AMERICAN EXPRESS CO, 10-Q filed on 4/23/2026
Quarterly Report
v3.26.1
Cover - shares
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Apr. 17, 2026
Entity Information [Line Items]    
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Quarterly Report true  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2026  
Document Transition Report false  
Entity File Number 1-7657  
Entity Registrant Name AMERICAN EXPRESS COMPANY  
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code NY  
Entity Tax Identification Number 13-4922250  
Entity Address, Address Line One 200 Vesey Street  
Entity Address, City or Town New York  
Entity Address, State or Province NY  
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 10285  
City Area Code 212  
Local Phone Number 640-2000  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Small Business false  
Entity Emerging Growth Company false  
Entity Shell Company false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   682,326,443
Entity Central Index Key 0000004962  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2026  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Amendment Flag false  
Common shares (par value $0.20 per share)    
Entity Information [Line Items]    
Title of 12(b) Security Common shares (par value $0.20 per share)  
Trading Symbol AXP  
Security Exchange Name NYSE  
3.433% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Notes due May 20, 2032    
Entity Information [Line Items]    
Title of 12(b) Security 3.433% Fixed-to-Floating Rate Notes due May 20, 2032  
Trading Symbol AXP32  
Security Exchange Name NYSE  
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Non-interest revenues    
Non-interest revenues $ 14,215 $ 12,798
Interest income    
Interest on Card balances and Other loans 6,136 5,552
Interest and dividends on investment securities 17 14
Deposits with banks and other 512 569
Total interest income 6,665 6,135
Interest expense    
Deposits 1,287 1,337
Long-term debt and other 686 629
Total interest expense 1,973 1,966
Net interest income 4,692 4,169
Total revenues net of interest expense 18,907 16,967
Provisions for credit losses    
Total provisions for credit losses 1,251 1,150
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 17,656 15,817
Expenses    
Card Member rewards 4,891 4,378
Business development 1,591 1,529
Card Member services 1,975 1,328
Marketing 1,480 1,486
Salaries and employee benefits 2,482 2,120
Other, net 1,459 1,646
Total expenses 13,878 12,487
Pretax income 3,778 3,330
Income tax provision 807 746
Net income $ 2,971 $ 2,584
Earnings per Common Share    
Basic (in dollars per share) [1] $ 4.29 $ 3.64
Diluted (in dollars per share) [1] $ 4.28 $ 3.64
Average common shares outstanding for earnings per common share:    
Basic (in shares) 685 701
Diluted (in shares) 686 702
Card Balances    
Provisions for credit losses    
Total provisions for credit losses $ 1,187 $ 1,047
Other    
Provisions for credit losses    
Total provisions for credit losses 64 103
Discount revenue    
Non-interest revenues    
Non-interest revenues 9,512 8,743
Net card fees    
Non-interest revenues    
Non-interest revenues 2,752 2,333
Service fees and other revenue    
Non-interest revenues    
Non-interest revenues $ 1,951 $ 1,722
[1] Reflects net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $19 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, and (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $14 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025.
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Income Statement [Abstract]    
Earnings allocated to participating share awards $ 19 $ 18
Dividends on preferred shares $ 14 $ 14
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]    
Net income $ 2,971 $ 2,584
Other comprehensive income (loss):    
Net unrealized debt securities gains (losses), net of tax (7) 3
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of hedges and tax (22) 17
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax (5) 9
Other comprehensive income (loss) (34) 29
Comprehensive income $ 2,937 $ 2,613
v3.26.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Cash and cash equivalents    
Cash and due from banks (includes restricted cash of consolidated variable interest entities: 2026, $6; 2025, nil) $ 3,186 $ 3,559
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks (includes restricted interest-bearing deposits of consolidated variable interest entities: 2026, $19; 2025, nil) 50,281 43,491
Short-term investment securities (includes restricted investments of consolidated variable interest entities: 2026, $85; 2025, $84) 290 742
Total cash and cash equivalents (includes restricted cash: 2026, $199; 2025, $169) 53,757 47,792
Investment securities 2,625 1,043
Premises and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization: 2026, $12,441; 2025, $12,039 7,240 6,118
Other assets, less reserves for credit losses: 2026, $121; 2025, $86 25,013 24,263
Total assets 308,894 300,052
Liabilities    
Customer deposits 157,948 152,488
Accounts payable 14,635 14,700
Short-term borrowings 1,692 1,371
Long-term debt (includes debt issued by consolidated variable interest entities: 2026, $13,278; 2025, $13,022) 58,750 56,387
Other liabilities 41,874 41,632
Total liabilities 274,899 266,578
Contingencies (Note 7)
Shareholders’ Equity    
Preferred shares, $1.662/3 par value, authorized 20 million shares; issued and outstanding 1,600 shares as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 0 0
Common shares, $0.20 par value, authorized 3.6 billion shares; issued and outstanding 682 million shares as of March 31, 2026 and 686 million shares as of December 31, 2025 137 138
Additional paid-in capital 11,081 11,126
Retained earnings 26,088 25,487
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (3,311) (3,277)
Total shareholders’ equity 33,995 33,474
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 308,894 300,052
Card Balances    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, net 207,247 207,774
Financing receivables held for sale 2,477 2,457
Other Loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, net $ 10,535 $ 10,605
v3.26.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash $ 199 $ 169
Accumulated depreciation and amortization 12,441 12,039
Other assets, reserves for credit losses 121 86
Liabilities    
Long-term debt $ 58,750 $ 56,387
Shareholders’ Equity    
Preferred shares, par value (in dollars per share) $ 1.667 $ 1.667
Preferred shares authorized (in shares) 20,000,000 20,000,000
Preferred shares, issued (in shares) 1,600 1,600
Preferred shares, outstanding (in shares) 1,600 1,600
Common shares, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.20 $ 0.20
Common shares, authorized (in shares) 3,600,000,000 3,600,000,000
Common shares, issued (in shares) 682,000,000 686,000,000
Common shares, outstanding (in shares) 682,000,000 686,000,000
Card Balances    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross $ 213,311 $ 213,863
Allowance for credit losses 6,065 6,089
Other Loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross 10,849 10,928
Allowance for credit losses 314 323
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Liabilities    
Long-term debt 13,278 13,022
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Balances    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross 33,386 33,378
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Cash    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash 6 0
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Interest-Bearing Deposits    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash 19 0
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Short-Term Investments    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash $ 85 $ 84
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Cash Flows from Operating Activities    
Net income $ 2,971 $ 2,584
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:    
Provisions for credit losses 1,251 1,150
Depreciation and amortization 468 433
Stock-based compensation 203 158
Deferred taxes 145 (20)
Other items [1] (282) 213
Originations of Card balances held for sale (42) 0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:    
Other assets (1,386) 18
Accounts payable & other liabilities 476 228
Net cash provided by operating activities 3,804 4,764
Cash Flows from Investing Activities    
Sale of investments 8 0
Maturities and redemptions of investments 233 285
Purchase of investments (1,978) (239)
Net decrease in Card balances and Other loans, including Card balances held for sale 512 835
Purchase of premises and equipment, net of sales [2] (1,149) (430)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (498) 0
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (2,872) 451
Cash Flows from Financing Activities    
Net increase in customer deposits 5,375 6,973
Net increase in short-term borrowings 110 131
Proceeds from long-term debt [2] 3,502 4,768
Payments of long-term debt (1,524) (3,534)
Issuance of American Express common shares 7 22
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other (1,911) (1,208)
Dividends paid (583) (509)
Net cash provided by financing activities 4,976 6,643
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 57 10
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 5,965 11,868
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 47,792 40,640
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 53,757 $ 52,508
[1] Primarily includes gains/losses on fair value hedges, foreign currency transactions, tax credit and Amex Ventures investments and movements in equity method investments.
[2] Excludes an increase of $370 million related to non-cash activity for a finance lease. Refer to Note 1 for additional information.
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) (Parenthetical)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
USD ($)
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]  
Lease obligation incurred $ 370
Contribution of property $ 370
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Unaudited) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Total
Preferred Shares
Common Shares
Additional Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Retained Earnings
Series D Preferred Stock
Series D Preferred Stock
Retained Earnings
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2024 $ 30,264 $ 0 $ 141 $ 11,370 $ (3,395) $ 22,148    
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Net income 2,584         2,584    
Other comprehensive income (loss) 29       29      
Repurchase of common shares (678)   (1) (36)   (641)    
Other changes (407)     (297)   (110)    
Cash dividends declared preferred             $ (14) $ (14)
Cash dividends declared common (576)         (576)    
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2025 31,202 0 140 11,037 (3,366) 23,391    
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2025 33,474 0 138 11,126 (3,277) 25,487    
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Net income 2,971         2,971    
Other comprehensive income (loss) (34)       (34)      
Repurchase of common shares (1,664)   (1) (86)   (1,577)    
Other changes (86)     41   (127)    
Cash dividends declared preferred             $ (14) $ (14)
Cash dividends declared common (652)         (652)    
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2026 $ 33,995 $ 0 $ 137 $ 11,081 $ (3,311) $ 26,088    
v3.26.1
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Unaudited) (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Common stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share) $ 0.95 $ 0.82
Series D Preferred Stock    
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share) $ 8,875 $ 8,875
v3.26.1
Basis of Presentation
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation
The Company
We are a global payments and premium lifestyle brand powered by technology. Founded in 1850 and headquartered in New York, American Express’ card-issuing, merchant-acquiring and card network businesses offer products and services to a broad range of customers, including consumers, small businesses, mid-sized companies and large corporations around the world. These products and services are offered through various channels, including mobile and online applications, affiliate marketing, customer referral programs, third-party service providers and business partners, in-house sales teams, direct mail, telephone and direct response advertising.
The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 (the 2025 Form 10-K). If not materially different, certain note disclosures included therein have been omitted from these Consolidated Financial Statements.
The interim Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report have not been audited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, which consist of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the interim Consolidated Financial Statements, have been made. Results of operations reported for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire year.
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ.
Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation.
We have updated our presentation and disclosure of Card Member loans and Card Member receivables to present them on a combined basis as Card balances. Results for the first quarter of 2026 and prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the new presentation. Previously, Card Member loans represented balances on our credit card products and revolve-eligible balances on our charge card products, which included balances that Card Members paid in full as well as balances that Card Members paid over time with interest, and Card Member receivables represented balances on our charge card products that need to be paid in full on or before the Card Member’s payment due date. The updated Card balances presentation includes both revolve-eligible balances and balances that need to be paid in full, reflecting the evolution of our card products over time, primarily due to the expansion of lending features on our charge card portfolio. This presentation change has no impact on the recognition or measurement of outstanding Card balances and associated reserves for credit losses.
Business Events
On February 25, 2026, we announced plans to build a new approximately 1.95 million square foot headquarters at 200 Greenwich Street (2 World Trade Center site) in New York City. In connection with the project, we have a commitment of up to $2.8 billion for the cost of construction. When the building goes into service, capitalized construction costs will be depreciated over the estimated useful life of the premises. We also recognized a finance lease liability of $370 million, which represents the present value of contractual fixed lease payments over the term of a land lease, and a corresponding increase to the right-of-use finance lease asset.
On January 12, 2026, we completed the acquisition of our partner’s interest in our Switzerland joint venture (Swisscard AECS GmbH). Upon acquisition, we recognized within our International Card Services (ICS) segment $272 million of intangible assets, which will be amortized over an estimated weighted average useful life of approximately eight years, $136 million of Goodwill and a gain for the remeasurement of our existing ownership interest. The allocation of the purchase consideration for the acquisition is preliminary as certain estimates related to the valuation of assets and liabilities are subject to finalization. Additionally, we now consolidate a variable interest entity (VIE), Swiss Payments Assets AG, which securitizes Card balances arising from Swisscard’s business to provide for the issuance of collateralized debt securities to third party investors; such consolidation is not material to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In November 2024 and as amended in January 2025, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance on the Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026 and for interim reporting periods beginning December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance includes the requirement for a new tabular disclosure within a Note to the Consolidated Financial Statements, to disaggregate defined expense categories from the expense report lines presented on the Consolidated Statements of Income. We are currently assessing the updated guidance; however, it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In September 2025, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated guidance on accounting for internal-use software, effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The amendments modernize guidance to consider different methods of software development, updating the requirements for capitalization of software costs. We are currently assessing the updated guidance; however, it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Receivables [Abstract]  
Card Balances and Other Loans Card Balances and Other Loans
Our card products that we offer to consumer, small business and corporate customers result in the generation of Card balances. We also extend credit to customers through financing products that are not associated with a Card Member agreement, and instead are governed by a separate borrowing relationship, resulting in Other loans.
Card balances and Other loans as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 consisted of:
Table 2.1: Card Balances and Other Loans
(Millions)20262025
Consumer (a)
$140,908 $144,324 
Small Business55,098 53,632 
Corporate (a)
17,306 15,907 
Card balances213,311 213,863 
Less: Reserves for credit losses6,065 6,089 
Card balances, net$207,247 $207,774 
Other loans, net (b)
$10,535 $10,605 
(a)Includes approximately $33.4 billion of gross Card balances available to settle obligations of a consolidated variable interest entity (VIE) as of both March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025.
(b)Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $314 million and $323 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.
