AMERICAN EXPRESS CO, 10-K filed on 2/9/2024
Annual Report
v3.24.0.1
Cover - USD ($)
$ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Feb. 01, 2024
Jun. 30, 2023
Cover [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2023    
Document Transition Report false    
Entity File Number 1-7657    
Entity Registrant Name American Express Co    
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    
Title of 12(b) Security Common Shares (par value $0.20 per Share)    
Trading Symbol AXP    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
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    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 128.1
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   723,869,787  
Documents Incorporated by Reference
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III: Portions of Registrant’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 6, 2024.
    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2023    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Entity Central Index Key 0000004962    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Amendment Flag false    
v3.24.0.1
Audit Information
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Auditor Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Firm ID 238
Auditor Name PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Auditor Location New York, New York
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues $ 47,381 $ 42,967 $ 34,630
Interest income      
Interest on loans 17,697 11,967 8,850
Interest and dividends on investment securities 128 96 83
Deposits with banks and other 2,158 595 100
Total interest income 19,983 12,658 9,033
Interest expense      
Deposits 4,865 1,527 458
Long-term debt and other 1,984 1,236 825
Total interest expense 6,849 2,763 1,283
Net interest income 13,134 9,895 7,750
Total revenues net of interest expense 60,515 52,862 42,380
Provisions for credit losses      
Provisions for credit losses 4,923 2,182 (1,419)
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses 55,592 50,680 43,799
Expenses      
Card Member rewards 15,367 14,002 11,007
Business development 5,657 4,943 3,762
Card Member services 3,968 2,959 1,993
Marketing 5,213 5,458 5,291
Salaries and employee benefits 8,067 7,252 6,240
Other, net 6,807 6,481 4,817
Total expenses 45,079 41,095 33,110
Pretax income 10,513 9,585 10,689
Income tax provision 2,139 2,071 2,629
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
Earnings per Common Share      
Basic (in dollars per share) [1] $ 11.23 $ 9.86 $ 10.04
Diluted (in dollars per share) [1] $ 11.21 $ 9.85 $ 10.02
Average common shares outstanding for earnings per common share:      
Basic (in shares) 735 751 789
Diluted (in shares) 736 752 790
Card Member receivables      
Provisions for credit losses      
Provisions for credit losses $ 880 $ 627 $ (73)
Card Member loans      
Provisions for credit losses      
Provisions for credit losses 3,839 1,514 (1,155)
Other      
Provisions for credit losses      
Provisions for credit losses 204 41 (191)
Discount revenue      
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues 33,416 30,739 24,563
Net card fees      
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues 7,255 6,070 5,195
Service fees and other revenue      
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues 5,005 4,521 3,316
Processed revenue      
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues $ 1,705 $ 1,637 $ 1,556
[1] Represents net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $64 million, $57 million and $56 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $58 million, $57 million and $71 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and (iii) equity-related adjustments of $16 million related to the redemption of preferred shares for the year ended December 31, 2021.
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Earnings allocated to participating share awards $ 64 $ 57 $ 56
Dividends on preferred Stock 58 57 71
Equity adjustments in connection with redemption of Preferred Shares $ 0 $ 0 $ 16
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
Other comprehensive income (loss):      
Net unrealized debt securities gains (losses), net of tax 50 (87) (42)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of hedges and tax 51 (230) (163)
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax 37 52 155
Other comprehensive income (loss) 138 (265) (50)
Comprehensive income $ 8,512 $ 7,249 $ 8,010
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash and cash equivalents    
Cash and due from banks (includes restricted cash of consolidated variable interest entities: 2023, nil; 2022, $5) $ 7,118 $ 5,510
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks (includes securities purchased under resale agreements: 2023, nil; 2022, $318) 39,312 28,097
Short-term investment securities (includes restricted investments of consolidated variable interest entities: 2023, $66; 2022, $54) 166 307
Total cash and cash equivalents 46,596 33,914
Investment securities 2,186 4,578
Premises and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization: 2023, $9,911; 2022, $9,850 5,138 5,215
Other assets, less reserves for credit losses: 2023, $27; 2022, $22 19,114 17,689
Total assets 261,108 228,354
Liabilities    
Customer deposits 129,144 110,239
Accounts payable 13,109 12,133
Short-term borrowings 1,293 1,348
Long-term debt (includes debt issued by consolidated variable interest entities: 2023, $13,426; 2022, $12,662) 47,866 42,573
Other liabilities 41,639 37,350
Total liabilities 233,051 203,643
Contingencies and Commitments (Note 12)
Shareholders’ Equity    
Preferred shares, $1.662/3 par value, authorized 20 million shares; issued and outstanding 1,600 shares as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 (Note 16) 0 0
Common shares, $0.20 par value, authorized 3.6 billion shares; issued and outstanding 723 million shares as of December 31, 2023 and 743 million shares as of December 31, 2022 145 149
Additional paid-in capital 11,372 11,493
Retained earnings 19,612 16,279
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (3,072) (3,210)
Total shareholders’ equity 28,057 24,711
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 261,108 228,354
Card Member receivables    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, net 60,237 57,384
Card Member loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, net 120,877 104,217
Other loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, net $ 6,960 $ 5,357
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash $ 514 $ 544
Securities purchased under resale agreements 0 318
Premises and equipment, accumulated depreciation 9,911 9,850
Other assets, reserves for credit losses 27 22
Liabilities    
Long-term debt $ 47,866 $ 42,573
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, outstanding (in shares) 1,600 1,600
Preferred shares, issued (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) 723,000,000 743,000,000
Common shares, outstanding (in shares) 723,000,000 743,000,000
Card Member receivables    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross $ 60,411 $ 57,613
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 174 229
Card Member loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross 125,995 107,964
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 5,118 3,747
Other loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 126 59
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Restricted cash 0 5
Restricted investments 66 54
Liabilities    
Long-term debt 13,426 12,662
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member receivables    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross 4,587 5,193
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member loans    
Cash and cash equivalents    
Financing receivables, gross $ 28,590 $ 28,461
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Cash Flows from Operating Activities      
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Provisions for credit losses 4,923 2,182 (1,419)
Depreciation and amortization 1,651 1,626 1,695
Stock-based compensation 450 375 330
Deferred taxes (1,329) (1,189) 294
Other items [1] 664 365 (772)
Originations of loans held-for-sale (54) (277) 0
Proceeds from sales of loans held-for-sale 59 277 0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:      
Other assets (1,244) 1,391 1,068
Accounts payable & other liabilities 5,065 8,815 5,389
Net cash provided by operating activities 18,559 21,079 14,645
Cash Flows from Investing Activities      
Sale of investments 2 26 62
Maturities and redemptions of investments 3,888 1,892 20,032
Purchase of investments (1,572) (4,175) (1,517)
Net increase in Card Member loans and receivables, and other loans [2] (25,124) (29,562) (27,557)
Purchase of premises and equipment, net of sales: 2023, $2; 2022, $1; 2021, $88 (1,563) (1,855) (1,550)
Net (Acquisitions)/dispositions, net of cash acquired (64) (15) 1
Net cash used in investing activities (24,433) (33,689) (10,529)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities      
Net increase (decrease) in customer deposits 18,915 25,902 (2,468)
Net (decrease) increase in short-term borrowings [2] (105) (706) 461
Proceeds from long-term debt 15,674 23,230 7,788
Payments of long-term debt (10,703) (18,906) (11,662)
Issuance of American Express preferred shares 0 0 1,584
Redemption of American Express preferred shares 0 0 (1,600)
Issuance of American Express common shares 28 56 64
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other (3,650) (3,502) (7,652)
Dividends paid (1,780) (1,565) (1,448)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 18,379 24,509 (14,933)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 177 (13) (120)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 12,682 11,886 (10,937)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 33,914 22,028 32,965
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 46,596 $ 33,914 $ 22,028
[1] Includes gains and losses on fair value hedges, losses on tax credit investments, net gains and losses on Amex Ventures investments and changes in equity method investments.
