my first time, signing up directly to AMEX too.Well said, cannot agree with you more.
Just activated my account. Tried paying my Rates & Water(Brisbane) but no go. Both don't accept AMEX, only Visa/Mastercard :(
Does anyone know of any work arounds?
I know you can use PayPal with your AMEX but both don't accept PayPal either.
Edit: Paying in person at AusPost might work..
Edit 2: BillerPay won't work with both biller codes.
Will use Sniip instead..In the same boat. Water (Melbourne), gas, and internet (Superloop), health insurance (Medibank) don't accept Amex.
Use Sniip, $10 off promo code and then activate the Sniip 20% off ($30 Max)in Amex offers, $10 credit off your first bill and $30 Amex CB.
Just make sure you scan the Bpay code and not the Sniip QR code on your bill
Sorry what do you mean by scanning? Can't it be paid online using sniip
@pyramid: You use the Sniip app on your phone to scan the Bpay barcode found on the bottom of the bill (you'll need to bring it up on another screen, take a photo with another device or have the paper bill to be able to scan with your Sniip app on your phone)
Just an updated Amex's did nothing with regards to a manual assessment since there is no department that has any human intervention in the approval process. So as it stands application is still declined
Was in same boat. I got a letter from AMEX on why I got rejected, I called them again. They requested my financial documents which they didn't ask in 1st instance. 3 days letter got an approval yay.
Suggest to call them and understand why they rejected at 1st place.
Yeah the person on the phone didn't even care and just said there's nothing they can do. How did you get them to reverse the decision?
The person asked whether all details are captured correctly. I had closed 1 CC which I asked them to correct and then it went to next step of asking more documents. So looks like my details changed which forced them to re-check. Suggest to call them and reduce credit limit and see if it works.
@ady211: Got rejected because of low credit score. So think I need to sit out a few deals to get my credit up again.
Approval came through today after payslips and id verification. Now to just wait on delivery.
I applied within the PointHacks offer period and just received the card today, but the welcome letter didn‘t mention about the 160,000 MR points and $395 statement credit. So how do I know I got the offer？
Go to your online account and ping them on chat to confirm.
I've signed up for this in a joint account with my wife. Does anyone know if there are any restrictions on the card and spend goal?
NVM - found it
Can rewards points be converted to statement credit rather than gift cards?
Yes
For those who missed out on this, or would like to help others like friends&family, Amex have sent out exclusive referral links to some members offering a higher sign up bonus of 175,000 bonus points via a referral link. The referrer gets 50,000 bonus points, so between both referrer and referee, total of 225,000 bonus points.
Just called them up to find out how my application was going, been 10 days now.
They just told me that I was unsuccessful, asked why and they said they don't know. I have never been declined before by a credit card, always pay off my cards before the 55 days.
So I agree with some peoples comments here, they are looking for people they can actually make money from and not someone that has a good credit history and pays off everything in time.
I am just bummed that this will go on my credit history report!!
yeah, that's BS
they also can make money by the credit card fee. I think AMEX charges more than 1% from the shops
New account and card activated today. Didn't make the Sniip promo though sigh
Does anyone know if we need to activate the card in a new account or we can add it to an existing account? My concernn is if the promotion is still valid if the card is added to an existing account even if there's no active main cards there.
Don't forget to enrol for Hilton HHonors:
http://americanexpress.com.au/benefitenrol
and also transfer your mobile phone payments to Amex in order to take advantage of the screen insurance - page 34 in here:
https://www.americanexpress.com/content/dam/amex/au/staticas…
Guys when does the 3 months period start? From approval or from card activation?
The date of approval
it asks for payslip that shows 3 month of income… that would be 6 payslips?
If you get paid fortnightly, yes.
Usually payslips show the accumulated amount of income received/sent. If your payslips show that then I think uploading the most recent payslip is sufficient.
PS I only uploaded my most recent payslip.
I think uploading the most recent payslip is sufficient
But we just started a new FY, so at most it'd only show a few thousand (unless you're on salary like me and your salary is listed on your payslip)
Is it possible to get my card details to add to digital wallet before card arrives in mail?
No
Went to Woolies checkout with the newly activated card - self-checkout machine says 'contact bank'
Spoke to customer service who very nicely said the account is under review for an unknown reason and there's nothing she can do, wait till Monday.The pain and embarrassment of having to unload kgs of shopping.. thank you so much Amex.