Card Balances Aging
Generally, a Card Member account is considered past due if payment due is not received within 30 days after the billing statement date. The following table presents the aging of Card balances as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 2.2: Card Balances Aging
(Millions)
Current30-59
Days
Past Due		60-89
Days
Past Due		90+
Days
Past Due		Total
90+ Days Past Due and Still Accruing Interest (a)
Non-Accruals(b)
2026
Consumer$139,125 $522 $388 $873 $140,908 $452 $480 
Small Business54,295 256 194 353 55,098 136 186 
Corporate (c)
(d)(d)(d)71 17,306 — — 
2025
Consumer142,552 529 392 851 144,324 434 471 
Small Business$52,870 $255 $168 340 53,632 130 177 
Corporate (c)
(d)(d)(d)$75 $15,907 $— $— 
(a)Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 180 days past due). We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
(b)Non-accrual Card balances primarily include certain Card balances placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest.
(c)For corporate accounts, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. A Card Member account is considered 90 days past billing if payment has not been received within 90 days of the Card Member’s billing statement date. In addition, if we initiate collection procedures on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card balances are classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (d).
(d)Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing has not historically been available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been a material input for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past billing can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
Other Loans Aging and Gross Write-Offs by Origination Year
Generally, a customer loan is considered past due if payment due is not received within 30 days after the payment due date. The following tables present the aging and gross write-offs for Other loans by year of origination as of or for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and as of or for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025:
Table 2.3: Other Loans Aging and Gross Write-Offs by Origination Year
2026 (Millions)
20262025202420232022
Prior
Revolving Loans (a)
Total
Current
$1,465 $4,505 $1,716 $338 $34 $57 $2,670 $10,785 
30-59 Days Past Due
— 7 6 2 — — 7 23 
60-89 Days Past Due
— 6 5 2 — — 7 21 
90+ Days Past Due (b)
— 6 5 2 — 1 7 20 
Total (c)
$1,465 $4,524 $1,731 $344 $35 $59 $2,691 $10,849 
Gross Write-Offs
$— $16 $18 $7 $1 $— $24 $66 
2025 (Millions)
20252024202320222021
Prior
Revolving Loans (a)
Total
Current
$5,532 $2,172 $494 $45 $6 $54 $2,564 $10,867 
30-59 Days Past Due
6 7 2 — — 1 8 25 
60-89 Days Past Due
4 5 2 — — — 8 19 
90+ Days Past Due (b)
3 5 2 — — 1 6 17 
Total (c)
$5,545 $2,188 $500 $46 $6 $56 $2,587 $10,928 
Gross Write-Offs
$15 $77 $47 $13 $1 $— $88 $242 
(a)Revolving loans consist primarily of lines of credit offered to small business customers. Revolving loans include $5 million of term loans that were converted from revolving loans.
(b)Over 90 days past due includes $8 million and $7 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, of loans on which interest is still accruing. Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 120 days past due) except for lines of credit offered to small business customers, where interest ceases to accrue at 90 days past due. We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
(c)This total includes non-accrual loans of $19 million and $16 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. Non-accruals for consumer installment loans primarily include certain loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest.
Credit Quality Indicators for Card Balances and Other Loans
The following table presents the key credit quality indicators as of or for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.4: Credit Quality Indicators for Card Balances and Other Loans
20262025
Net Write-Off RateNet Write-Off Rate
Principal
Only (a)
Principal,
Interest &
Fees (a)
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total
Principal
Only (a)
Principal,
Interest &
Fees (a)
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total
Card balances:
Consumer1.9 %2.3 %1.3 %2.1 %2.5 %1.3 %
Small Business2.4 %2.7 %1.5 %2.3 %2.6 %1.4 %
Corporate (b)0.7 %(c)(b)0.5 %(c)
Other loans2.0 %2.1 %0.6 %2.2 %2.3 %0.6 %
(a)We present a net write-off rate based on principal losses only (i.e., excluding interest and/or fees) to be consistent with industry convention. In addition, as our practice is to include uncollectible interest and/or fees as part of our total provision for credit losses, a net write-off rate including principal, interest and/or fees is also presented.
(b)Net write-off rate based on principal losses only is not available due to system constraints.
(c)For corporate Card balances, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. 90+ days past billing as a percent of total was 0.4% as of both March 31, 2026 and 2025.
Refer to Note 3 for additional indicators, including external qualitative factors, management considers in its evaluation process for reserves for credit losses.
Card Balances and Other Loans Restructurings for Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty
We evaluate all Card balances and Other loans restructurings according to the accounting guidance for loan refinancing and restructuring to determine whether such loan modification should be accounted for as a new loan or a continuation of the existing loan. Our restructurings for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty are generally accounted for as a continuation of the existing loan, which reflects the ongoing effort to support our customers and recover our existing investments.
We offer several types of modification programs to customers experiencing financial difficulty, with the intention to minimize losses and improve collectability, while providing customers with temporary or permanent financial relief.
Such modifications primarily include (i) temporary interest rate reductions (reducing interest rates to as low as zero percent, in which case the balance is characterized as non-accrual), and/or (ii) placing the customer on a fixed payment plan not to exceed 60 months. Upon entering the modification program, the customer’s ability to make future purchases is limited, canceled or, in certain cases, suspended until the customer successfully exits from the modification program. As of March 31, 2026 and 2025, we had $21 million and $19 million, respectively, of unused credit available to customers with Card balances modified during each of the respective three month periods. In accordance with the modification agreement with the customer, Card balances and Other loans may revert to the original contractual terms (including the contractual interest rate where applicable) when the customer exits the modification program, which is either (i) when all payments have been made in accordance with the modification agreement or (ii) when the customer defaults out of the modification program.
The following table provides information relating to Card balances and Other loans modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.5: Card Balances and Other Loans Modifications for Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty
Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Account Balances
(Millions) (a)
% of Total Class of
Financing Receivables
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction
(% points)		Weighted Average Payment
Term Extensions
(# of months)
Account Balances
(Millions) (a)
% of Total Class of
Financing Receivables
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction
(% points)		Weighted Average Payment
Term Extensions
(# of months)
Interest Rate Reduction
Card balances
Consumer$609 0.5 %18.2 %(b)$545 0.5 %18.4 %(b)
Small Business273 0.8 %18.1 %(b)229 0.7 %17.7 %(b)
Corporate— — — (b)— — — (b)
Term Extension
Card balances
Consumer70 0.3 %(b)3276 0.3 %(b)31
Small Business141 0.7 %(b)31137 0.7 %(b)29
Corporate12 0.1 %(b)105 0.03 %(b)11
Other loans12 0.1 %— 1812 0.1 %— 17
Interest Rate Reduction
and Term Extension
Other loans23 0.2 %3.8 %2117 0.2 %3.1 %21
Total$1,139 $1,021 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, of all modifications undertaken in the current and preceding three months for balances that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. The outstanding balances include principal, fees, and, where applicable, accrued interest. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For qualifying Card Member accounts, we offer either interest rate reductions or payment term extensions.
The following table provides information with respect to modified Card balances and Other loans that defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, and were modified in the twelve months prior to the payment default. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
Table 2.6: Modified Card Balances and Other Loans that Defaulted within Twelve Months of Modification
Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Account Balance (Millions) (a)
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Card balances
Consumer$46 $5 — 50 45 $5 — 50 
Small Business$25 11 — 36 22 11 — 33 
Corporate$— 1 — 1 — — — — 
Other loans— — 2 2 — — 1 1 
Total$71 $16 $2 $89 $67 $16 $1 $84 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, of all modifications that defaulted in the periods presented and were modified in the twelve months prior to payment default. The outstanding balances include principal, fees and, where applicable, accrued interest.
The following tables provide information relating to the performance of Card balances and Other loans that were modified during the prior twelve months and that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.7: Performance of Modified Card Balances and Other Loans
As of March 31, 2026
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card balances
Consumer1,948 130 49 
Small Business1,005 106 31 
Corporate13 3 3 
Other loans89 5 2 
Total$3,056 $244 $86 
As of March 31, 2025
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card balances
Consumer1,812 119 47 
Small Business941 94 28 
Corporate8 3 1 
Other loans81 5 1 
Total$2,842 $221 $77 
(a)The outstanding balances include principal, fees and where applicable, accrued interest
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Credit Loss [Abstract]  
Reserves for Credit Losses Reserves for Credit Losses
Reserves for credit losses represent our best estimate of the expected credit losses in our outstanding portfolios of Card balances as of the balance sheet date. The Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) methodology requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses by incorporating historical loss experience, as well as current and future economic conditions over a reasonable and supportable period (R&S Period), which is approximately three years, beyond the balance sheet date. We make various judgments combined with historical loss experience to determine a reserve rate that is applied to the outstanding balance to produce a reserve for expected credit losses.
We use a combination of statistically-based models that incorporate current and future economic conditions throughout the R&S Period. The process of estimating expected credit losses is based on several key models: Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at Default (EAD) and future recoveries for each month of the R&S Period. Beyond the R&S Period, we estimate expected credit losses by immediately reverting to long-term average loss rates.
•PD models are used to estimate the likelihood an account will be written-off.
•EAD models are used to estimate the balance of an account at the time of write-off. This includes balances less expected repayments based on historical payment and revolve behavior, which vary by customer. Due to the nature of revolving loan portfolios, the EAD models are complex and involve assumptions regarding the relationship between future spend and payment behaviors.
•Recovery models are used to estimate amounts that are expected to be received from Card Members after default occurs, typically as a result of collection efforts. Future recoveries are estimated taking into consideration the time of default, time elapsed since default and macroeconomic conditions.
We also estimate the likelihood and magnitude of recovery of previously written off accounts considering how long ago the account was written off and future economic conditions, even if such expected recoveries exceed expected losses. Our models are developed using historical loss experience covering the economic cycle and consider the impact of account characteristics on expected losses. This history includes the performance of modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, including their subsequent defaults.
Future economic conditions that are incorporated over the R&S Period include multiple macroeconomic scenarios provided to us by an independent third party. Management reviews these economic scenarios each period and assigns probability weights to each scenario, generally with a consistent initial distribution. At times, due to macroeconomic uncertainty and volatility, management may apply judgment and assign different probability weights to scenarios. These macroeconomic scenarios contain certain variables, including unemployment rates and real gross domestic product (GDP), that are significant to our models.
We also evaluate whether to include qualitative reserves to cover losses that are expected but, in our assessment, may not be adequately represented in the quantitative methods or the economic assumptions. We consider whether to adjust the quantitative reserves (higher or lower) to address possible limitations within the models or factors not included within the models, such as external conditions, emerging portfolio trends, the nature and size of the portfolio, portfolio concentrations, the volume and severity of past due accounts, or management risk actions.
Lifetime losses for most of our balances are evaluated at an appropriate level of granularity, including assessment on a pooled basis where financial assets share similar risk characteristics, such as past spend and remittance behaviors, credit bureau scores where available, delinquency status, tenure of balance outstanding, amongst others. Credit losses on accrued interest are measured and presented as part of Reserves for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and within the Provisions for credit losses in the Consolidated Statements of Income, rather than reversing interest income.
For Other loans, we use vintage-based historical performance to estimate expected credit losses over the life of the loan, net of recovery estimates. We also assess the need to establish a reserve for expected credit losses as it relates to our card network business, taking into account our historical loss experience and any collateral or other forms of credit enhancements from network participants. If our expected credit losses exceed our outstanding receivables from network participants, a portion of the reserve for credit losses is recorded within Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Card balances and Other loans are written off when we consider amounts to be uncollectible, which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due for Card balances and 120 days past due for Other loans. Balances in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification.
The following table reflects the range of macroeconomic scenario key variables available to us as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, which were used, in conjunction with other inputs, to calculate reserves for credit losses:
Table 3.1: Key Macroeconomic Variables
U.S. Unemployment Rate
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) (a)
March 31, 2026December 31, 2025March 31, 2026December 31, 2025
First quarter of 2026
5%
4% - 6%
3%
5% - (3)%
Fourth quarter of 2026
4% - 8%
4% - 8%
3% - (4)%
3% - 0.5%
Fourth quarter of 2027
4% - 8%
4% - 8%
2%
2%
Fourth quarter of 2028
4% - 7%
4% - 6%
3% - 2%
4% - 2%
(a)Real GDP quarter over quarter percentage change seasonally adjusted to annualized rates.
Changes in Card Balances Reserve for Credit Losses
Card balances reserve for credit losses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2026, primarily driven by a sequential decrease in Card balances.
Card balances reserve for credit losses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Our reserves for the period ended March 31, 2025 reflected the quality of our premium customer base and the macroeconomic outlook.
The following table presents changes in the Card balances reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 3.2: Changes in Card Balances Reserve for Credit Losses
Three Months Ended March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Beginning reserves
$6,089 $5,850 
Provisions (a)
1,187 1,047 
Net write-offs (b)
(1,213)(1,165)
Other (c)
1 8 
Ending reserves
$6,065 $5,740 
(a)Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. Provisions for credit losses includes reserve build (release) and replenishment for net write-offs.
(b)Net write-offs are presented less recoveries of $352 million and $294 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments.
Changes in Other Loans Reserve for Credit Losses
Other loans reserve for credit losses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2026, primarily driven by the performance of our Other loans portfolio.
Other loans reserve for credit losses increased for the three months ended March 31, 2025, primarily driven by a sequential increase in Other loans outstanding.
The following table presents changes in the Other loans reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 3.3: Changes in Other Loans Reserve for Credit Losses
Three Months Ended March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Beginning reserves
$323 $194 
Provisions (a)
48 105 
Net write-offs (b)
Principal
(54)(53)
Interest and fees
(3)(2)
Other
— — 
Ending reserves
$314 $244 
(a)Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. Provisions for credit losses includes reserve build (release) and replenishment for net write-offs.