[2] Excludes an increase of $117 million related to non-cash activity during 2023.
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]      
Sale of premises and equipment $ 2 $ 1 $ 88
Increase in short-term borrowings, non-cash 117    
Increase in Card Member loans and receivables, and other loans, non-cash 117    
Net income taxes paid 3,300 3,000 1,600
Interest paid $ 6,400 $ 2,200 $ 1,100
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Total
Series B Preferred Stock
Series C Preferred Stock
Series D Preferred Stock
Preferred Shares
Common Shares
Additional Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings
Series B Preferred Stock
Retained Earnings
Series C Preferred Stock
Retained Earnings
Series D Preferred Stock
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2020 $ 22,984       $ 0 $ 161 $ 11,881 $ (2,895) $ 13,837      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                        
Net income 8,060               8,060      
Other comprehensive income (loss) (50)             (50)        
Preferred shares issued 1,584           1,584          
Redemption of preferred shares (1,600)           (1,584)   (16)      
Repurchase of common shares (7,598)         (9) (631)   (6,958)      
Other changes, primarily employee plans 227         1 245   (19)      
Cash dividends declared preferred   $ (27) $ (23) $ (21)           $ (27) $ (23) $ (21)
Cash dividends declared common (1,359)               (1,359)      
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2021 22,177       0 153 11,495 (2,945) 13,474      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                        
Net income 7,514               7,514      
Other comprehensive income (loss) (265)             (265)        
Repurchase of common shares (3,332)         (4) (302)   (3,026)      
Other changes, primarily employee plans 242           300   (58)      
Cash dividends declared preferred       (57)               (57)
Cash dividends declared common (1,568)               (1,568)      
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2022 24,711       0 149 11,493 (3,210) 16,279      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                        
Net income 8,374               8,374      
Other comprehensive income (loss) 138             138        
Repurchase of common shares (3,519)         (4) (334)   (3,181)      
Other changes, primarily employee plans 181           213   (32)      
Cash dividends declared preferred       $ (58)               $ (58)
Cash dividends declared common (1,770)               (1,770)      
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2023 $ 28,057       $ 0 $ 145 $ 11,372 $ (3,072) $ 19,612      
v3.24.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Common stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share) $ 2.40 $ 2.08 $ 1.72
Series B Preferred Stock      
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)     36,419.41
Series C Preferred Stock      
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)     26,317.47
Series D Preferred Stock      
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share) $ 35,993.05 $ 35,993.05 $ 13,213.89
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
THE COMPANY
We are a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Our various products and services are offered globally to diverse customer groups, including consumers, small businesses, mid-sized companies and large corporations. 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, direct mail, telephone, in-house sales teams and direct response advertising.
Refer to Note 24 for additional discussion of the products and services that comprise each segment. Corporate functions and certain other businesses and operations are included in Corporate & Other.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Significant intercompany transactions are eliminated.
We consolidate entities in which we hold a “controlling financial interest.” For voting interest entities, we are considered to hold a controlling financial interest when we are able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), the determination of which is based on the amount and characteristics of the entity’s equity, we are considered to hold a controlling financial interest when we are determined to be the primary beneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the party that has both: (1) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact that VIE’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to absorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to that VIE.
Entities in which our voting interest in common equity does not provide it with control, but allows us to exert significant influence over operating and financial decisions, are accounted for under the equity method. We also have investments in equity securities where our voting interest is below the level of significant influence, including investments that we make in non-public companies in the ordinary course of business. Such investments are initially recorded at cost and adjusted to fair value through earnings for observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar instruments of the same company or if they are determined to be impaired. See Note 4 for the accounting policy for our marketable equity securities.
FOREIGN CURRENCY
Transactions conducted in currencies other than the applicable functional currency of an entity are converted to the functional currency at the exchange rate on the transaction date. At the period end, monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency using period end rates. The resulting transaction gains and losses are recorded in Other, net expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
For subsidiaries where the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, the monetary assets and liabilities and results of operations are translated for consolidation purposes into U.S. dollars at period-end rates for monetary assets and liabilities and generally at average rates for results of operations. The resulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholders’ equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hedge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of investments in foreign operations.
AMOUNTS BASED ON ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS
Accounting estimates are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements. These estimates are based, in part, on management’s assumptions concerning future events. Among the more significant assumptions are those that relate to reserves for Card Member credit losses on loans and receivables, Membership Rewards liability, goodwill and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ.
INCOME STATEMENT
Revenue is recognized when obligations under the terms of a contract with our customers are satisfied. We are not required to disclose revenue that is expected to be recognized in future periods related to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less and contracts with variable consideration (e.g., discount revenue). Non-interest revenue expected to be recognized in future periods related to all other contracts with customers is not material.
Discount Revenue
Discount revenue represents the amount we earn and retain from the merchant payable for facilitating transactions between Card Members and merchants on payment products issued by American Express. The amount of fees charged for accepting our cards as payment, or merchant discount, varies with, among other factors, the industry in which the merchant conducts business, the merchant’s overall American Express-related transaction volume, the method of payment, the settlement terms with the merchant, the method of submission of transactions and, in certain instances, the geographic scope of the card acceptance agreement between the merchant and us (e.g., local or global) and the transaction amount. Discount revenue is generally recorded at the time the Card Member transaction occurs.
Card acceptance agreements, which include the agreed-upon terms for charging the merchant discount fee, vary in duration. Our contracts with small- and mid-sized merchants generally have no fixed contractual duration, while those with large merchants are generally for fixed periods, which typically range from three to seven years in duration. Our fixed-period agreements may include auto-renewal features, which may allow the existing terms to continue beyond the stated expiration date until a new agreement is reached. We satisfy our obligations under these agreements over the contract term, often on a daily basis, including through the processing of Card Member transactions and the availability of our payment network.
In cases where the merchant acquirer is a third party, we receive a network rate fee in our settlement with the merchant acquirer, which is negotiated between us and that merchant acquirer and is recorded as discount revenue at the time the Card Member transaction occurs.
Net Card Fees
Net card fees represent revenue earned from annual card membership fees, which vary based on the type of card and the number of cards for each account. These fees, net of acquisition costs and a reserve for projected refunds for Card Member cancellations, are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the twelve-month card membership period as Net card fees in the Consolidated Statements of Income and are therefore more stable in relation to short term business or economic shifts. The unamortized net card fee balance is reported in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Service Fees and Other Revenue
Service fees and other revenue includes service fees earned from merchants and other customers and travel commissions and fees, which are generally recognized in the period when the service is performed, and delinquency and foreign currency-related fees, which are primarily recognized in the period when they are charged to the Card Member. In addition, Service fees and other revenue includes income (losses) from our investments in which we have significant influence and therefore account for under the equity method. Refer to Note 18 for additional information.
Processed Revenue
Processed revenue primarily represents revenues related to network partnership agreements, comprising royalties, fees and amounts earned for facilitating transactions on cards issued by network partners. In our role as the operator of the American Express network, we settle with merchants and our third-party merchant acquirers on behalf of our network card issuing partners. The amount of fees charged for accepting American Express-branded cards is generally deducted from the payment to the merchant or third-party merchant acquirer and recorded as Processed revenue at the time the Card Member transaction occurs. Our network card issuing partners receive an issuer rate that is individually negotiated between that issuer and us and is recorded as contra-revenue within Processed revenue to the extent that there is revenue from the same customer, after which any additional issuer rate is recorded as expense in Business development. Processed revenue also includes fees related to alternative payment solutions, which are generally recognized when the service is performed.
