How to name beneficiaries and fund a trust at American Express
Covers 3 deposit, and 3 lending accounts — beneficiaries can be managed online
American Express Savings Customer Service
American Express National Bank, PO Box 30384, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0384
Deceased Cardmember Services (Credit & Charge Cards)
Deceased Account Services (Savings)
American Express National Bank, PO Box 30384, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0384
The key to protecting your American Express accounts is making sure each one has a transfer mechanism in place—either a beneficiary designation. Without one, the account goes through probate, adding time, cost, and court involvement for your family.
Each of American Express's 6 accounts has different rules for how it transfers at death. The sections below explain the options for each.
- Enter beneficiary information (SSN, date of birth, mailing address required)
- Click Continue and confirm the information, then click Submit
Special Requirements
- Maximum of 6 beneficiaries per account
- Beneficiaries must be natural persons (individuals only); trusts, businesses, charities, and pets are not permitted as POD beneficiaries
- Account funds are split equally among all named beneficiaries; custom allocation percentages are not available
- Certain state law restrictions apply to POD accounts
- POD beneficiary designations are automatically revoked if the account is re-titled to a revocable living trust
Sources
Data sourced from American Express primary sources (26 pages reviewed). How we research.
Download these American Express instructions
Download instructions for the whole estateA printable PDF with the steps, required documents, and contact details — verified against American Express primary sources. Bring it to the branch or keep it beside the phone.
American Express Savings Customer Service
American Express National Bank, PO Box 30384, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0384
Deceased Cardmember Services (Credit & Charge Cards)
Deceased Account Services (Savings)
American Express National Bank, PO Box 30384, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0384
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