(b)Principal write-offs are presented less recoveries of $9 million and $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant.
v3.26.1
Investment Securities
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Investment Securities Investment Securities
Investment securities principally include available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized losses attributable to credit deterioration are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other loans Provision for credit losses. Unrealized gains and any portion of a security’s unrealized loss attributable to non-credit losses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, net of tax. We had accrued interest on our AFS debt securities totaling $9 million and $3 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, presented as Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Investment securities also include equity securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with unrealized gains and losses recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense.
Realized gains and losses are recognized upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method and recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense.
The following is a summary of investment securities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 4.1: Investment Securities
20262025
Description of Securities
(Millions)
CostGross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair
Value		CostGross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair
Value
Available-for-sale debt securities:
State and municipal obligations$53 $1 $(7)$47 $54 $1 $(7)$48 
U.S. Government agency obligations3 — — 3 3 — — 3 
U.S. Government treasury obligations
1,635 — (7)1,628 138 1 — 138 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)
9 — — 9 10 — — 9 
Foreign government bonds and obligations813 — — 813 717 — — 717 
Other (b)
81 — — 81 81 — — 81 
Equity securities (c)
54 — (9)44 54 — (8)46 
Total$2,648 $2 $(24)$2,625 $1,056 $2 $(16)$1,043 
(a)Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae.
(b)Represents investments in debt securities issued by Community Development Financial Institutions.
(c)Equity securities comprise investments in common stock and mutual funds.
The following table provides information about our AFS debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 4.2: AFS Debt Securities with Gross Unrealized Losses by Duration
20262025
Less than 12 months12 months or moreLess than 12 months12 months or more
Description of Securities (Millions)
Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
State and municipal obligations$— $— $25 $(7)$— $— $26 $(7)
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,515 (7)— — — — — — 
Total$1,515 $(7)$25 $(7)$— $— $26 $(7)
The gross unrealized losses on our AFS debt securities are primarily attributable to an increase in the current benchmark interest rate. Overall, for the AFS debt securities in gross unrealized loss positions, (i) we do not intend to sell the securities, (ii) it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell the securities before recovery of the unrealized losses, and (iii) we expect that the contractual principal and interest will be received on the securities. We concluded that there was no credit loss attributable to the securities in an unrealized loss position for the periods presented.
Contractual maturities for AFS debt securities with stated maturities as of March 31, 2026 were as follows:    
Table 4.3: Contractual Maturities of AFS Debt Securities
(Millions)CostEstimated Fair Value
Due in 1 year or less
$902 $902 
Due after 1 year through 5 years
1,643 1,637 
Due after 5 years through 10 years
7 7 
Due after 10 years
43 36 
Total$2,595 $2,581 
The expected payments on state and municipal obligations, U.S. Government agency obligations and mortgage-backed securities may not coincide with their contractual maturities because the issuers have the right to call or prepay certain obligations.
v3.26.1
Asset Securitizations
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Asset Securitizations [Abstract]  
Asset Securitizations Asset Securitizations
We periodically securitize Card balances arising from our card businesses through the transfer of those assets to securitization trusts, American Express Credit Account Master Trust (the Lending Trust) and American Express Issuance Trust II (the Charge Trust and together with the Lending Trust, the Trusts). The Trusts then issue debt securities collateralized by the transferred assets to third-party investors.
The Trusts are considered VIEs as they have insufficient equity at risk to finance their activities, which are to issue debt securities that are collateralized by the underlying Card balances. We perform the servicing and key decision making for the Trusts, and therefore have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Trusts’ economic performance, which are the collection of the underlying Card balances. In addition, we hold all of the variable interests in both Trusts, with the exception of the debt securities issued to third-party investors. Our ownership of variable interests in the Lending Trust was $13.6 billion and $14.9 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, and in the Charge Trust was $6.2 billion and $5.7 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. These variable interests held by us provide us with the right to receive benefits and the obligation to absorb losses, which could be significant to both the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust. Based on these considerations, we are the primary beneficiary of the Trusts and therefore consolidate the Trusts.
Restricted cash and cash equivalents held by the Lending Trust was $92 million and $84 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, and by the Charge Trust was nil as of both March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025. These amounts relate to collections of Card balances to be used by the Trusts to fund future expenses and obligations, including interest on debt securities, credit losses and upcoming debt maturities.
Under the respective terms of the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust agreements, the occurrence of certain triggering events associated with the performance of the assets of each Trust could result in payment of trust expenses, establishment of reserve funds, or, in a worst-case scenario, early amortization of debt securities. During the three months ended March 31, 2026 and the year ended December 31, 2025, no such triggering events occurred.
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Deposits [Abstract]  
Customer Deposits Customer Deposits
As of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows:
Table 6.1: Interest-bearing and Non-Interest-bearing Customer Deposits
(Millions)20262025
U.S.:
Interest-bearing$156,726 $151,425 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $567; 2025, $556)
610 606 
Non-U.S.:
Interest-bearing18 18 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $591; 2025, $436)
594 439 
Total customer deposits$157,948 $152,488 
Customer deposits by deposit type as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 were as follows:
Table 6.2: Customer Deposits by Type
(Millions)20262025
U.S. interest-bearing deposits:
Savings accounts
$121,257 $116,867 
Checking accounts
3,283 2,965 
Certificates of deposit:
Direct7,280 5,979 
Third-party (brokered)9,395 9,919 
Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered)15,511 15,696 
Total U.S. interest-bearing deposits
$156,726 $151,425 
Other deposits65 71 
Card Member credit balances1,157 992 
Total customer deposits$157,948 $152,488 
The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2026 were as follows:
Table 6.3: Scheduled Maturities of Certificates of Deposit
(Millions)20262027202820292030ThereafterTotal
Certificates of deposit (a)
$4,113 $7,256 $2,762 $671 $1,879 $5 $16,686 
(a)Includes $11 million of non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2026.
As of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, certificates of deposit in denominations that met or exceeded the insured limit were $2.4 billion and $2.0 billion, respectively.
v3.26.1
Contingencies
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Contingencies Contingencies
In the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are subject to various pending and potential legal actions, arbitration proceedings, claims, investigations, examinations, regulatory proceedings, information gathering requests, subpoenas, inquiries and matters relating to compliance with laws and regulations (collectively, legal proceedings).
Based on our current knowledge, and taking into consideration our litigation-related liabilities, we do not believe we are a party to, nor are any of our properties the subject of, any legal proceeding that would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition or liquidity. However, in light of the uncertainties involved in such matters, including the fact that some pending legal proceedings are at preliminary stages or seek an indeterminate amount of damages, penalties or fines, it is possible that the outcome of legal proceedings could have a material impact on our results of operations. Certain legal proceedings involving us or our subsidiaries are described below.
On September 30, 2024, we were named as a defendant in a case filed in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, captioned Pizza Hazel, Inc., et al. v. American Express Co., et al., in which plaintiffs allege that the anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions in our merchant agreements violate federal antitrust law and that the arbitration provision in our merchant agreements violates federal antitrust law to the extent it prevents antitrust challenges to our anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions. Plaintiffs seek, on behalf of themselves and a class of merchants that accept through the OptBlue Program, unspecified damages and an injunction prohibiting us from enforcing our anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions and prohibiting us from enforcing our arbitration provision to the extent the arbitration provision prevents antitrust challenges to our anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions. The court rejected our motion to compel the case to arbitration; we have appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
On March 21, 2024, we were named as a defendant in a case filed in the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island, captioned 5-Star General Store aka Bento LLC, et al. v. American Express Co., et al., in which plaintiffs allege that the anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions in our merchant agreements violate federal antitrust law and seek, on behalf of themselves and a class of merchants, an injunction prohibiting us from enforcing our anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions and a declaration that we have violated antitrust laws. The court rejected our motion to compel the case to arbitration; we have appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
On January 29, 2019, we were named in a putative class action brought in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, captioned David Moskowitz, et al. (formerly Oliver) v. American Express Company and American Express Travel Related Services Company Inc., in which the plaintiffs are holders of MasterCard, Visa and/or Discover credit and/or debit cards (but not American Express cards) and allege they paid higher prices as a result of the anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions in our merchant agreements in violation of federal antitrust law and the antitrust and consumer laws of various states. Plaintiffs seek unspecified damages and other forms of relief. The court dismissed plaintiffs’ federal antitrust claim, numerous state antitrust and consumer protection claims and their unjust enrichment claim. For the remaining state antitrust or consumer protection claims, the court certified classes for (i) holders of Visa and MasterCard debit cards in eight states and Washington, D.C.; and (ii) holders of Visa, MasterCard and Discover credit cards that do not offer rewards or charge an annual fee in two states and Washington, D.C. After trial in August 2025, the jury returned a verdict finding in favor of us on all claims except an Illinois consumer law claim for the class of non-rewards credit card holders in Illinois for which the jury awarded $12.5 million in damages. We have reached an agreement with the class representatives to settle all claims in this action, which is subject to court approval.
On March 8, 2016, plaintiffs B&R Supermarket, Inc. d/b/a Milam’s Market and Grove Liquors LLC, on behalf of themselves and others, filed a suit, captioned B&R Supermarket, Inc. d/b/a Milam’s Market, et al. v. Visa Inc., et al., for violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Clayton Antitrust Act, California’s Cartwright Act and unjust enrichment in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, against American Express Company, other credit and charge card networks, other issuing banks and EMVCo, LLC. Plaintiffs allege that the defendants, through EMVCo, conspired to shift liability for fraudulent, faulty and otherwise rejected consumer credit card transactions from themselves to merchants after the implementation of EMV chip payment terminals. Plaintiffs seek damages and injunctive relief. On May 4, 2017, the California court transferred the case to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. On August 28, 2020, the court granted plaintiffs’ motion for class certification. On August 14, 2024, the court granted our motion to compel arbitration as to class members who are subject to our merchant agreements, but did not stay the claims pending arbitration. On November 15, 2024, we appealed to the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit requesting a stay of all claims against us that are subject to arbitration. On March 31, 2025, we reached an agreement with the class representatives to settle this action, which is subject to court approval.
On October 16, 2025, KServicing Wind Down Corp., the post-bankruptcy wind-down estate of Kabbage, Inc. (Kabbage), filed an action against American Express Kabbage Inc. and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., captioned KServicing Wind Down Corp, et al. v. American Express Kabbage Inc. (f/k/a Alpha Kabbage, Inc.) and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, seeking to recover up to approximately $746 million. The complaint alleges that our acquisition of Kabbage’s lending platform and other specified assets and liabilities included a fraudulent transfer that left Kabbage insolvent due to Kabbage’s liabilities, including those owed to the Department of Justice and Small Business Administration arising from Kabbage’s participation in the Paycheck Protection Program. The complaint seeks to avoid the alleged fraudulent transfer and recover the value of that transfer from us. A separate complaint seeking to recover some or all of the same amount was also filed on October 16, 2025 against certain of Kabbage’s former directors, officers and shareholders, who have taken the position that we must indemnify them for any resulting liability (which we dispute).
We are being challenged in a number of countries regarding our application of value-added taxes (VAT) to certain of our international transactions, which are in various stages of audit, or are being contested in legal actions. While we believe we have complied with all applicable tax laws, rules and regulations in the relevant jurisdictions, the tax authorities may determine that we owe additional VAT. In certain jurisdictions where we are contesting the assessments, we were required to pay the VAT assessments prior to contesting.
Our legal proceedings range from cases brought by a single plaintiff to class actions with millions of putative class members to governmental proceedings. These legal proceedings involve various lines of business and a variety of claims (including, but not limited to, common law tort, contract, application of tax laws, antitrust and consumer protection claims), some of which present novel factual allegations and/or unique legal theories. While some matters pending against us specify the damages sought, many seek an unspecified amount of damages or are at very early stages of the legal process. Even when the amount of damages claimed against us are stated, the claimed amount may be exaggerated and/or unsupported. As a result, some matters have not yet progressed sufficiently through discovery and/or development of important factual information and legal issues to enable us to estimate an amount of loss or a range of possible loss, while other matters have progressed sufficiently such that we are able to estimate an amount of loss or a range of possible loss.
We have accrued for certain of our outstanding legal proceedings. An accrual is recorded when it is both (a) probable that a loss has occurred and (b) the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. There may be instances in which an exposure to loss exceeds the accrual. We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in legal proceedings that could cause an increase or decrease in the amount of the accrual that has been previously recorded, or a revision to the disclosed estimated range of possible losses, as applicable.
For those disclosed legal proceedings where a loss is reasonably possible in future periods, whether in excess of a recorded accrual for legal or tax contingencies, or where there is no such accrual, and for which we are able to estimate a range of possible loss, the current estimated range is zero to $220 million in excess of any accruals related to those matters. This range represents management’s estimate based on currently available information and does not represent our maximum loss exposure; actual results may vary significantly. As such legal proceedings evolve, we may need to increase our range of possible loss or recorded accruals. In addition, it is possible that significantly increased merchant steering or other actions impairing the Card Member experience as a result of an adverse resolution in one or any combination of the disclosed merchant cases could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
v3.26.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Derivatives and Hedging Activities Derivatives and Hedging Activities
We use derivative financial instruments to manage exposures to various market risks. These instruments derive their value from an underlying variable or multiple variables, including interest rates and foreign exchange rates, and are carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These instruments enable end users to increase, reduce or alter exposure to various market risks and, for that reason, are an integral component of our market risk management. We do not transact in derivatives for trading purposes.
A majority of our derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 are subject to master netting agreements with our derivative counterparties. Accordingly, where appropriate, we have elected to present derivative assets and liabilities with the same counterparty on a net basis in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In relation to our credit risk, certain of our bilateral derivative agreements include provisions that allow our counterparties to terminate the relevant agreement in the event of a downgrade of our debt credit rating below investment grade and settle the outstanding net liability position. As of March 31, 2026, these derivatives were not in a material net liability position. Based on our assessment of the credit risk of our derivative counterparties and our own credit risk as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, no credit risk adjustment to the derivative portfolio was required.