Contra-revenue
Payments made pursuant to contractual arrangements with our merchants, network partners and other customers are classified as contra-revenue, except where we receive goods, services or other benefits for which the fair value is determinable and measurable, in which case they are recorded as expense.
Interest Income
Interest on Card Member loans is assessed using the average daily balance method. Unless the loan is classified as non-accrual, interest is recognized based upon the principal amount outstanding, in accordance with the terms of the applicable account agreement, until the outstanding balance is paid, or written off.
Interest and dividends on investment securities primarily relate to our performing fixed-income securities. Interest income is recognized as earned using the effective interest method, which adjusts the yield for security premiums and discounts, fees and other payments, so that a constant rate of return is recognized on the investment security’s outstanding balance. Amounts are recognized until securities are in default or when it becomes likely that future interest payments will not be made as scheduled.
Interest on deposits with banks and other is recognized as earned, and primarily relates to the placement of cash, in excess of near-term funding requirements, in interest-bearing time deposits, overnight sweep accounts, and other interest-bearing demand and call accounts.
Interest Expense
Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to fund Card Member loans and receivables, general corporate purposes and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred. Interest expense is divided principally into two categories: (i) deposits, which primarily relates to interest expense on deposits taken from customers and institutions and (ii) debt, which primarily relates to interest expense on our long-term debt and short-term borrowings, as well as the realized impact of derivatives used to hedge interest rate risk on our long-term debt.
Card Member Rewards
We issue credit, charge and debit cards that allow Card Members to participate in various rewards programs (e.g., Membership Rewards, cash back and cobrand). Rewards expense is recognized in the period Card Members earn rewards, generally by spending on their enrolled card products. For Membership Rewards and cash back, we record a liability that represents the rewards that are expected to be redeemed, as well as, for Membership Rewards, the estimated cost of points earned. For cobrand, we record a liability based primarily on rewards earned on Card Member spending on cobrand cards, and make associated payments to our cobrand partners. The partner is liable for providing rewards to the Card Member under the cobrand partner’s own loyalty program. Card Member rewards liabilities are impacted over time by enrollment levels, attrition, the volume of points earned and redeemed, and the associated redemption costs. Changes in the Card Member rewards liabilities during the period are taken as an increase or decrease to the Card Member rewards expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Business Development
Business development expense includes payments to our cobrand partners, corporate client incentive payments earned on achievement of pre-set targets and certain payments to network partners. These costs are generally expensed as incurred.
Card Member Services
Card Member services expense represents costs incurred in providing our Card Members with various value-added benefits and services, which are generally expensed as incurred.
Marketing
Marketing expense includes costs incurred in the development and initial placement of advertising, which are expensed in the period in which the advertising first takes place. All other marketing expenses are generally expensed as incurred.
BALANCE SHEET
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, including securities purchased under resale agreements, restricted cash, and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less. Restricted cash primarily represents amounts related to Card Member credit balances as well as upcoming debt maturities of consolidated VIEs.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition cost of an acquired business over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We allocate goodwill to our reporting units for the purpose of impairment testing. A reporting unit is defined as an operating segment, or a business that is one level below an operating segment, for which discrete financial information is regularly reviewed by the operating segment manager.
Prior to completing the annual assessment of goodwill for impairment, we perform a recoverability test of certain long-lived assets. We have historically evaluated goodwill for impairment annually as of June 30, or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of one or more of our reporting units below its carrying value. In the fourth quarter of 2023, we changed our annual impairment assessment date to November 1 for all reporting units. The change in the annual testing date for goodwill impairment is considered a change in accounting principle, which we believe is preferable as the new date better aligns with our long-term planning and forecasting process. We have determined that it is impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flows and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each November 1 of the prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, we prospectively applied the change in annual goodwill impairment testing date beginning November 1, 2023. The change in assessment date did not delay, accelerate or avoid a potential impairment charge.
We have the option to perform a qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. Alternatively, we can perform a more detailed quantitative assessment of goodwill impairment.
This qualitative assessment entails the evaluation of factors such as economic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance of the reporting unit and other company and reporting unit-specific events. If we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we then perform the impairment evaluation using the quantitative assessment.
The quantitative assessment compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount over and above the reporting unit’s fair value.
When measuring the fair value of our reporting units in the quantitative assessment, we use widely accepted valuation techniques, applying a combination of the income approach (discounted cash flows) and market approach (market multiples). When preparing discounted cash flow models under the income approach, we use internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows expected to be generated by the reporting units. To discount these cash flows, we use the expected cost of equity, determined by using a capital asset pricing model. We believe the discount rates appropriately reflect the risks and uncertainties in the financial markets generally and specifically in our internally-developed forecasts. When using market multiples under the market approach, we apply comparable publicly traded companies’ multiples (e.g., earnings or revenues) to our reporting units’ operating results.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we performed assessments for each reporting unit in connection with our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of both June 30, 2023 and November 1, 2023, in accordance with the change in goodwill impairment testing date. As of both testing dates, we determined that it was more likely than not that the fair values of each of our reporting units exceeded their carrying values and accordingly no impairment was recognized.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2022, we performed a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for those reporting units which were impacted by the realignment of our operating segments and concluded that their fair values exceeded their carrying values.
Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Costs incurred during construction are capitalized and are depreciated once an asset is placed in service. Depreciation is generally computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 to 10 years for equipment, furniture and building improvements, and from 40 to 50 years for premises, which are depreciated based upon their estimated useful life at the acquisition date.
Certain costs associated with the acquisition or development of internal-use software are also capitalized and recorded in Premises and equipment. Once the specific software feature is ready for its intended use, these costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the software’s estimated useful life, generally 5 years. We review these assets for impairment using the same impairment methodology used for our intangible assets.
Leasehold improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the leased facility, or the economic life of the improvement, and range from 5 to 10 years. We recognize lease restoration obligations at the fair value of the restoration liabilities when incurred and amortize the restoration assets over the lease term.
Leases
We have operating leases worldwide for facilities and equipment, which, for those leases with terms greater than 12 months, are recorded as lease-related assets and liabilities. We do not separate lease and non-lease components. Lease-related assets, or right-of-use assets, are recognized at the lease commencement date at amounts equal to the respective lease liabilities, adjusted for prepaid lease payments, initial direct costs and lease incentives. Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the contractual fixed lease payments, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate as of the lease commencement date or upon modification of the lease. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, while variable lease payments are expensed as incurred.
OTHER SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following table identifies our other significant accounting policies, along with the related Note.
Significant Accounting PolicyNote
Number		Note Title
Loans and Card Member ReceivablesNote 2Loans and Card Member Receivables
Reserves for Credit LossesNote 3Reserves for Credit Losses
Investment SecuritiesNote 4Investment Securities
Asset SecuritizationsNote 5Asset Securitizations
Legal ContingenciesNote 12Contingencies and Commitments
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging ActivitiesNote 13Derivatives and Hedging Activities
Fair Value MeasurementsNote 14Fair Values
GuaranteesNote 15Guarantees
Income TaxesNote 20Income Taxes
CLASSIFICATION OF VARIOUS ITEMS
Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation.