The pain and embarrassment of having to unload kgs of shopping.. thank you so much Amex.
You didn't have another credit card, debit card or cash on you?
I didn't… so I guess this is my fault?
just spoke to the fraud protection team - they deemed the first spend at a cafe as fraudulent and locked the card..
I missed this, actually would of signed up!
I got denied although my salary is $85k.
How bad is it having this on my credit report, any way I can get it fixed? Who can I call?
Don't stress about it.
I wouldn't stress too much about that. Got rejected for a Citibank CC and multiple inquiries for a car loan (rejected in the end) late last year. My Equifax scores from excellent to average but still got approved for this. It will fix itself.
I’m double that and still got rejected
They sent me a stupid letter saying we considered your application but can’t approve you
I’ll call soon and say either give me a valid reason or I’m going to escalate this complaint
It’s stupid
Anyone else's card still not arrived yet? I got auto approved on the last day of the offer…
i got approval email 14th, card just reached mailbox today noon.
That took a while! Which only means they have got tons of application to go through, must be a very successful promo otherwise they wouldn't have another similar one today.
yes others said it took 3 days, so I was stressing that I had entered the wrong mailing address or something! It was probably just Auspost being slow, with the lockdowns and all.
@sakurakiks: Ahhh okay I was approved on the 15th. Hopefully means I'll get it in the next day or two now. They've got a really good app, they should just let you use virtual card from the get go like Westpac and some other banks do now
@spammingb: funny you say good app, I ran into trouble just setting up the password, errors changing the alerts and notifs, random 'sorry we cannot process your request' just viewing sections in the app. Managed to finish setting up account on desktop, then 5mins later I couldn't log in because "the system is not online"! x'D
just found out Suncorp rewards don't take amex?? nor PayPal. that was where the bulk of my purchases were going to be to make the $3k, getting discount supermarket gift cards!
What's the best way to pay bills using Amex? My Post billpay option only seems to be showing "Pay in person at Australia Post", without an actual billpay code, which seemed to be the method most people were using. Apart from Sniip, are there any other (relatively) affordable ways to pay with Amex?
I've called Amex and asked for why I was rejected after sending in all the documentation, ID, etc.
I was rejected based on an "internal assessment criteria" after passing credit check, ID check…
They sent me 3 letters saying "Our decision is based on an overall assessment of the details provided to us on your application"
No one was able to tell me more information including when I asked to be transferred to a senior representative.
This is stupid and pretty much is what others saying seems correct - it seems as if they are rejecting those who probably can easily service credit cards (I'm around triple the minimum income, in a stable job, with investment properties fully paid off)Just want to update this for anyone who like me, was declined (initially).
When the letter came a week later my letter stated "we cannot confirm you can meet the repayments so you're declined". Please call us if you have questions.
So I rang them, and asked how my income could not be sufficient (over 6 figures). She reviewed what I provided and I asked for it to be re-reviewed, which takes 2 business days. This went for re-review and it turns out they omitted one of my income statements provided when originally assessing. Funnily enough i got an instant approval on re review.So for the nay-sayers, it is worth asking for a re review if you feel you were like me, stooged. The bonus period starts from your approval date (just rang to confirm). Happy days.
Cheers
I received my card quite quickly in the pandemic, about 1 week after I applied.
However I just confirmed via Live chat on Amex that my MR points are 100,000 instead of 160,000 with $3000 spend..
WOW - i was approved finally 2 days ago and will hopefully get the card soon, however im tempted to forgo it unless i am still eligible for this offer in full. Anyone else have this issue?
Did they day if you would still get the $395 credit?
I asked them yesterday and they told me the offer loaded onto my card is different from this link, but they have launched an internal investigation for me to see if they can change the offer. But as of last night I dont have the $395 credit applied
I got the card, how do i know if the offer has been activated?
Call them or ask them in live chat
Already redeemed by points for $800 statement credit + the $395 statement credit. Nice!
How do you redeem statement credit?
https://www.americanexpress.com/en-au/rewards/membership-rew…
Membership Rewards > All Rewards > Financial Rewards > Points for Credit
Did they credit you immediately on hitting $3k spend? Or after a statement?
Now received mine but no sign of the statement credit.