The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 8.1: Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Other Assets Fair ValueOther Liabilities Fair Value
(Millions)2026202520262025
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a)
$— $— $— $4 
Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts223 26 56 699 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments223 26 56 702 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign exchange contracts and other
265 148 105 418 
Total derivatives, gross488 174 161 1,120 
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b)
(143)(151)(143)(151)
Cash collateral netting (c)
(37)(1)— (9)
Total derivatives, net$309 $22 $17 $961 
(a)For our centrally cleared derivatives, variation margin payments are legally characterized as settlement payments as opposed to collateral.
(b)Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement.
(c)Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts and certain foreign exchange contracts with the right to cash collateral held from the counterparty or cash collateral posted with the counterparty.
We posted $772 million and $756 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, as initial margin on our centrally cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not netted against the derivative balances.
Fair Value Hedges
We are exposed to interest rate risk associated with our fixed-rate debt obligations. At the time of issuance, certain fixed-rate long-term debt obligations are designated in fair value hedging relationships, using interest rate swaps, to economically convert the fixed interest rate to a floating interest rate. We had $39.6 billion and $36.7 billion of fixed-rate debt obligations designated in fair value hedging relationships as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.
The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 8.2: Gains and Losses associated with Fair Value Hedges on Fixed-rate Long Term Debt
Gains (losses)
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Fixed-rate long-term debt $222 $(263)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments(222)263 
Total$— $— 
The carrying values of the hedged liabilities, recorded within Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, were $39.6 billion and $37.0 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, including the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments of $144 million and $366 million for the respective periods.
We recognized in Interest expense on Long-term debt a net decrease of $16 million and an increase of $12 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, primarily related to the net settlements including interest accruals on our interest rate derivatives designated as fair value hedges.
Net Investment Hedges
A net investment hedge is used to hedge future changes in currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. We primarily designate foreign currency derivatives (typically foreign exchange forwards) and, in certain cases, foreign currency-denominated debt, as hedging instruments to reduce our exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on net investments in foreign subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currency.
We had notional amounts of approximately $17.1 billion and $16.3 billion designated as net investment hedges as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. The gain or loss on these net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI) as part of the cumulative translation adjustment, was a gain of $6 million and a loss of $198 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. Net investment hedge reclassifications out of AOCI into the Consolidated Statements of Income were not significant for both the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025.
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges
The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are primarily intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures. We had notional amounts of approximately $33.1 billion and $39.0 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. The changes in the fair value of the derivatives and the related underlying foreign currency exposures resulted in net gains of $15 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, that are recognized in Other, net expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Our embedded derivative related to seller earnout shares granted to us upon the completion of a business combination in the second quarter of 2022 between our equity method investee, American Express Global Business Travel, and Apollo Strategic Growth Capital (C Ordinary Shares of GBT JerseyCo Limited) had a notional amount of $78 million as of both March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025. The changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative resulted in losses of $9 million and $17 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, which were recognized in Service fees and other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
v3.26.1
Fair Values
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Values Fair Values
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Fair Value
The following table summarizes our financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy, as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 9.1: Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities measured at Fair Value
20262025
(Millions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Investment securities: (a)
Equity securities$44 $44 $— $— $46 $46 $— $— 
Debt securities
2,581 496 2,004 81 997 — 916 81 
Derivatives, gross (a)(b)
488 — 487 1 174 — 164 10 
Total Assets3,113 540 2,491 82 1,216 46 1,080 91 
Liabilities:
Derivatives, gross (a)
161 — 161 — 1,120 — 1,120 — 
Total Liabilities$161 $— $161 $— $1,120 $— $1,120 $— 
(a)Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 8 for the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities on a further disaggregated basis.
(b)Level 3 fair value reflects an embedded derivative. Management reviews and applies judgment to the valuation of the embedded derivative that is performed by an independent third party using a Monte Carlo simulation that models a range of probable future stock prices based on implied volatility in a risk neutral framework. Refer to Note 8 for additional information about this embedded derivative.
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Other Than Fair Value
The following tables summarize the estimated fair values of our financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at amortized cost, and not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, and require management’s judgment. These figures may not be indicative of future fair values, nor can the fair value of American Express be estimated by aggregating the amounts presented.
Table 9.2: Fair Value of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities measured at Amortized Cost
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
2026 (Billions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents (a)
$54 $54 $52 $2 $— 
Other financial assets (b)
5 5 — 5 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card balances and Other loans, less reserves (c)
218 223 — — 223 
Card balances HFS2 2 — — 2 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value172 172 — 172 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit (d)
17 17 — 17 — 
Long-term debt (c)
$58 $59 $— $59 $— 
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
2025 (Billions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents (a)
$48 $48 $46 $2 $— 
Other financial assets (b)
4 4 — 4 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card balances and Other loans, less reserves (c)
218 224 — — 224 
Card balances HFS2 2 — — 2 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value166 166 — 166 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit (d)
16 16 — 16 — 
Long-term debt (c)
$56 $57 $— $57 $— 
(a)Level 2 fair value amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments.
(b)Includes other receivables and other miscellaneous assets.
(c)Includes amounts held by consolidated VIEs for which the fair values of Card balances were $33.3 billion and $33.2 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $13.4 billion and $13.3 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.
(d)Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements
We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values, which include investments in our Amex Ventures portfolio, are measured at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition if they are determined to be impaired or where there is an observable price change for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer.
We generally estimate the fair value of these investments based on the observed transaction price. In addition, impairments on such investments are recorded to account for the difference between the estimated fair value and carrying value of an investment based on a qualitative assessment of impairment indicators such as business performance, general market conditions and the economic and regulatory environment. When an impairment triggering event occurs, the fair value measurement is generally derived by taking into account all available information, such as share prices of publicly traded peer companies, internal valuations performed by our investees, and other third-party fair value data. The fair value of these investments represents a Level 3 fair value measurement.
The carrying value of equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $1.2 billion and $1.1 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, of which investments subject to nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurement during the three months ended March 31, 2026 and the year ended December 31, 2025 totaled $62 million and $0.5 billion, respectively. These amounts are included within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We recorded unrealized gains of $22 million and nil for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. Unrealized losses were $10 million and $39 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. Unrealized gains and losses are recorded in Other, net on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Since the adoption of new accounting guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities on January 1, 2018, cumulative unrealized gains and losses for equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $1.2 billion and $0.5 billion as of March 31, 2026, respectively.
In addition, we also have certain equity investments measured at fair value using the net asset value practical expedient. Such investments were immaterial as of both March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025.
v3.26.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]  
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
AOCI is comprised of items that have not been recognized in earnings but may be recognized in earnings in the future when certain events occur. Changes in each component for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Table 10.1: Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Millions), net of tax
Three Months Ended,
March 31, 2026Net ChangeDecember 31, 2025March 31, 2025Net ChangeDecember 31, 2024
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt Securities
$(11)$(7)$(4)$(6)$3 $(9)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Gains (Losses), net of hedges (a)
(2,805)(22)(2,783)(2,907)17 (2,924)
Net Unrealized Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Gains (Losses)
(495)(5)(490)(453)9 (462)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
$(3,311)$(34)$(3,277)$(3,366)$29 $(3,395)
(a)Refer to Note 8 for additional information on hedging activity.
The following table shows the tax impact for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above:
Table 10.2: Tax Impact for Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Tax expense (benefit)
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities
$(1)$— 
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of hedges(9)(60)
Pension and other postretirement benefits12 (1)
Total tax impact$2 $(61)
Reclassifications out of AOCI into the Consolidated Statements of Income, net of taxes, for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 were not significant.
v3.26.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses [Abstract]  
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses
The following is a detail of Service fees and other revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 11.1: Components of Service Fees and Other Revenue
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Foreign currency-related revenue
$480 $382 
Loyalty coalition, merchant and other service fees
464 436 
Network partnership revenue
449 408 
Delinquency fees255 237 
Travel commissions and fees
150 136 
Other fees and revenues
154 123 
Total Service fees and other revenue$1,951 $1,722 
The following is a detail of Other expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 11.2: Components of Other Expense
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Data processing and equipment
$767 $705 
Professional services545 541 
Other
147 400 
Total Other expenses$1,459 $1,646 
v3.26.1
Income Taxes
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
The effective tax rate was 21.4 percent and 22.4 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. The decrease in the effective tax rate primarily reflected discrete tax benefits in the current period.
We are under continuous examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and tax authorities in other countries and states in which we have significant business operations. The tax years under examination and open for examination vary by jurisdiction. We are currently under examination by the IRS for the 2017 and 2018 tax years.
In December 2024, we received a Notice of Proposed Adjustment (Notice) from the IRS regarding transfer pricing between our U.S. and foreign subsidiaries for the 2017 and 2018 tax years currently under examination. The Notice proposes an increase to our U.S. taxable income that would result in an additional estimated U.S. federal income tax payment of approximately $185 million for 2017 and 2018, excluding interest and state income taxes, and asserts penalties of approximately $50 million for the same period. Although the Notice only applies to the 2017 and 2018 tax years currently under examination, the IRS may seek similar adjustments for subsequent tax years.
We strongly disagree with the IRS’s positions and plan to pursue all available remedies to vigorously contest the adjustments made by the IRS. We believe our income tax reserves are appropriate for all open tax years and that final resolution of this matter will not have a material impact on our results of operations. However, the ultimate outcome of this matter is uncertain, and if we are required to pay the IRS additional U.S. taxes, interest and/or potential penalties, our results of operations could be materially affected for the period in which the matter is resolved.
Tax Credit Investments
As of March 31, 2026 and 2025, we had $1,832 million and $1,699 million in tax credit investments, respectively, included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, comprised of Low Income Housing Tax Credit investments and other qualifying investments. We account for such tax credit investments using the Proportional Amortization Method.
The following table presents tax credit investment expenses and associated income tax credits and other income tax benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 12.1: Tax Credit Investments Expenses and Credits
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision
$(66)$(57)
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits (a) recognized in tax provision
76 66 
(a)Other income tax benefits are a result of tax deductible expenses generated by our tax credit investments
Income tax credits and other income tax benefits associated with our tax credit investments are also recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the Operating activities section primarily under Accounts payable and other liabilities. Refer to Note 6 to our “Consolidated Financial Statements” in the 2025 Form 10-K for additional information on our tax credit investments for the year ended December 31, 2025.
v3.26.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)
The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Table 13.1: Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions, except per share amounts)20262025
Numerator:
Basic and diluted:
Net income$2,971 $2,584 
Preferred dividends (14)(14)
Net income available to common shareholders$2,957 $2,570 
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (a)
(19)(18)
Net income attributable to common shareholders$2,938 $2,552 
Denominator:(a)
Basic: Weighted-average common stock685 701 
Add: Weighted-average stock options (b)
1 1 
Diluted686 702 
Basic EPS$4.29 $3.64 
Diluted EPS$4.28 $3.64 
(a)Our unvested restricted stock awards, which include the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents, are considered participating securities. Calculations of EPS under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator.
(b)The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS nil and 0.1 million of options for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.
v3.26.1
Reportable Operating Segments
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Reportable Operating Segments Reportable Operating Segments
The following tables present certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the three months ended March 31:
Table 14.1: Selected Financial Information by Segment
Three Months Ended March 31, 2026
(Millions)
USCSCSICSGMNSTotal Reportable Operating Segments
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
Total non-interest revenues$5,803 $3,408 $3,164 $1,825 $14,200 $15 $14,215 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
3,989 2,931 1,977 1,631 10,528 (11)10,517 
Interest income4,072 1,345 728 10 6,155 510 6,665 
Interest expense751 432 360 (169)1,374 599 1,973 
Net interest income
3,321 913 367 180 4,781 (88)4,692 
Total revenues net of interest expense9,123 4,321 3,532 2,004 18,980 (73)18,907 
Provisions for credit losses631 380 238 4 1,253 — 1,251 
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses8,493 3,941 3,294 2,000 17,728 (73)17,656 
Expenses
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services (c)
4,605 1,986 1,551 306 8,448 8 8,457 
Marketing764 311 332 65 1,472 7 1,480 
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses1,367 828 630 514 3,339 602 3,941 
Total expenses6,736 3,126 2,513 885 13,260 618 13,878 
Pretax income (loss)$1,757 $816 $781 $1,115 $4,469 $(691)$3,778 
Total assets
$119,517 $66,076 $50,180 $19,353 $255,126 $53,769 $308,894 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
(Millions)
USCSCSICSGMNS
Total Reportable Operating Segments
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
Total non-interest revenues$5,243 $3,265 $2,646 $1,660 $12,814 $(16)$12,798 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
3,634 2,828 1,688 1,485 9,635 (9)9,626 
Interest income3,763 1,202 596 12 5,573 562 6,135 
Interest expense757 432 306 (143)1,352 614 1,966 
Net interest income3,006 770 290 155 4,221 (52)4,169 
Total revenues net of interest expense8,249 4,035 2,936 1,815 17,035 (68)16,967 
Provisions for credit losses631 329 192 (2)1,150 — 1,150 
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses7,618 3,706 2,744 1,817 15,885 (68)15,817 
Expenses
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services (c)
3,882 1,746 1,312 283 7,223 12 7,235 
Marketing765 337 300 76 1,478 8 1,486 
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses1,239 787 751 468 3,245 521 3,766 
Total expenses5,886 2,870 2,363 827 11,946 541 12,487 
Pretax income (loss)$1,732 $836 $381 $990 $3,939 $(609)$3,330 
Total assets
$110,886 $62,012 $42,620 $18,083 $233,601 $48,643 $282,244 
(a)Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity.