RECENTLY ADOPTED AND ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Effective January 1, 2023, we adopted new accounting guidance on troubled debt restructurings (TDR) and vintage disclosures on a prospective basis. The new guidance eliminated the existing TDR guidance for those entities that have adopted ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, created a single loan modification accounting model and enhanced disclosure requirements for loan modifications and write-offs. The implementation did not have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Refer to Note 2 for further information, including the enhanced disclosures.
In March 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance to allow the proportional amortization method (PAM) to be applied to tax credit structures beyond low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) investments. Having implemented PAM in relation to LIHTC investments in January 2021, we early adopted the updated guidance with respect to other qualifying investments in the fourth quarter of 2023. The impact of this change is immaterial to our Consolidated Financial Statements, therefore we implemented the updated guidance on a prospective basis.
In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance for Segment Reporting, effective January 1, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance requires enhanced disclosures for significant expenses by reportable operating segment. Significant expense categories and amounts are those regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (CODM) and included in the measure of a segment’s profit or loss. The updated guidance will also require us to disclose the title and position of our CODM, including an explanation of how our CODM uses the reported measure(s) of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. We plan to adopt the new standard for the annual reporting period beginning January 1, 2024, and for interim periods beginning January 1, 2025. The updated guidance is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance on Disclosures for Income Taxes, effective January 1, 2025, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance requires additional disclosure and disaggregated information in the Income Tax Rate reconciliation using both percentages and reporting currency amounts, with additional qualitative explanations of individually significant reconciling items. The updated guidance also requires disclosure of the amount of income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by jurisdictional categories (federal (national), state and foreign). We are currently assessing the updated guidance, however it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Receivables [Abstract]  
Loans and Card Member Receivables
LOANS AND CARD MEMBER RECEIVABLES
Our lending and charge payment card products that we offer to consumer, small business and corporate customers result in the generation of Card Member loans and Card Member receivables. We also extend credit to customers through non-card financing products, resulting in Other loans.
CARD MEMBER AND OTHER LOANS
Card Member loans are generally recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant and represent revolve-eligible transactions on our card products, as well as any finance charges and associated card-related fees. Card Members with outstanding revolving loans are required to make a minimum monthly payment, and the balances that Card Members choose to revolve are subject to finance charges. These loans have varying terms such as credit limits, interest rates, fees and payment structures, which can be revised over time based on new information about Card Members and in accordance with applicable regulations and the respective product’s terms and conditions.
Card Member loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees. Our policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, and establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
Other loans are recorded at the time any extension of credit is provided to consumer and commercial customers for non-card financing products. These loans have a range of fixed terms such as interest rates, fees and repayment periods. Borrowers are typically required to make pre-established monthly payments over the term of the loan. Non-card financing products are not associated with a Card Member agreement, and instead are governed by a separate borrowing relationship. Other loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees.
Card Member and Other loans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 consisted of:
(Millions)20232022
Consumer (a)
$98,111 $84,964 
Small Business27,833 22,947 
Corporate51 53 
Card Member loans125,995 107,964 
Less: Reserves for credit losses5,118 3,747 
Card Member loans, net$120,877 $104,217 
Other loans, net (b)
$6,960 $5,357 
(a)Includes approximately $28.6 billion and $28.5 billion of gross Card Member loans available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
(b)Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $126 million and $59 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
CARD MEMBER RECEIVABLES
Card Member receivables are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant and represent amounts due on our card products and card-related fees that need to be paid in full on or before the Card Member’s payment due date.
Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each month. Card Member receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued fees.
Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 consisted of:
(Millions)20232022
Consumer$25,578 $22,885 
Small Business19,286 19,629 
Corporate(a)
15,547 15,099 
Card Member receivables60,411 57,613 
Less: Reserves for credit losses174 229 
Card Member receivables, net$60,237 $57,384 
(a)Includes $4.6 billion and $5.2 billion of gross Card Member receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
CARD MEMBER LOANS AND RECEIVABLES 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 Member loans and receivables as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
2023 (Millions)
Current30-59
Days
Past Due		60-89
Days
Past Due		90+
Days
Past Due		Total
90+ Days Past Due and Still Accruing Interest (c)
Non-Accruals(d)
Card Member Loans:
Consumer$96,779 $420 $298 $614 $98,111 $393 $344 
Small Business27,444 133 85 171 27,833 109 95 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)— 51 — — 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer25,355 70 47 106 25,578 — — 
Small Business$19,020 $104 $62 $100 $19,286 $— $— 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)$67 $15,547 $— $— 
2022 (Millions)
Current30-59
Days Past Due		60-89
Days Past Due		90+
Days Past
Due		Total
Card Member Loans:
Consumer$84,102 $281 $198 $383 $84,964 
Small Business22,731 81 49 86 22,947 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)— 53 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer22,634 83 56 112 22,885 
Small Business$19,330 $120 $69 110 19,629 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)$85 $15,099 
(a)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 Member loan or receivable balance is classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (b).
(b)Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past due can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
(c)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.
(d)Non-accrual loans primarily include certain loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest.
CREDIT QUALITY INDICATORS FOR CARD MEMBER LOANS AND RECEIVABLES
The following tables present the key credit quality indicators as of or for the years ended December 31:
20232022
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 Member Loans:
Consumer1.8 %2.2 %1.4 %0.9 %1.2 %1.0 %
Small Business1.7 %1.9 %1.4 %0.7 %0.8 %0.9 %
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer1.5 %1.6 %0.9 %0.8 %0.9 %1.1 %
Small Business2.2 %2.4 %1.4 %1.1 %1.2 %1.5 %
Corporate
(b)0.6 %(c)(b)0.4 %(c)
(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 receivables, 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 % of total was 0.4% and 0.6% as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Refer to Note 3 for additional indicators, including external qualitative factors, management considers in its evaluation process for reserves for credit losses.
LOANS AND RECEIVABLES RESTRUCTURINGS FOR BORROWERS EXPERIENCING FINANCIAL DIFFICULTY
Effective January 1, 2023, we prospectively adopted the new guidance that eliminated the recognition and measurement of TDRs. Following the adoption of this guidance, we evaluate all loans and receivables 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 loans and receivables 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 customer and recover our investment in the existing loan.
We offer several types of loans and receivables modification programs to customers experiencing financial difficulty. In such instances, we may modify loans and receivables with the intention to minimize losses and improve collectability, while providing customers with temporary or permanent financial relief.
Such modifications to the loans and receivables primarily include (i) temporary interest rate reductions (reducing interest rates to as low as zero percent, in which case the loan 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 December 31, 2023, we had $83 million of unused credit available to customers with loans and receivables modified during the year ended December 31, 2023. In accordance with the modification agreement with the customer, loans and/or receivables 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 loans and receivables modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the year ended December 31, 2023:
As of December 31, 2023
2023 (Millions)
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 Member Loans
Consumer$1,572 1.6 %16.4 %(b)
Small Business550 2.0 %15.9 %(b)
Corporate— — — (b)
Term Extension
Card Member Receivables
Consumer346 1.4 %(c)27
Small Business543 2.8 %(c)28
Corporate13 0.1 %(c)9
Other Loans23 0.3 %— 18
Interest Rate Reduction
and Term Extension
Other Loans$42 0.6 %2.1 %20
Total$3,089 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken in the last year for loans and receivables that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, December 31, 2023. The outstanding balances include principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
The following table provides information with respect to loans and receivables modified on or after January 1, 2023 that subsequently defaulted in the period presented. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
As of December 31, 2023
Account Balance (Millions) (a)
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Card Member Loans
Consumer$53 (b)$—$53 
Small Business20 (b)—20 
Corporate— (b)—— 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer(c)9 — 9 
Small Business(c)14 — 14 
Corporate(c)— — — 
Other Loans— — 1 1 
Total$73 $23 $1 $97 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken on or after January 1, 2023 and subsequently defaulted in the past year. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
The following table provides information relating to the performance of loans and receivables that were modified on or after January 1, 2023.