How/when did this appear? Same time as the points?
24-36 hrs after I got my points, for me.
Cool, I'll hold fire then. Only just got the points.
How amazing is Amex
Quick Easy application and approval
Received card within a few days
Achieved $3100 spend 2 days ago
Statement now has a $395 credit applied to offset the annual fee
Rewards store had 166000 points showing
Have redeemed $800 statement credit, plus $25 amazon gift card
Owing Balance is now $1900 (from $3100 spend) all before I have even received first statement or paid them anything.
Wonder what would happen if I were to settle the balance and then close the account, before the first annual fee is charged??And you have $400 travel credit.
Twice lol
can you PM , how you can get twice travel credit ? cheers
@bbqwer: It's earlier in the thread.
Something like they apply next year's $400 in the 11th month so you can use it then cancel the card before the renewal fee.
@[Deactivated]: Wouldn't it be 18 months from cancellation of your account?
Seems like that makes much more sense.
Even I am interested in knowing what would happen if I ended up closing the account right now. I got my points after having reached just 2800$ spend. I don't have the 395 statement credit yet applied nor have I been charged yet.
Does anyone know if its possible to pay Vicroads rego renewal via Amex?
Try Sniip. Search for the Sniip Ozbargain posts, few cashback/referrals deals.
Thanks heap never heard of Sniip
Anyone had their first statement yet? If so how long was it after you activated the card.
I was approved on 13/07 and just received my first statement today.
Got mine today.
Does the membership fee count towards the 3k spend?
Same question here, just got charged membership fee.
Asked the Amex chat service and they said that it doesn't count towards the 3k.
I don't think so.
Just asked Amex customer support. Apparently you get charged the $395 membership fee and then once you meet the minimum spend criteria within 90 days, they apply the membership fee as a credit to your account…
Can anyone clarify if this is correct?Few of us already met the criteria and got the credit BEFORE the fee was applied.
Was told the same.
Yes this is correct. I was charged the $395 membership fee on 10/08 which brought my total spend to $2900, I then spent $150 at Bunnings and on the 14/08. On the 15/08 I received the $395.00 credit + 160,000 points.
So are you saying that the $395 fee went towards the 3k total spend?
@auxilrod: The $395 does not count towards the 3k total spend. This was confirmed with Amex when signing up.
I've been sitting on 3.1k spend ($395 of that is the annual fee) for over a week and I've not been credited anything nor received any points.
Not sure if anyone has mentioned this already, but if you log into your Amex account, and do Select + Pay with points, you can use every single point you have to pay off items of your statement balance. The rate is $5 = 1000 points, same rate as the gift cards. I was able to redeem all my points for around $835 statement credit
I'm deciding weather to transfer to Krisflyer 75k pts or this option would be sweet!
I met the spend and soon thereafter applied and had $830 + $395 (annual fee reimbursement) added back on to the balance of the card. The only thing outstanding is the travel credit.
This has been an awesome deal!
Did they come at the same time? I've got the points but not the annual fee reimbursement.
Yes, they did.
How long did people wait till they received their bonus points and $395 after spending the $3000? Thanks
I would like to know too. Been two weeks since hitting the spend criteria and haven't received anything.
I got the bonus immediately and the $395 a day or so later.
I met the spend, according to the reward points summary table on the desktop site I got the points immediately, then 2 days later the $395 came into my account.
Got 160k points 2 days ago, but still no $395 credit?
How long since hitting the spend criteria? I spoke to chat and they told me 8-10 weeks.
I think I got my 395 credit after my first statement once I got the 160k points.
Does anyone know if purchasing gift card, does it count towards the 3k total spend? (like woolies/coles gift cards, jb hifi, westfield etc)
Yes it does.
Yes, confirmed.
What's the best way to spend Rewards points? If I "Use points to pay", do I lose the reward points earned from the transactios/purchsaes?
No you don't. Its simply a way to pay part of your bill.
Points to pay is the best way to use the Rewards IMO as you are saving real cash you would otherwise have used to pay the bill (as opposed to taking it as gift cards).
Good deal but this should be highlighted:
Card Members who currently hold or who have previously held any Card product issued by American Express Australia Limited in the preceding 18 month period are ineligible for this offer. Previous and existing bank-issued American Express companion cardholders are eligible for this offer.