(b)Includes discount revenue and certain service fees and other revenue from customers.
(c)Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services expenses are generally correlated to volumes or are variable based on usage.
v3.26.1
Insider Trading Arrangements
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted false
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
v3.26.1
Basis of Presentation (Policies)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation
The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation.
We have updated our presentation and disclosure of Card Member loans and Card Member receivables to present them on a combined basis as Card balances. Results for the first quarter of 2026 and prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the new presentation. Previously, Card Member loans represented balances on our credit card products and revolve-eligible balances on our charge card products, which included balances that Card Members paid in full as well as balances that Card Members paid over time with interest, and Card Member receivables represented balances on our charge card products that need to be paid in full on or before the Card Member’s payment due date. The updated Card balances presentation includes both revolve-eligible balances and balances that need to be paid in full, reflecting the evolution of our card products over time, primarily due to the expansion of lending features on our charge card portfolio. This presentation change has no impact on the recognition or measurement of outstanding Card balances and associated reserves for credit losses.
Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization When the building goes into service, capitalized construction costs will be depreciated over the estimated useful life of the premises.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
In November 2024 and as amended in January 2025, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance on the Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2026 and for interim reporting periods beginning December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance includes the requirement for a new tabular disclosure within a Note to the Consolidated Financial Statements, to disaggregate defined expense categories from the expense report lines presented on the Consolidated Statements of Income. We are currently assessing the updated guidance; however, it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In September 2025, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated guidance on accounting for internal-use software, effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. The amendments modernize guidance to consider different methods of software development, updating the requirements for capitalization of software costs. We are currently assessing the updated guidance; however, it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Reserves for Credit Losses
Reserves for credit losses represent our best estimate of the expected credit losses in our outstanding portfolios of Card balances as of the balance sheet date. The Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) methodology requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses by incorporating historical loss experience, as well as current and future economic conditions over a reasonable and supportable period (R&S Period), which is approximately three years, beyond the balance sheet date. We make various judgments combined with historical loss experience to determine a reserve rate that is applied to the outstanding balance to produce a reserve for expected credit losses.
We use a combination of statistically-based models that incorporate current and future economic conditions throughout the R&S Period. The process of estimating expected credit losses is based on several key models: Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at Default (EAD) and future recoveries for each month of the R&S Period. Beyond the R&S Period, we estimate expected credit losses by immediately reverting to long-term average loss rates.
•PD models are used to estimate the likelihood an account will be written-off.
•EAD models are used to estimate the balance of an account at the time of write-off. This includes balances less expected repayments based on historical payment and revolve behavior, which vary by customer. Due to the nature of revolving loan portfolios, the EAD models are complex and involve assumptions regarding the relationship between future spend and payment behaviors.
•Recovery models are used to estimate amounts that are expected to be received from Card Members after default occurs, typically as a result of collection efforts. Future recoveries are estimated taking into consideration the time of default, time elapsed since default and macroeconomic conditions.
We also estimate the likelihood and magnitude of recovery of previously written off accounts considering how long ago the account was written off and future economic conditions, even if such expected recoveries exceed expected losses. Our models are developed using historical loss experience covering the economic cycle and consider the impact of account characteristics on expected losses. This history includes the performance of modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty, including their subsequent defaults.
Future economic conditions that are incorporated over the R&S Period include multiple macroeconomic scenarios provided to us by an independent third party. Management reviews these economic scenarios each period and assigns probability weights to each scenario, generally with a consistent initial distribution. At times, due to macroeconomic uncertainty and volatility, management may apply judgment and assign different probability weights to scenarios. These macroeconomic scenarios contain certain variables, including unemployment rates and real gross domestic product (GDP), that are significant to our models.
We also evaluate whether to include qualitative reserves to cover losses that are expected but, in our assessment, may not be adequately represented in the quantitative methods or the economic assumptions. We consider whether to adjust the quantitative reserves (higher or lower) to address possible limitations within the models or factors not included within the models, such as external conditions, emerging portfolio trends, the nature and size of the portfolio, portfolio concentrations, the volume and severity of past due accounts, or management risk actions.
Lifetime losses for most of our balances are evaluated at an appropriate level of granularity, including assessment on a pooled basis where financial assets share similar risk characteristics, such as past spend and remittance behaviors, credit bureau scores where available, delinquency status, tenure of balance outstanding, amongst others. Credit losses on accrued interest are measured and presented as part of Reserves for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and within the Provisions for credit losses in the Consolidated Statements of Income, rather than reversing interest income.
For Other loans, we use vintage-based historical performance to estimate expected credit losses over the life of the loan, net of recovery estimates. We also assess the need to establish a reserve for expected credit losses as it relates to our card network business, taking into account our historical loss experience and any collateral or other forms of credit enhancements from network participants. If our expected credit losses exceed our outstanding receivables from network participants, a portion of the reserve for credit losses is recorded within Other liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Card balances and Other loans are written off when we consider amounts to be uncollectible, which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due for Card balances and 120 days past due for Other loans. Balances in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification.
Investment Securities Investment securities principally include available-for-sale (AFS) debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrealized losses attributable to credit deterioration are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other loans Provision for credit losses. Unrealized gains and any portion of a security’s unrealized loss attributable to non-credit losses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, net of tax.
Investment securities also include equity securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with unrealized gains and losses recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense.
Realized gains and losses are recognized upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method and recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense.
Asset Securitizations
We periodically securitize Card balances arising from our card businesses through the transfer of those assets to securitization trusts, American Express Credit Account Master Trust (the Lending Trust) and American Express Issuance Trust II (the Charge Trust and together with the Lending Trust, the Trusts). The Trusts then issue debt securities collateralized by the transferred assets to third-party investors.
The Trusts are considered VIEs as they have insufficient equity at risk to finance their activities, which are to issue debt securities that are collateralized by the underlying Card balances. We perform the servicing and key decision making for the Trusts, and therefore have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Trusts’ economic performance, which are the collection of the underlying Card balances. In addition, we hold all of the variable interests in both Trusts, with the exception of the debt securities issued to third-party investors.These variable interests held by us provide us with the right to receive benefits and the obligation to absorb losses, which could be significant to both the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust. Based on these considerations, we are the primary beneficiary of the Trusts and therefore consolidate the Trusts.
Contingencies
We have accrued for certain of our outstanding legal proceedings. An accrual is recorded when it is both (a) probable that a loss has occurred and (b) the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. There may be instances in which an exposure to loss exceeds the accrual. We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in legal proceedings that could cause an increase or decrease in the amount of the accrual that has been previously recorded, or a revision to the disclosed estimated range of possible losses, as applicable.
For those disclosed legal proceedings where a loss is reasonably possible in future periods, whether in excess of a recorded accrual for legal or tax contingencies, or where there is no such accrual, and for which we are able to estimate a range of possible loss, the current estimated range is zero to $220 million in excess of any accruals related to those matters. This range represents management’s estimate based on currently available information and does not represent our maximum loss exposure; actual results may vary significantly. As such legal proceedings evolve, we may need to increase our range of possible loss or recorded accruals. In addition, it is possible that significantly increased merchant steering or other actions impairing the Card Member experience as a result of an adverse resolution in one or any combination of the disclosed merchant cases could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Derivatives
A majority of our derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 are subject to master netting agreements with our derivative counterparties. Accordingly, where appropriate, we have elected to present derivative assets and liabilities with the same counterparty on a net basis in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We primarily designate foreign currency derivatives (typically foreign exchange forwards) and, in certain cases, foreign currency-denominated debt, as hedging instruments to reduce our exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on net investments in foreign subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currency.The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are primarily intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures.
Fair Values
We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values, which include investments in our Amex Ventures portfolio, are measured at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition if they are determined to be impaired or where there is an observable price change for an identical or similar investment of the same issuer.
We generally estimate the fair value of these investments based on the observed transaction price. In addition, impairments on such investments are recorded to account for the difference between the estimated fair value and carrying value of an investment based on a qualitative assessment of impairment indicators such as business performance, general market conditions and the economic and regulatory environment. When an impairment triggering event occurs, the fair value measurement is generally derived by taking into account all available information, such as share prices of publicly traded peer companies, internal valuations performed by our investees, and other third-party fair value data. The fair value of these investments represents a Level 3 fair value measurement.
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Receivables [Abstract]  
Card member and other loan detail
Card balances and Other loans as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 consisted of:
Table 2.1: Card Balances and Other Loans
(Millions)20262025
Consumer (a)
$140,908 $144,324 
Small Business55,098 53,632 
Corporate (a)
17,306 15,907 
Card balances213,311 213,863 
Less: Reserves for credit losses6,065 6,089 
Card balances, net$207,247 $207,774 
Other loans, net (b)
$10,535 $10,605 
(a)Includes approximately $33.4 billion of gross Card balances available to settle obligations of a consolidated variable interest entity (VIE) as of both March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025.
(b)Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $314 million and $323 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.
Aging of receivables The following table presents the aging of Card balances as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 2.2: Card Balances Aging
(Millions)
Current30-59
Days
Past Due		60-89
Days
Past Due		90+
Days
Past Due		Total
90+ Days Past Due and Still Accruing Interest (a)
Non-Accruals(b)
2026
Consumer$139,125 $522 $388 $873 $140,908 $452 $480 
Small Business54,295 256 194 353 55,098 136 186 
Corporate (c)
(d)(d)(d)71 17,306 — — 
2025
Consumer142,552 529 392 851 144,324 434 471 
Small Business$52,870 $255 $168 340 53,632 130 177 
Corporate (c)
(d)(d)(d)$75 $15,907 $— $— 
(a)Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 180 days past due). We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
(b)Non-accrual Card balances primarily include certain Card balances placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest.
(c)For corporate accounts, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. A Card Member account is considered 90 days past billing if payment has not been received within 90 days of the Card Member’s billing statement date. In addition, if we initiate collection procedures on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card balances are classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (d).
(d)Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing has not historically been available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been a material input for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past billing can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
The following tables present the aging and gross write-offs for Other loans by year of origination as of or for the three months ended March 31, 2026, and as of or for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025:
Table 2.3: Other Loans Aging and Gross Write-Offs by Origination Year
2026 (Millions)
20262025202420232022
Prior
Revolving Loans (a)
Total
Current
$1,465 $4,505 $1,716 $338 $34 $57 $2,670 $10,785 
30-59 Days Past Due
— 7 6 2 — — 7 23 
60-89 Days Past Due
— 6 5 2 — — 7 21 
90+ Days Past Due (b)
— 6 5 2 — 1 7 20 
Total (c)
$1,465 $4,524 $1,731 $344 $35 $59 $2,691 $10,849 
Gross Write-Offs
$— $16 $18 $7 $1 $— $24 $66 
2025 (Millions)
20252024202320222021
Prior
Revolving Loans (a)
Total
Current
$5,532 $2,172 $494 $45 $6 $54 $2,564 $10,867 
30-59 Days Past Due
6 7 2 — — 1 8 25 
60-89 Days Past Due
4 5 2 — — — 8 19 
90+ Days Past Due (b)
3 5 2 — — 1 6 17 
Total (c)
$5,545 $2,188 $500 $46 $6 $56 $2,587 $10,928 
Gross Write-Offs
$15 $77 $47 $13 $1 $— $88 $242 
(a)Revolving loans consist primarily of lines of credit offered to small business customers. Revolving loans include $5 million of term loans that were converted from revolving loans.
(b)Over 90 days past due includes $8 million and $7 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, of loans on which interest is still accruing. Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 120 days past due) except for lines of credit offered to small business customers, where interest ceases to accrue at 90 days past due. We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
(c)This total includes non-accrual loans of $19 million and $16 million as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively. Non-accruals for consumer installment loans primarily include certain loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest.
Credit quality indicators for loans and receivables
The following table presents the key credit quality indicators as of or for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.4: Credit Quality Indicators for Card Balances and Other Loans
20262025
Net Write-Off RateNet Write-Off Rate
Principal
Only (a)
Principal,
Interest &
Fees (a)
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total
Principal
Only (a)
Principal,
Interest &
Fees (a)
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total
Card balances:
Consumer1.9 %2.3 %1.3 %2.1 %2.5 %1.3 %
Small Business2.4 %2.7 %1.5 %2.3 %2.6 %1.4 %
Corporate (b)0.7 %(c)(b)0.5 %(c)
Other loans2.0 %2.1 %0.6 %2.2 %2.3 %0.6 %
(a)We present a net write-off rate based on principal losses only (i.e., excluding interest and/or fees) to be consistent with industry convention. In addition, as our practice is to include uncollectible interest and/or fees as part of our total provision for credit losses, a net write-off rate including principal, interest and/or fees is also presented.
(b)Net write-off rate based on principal losses only is not available due to system constraints.
(c)For corporate Card balances, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. 90+ days past billing as a percent of total was 0.4% as of both March 31, 2026 and 2025.