As of December 31, 2023
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card Member Loans
Consumer$1,433 $103 $36 
Small Business489 45 16 
Corporate— — — 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer314 25 7 
Small Business479 52 12 
Corporate11 2 — 
Other Loans59 4 2 
Total$2,785 $231 $73 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken on or after January 1, 2023 for loans and receivables that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, December 31, 2023. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables
TROUBLED DEBT RESTRUCTURING DISCLOSURES PRIOR TO ADOPTION OF THE NEW LOAN MODIFICATION GUIDANCE
Prior to adoption of the new loan modification guidance, we accounted for a modification to the contractual terms of a loan that resulted in granting a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties as a TDR. Loans that were classified as a TDR prior to adoption will continue to be accounted for under the historical TDR accounting until the loan is entirely paid off or written off.
The following tables provide additional information with respect to our impaired loans and receivables as of December 31, 2022 and 2021:
As of December 31, 2022
Accounts Classified as a
TDR (c)
2022 (Millions)
Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a)
Non-
Accruals (b)
In
Program (d)
Out of
Program (e)
Total
Impaired
Balance		Reserve for Credit
Losses-
TDRs
Card Member Loans
Consumer252 155 781 1,098 2,286 335 
Small Business54 34 267 380 735 108 
Corporate— — — — — — 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer— — 257 179 436 20 
Small Business— — 403 402 805 40 
Corporate— — 6 7 13 1 
Other Loans3 2 19 2 26 — 
Total309 $191 1,733 $2,068 $4,301 $504 
As of December 31, 2021
Accounts Classified as a
TDR (c)
2021 (Millions)
Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a)
Non-
Accruals (b)
In
Program (d)
Out of
Program (e)
Total
Impaired
Balance		Reserve for Credit
Losses-
TDRs
Card Member Loans
Consumer149 82 708 997 1,936 415 
Small Business19 14 176 332 541 132 
Corporate— — — — — — 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer— — 133 130 263 9 
Small Business— — 247 297 544 39 
Corporate— — 1 6 7 — 
Other Loans1 — 67 2 70 1 
Total169 $96 1,332 $1,764 $3,361 $596 
(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. Amounts presented exclude loans classified as a TDR.
(b)Non-accrual loans not in modification programs primarily include certain loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest. Amounts presented exclude loans classified as TDRs.
(c)Accounts classified as a TDR include $48 million and $41 million that were over 90 days past due and accruing interest and $17 million and $19 million that were non-accruals as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(d)In Program TDRs include accounts that are currently enrolled in a modification program.
(e)Out of Program TDRs include $1,922 million and $1,621 million of accounts that have successfully completed a modification program and $146 million and $143 million of accounts that were not in compliance with the terms of the modification programs as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
LOANS AND RECEIVABLES MODIFIED AS TDRs PRIOR TO ADOPTION OF THE NEW LOAN MODIFICATION GUIDANCE
The following tables provide additional information with respect to loans and receivables that were modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021:
2022
Number of
Accounts (Thousands)
Account
Balances (Millions) (a)
Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points)
Average Payment Term Extensions
(# of months)
Troubled Debt Restructurings:
Card Member Loans149 $1,002 14 (b)
Card Member Receivables27 900 (c)20
Other Loans (d)
4 $8 2 17
Total180 $1,910 
2021
Number of
Accounts (Thousands)
Account
Balances (Millions) (a)
Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points)
Average Payment Term Extensions
(# of months)
Troubled Debt Restructurings:
Card Member Loans112 $789 13 (b)
Card Member Receivables21 437 (c)18
Other Loans (d)
4 $13 3 16
Total137 $1,239 
(a)Represents the outstanding balance immediately prior to modification. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
(d)Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products.
LOANS AND RECEIVABLES MODIFIED AND SUBSEQUENTLY DEFAULTED PRIOR TO ADOPTION OF THE NEW LOAN MODIFICATION GUIDANCE
The following tables provide information with respect to loans and receivables modified as TDRs that subsequently defaulted within twelve months of modification. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
2022
Number of Accounts
(Thousands)
Aggregated
Outstanding Balances
Upon Default
(Millions) (a)
Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted:
Card Member Loans14 $81 
Card Member Receivables3 38 
Other Loans (b)
1 1 
Total18 $120 
2021
Number of Accounts
(Thousands)
Aggregated
Outstanding Balances
Upon Default
(Millions) (a)
Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted:
Card Member Loans24 $174 
Card Member Receivables5 56 
Other Loans (b)
3 9 
Total32 $239 
(a)The outstanding balances upon default include principal, fees and accrued interest on loans, and principal and fees on receivables.
(b)Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products.
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 portfolio of Card Member loans and receivables as of the balance sheet date. The 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 loan or receivable 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 loans and receivables 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 loans and receivables 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. Separate models are used for accounts deemed a troubled debt restructuring, which are measured individually and incorporate a discounted cash flow model. See Note 2 for information on TDRs.
Loans and receivable balances 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 pay in full or revolving loans and 120 days past due for term loans. Loans and receivables in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification.
The following table reflects the range of macroeconomic scenario key variables used, in conjunction with other inputs, to calculate reserves for credit losses:
U.S. Unemployment Rate
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) (a)
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Fourth quarter of 2023
4%
3% - 8%
1%
6% - 0.2%
First quarter of 2024
3% - 6%
3% - 8%
4% - (3)%
2% - 0.3%
Fourth quarter of 2024
3% - 8%
3% - 7%
3% - 1%
3% - 2%
Fourth quarter of 2025
3% - 7%
3% - 6%
2%
4% - 3%
(a)Real GDP quarter over quarter percentage change seasonally adjusted to annualized rates.
CHANGES IN CARD MEMBER LOANS RESERVE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
Card Member loans reserve for credit losses increased for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily driven by an increase in loans outstanding and higher delinquencies.
Card Member loans reserve for credit losses increased for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily driven by an increase in loans outstanding, higher delinquencies and changes in macroeconomic forecasts at that time, partially offset by the release of COVID-19 pandemic-driven reserves.
The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for credit losses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Beginning Balance$3,747 $3,305 $5,344 
Provisions(a)
3,839 1,514 (1,155)
Net write-offs (b)
Principal(2,043)(837)(672)
Interest and fees(443)(229)(207)
Other(c)
18 (6)(5)
Ending Balance$5,118 $3,747 $3,305 
(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 $537 million, $539 million and $657 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $18 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $(6) million for both the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
CHANGES IN CARD MEMBER RECEIVABLES RESERVE FOR CREDIT LOSSES
Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses decreased for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily driven by lower delinquencies, partially offset by an increase in receivables outstanding.

Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses increased for the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily driven by higher delinquencies and an increase in receivables outstanding.
The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Beginning Balance$229 $64 $267 
Provisions (a)
880 627 (73)
Net write-offs (b)
(937)(462)(129)
Other (c)
2 — (1)
Ending Balance$174 $229 $64 
(a)Provisions for principal 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 $297 million, $257 million and $378 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $1 million, $2 million and $(1) million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Investment Securities
INVESTMENT SECURITIES
Investment securities principally include available-for-sale debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The methodology for estimating credit losses for available for sale debt securities requires us to estimate lifetime credit losses for all available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position. When estimating a security’s probability of default and the recovery rate, we assess the security’s credit indicators, including credit ratings. If our assessment indicates that an estimated credit loss exists, we determine the portion of the unrealized loss attributable to credit deterioration and record a reserve for the estimated credit loss through 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 available-for-sale debt securities totaling $5 million and $12 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
Refer to Note 14 for a description of our methodology for determining the fair value of investment securities.
The following is a summary of investment securities as of December 31:
20232022
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$61 $— $(6)$55 $64 $— $(10)$54 
U.S. Government agency obligations4 — — 4 5 — — 5 
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,217 1 (12)1,206 3,859 — (73)3,786 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)
12 — (1)11 13 — — 13 
Foreign government bonds and obligations770 — — 770 633 — (1)632 
Other (b)
74 — — 74 47 — — 47 
Equity securities (c)(d)
60 16 (10)66 50 — (9)41 
Total$2,198 $17 $(29)$2,186 $4,671 $— $(93)$4,578 
(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, exchange-traded funds and mutual funds.
(d)During the third quarter of 2023, certain equity securities were reclassified from Other assets to Investment securities following the completion of transactions pursuant to which the issuers of the securities became public companies. The investments had a fair value of $24 million with an associated cost basis of $10 million as of December 31, 2023. The gross unrealized gain and loss amounts include net unrealized gains of $37 million that were recognized prior to such transactions.
The following table provides information about our available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
20232022
Less than 12 months12 months or moreLess than 12 months12 months or more
Description of Securities (Millions)
Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses
State and municipal obligations$— $— $33 $(6)$52 $(10)$— $— 
U.S. Government treasury obligations— — 1,114 (12)3,710 (72)52 (1)
Mortgage-backed securities
— — 7 (1)— — — — 
Foreign government bonds and obligations— — — — 549 (1)— — 
Total$— $— $1,154 $(19)$4,311 $(83)$52 $(1)
The gross unrealized losses on our available-for-sale debt securities are primarily attributable to an increase in the current benchmark interest rate. Overall, for the available-for-sale debt securities in gross unrealized loss positions, (i) we do not intend to sell the securities, (ii) it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell the securities before recovery of the unrealized losses and (iii) we expect that the contractual principal and interest will be received on the securities. We concluded that there was no credit loss attributable to the securities in an unrealized loss position for the periods presented.
The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses for available-for-sale debt securities by ratio of fair value to amortized cost as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Less than 12 months12 months or moreTotal
Ratio of Fair Value to
Amortized Cost (Dollars in millions)
Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses
2023:
90%–100%—$— $— 69$1,140 $(14)69$1,140 $(14)
Less than 90%—— — 214 (5)214 (5)
Total as of December 31, 2023—$— $— 71$1,154 $(19)71$1,154 $(19)
2022:
90%–100%74$4,287 $(74)3$52 $(1)77$4,339 $(75)
Less than 90%1424 (9)—— — 1424 (9)
Total as of December 31, 202288$4,311 $(83)3$52 $(1)91$4,363 $(84)
Weighted average yields and contractual maturities for available-for-sale debt securities with stated maturities as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)Due within 1 yearDue after 1 year but within 5 yearsDue after 5 years but within 10 yearsDue after 10 yearsTotal
State and municipal obligations (a)
$— $1 $20 $34 $55 
U.S. Government agency obligations (a)
— — — 4 4 
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,010 194 2 — 1,206 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)(b)
— — — 11 11 
Foreign government bonds and obligations768 2 — — 770 
Other (c)
— 64 10 — 74 
Total Estimated Fair Value$1,778 $261 $32 $49 $2,120 
Total Cost$1,784 $265 $33 $56 $2,138 
Weighted average yield (d)
4.68 %3.17 %4.76 %2.80 %4.44 %
(a)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.
(b)Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae.
(c)Represents investments in debt securities issued by Community Development Financial Institutions.
(d)Average yields for investment securities have been calculated using the effective yield on the date of purchase. Yields on tax-exempt investment securities have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis using the U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 21 percent.
v3.24.0.1
Asset Securitizations
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Asset Securitizations [Abstract]  
Asset Securitizations
ASSET SECURITIZATIONS
We periodically securitize Card Member loans and receivables 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 Member loans and receivables. Refer to Note 1 for further details on the principles of consolidation. 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 Member loans and receivables. 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 $15.3 billion and $16.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and in the Charge Trust was $4.6 billion and $5.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
The debt securities issued by the Trusts are non-recourse to us. The securitized Card Member loans and receivables held by the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust, respectively, are available only for payment of the debt securities or other obligations issued or arising in the securitization transactions (refer to Note 2). The long-term debt of each Trust is payable only out of collections on their respective underlying securitized assets (refer to Note 8).
Restricted cash and cash equivalents held by the Lending Trust was $66 million and $59 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and by the Charge Trust was nil as of both December 31, 2023 and 2022. These amounts relate to collections of Card Member loans and receivables 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 years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, no such triggering events occurred.
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Assets [Abstract]  
Other Assets
OTHER ASSETS
The following is a summary of Other assets as of December 31:
(Millions)20232022
Goodwill$3,851 $3,786 
Other intangible assets, at amortized cost98 146 
Other (a)
15,165 13,757 
Total$19,114 $17,689 
(a)Primarily includes net deferred tax assets, other receivables net of reserves, investments in non-consolidated entities, prepaid assets, tax credit investments and right-of-use lease assets.
GOODWILL
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill reported in our reportable operating segments were as follows:
(Millions)USCSCSICSGMNSTotal
Balance as of December 31, 2021$368 $2,123 $753 $560 $3,804 
Acquisitions13 — — — 13 
Dispositions— — — — — 
Other (a)
(2)(1)(28)— (31)
Balance as of December 31, 2022$379 $2,122 $725 $560 $3,786 
Acquisitions
— 30 — 18 48 
Dispositions— — — — — 
Other (a)
— (1)18 — 17 
Balance as of December 31, 2023$379 $2,151 $743 $578 $3,851 
(a)Primarily includes foreign currency translation.
Accumulated impairment losses were $221 million as of both December 31, 2023 and 2022.
OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 1 to 22 years. We review long-lived assets and asset groups, including intangible assets, for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. An impairment is recognized if the carrying amount is not recoverable and exceeds the asset or asset group’s fair value.
The gross carrying amount for other intangible assets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 was $717 million and $720 million, respectively, with accumulated amortization of $619 million and $574 million, respectively.
Amortization expense was $49 million, $51 million and $57 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. For other intangible assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023, amortization expense is expected to be $44 million in 2024, $21 million in 2025, $11 million in 2026, $9 million in 2027, $4 million in 2028 and $8 million thereafter.
TAX CREDIT INVESTMENTS

We hold tax credit investments that promote affordable housing, community development, and small businesses that foster economic growth in underserved areas and support compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act by our U.S. bank subsidiary, American Express National Bank (AENB). These investments generate a return primarily through the realization of income tax credits and other income tax benefits.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $1,369 million and $1,207 million in tax credit investments, respectively, included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, comprised of LIHTC investments (previously referred to as Qualified Affordable Housing investments) and other qualifying investments. We account for such tax credit investments using the Proportional Amortization Method, which we elected to implement prospectively on January 1, 2021 for LIHTC investments and in the fourth quarter of 2023 for other qualifying investments.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, $1,126 million and $1,042 million of our tax credit investments, respectively, related to investments in unconsolidated VIEs for which we do not have a controlling financial interest.