Modifications of loans and receivables
The following table provides information relating to Card balances and Other loans modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.5: Card Balances and Other Loans Modifications for Borrowers Experiencing Financial Difficulty
Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Account Balances
(Millions) (a)
% of Total Class of
Financing Receivables
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction
(% points)		Weighted Average Payment
Term Extensions
(# of months)
Account Balances
(Millions) (a)
% of Total Class of
Financing Receivables
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction
(% points)		Weighted Average Payment
Term Extensions
(# of months)
Interest Rate Reduction
Card balances
Consumer$609 0.5 %18.2 %(b)$545 0.5 %18.4 %(b)
Small Business273 0.8 %18.1 %(b)229 0.7 %17.7 %(b)
Corporate— — — (b)— — — (b)
Term Extension
Card balances
Consumer70 0.3 %(b)3276 0.3 %(b)31
Small Business141 0.7 %(b)31137 0.7 %(b)29
Corporate12 0.1 %(b)105 0.03 %(b)11
Other loans12 0.1 %— 1812 0.1 %— 17
Interest Rate Reduction
and Term Extension
Other loans23 0.2 %3.8 %2117 0.2 %3.1 %21
Total$1,139 $1,021 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, of all modifications undertaken in the current and preceding three months for balances that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. The outstanding balances include principal, fees, and, where applicable, accrued interest. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For qualifying Card Member accounts, we offer either interest rate reductions or payment term extensions.
The following tables provide information relating to the performance of Card balances and Other loans that were modified during the prior twelve months and that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 2.7: Performance of Modified Card Balances and Other Loans
As of March 31, 2026
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card balances
Consumer1,948 130 49 
Small Business1,005 106 31 
Corporate13 3 3 
Other loans89 5 2 
Total$3,056 $244 $86 
As of March 31, 2025
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card balances
Consumer1,812 119 47 
Small Business941 94 28 
Corporate8 3 1 
Other loans81 5 1 
Total$2,842 $221 $77 
(a)The outstanding balances include principal, fees and where applicable, accrued interest
Modified loans and receivables that subsequently defaulted
The following table provides information with respect to modified Card balances and Other loans that defaulted during the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, and were modified in the twelve months prior to the payment default. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
Table 2.6: Modified Card Balances and Other Loans that Defaulted within Twelve Months of Modification
Three Months Ended March 31,
20262025
Account Balance (Millions) (a)
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Card balances
Consumer$46 $5 — 50 45 $5 — 50 
Small Business$25 11 — 36 22 11 — 33 
Corporate$— 1 — 1 — — — — 
Other loans— — 2 2 — — 1 1 
Total$71 $16 $2 $89 $67 $16 $1 $84 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, of all modifications that defaulted in the periods presented and were modified in the twelve months prior to payment default. The outstanding balances include principal, fees and, where applicable, accrued interest.
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Credit Loss [Abstract]  
Schedule of key variables in macroeconomic scenarios utilized for computation of reserves for credit losses
The following table reflects the range of macroeconomic scenario key variables available to us as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, which were used, in conjunction with other inputs, to calculate reserves for credit losses:
Table 3.1: Key Macroeconomic Variables
U.S. Unemployment Rate
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) (a)
March 31, 2026December 31, 2025March 31, 2026December 31, 2025
First quarter of 2026
5%
4% - 6%
3%
5% - (3)%
Fourth quarter of 2026
4% - 8%
4% - 8%
3% - (4)%
3% - 0.5%
Fourth quarter of 2027
4% - 8%
4% - 8%
2%
2%
Fourth quarter of 2028
4% - 7%
4% - 6%
3% - 2%
4% - 2%
(a)Real GDP quarter over quarter percentage change seasonally adjusted to annualized rates.
Schedule of changes in card member loans, receivables, and other loans
The following table presents changes in the Card balances reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 3.2: Changes in Card Balances Reserve for Credit Losses
Three Months Ended March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Beginning reserves
$6,089 $5,850 
Provisions (a)
1,187 1,047 
Net write-offs (b)
(1,213)(1,165)
Other (c)
1 8 
Ending reserves
$6,065 $5,740 
(a)Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. Provisions for credit losses includes reserve build (release) and replenishment for net write-offs.
(b)Net write-offs are presented less recoveries of $352 million and $294 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments
The following table presents changes in the Other loans reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 3.3: Changes in Other Loans Reserve for Credit Losses
Three Months Ended March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Beginning reserves
$323 $194 
Provisions (a)
48 105 
Net write-offs (b)
Principal
(54)(53)
Interest and fees
(3)(2)
Other
— — 
Ending reserves
$314 $244 
(a)Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. Provisions for credit losses includes reserve build (release) and replenishment for net write-offs.
(b)Principal write-offs are presented less recoveries of $9 million and $7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant.
v3.26.1
Investment Securities (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Schedule of available for sale securities by type
The following is a summary of investment securities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 4.1: Investment Securities
20262025
Description of Securities
(Millions)
CostGross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair
Value		CostGross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair
Value
Available-for-sale debt securities:
State and municipal obligations$53 $1 $(7)$47 $54 $1 $(7)$48 
U.S. Government agency obligations3 — — 3 3 — — 3 
U.S. Government treasury obligations
1,635 — (7)1,628 138 1 — 138 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)
9 — — 9 10 — — 9 
Foreign government bonds and obligations813 — — 813 717 — — 717 
Other (b)
81 — — 81 81 — — 81 
Equity securities (c)
54 — (9)44 54 — (8)46 
Total$2,648 $2 $(24)$2,625 $1,056 $2 $(16)$1,043 
(a)Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae.
(b)Represents investments in debt securities issued by Community Development Financial Institutions.
(c)Equity securities comprise investments in common stock and mutual funds.
Available-for-sale securities, continuous unrealized loss position, fair value
The following table provides information about our AFS debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 4.2: AFS Debt Securities with Gross Unrealized Losses by Duration
20262025
Less than 12 months12 months or moreLess than 12 months12 months or more
Description of Securities (Millions)
Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
State and municipal obligations$— $— $25 $(7)$— $— $26 $(7)
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,515 (7)— — — — — — 
Total$1,515 $(7)$25 $(7)$— $— $26 $(7)
Contractual maturities of investment securities
Contractual maturities for AFS debt securities with stated maturities as of March 31, 2026 were as follows:    
Table 4.3: Contractual Maturities of AFS Debt Securities
(Millions)CostEstimated Fair Value
Due in 1 year or less
$902 $902 
Due after 1 year through 5 years
1,643 1,637 
Due after 5 years through 10 years
7 7 
Due after 10 years
43 36 
Total$2,595 $2,581 
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Deposits [Abstract]  
Customer deposits by component and type
As of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows:
Table 6.1: Interest-bearing and Non-Interest-bearing Customer Deposits
(Millions)20262025
U.S.:
Interest-bearing$156,726 $151,425 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $567; 2025, $556)
610 606 
Non-U.S.:
Interest-bearing18 18 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $591; 2025, $436)
594 439 
Total customer deposits$157,948 $152,488 
Customer deposits by deposit type as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025 were as follows:
Table 6.2: Customer Deposits by Type
(Millions)20262025
U.S. interest-bearing deposits:
Savings accounts
$121,257 $116,867 
Checking accounts
3,283 2,965 
Certificates of deposit:
Direct7,280 5,979 
Third-party (brokered)9,395 9,919 
Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered)15,511 15,696 
Total U.S. interest-bearing deposits
$156,726 $151,425 
Other deposits65 71 
Card Member credit balances1,157 992 
Total customer deposits$157,948 $152,488 
Time deposits by maturity
The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2026 were as follows:
Table 6.3: Scheduled Maturities of Certificates of Deposit
(Millions)20262027202820292030ThereafterTotal
Certificates of deposit (a)
$4,113 $7,256 $2,762 $671 $1,879 $5 $16,686 
(a)Includes $11 million of non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2026.
v3.26.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of derivative instruments in statement of financial position, fair value
The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 8.1: Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities
Other Assets Fair ValueOther Liabilities Fair Value
(Millions)2026202520262025
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a)
$— $— $— $4 
Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts223 26 56 699 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments223 26 56 702 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign exchange contracts and other
265 148 105 418 
Total derivatives, gross488 174 161 1,120 
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b)
(143)(151)(143)(151)
Cash collateral netting (c)
(37)(1)— (9)
Total derivatives, net$309 $22 $17 $961 
(a)For our centrally cleared derivatives, variation margin payments are legally characterized as settlement payments as opposed to collateral.
(b)Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement.
(c)Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts and certain foreign exchange contracts with the right to cash collateral held from the counterparty or cash collateral posted with the counterparty.
Effect of fair value hedges on results of operations
The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 8.2: Gains and Losses associated with Fair Value Hedges on Fixed-rate Long Term Debt
Gains (losses)
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Fixed-rate long-term debt $222 $(263)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments(222)263 
Total$— $— 
v3.26.1
Fair Values (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis
The following table summarizes our financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy, as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025:
Table 9.1: Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities measured at Fair Value
20262025
(Millions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Investment securities: (a)
Equity securities$44 $44 $— $— $46 $46 $— $— 
Debt securities
2,581 496 2,004 81 997 — 916 81 
Derivatives, gross (a)(b)
488 — 487 1 174 — 164 10 
Total Assets3,113 540 2,491 82 1,216 46 1,080 91 
Liabilities:
Derivatives, gross (a)
161 — 161 — 1,120 — 1,120 — 
Total Liabilities$161 $— $161 $— $1,120 $— $1,120 $— 
(a)Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 8 for the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities on a further disaggregated basis.
(b)Level 3 fair value reflects an embedded derivative. Management reviews and applies judgment to the valuation of the embedded derivative that is performed by an independent third party using a Monte Carlo simulation that models a range of probable future stock prices based on implied volatility in a risk neutral framework. Refer to Note 8 for additional information about this embedded derivative.
Estimated fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities
The following tables summarize the estimated fair values of our financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at amortized cost, and not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, and require management’s judgment. These figures may not be indicative of future fair values, nor can the fair value of American Express be estimated by aggregating the amounts presented.
Table 9.2: Fair Value of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities measured at Amortized Cost
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
2026 (Billions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents (a)
$54 $54 $52 $2 $— 
Other financial assets (b)
5 5 — 5 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card balances and Other loans, less reserves (c)
218 223 — — 223 
Card balances HFS2 2 — — 2 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value172 172 — 172 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit (d)
17 17 — 17 — 
Long-term debt (c)
$58 $59 $— $59 $— 
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
2025 (Billions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents (a)
$48 $48 $46 $2 $— 
Other financial assets (b)
4 4 — 4 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card balances and Other loans, less reserves (c)
218 224 — — 224 
Card balances HFS2 2 — — 2 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value166 166 — 166 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit (d)
16 16 — 16 — 
Long-term debt (c)
$56 $57 $— $57 $— 
(a)Level 2 fair value amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments.
(b)Includes other receivables and other miscellaneous assets.
(c)Includes amounts held by consolidated VIEs for which the fair values of Card balances were $33.3 billion and $33.2 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $13.4 billion and $13.3 billion as of March 31, 2026 and December 31, 2025, respectively.
(d)Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
v3.26.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]  
Components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Changes in each component for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Table 10.1: Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(Millions), net of tax
Three Months Ended,
March 31, 2026Net ChangeDecember 31, 2025March 31, 2025Net ChangeDecember 31, 2024
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt Securities
$(11)$(7)$(4)$(6)$3 $(9)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Gains (Losses), net of hedges (a)
(2,805)(22)(2,783)(2,907)17 (2,924)
Net Unrealized Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Gains (Losses)
(495)(5)(490)(453)9 (462)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
$(3,311)$(34)$(3,277)$(3,366)$29 $(3,395)
(a)Refer to Note 8 for additional information on hedging activity.
AOCI income tax effect
The following table shows the tax impact for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above:
Table 10.2: Tax Impact for Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Tax expense (benefit)
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities
$(1)$— 
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of hedges(9)(60)
Pension and other postretirement benefits12 (1)
Total tax impact$2 $(61)
v3.26.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses [Abstract]  
Service fees and other revenue
The following is a detail of Service fees and other revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 11.1: Components of Service Fees and Other Revenue
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Foreign currency-related revenue
$480 $382 
Loyalty coalition, merchant and other service fees
464 436 
Network partnership revenue
449 408 
Delinquency fees255 237 
Travel commissions and fees
150 136 
Other fees and revenues
154 123 
Total Service fees and other revenue$1,951 $1,722 
Other expenses
The following is a detail of Other expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 11.2: Components of Other Expense
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Data processing and equipment
$767 $705 
Professional services545 541 
Other
147 400 
Total Other expenses$1,459 $1,646 
v3.26.1
Income Taxes (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Tax credit investments expenses and related income tax credits and other tax benefits
The following table presents tax credit investment expenses and associated income tax credits and other income tax benefits for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025:
Table 12.1: Tax Credit Investments Expenses and Credits
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions)20262025
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision
$(66)$(57)
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits (a) recognized in tax provision
76 66 
(a)Other income tax benefits are a result of tax deductible expenses generated by our tax credit investments
v3.26.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Computation of basic and diluted EPS
The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025 were as follows:
Table 13.1: Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share
Three Months Ended
March 31,
(Millions, except per share amounts)20262025
Numerator:
Basic and diluted:
Net income$2,971 $2,584 
Preferred dividends (14)(14)
Net income available to common shareholders$2,957 $2,570 
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (a)
(19)(18)
Net income attributable to common shareholders$2,938 $2,552 
Denominator:(a)
Basic: Weighted-average common stock685 701 
Add: Weighted-average stock options (b)
1 1 
Diluted686 702 
Basic EPS$4.29 $3.64 
Diluted EPS$4.28 $3.64 
(a)Our unvested restricted stock awards, which include the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents, are considered participating securities. Calculations of EPS under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator.