As of December 31, 2023, we committed to provide funding related to certain of our tax credit investments, which is expected to be paid between 2024 and 2040, resulting in $573 million in unfunded commitments reported in Other liabilities, of which $409 million specifically related to unconsolidated VIEs.

In addition, as of December 31, 2023, we had contractual off-balance sheet obligations to provide additional funding up to $3 million for these tax credit investments, fully related to unconsolidated VIEs. We may be required to fund these amounts between 2024 and 2034.

The following table presents tax credit investment expenses and associated income tax credits and other income tax benefits for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision$185 $161 $226 
Equity method expenses recognized in Other, net expenses$— $9 $13 
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits (a) recognized in tax provision
$204 $196 $182 
(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.
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Deposits [Abstract]  
Customer Deposits
CUSTOMER DEPOSITS
As of December 31, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows:
(Millions)20232022
U.S.:
Interest-bearing$128,146 $109,119 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $495; 2022, $605)
557 663 
Non-U.S.:
Interest-bearing12 15 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $426; 2022, $439)
429 442 
Total customer deposits$129,144 $110,239 
Customer deposits by deposit type as of December 31 were as follows:
(Millions)20232022
U.S. retail deposits:
Savings and transaction accounts$93,722 $76,731 
Certificates of deposit:
Direct5,557 2,760 
Third-party (brokered)12,960 13,331 
Sweep accounts ― Third-party (brokered)
15,907 16,297 
Total U.S. retail deposits
$128,146 $109,119 
Other deposits77 76 
Card Member credit balances921 1,044 
Total customer deposits$129,144 $110,239 
The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)20242025202620272028After 5 yearsTotal
Certificates of deposit (a)
$11,740 $4,370 $933 $776 $704 $— $18,523 
(a)Includes $6 million of non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, certificates of deposit in denominations that met or exceeded the insured limit were $1.8 billion and $1.0 billion, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
Debt
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Debt
DEBT
SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
Our short-term borrowings outstanding, defined as borrowings with original contractual maturity dates of less than one year, as of December 31 were as follows:
20232022
(Millions, except percentages)Outstanding Balance
Year-End Stated
Interest Rate on
Debt (a)
Outstanding Balance
Year-End Stated
Interest Rate on
Debt (a)
Short-term borrowings (b)
$1,293 1.03 %$1,348 0.94 %
Total$1,293 1.03 %$1,348 0.94 %
(a)For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rates are weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
(b)Includes borrowings from banks and book overdrafts with banks, which represents negative cash balances for accounts with an associated overdraft facility, due to timing differences arising in the ordinary course of business.

As of December 31, 2023, we maintained a three-year committed, revolving, secured borrowing facility, with a maturity date of September 15, 2026, which gives us the right to sell up to $3.0 billion face amount of eligible certificates issued from the Lending Trust. This facility enhances our contingent funding resources and is also used in the ordinary course of business to fund working capital needs. The facility was undrawn as of both December 31, 2023 and 2022. Additionally, certain of our subsidiaries maintained total committed lines of credit of $185 million and $186 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, nil and $20.9 million were drawn on these committed lines, respectively.
We paid $12.0 million and $7.8 million in fees to maintain the secured borrowing facility in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The committed facility does not contain a material adverse change clause, which might otherwise preclude borrowing under the facility, nor is it dependent on our credit rating.
LONG-TERM DEBT
Our long-term debt outstanding, defined as debt with original contractual maturity dates of one year or greater, as of December 31 was as follows:
20232022
(Millions, except percentages)Original
Contractual
Maturity
Dates
Outstanding
Balance(a)
Year-End
Interest Rate
on Debt(b)
Year-End
Interest Rate with
Swaps(b)(c)
Outstanding
Balance(a)
Year-End
Interest Rate
on Debt(b)
Year-End
Interest Rate
with
Swaps(b)(c)
American Express Company
(Parent Company only)
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2024 - 2042$20,930 3.48 %4.14 %$23,813 3.34 %4.00 %
Floating Rate Senior Notes2024 - 20272,400 6.21 — 3,000 4.78 — 
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes2026 - 20348,769 5.38 5.91 1,250 4.42 — 
Fixed Rate Subordinated Notes2024586 3.63 6.74 574 3.63 5.46 
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes2033 - 20341,257 5.24 5.92 750 4.99 — 
American Express Credit Corporation
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2027330 3.30 328 3.30 — 
Lending Trust
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2024 - 202813,449 3.36 3.49 10,499 2.81 — 
Floating Rate Senior Notes— — — 2,125 4.67 — 
Floating Rate Subordinated Notes— — — 61 4.89 — 
Other
Finance Leases— — 3 5.76 — 
Floating Rate Borrowings2024 - 2026238 0.42 254 0.41 — %
Unamortized Underwriting Fees(93)(84)
Total Long-Term Debt$47,866 3.96 %$42,573 3.42 %
(a)The outstanding balances include (i) unamortized discount, (ii) the impact of movements in exchange rates on foreign currency denominated debt and (iii) the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes that have been swapped to floating rate through the use of interest rate swaps. Refer to Note 13 for more details on our treatment of fair value hedges.
(b)For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rate on debt is weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
(c)Interest rates with swaps are only presented when swaps are in place to hedge the underlying debt. The interest rates with swaps are weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and the interest rates on the floating leg of the swaps in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)20242025202620272028ThereafterTotal
American Express Company (Parent Company only)$7,500 $5,250 $6,700 $6,411 $— $8,523 $34,384 
American Express Credit Corporation— — — 339 — — 339 
Lending Trust2,750 7,250 2,100 — 1,350 — 13,450 
Other105 63 70 238 
$10,355 $12,563 $8,870 $6,750 $1,350 $8,523 $48,411 
Unamortized Underwriting Fees(93)
Unamortized Discount and Premium(505)
Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting53 
Total Long-Term Debt$47,866 
We maintained a committed syndicated bank credit facility of $4.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and $3.5 billion as of December 31, 2022, all of which was undrawn as of the respective dates. The facility has a maturity date of October 30, 2026, and the availability of the facility is subject to compliance with certain covenants, principally our maintenance of a minimum Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) risk-based capital ratio of 4.5 percent, with certain restrictions in relation to either accessing the facility or distributing capital to common shareholders in the event our CET1 risk-based capital ratio falls between 4.5 percent and 6.5 percent. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we were in compliance with the covenants contained in the credit facility.
Additionally, we maintained a three-year committed, revolving, secured borrowing facility that gives us the right to sell up to $3.0 billion face amount of eligible notes issued from the Charge Trust at any time through July 15, 2026. As of both December 31, 2023 and 2022, no amounts were outstanding on this facility.
We paid $20.2 million and $14.1 million in fees to maintain these lines in 2023 and 2022, respectively. These committed facilities do not contain material adverse change clauses, which might otherwise preclude borrowing under the credit facilities, nor are they dependent on our credit rating.
We paid total interest, primarily related to short- and long-term debt, corresponding interest rate swaps and customer deposits, of $6.4 billion, $2.2 billion and $1.1 billion in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
Other Liabilities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Other Liabilities
OTHER LIABILITIES
The following is a summary of Other liabilities as of December 31:
(Millions)
20232022
Membership Rewards liability
$13,742 $12,789 
Book overdraft balances (a)
9,897 7,352 
Deferred card and other fees, net
3,442 3,027 
Employee-related liabilities (b)
2,567 2,530 
Card Member rebate and reward accruals (c)
2,061 2,126 
Income tax liability (d)
1,275 1,651 
Other (e)
8,655 7,875 
Total
$41,639 $37,350 
(a)Primarily includes negative cash balances for accounts without an associated overdraft facility, due to timing differences arising in the ordinary course of business.