(b)The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS nil and 0.1 million of options for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.
v3.26.1
Reportable Operating Segments (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Operating segment information
The following tables present certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the three months ended March 31:
Table 14.1: Selected Financial Information by Segment
Three Months Ended March 31, 2026
(Millions)
USCSCSICSGMNSTotal Reportable Operating Segments
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
Total non-interest revenues$5,803 $3,408 $3,164 $1,825 $14,200 $15 $14,215 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
3,989 2,931 1,977 1,631 10,528 (11)10,517 
Interest income4,072 1,345 728 10 6,155 510 6,665 
Interest expense751 432 360 (169)1,374 599 1,973 
Net interest income
3,321 913 367 180 4,781 (88)4,692 
Total revenues net of interest expense9,123 4,321 3,532 2,004 18,980 (73)18,907 
Provisions for credit losses631 380 238 4 1,253 — 1,251 
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses8,493 3,941 3,294 2,000 17,728 (73)17,656 
Expenses
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services (c)
4,605 1,986 1,551 306 8,448 8 8,457 
Marketing764 311 332 65 1,472 7 1,480 
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses1,367 828 630 514 3,339 602 3,941 
Total expenses6,736 3,126 2,513 885 13,260 618 13,878 
Pretax income (loss)$1,757 $816 $781 $1,115 $4,469 $(691)$3,778 
Total assets
$119,517 $66,076 $50,180 $19,353 $255,126 $53,769 $308,894 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
(Millions)
USCSCSICSGMNS
Total Reportable Operating Segments
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
Total non-interest revenues$5,243 $3,265 $2,646 $1,660 $12,814 $(16)$12,798 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
3,634 2,828 1,688 1,485 9,635 (9)9,626 
Interest income3,763 1,202 596 12 5,573 562 6,135 
Interest expense757 432 306 (143)1,352 614 1,966 
Net interest income3,006 770 290 155 4,221 (52)4,169 
Total revenues net of interest expense8,249 4,035 2,936 1,815 17,035 (68)16,967 
Provisions for credit losses631 329 192 (2)1,150 — 1,150 
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses7,618 3,706 2,744 1,817 15,885 (68)15,817 
Expenses
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services (c)
3,882 1,746 1,312 283 7,223 12 7,235 
Marketing765 337 300 76 1,478 8 1,486 
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses1,239 787 751 468 3,245 521 3,766 
Total expenses5,886 2,870 2,363 827 11,946 541 12,487 
Pretax income (loss)$1,732 $836 $381 $990 $3,939 $(609)$3,330 
Total assets
$110,886 $62,012 $42,620 $18,083 $233,601 $48,643 $282,244 
(a)Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity.
(b)Includes discount revenue and certain service fees and other revenue from customers.
(c)Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services expenses are generally correlated to volumes or are variable based on usage.
v3.26.1
Basis of Presentation - Business Events (Details)
ft² in Thousands, $ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Jan. 12, 2026
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2026
Feb. 25, 2026
USD ($)
ft²
Headquarters at 200 Greenwich Street      
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]      
Contractual obligation (up to)     $ 2,800
Finance lease, liability     370
Finance lease, right-of-use asset, before accumulated amortization     $ 370
Headquarters at 200 Greenwich Street | Property Under Construction      
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]      
Area of real estate property | ft²     1,950
ICS | Interest Acquired in Swisscard AECS GmbH      
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]      
Intangible assets acquired, excluding goodwill $ 272    
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life   8 years  
Goodwill acquired during period $ 136    
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2024
Card Balances        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 213,311 $ 213,863    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses 6,065 6,089 $ 5,740 $ 5,850
Financing receivables, net 207,247 207,774    
Card Balances | Consumer        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 140,908 144,324    
Card Balances | Small Business        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 55,098 53,632    
Card Balances | Corporate        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 17,306 15,907    
Other Loans        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 10,849 10,928    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses 314 323 $ 244 $ 194
Financing receivables, net 10,535 10,605    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Balances        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 33,386 33,378    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Balances | Consumer        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 33,400 $ 33,400    
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Aging (Details) - Card Balances - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Threshold period past due 30 days  
Financing receivables, gross $ 213,311 $ 213,863
Loans and receivables threshold period for write off 180 days  
Consumer    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross $ 140,908 144,324
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 452 434
Non-accruals 480 471
Small Business    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 55,098 53,632
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 136 130
Non-accruals 186 177
Corporate    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 17,306 15,907
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0
Current | Consumer    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 139,125 142,552
Current | Small Business    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 54,295 52,870
30 to 59 Days Past Due | Consumer    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 522 529
30 to 59 Days Past Due | Small Business    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 256 255
60 to 89 Days Past Due | Consumer    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 388 392
60 to 89 Days Past Due | Small Business    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 194 168
90+ Days Past Due | Consumer    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 873 851
90+ Days Past Due | Small Business    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross 353 340
90+ Days Past Due | Corporate    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Financing receivables, gross $ 71 $ 75
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Aging by Origination Year (Details) - Other Loans - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Threshold period past due 30 days  
2026/2025 $ 1,465 $ 5,545
2025/2024 4,524 2,188
2024/2023 1,731 500
2023/2022 344 46
2022/2021 35 6
Prior 59 56
Revolving Loans 2,691 2,587
Total 10,849 10,928
2026/2025, gross write-offs 0 15
2025/2024, gross write-offs 16 77
2024/2023, gross write-offs 18 47
2023/2022, gross write-offs 7 13
2022/2021, gross write-offs 1 1
Prior, gross write-offs 0 0
Revolving Loans, gross write-offs 24 88
Total gross write-offs 66 242
Financing receivable, revolving, converted to term loan 5  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest $ 8 7
Loans and receivables threshold period for write off 120 days  
Non-accruals $ 19 16
Current    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2026/2025 1,465 5,532
2025/2024 4,505 2,172
2024/2023 1,716 494
2023/2022 338 45
2022/2021 34 6
Prior 57 54
Revolving Loans 2,670 2,564
Total 10,785 10,867
30 to 59 Days Past Due    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2026/2025 0 6
2025/2024 7 7
2024/2023 6 2
2023/2022 2 0
2022/2021 0 0
Prior 0 1
Revolving Loans 7 8
Total 23 25
60 to 89 Days Past Due    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2026/2025 0 4
2025/2024 6 5
2024/2023 5 2
2023/2022 2 0
2022/2021 0 0
Prior 0 0
Revolving Loans 7 8
Total 21 19
90+ Days Past Due    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2026/2025 0 3
2025/2024 6 5
2024/2023 5 2
2023/2022 2 0
2022/2021 0 0
Prior 1 1
Revolving Loans 7 6
Total $ 20 $ 17
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Credit Quality (Details)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
90+ Days Past Billing as a % of total 0.40% 0.40%
Card Balances | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 1.30% 1.30%
Card Balances | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 1.50% 1.40%
Card Balances | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.90% 2.10%
Card Balances | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.40% 2.30%
Card Balances | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.30% 2.50%
Card Balances | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.70% 2.60%
Card Balances | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Corporate    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 0.70% 0.50%
Other Loans    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 0.60% 0.60%
Other Loans | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.00% 2.20%
Other Loans | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.10% 2.30%
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Modifications (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Maximum payment term extension 60 months  
Unused credit available $ 21 $ 19
Account Balances 1,139 1,021
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 609 $ 545
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.50% 0.50%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 18.20% 18.40%
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 273 $ 229
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.80% 0.70%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 18.10% 17.70%
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 0 $ 0
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.00% 0.00%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 0.00% 0.00%
Card Balances | Term Extension | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 70 $ 76
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.30% 0.30%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 32 years 31 months
Card Balances | Term Extension | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 141 $ 137
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.70% 0.70%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 31 years 29 months
Card Balances | Term Extension | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 12 $ 5
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.10% 0.03%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 10 years 11 months
Other Loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 23 $ 17
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.20% 0.20%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 3.80% 3.10%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 21 years 21 months
Other Loans | Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account Balances $ 12 $ 12
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.10% 0.10%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 0.00% 0.00%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 18 years 17 months
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Modifications Subsequently Defaulted (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default $ 89 $ 84
Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 2 1
Interest Rate Reduction    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 71 67
Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 16 16
Card Balances | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 50 50
Card Balances | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 36 33
Card Balances | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 1 0
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0 0
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0 0
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0 0
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 46 45
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 25 22
Card Balances | Interest Rate Reduction | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0 0
Card Balances | Term Extension | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 5 5
Card Balances | Term Extension | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 11 11
Card Balances | Term Extension | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 1 0
Other Loans    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 2 1
Other Loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 2 1
Other Loans | Interest Rate Reduction    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0 0
Other Loans | Term Extension    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balance, modified and subsequent default $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Card Balances and Other Loans - Performance (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Current    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances $ 3,056 $ 2,842
30-89 Days Past Due    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 244 221
90+ Days Past Due    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 86 77
Card Balances | Current | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 1,948 1,812
Card Balances | Current | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 1,005 941
Card Balances | Current | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 13 8
Card Balances | 30-89 Days Past Due | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 130 119
Card Balances | 30-89 Days Past Due | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 106 94
Card Balances | 30-89 Days Past Due | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 3 3
Card Balances | 90+ Days Past Due | Consumer    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 49 47
Card Balances | 90+ Days Past Due | Small Business    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 31 28
Card Balances | 90+ Days Past Due | Corporate    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 3 1
Other Loans | Current    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 89 81
Other Loans | 30-89 Days Past Due    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances 5 5
Other Loans | 90+ Days Past Due    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Account balances $ 2 $ 1
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses (Details Textual)
Mar. 31, 2026
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]  
CECL reasonable and supportable period 3 years
Pay in full loans  
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]  
Loans and receivables threshold period for write off 180 days
Revolving loans  
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]  
Loans and receivables threshold period for write off 180 days
Term loans  
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]  
Loans and receivables threshold period for write off 120 days
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Key Variables (Details)
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
U.S. Unemployment Rate | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.05  
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.04
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.04 0.04
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2027    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.04 0.04
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2028    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.04 0.04
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.06
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.08 0.08
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2027    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.08 0.08
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2028    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.07 0.06
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03  
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Fourth quarter of 2027    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.02 0.02
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   (0.03)
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input (0.04) 0.005
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2028    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.02 0.02
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | First quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.05
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2026    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03 0.03
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2028    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03 0.04
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Changes in Loan Reserve (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Provisions $ 1,251 $ 1,150  
Card Balances      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Beginning reserves 6,089 5,850 $ 5,850
Provisions 1,187 1,047  
Net write-offs (1,213) (1,165)  
Other 1 8  
Ending reserves 6,065 5,740 $ 6,089
Recoveries $ 352 $ 294  
v3.26.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Changes in Other Loan Reserve (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Provisions for credit losses $ 1,251 $ 1,150  
Other Loans      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Beginning reserves 323 194 $ 194
Provisions for credit losses 48 105  
Net write-offs (66)   (242)
Other 0 0  
Ending reserves 314 244 $ 323
Other Loans | Principal      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Net write-offs (54) (53)  
Recoveries 9 7  
Other Loans | Interest and fees      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Net write-offs $ (3) $ (2)  
v3.26.1
Investment Securities - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Debt Securities, Available-for-Sale [Line Items]    
Accrued interest available-for-sale debt securities $ 9 $ 3
Debt securities    
Cost 2,595  
Estimated Fair Value 2,581  
Equity securities    
Cost 54 54
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses (9) (8)
Estimated Fair Value 44 46
Total Cost 2,648 1,056
Total Gross Unrealized Gains 2 2
Total Gross Unrealized Losses (24) (16)
Total Estimated Fair Value 2,625 1,043
State and municipal obligations    
Debt securities    
Cost 53 54
Gross Unrealized Gains 1 1
Gross Unrealized Losses (7) (7)
Estimated Fair Value 47 48
U.S. Government agency obligations    
Debt securities    
Cost 3 3
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses 0 0
Estimated Fair Value 3 3
U.S. Government treasury obligations    
Debt securities    
Cost 1,635 138
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 1
Gross Unrealized Losses (7) 0
Estimated Fair Value 1,628 138
Mortgage-backed securities    
Debt securities    
Cost 9 10
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses 0 0
Estimated Fair Value 9 9
Foreign government bonds and obligations    
Debt securities    
Cost 813 717
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses 0 0
Estimated Fair Value 813 717
Other    
Debt securities    
Cost 81 81
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses 0 0
Estimated Fair Value $ 81 $ 81
v3.26.1
Investment Securities - Gross Unrealized Losses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Estimated Fair Value    
Less than 12 months $ 1,515 $ 0
12 months or more 25 26
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Less than 12 months (7) 0
12 months or more (7) (7)
State and municipal obligations    
Estimated Fair Value    
Less than 12 months 0 0
12 months or more 25 26
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Less than 12 months 0 0
12 months or more (7) (7)
U.S. Government treasury obligations    
Estimated Fair Value    
Less than 12 months 1,515 0
12 months or more 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses    
Less than 12 months (7) 0
12 months or more $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Investment Securities - Contractual Maturities (Details)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
USD ($)
Debt Securities, Available-for-Sale, Amortized Cost, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]  
Due in 1 year or less $ 902
Due after 1 year through 5 years 1,643
Due after 5 years through 10 years 7
Due after 10 years 43
Total 2,595
Debt Securities, Available-for-Sale, Fair Value, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]  
Due in 1 year or less 902
Due after 1 year through 5 years 1,637
Due after 5 years through 10 years 7
Due after 10 years 36
Total $ 2,581
v3.26.1
Asset Securitizations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]    
Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ 199 $ 169
American Express Lending Trust    
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]    
Direct and Indirect ownership of variable interests 13,600 14,900
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 92 84
American Express Charge Trust    
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]    
Direct and Indirect ownership of variable interests 6,200 5,700
Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits - Categorized as Interest or Non-interest Bearing (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
U.S.:    
Interest-bearing $ 156,726 $ 151,425
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $567; 2025, $556) 610 606
Non-U.S.:    
Interest-bearing 18 18
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $591; 2025, $436) 594 439
Total customer deposits 157,948 152,488
Card Member Credit Balances    
U.S.:    
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $567; 2025, $556) 567 556
Non-U.S.:    
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2026, $591; 2025, $436) $ 591 $ 436
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits - By Deposit Type (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
U.S. interest-bearing deposits:    
Savings accounts $ 121,257 $ 116,867
Checking accounts 3,283 2,965
Certificates of deposit:    
Direct 7,280 5,979
Third-party (brokered) 9,395 9,919
Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered) 15,511 15,696
Total U.S. interest-bearing deposits 156,726 151,425
Other deposits 65 71
Total customer deposits 157,948 152,488
Card Member Credit Balances    
Certificates of deposit:    
Card Member credit balances $ 1,157 $ 992
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits - Scheduled Maturities (Details)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
USD ($)
Time Deposits By Maturity  
2026 $ 4,113
2027 7,256
2028 2,762
2029 671
2030 1,879
Thereafter 5
Total 16,686
Non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit $ 11
v3.26.1
Customer Deposits (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Deposits [Abstract]    
Certificates of deposit that met or exceeded the insured limit $ 2.4 $ 2.0
v3.26.1
Contingencies (Details Textual)
 1 Months Ended
Oct. 16, 2025
USD ($)
Aug. 31, 2025
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2026
USD ($)
state
Minimum      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Range of possible loss, in excess of accruals     $ 0
Maximum      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Range of possible loss, in excess of accruals     $ 220,000,000
Violation of Federal Antitrust Law and Consumer Laws Class Action Case | David Moskowitz, et al.      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Number of states with remaining claims | state     8
Violation of Federal Antitrust Law and Consumer Laws Class Action Case | David Moskowitz, etal      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Number of states with remaining claims | state     2
Violation of Federal Antitrust Law and Consumer Laws Class Action Case | Settled Litigation | David Moskowitz, et al.      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Damages awarded   $ 12,500,000  
Kabbage Acquisition | KServicing Wind Down Corp.      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Loss contingency, damages sought $ 746,000,000    
v3.26.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Margin on interest rate swaps $ 772   $ 756
Carrying values of hedged liabilities 39,600   37,000
Cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustment 144   366
Net increase (decrease) in interest expense on long term debt and other (16) $ 12  
Credit Valuation Adjustment      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative, amount of hedged item 0   0
Fair Value Hedges | Fixed-Rate Debt Obligations      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative, amount of hedged item 39,600   36,700
Net Investment Hedges      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 17,100   16,300
Gains (losses) on net investment hedges, net of taxes 6 (198)  
Reclassifications out of AOCI 0 0  
Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 33,100   39,000
Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Expense      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Gains in changes in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges 15 15  
Embedded Derivative | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 78   $ 78
Embedded Derivative | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Noninterest Income      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Losses on embedded derivatives $ 9 $ 17  
v3.26.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities - Derivatives Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative, gross, assets $ 488 $ 174
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 161 1,120
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, assets (143) (151)
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, liabilities (143) (151)
Cash collateral netting, assets (37) (1)
Cash collateral netting, liabilities 0 (9)
Total derivatives assets, net 309 22
Total derivatives liabilities, net 17 961
Other Assets | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative, gross, assets 223 26
Other Assets | Interest Rate Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative, gross, assets 0 0
Other Assets | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative, gross, assets 223 26
Other Assets | Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivative, gross, assets 265 148
Other Liabilities | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 56 702
Other Liabilities | Interest Rate Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 0 4
Other Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 56 699
Other Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities $ 105 $ 418
v3.26.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities - Gains and Losses (Details) - Interest Rate Contract - Fair Value Hedges - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]    
Fixed-rate long-term debt $ 222 $ (263)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments (222) 263
Total $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Fair Values - Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Investment securities:    
Equity securities $ 44 $ 46
Debt securities 2,581  
Derivative, gross, assets 488 174
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 161 1,120
Fair Value, Recurring    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 44 46
Debt securities 2,581 997
Derivative, gross, assets 488 174
Total Assets 3,113 1,216
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 161 1,120
Total Liabilities 161 1,120
Level 1 | Fair Value, Recurring    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 44 46
Debt securities 496 0
Derivative, gross, assets 0 0
Total Assets 540 46
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 0 0
Total Liabilities 0 0
Level 2 | Fair Value, Recurring    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 0 0
Debt securities 2,004 916
Derivative, gross, assets 487 164
Total Assets 2,491 1,080
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 161 1,120
Total Liabilities 161 1,120
Level 3 | Fair Value, Recurring    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 0 0
Debt securities 81 81
Derivative, gross, assets 1 10
Total Assets 82 91
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross, liabilities 0 0
Total Liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Fair Values - Not Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Mar. 31, 2026
Dec. 31, 2025
Card Balances    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross $ 213,311 $ 213,863
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Balances    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 33,386 33,378
Carrying Value    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 54,000 48,000
Other financial assets 5,000 4,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 172,000 166,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 58,000 56,000
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 58,000 56,000
Carrying Value | Card Balances and Other Loans    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves 218,000 218,000
Carrying Value | Card Member Loans, Held-for-Sale    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card balances HFS 2,000 2,000
Carrying Value | Certificates of Deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 17,000 16,000
Corresponding Fair Value Amount    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 54,000 48,000
Other financial assets 5,000 4,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 172,000 166,000
Corresponding Fair Value Amount | Level 1    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 52,000 46,000
Other financial assets 0 0
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 0 0
Corresponding Fair Value Amount | Level 2    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 2,000 2,000
Other financial assets 5,000 4,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 172,000 166,000
Corresponding Fair Value Amount | Level 3    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Other financial assets 0 0
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 59,000 57,000
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 59,000 57,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Card Balances and Other Loans    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves 223,000 224,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Card Member Loans, Held-for-Sale    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card balances HFS 2,000 2,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 13,400 13,300
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 13,400 13,300
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Balances    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 33,300 33,200
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Certificates of Deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 17,000 16,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 1    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 0 0
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 1 | Card Balances and Other Loans    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 1 | Card Member Loans, Held-for-Sale    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card balances HFS 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 1 | Certificates of Deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 2    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 59,000 57,000
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 59,000 57,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 2 | Card Balances and Other Loans    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 2 | Card Member Loans, Held-for-Sale    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card balances HFS 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 2 | Certificates of Deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 17,000 16,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 3    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 0 0
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Long-term debt 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 3 | Card Balances and Other Loans    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves 223,000 224,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 3 | Card Member Loans, Held-for-Sale    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Card balances HFS 2,000 2,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Level 3 | Certificates of Deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Fair Values (Details Textual) - Fair Value, Nonrecurring - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]      
Carrying value of equity securities without readily determinable fair values $ 1,200.0   $ 1,100.0
Net upward adjustments of equity securities without readily determinable fair values 22.0 $ 0.0  
Net downward adjustments of equity securities without readily determinable fair values 10.0 $ 39.0  
Cumulative net unrealized gains for equity investments without readily determinable fair values 1,200.0    
Cumulative net unrealized losses for equity investments without readily determinable fair values 500.0    
Level 3      
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]      
Carrying value of equity securities without readily determinable fair values $ 62.0   $ 500.0
v3.26.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning Balance $ 33,474 $ 30,264
Net Change (34) 29
Ending Balance 33,995 31,202
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income    
Tax expense (benefit) 2 (61)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)    
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning Balance (3,277) (3,395)
Net Change (34) 29
Ending Balance (3,311) (3,366)
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt Securities    
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning Balance (4) (9)
Net Change (7) 3
Ending Balance (11) (6)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income    
Tax expense (benefit) (1) 0
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Gains (Losses), net of hedges    
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning Balance (2,783) (2,924)
Net Change (22) 17
Ending Balance (2,805) (2,907)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income    
Tax expense (benefit) (9) (60)
Net Unrealized Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Gains (Losses)    
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]    
Beginning Balance (490) (462)
Net Change (5) 9
Ending Balance (495) (453)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income    
Tax expense (benefit) $ 12 $ (1)
v3.26.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details Textual) - USD ($)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]    
Reclassifications out of AOCI $ 0 $ 0
v3.26.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses - Service Fees and Other Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Non Interest Income [Line Items]    
Total Service fees and other revenue $ 14,215 $ 12,798
Service fees and other revenue    
Non Interest Income [Line Items]    
Foreign currency-related revenue 480 382
Loyalty coalition, merchant and other service fees 464 436
Network partnership revenue 449 408
Delinquency fees 255 237
Travel commissions and fees 150 136
Other fees and revenues 154 123
Total Service fees and other revenue $ 1,951 $ 1,722
v3.26.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses - Other Expenses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses [Abstract]    
Data processing and equipment $ 767 $ 705
Professional services 545 541
Other 147 400
Total Other expenses $ 1,459 $ 1,646
v3.26.1
Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]      
Effective tax rates   21.40% 22.40%
Tax credit investments   $ 1,832 $ 1,699
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)      
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]      
Additional estimated federal income tax payment $ 185    
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Penalties      
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]      
Additional estimated federal income tax payment $ 50    
v3.26.1
Income Taxes - Tax Credit Investments Expenses and Related Income Tax Credits and Other Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]    
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision $ (66) $ (57)
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits recognized in tax provision $ 76 $ 66
v3.26.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Basic and diluted:    
Net income $ 2,971 $ 2,584
Preferred dividends (14) (14)
Net income available to common shareholders 2,957 2,570
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (19) (18)
Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 2,938 $ 2,552
Denominator:    
Basic: Weighted-average common stock (in shares) 685.0 701.0
Add: Weighted-average stock options (in shares) 1.0 1.0
Diluted (in shares) 686.0 702.0
Basic EPS (in dollars per share) [1] $ 4.29 $ 3.64
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share) [1] $ 4.28 $ 3.64
Stock Option    
Denominator:    
The dilutive effect of securities excluded from the calculation of earnings per share (in shares) 0.0 0.1
[1] Reflects net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $19 million and $18 million for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, respectively, and (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $14 million for both the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025.
v3.26.1
Reportable Operating Segments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2026
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 31, 2025
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Number of reportable segments not disclosed flag segments    
Total non-interest revenues $ 14,215 $ 12,798  
Revenue from contracts with customers 10,517 9,626  
Interest income 6,665 6,135  
Interest expense 1,973 1,966  
Net interest income 4,692 4,169  
Total revenues net of interest expense 18,907 16,967  
Provisions for credit losses 1,251 1,150  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 17,656 15,817  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 8,457 7,235  
Marketing 1,480 1,486  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 3,941 3,766  
Total expenses 13,878 12,487  
Pretax income 3,778 3,330  
Total assets 308,894 282,244 $ 300,052
Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 14,200 12,814  
Revenue from contracts with customers 10,528 9,635  
Interest income 6,155 5,573  
Interest expense 1,374 1,352  
Net interest income 4,781 4,221  
Total revenues net of interest expense 18,980 17,035  
Provisions for credit losses 1,253 1,150  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 17,728 15,885  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 8,448 7,223  
Marketing 1,472 1,478  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 3,339 3,245  
Total expenses 13,260 11,946  
Pretax income 4,469 3,939  
Total assets 255,126 233,601  
Corporate and Other      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 15 (16)  
Revenue from contracts with customers (11) (9)  
Interest income 510 562  
Interest expense 599 614  
Net interest income (88) (52)  
Total revenues net of interest expense (73) (68)  
Provisions for credit losses 0 0  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses (73) (68)  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 8 12  
Marketing 7 8  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 602 521  
Total expenses 618 541  
Pretax income (691) (609)  
Total assets 53,769 48,643  
USCS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 5,803 5,243  
Revenue from contracts with customers 3,989 3,634  
Interest income 4,072 3,763  
Interest expense 751 757  
Net interest income 3,321 3,006  
Total revenues net of interest expense 9,123 8,249  
Provisions for credit losses 631 631  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 8,493 7,618  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 4,605 3,882  
Marketing 764 765  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 1,367 1,239  
Total expenses 6,736 5,886  
Pretax income 1,757 1,732  
Total assets 119,517 110,886  
CS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 3,408 3,265  
Revenue from contracts with customers 2,931 2,828  
Interest income 1,345 1,202  
Interest expense 432 432  
Net interest income 913 770  
Total revenues net of interest expense 4,321 4,035  
Provisions for credit losses 380 329  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 3,941 3,706  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 1,986 1,746  
Marketing 311 337  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 828 787  
Total expenses 3,126 2,870  
Pretax income 816 836  
Total assets 66,076 62,012  
ICS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 3,164 2,646  
Revenue from contracts with customers 1,977 1,688  
Interest income 728 596  
Interest expense 360 306  
Net interest income 367 290  
Total revenues net of interest expense 3,532 2,936  
Provisions for credit losses 238 192  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 3,294 2,744  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 1,551 1,312  
Marketing 332 300  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 630 751  
Total expenses 2,513 2,363  
Pretax income 781 381  
Total assets 50,180 42,620  
GMNS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 1,825 1,660  
Revenue from contracts with customers 1,631 1,485  
Interest income 10 12  
Interest expense (169) (143)  
Net interest income 180 155  
Total revenues net of interest expense 2,004 1,815  
Provisions for credit losses 4 (2)  
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 2,000 1,817  
Card Member rewards, business development and Card Member services 306 283  
Marketing 65 76  
Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses 514 468  
Total expenses 885 827  
Pretax income 1,115 990  
Total assets $ 19,353 $ 18,083