(b)Includes employee benefit plan obligations and incentive compensation.
(c)Card Member rebate and reward accruals include payments to third-party reward partners and cash-back rewards.
(d)Includes repatriation tax liability of $998 million and $1,012 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which represents our remaining obligation under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017 (Tax Act) to pay a one-time transition tax on unrepatriated earnings and profits of certain foreign subsidiaries, the net position for current federal, state and non-U.S. income tax liabilities and deferred tax liabilities for foreign jurisdictions.
(e)Primarily includes prepaid products and Travelers Cheques, lease liabilities, derivative liabilities, accruals for general operating expenses, payments to cobrand partners, unfunded commitments for tax credit investments, client incentives and dividends payable.
MEMBERSHIP REWARDS
The Membership Rewards program allows enrolled Card Members to earn points that can be redeemed for a broad variety of rewards including, but not limited to, travel, shopping, gift cards, and covering eligible charges. We record a Membership Rewards liability that represents our best estimate of the cost of points earned that are expected to be redeemed by Card Members in the future. The weighted average cost (WAC) per point and the Ultimate Redemption Rate (URR) are the key assumptions used to estimate the liability. We use statistical and actuarial models to estimate the URR based on redemption trends, card product type, enrollment tenure, card spend levels and credit attributes. The WAC per point assumption is derived from 12 months of redemptions and is adjusted as appropriate for certain changes in redemption costs that are not representative of future cost expectations and expected developments in redemption patterns.
The expense for Membership Rewards points is included in Card Member rewards expense. We periodically evaluate our liability estimation process and assumptions based on changes in cost per point redeemed, partner contract changes and developments in redemption patterns, which may be impacted by product refreshes, changes in redemption options and mix of proprietary cards-in-force.
DEFERRED CARD AND OTHER FEES, NET
The carrying amount of deferred card and other fees, net of deferred direct acquisition costs and reserves for membership cancellations, as of December 31, 2023 was as follows:
(Millions)20232022
Deferred card and other fees (a)
$3,818 $3,380 
Deferred direct acquisition costs(158)(173)
Reserves for membership cancellations(218)(180)
Deferred card and other fees, net$3,442 $3,027 
(a)Includes deferred fees for Membership Rewards program participants.
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Stock-Based Compensation
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
STOCK OPTION AND AWARD PROGRAMS
Under our 2016 Incentive Compensation Plan (amended and restated effective May 5, 2020) and previously under our 2007 Incentive Compensation Plan, awards may be granted to colleagues and other individuals who perform services for us. These awards may be in the form of stock options, or in the form of restricted stock units and awards (collectively referred to as RSUs), or other incentives or similar awards designed to meet the requirements of non-U.S. jurisdictions.
There were a total of 7 million, 9 million and 12 million common shares unissued and available for grant as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as authorized by our Board of Directors and shareholders. We generally issue new common shares upon exercise of options, vesting of restricted stock units and granting of restricted stock awards.
Stock-based compensation expense recognized in Salaries and employee benefits in the Consolidated Statements of Income was $450 million, $373 million and $326 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, with corresponding income tax benefits of $110 million, $90 million and $78 million in those respective periods.
Our stock options and RSUs outstanding as of December 31, 2023, and changes during the year, are as follows:
 Stock OptionsService-Based RSUsService and Performance-Based RSUs
(Numbers in thousands)
Number
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
Number
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
Number
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20223,634 $113.80 1,788 $142.92 3,472 $135.57 
Granted230 173.61 910 172.02 1,395 158.57 
Options exercised/RSUs vested(311)89.62 (787)134.97 (1,498)136.16 
Forfeited— — (84)162.18 (73)153.04 
Expired— — — — — — 
Outstanding as of December 31, 20233,553 119.80 1,827 $159.95 3,296 $144.64 
Options vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20233,547 119.74 
Options exercisable as of December 31, 20231,810 $90.94 
Stock-based compensation expense is generally recognized ratably based on the grant-date fair value of the awards, net of expected forfeitures, over the vesting period. Generally, the vesting period is the time from the grant date to the earlier of the vesting date defined in each award agreement or the date the colleague will become eligible to retire. Retirement eligibility is dependent upon age and/or years of service.
STOCK OPTIONS
Each stock option has an exercise price equal to the market price of our common stock on the grant date. Stock options generally vest on the third anniversary of, and have a contractual term of 10 years from, the grant date.
The fair value of options without market conditions is estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used for options granted in 2023, 2022 and 2021:
202320222021
Dividend yield1.4 %1.0 %1.5 %
Expected volatility(a)
32 %31 %31 %
Risk-free interest rate3.5 %1.7 %0.8 %
Expected life of stock option (in years)(b)
7.17.17.2
Weighted-average fair value per option$60.03 $55.30 $32.38 
(a)The expected volatility is based on historical and implied volatilities of our common stock price.
(b)The expected life of stock options was determined using historical option exercise behavior.
Certain executives were awarded a grant of stock options on October 31, 2022 that vest, subject to achieving performance and market conditions. These options vest in tranches on the third and fourth anniversaries from the grant date, subject to continued employment through the applicable anniversary, and have a contractual term of seven years. The fair value was estimated at the grant date using a Monte Carlo valuation model assuming a dividend yield of 1.4 percent, expected volatility (based on historical
and implied volatilities of our common stock price) of 34 percent, risk-free rate of 3.9 percent and an expected life of seven years, resulting in a fair value of $50.10.
The weighted-average remaining contractual life and the aggregate intrinsic value (the amount by which the fair value of our stock price exceeds the exercise price of the option) of the stock options outstanding, exercisable, and vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:
OutstandingExercisableVested and
Expected to Vest
Weighted-average remaining contractual life (in years)
5.23.55.2
Aggregate intrinsic value (millions)
$240 $174 $240 
As of December 31, 2023, there was $32 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options, which will be recognized over the weighted-average remaining vesting period of 2.1 years.
For stock options that were exercised during 2023, 2022 and 2021, the intrinsic value, based upon the fair value of our stock price at the date the options were exercised, was $26 million, $56 million and $86 million, respectively; cash received by the Company from the exercise of stock options was $28 million, $56 million and $64 million during those respective periods. The income tax benefit recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income related to stock option exercises was $4 million, $9 million and $14 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS/AWARDS
We grant RSUs that contain either a) service conditions or b) both service and performance conditions. RSUs containing only service conditions generally vest ratably over three years, or four years for awards granted prior to 2022, beginning with the first anniversary of the grant date. RSUs containing both service and performance conditions generally vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, and the number of shares earned generally ranges from zero to 120 percent of target depending on the achievement of predetermined Company metrics. RSU holders receive dividend equivalents or dividends.
Performance-based RSUs include a relative total shareholder return (r-TSR) modifier so that our actual shareholder return relative to a comparable peer group is one of the performance conditions that determines the number of shares ultimately issued upon vesting.
The fair value of RSUs that do not include the r-TSR modifier, including those that contain only service conditions, is measured using our stock price on the grant date. The fair value of service and performance-based RSUs that include the r-TSR modifier is determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model using assumptions based on the historical volatility of our common stock price, the historical correlations of our common stock price with that of each of the companies in the performance peer group and the risk-free interest rate, each for a period equal to the estimated remaining performance period. The weighted averages of the following assumptions used in 2023, 2022 and 2021 were:
202320222021
Expected volatility
45 %42 %41 %
Risk-free interest rate3.7 %1.4 %0.2 %
Remaining performance period (in years)
2.92.92.9
As of December 31, 2023, there was $258 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested RSUs, which will be recognized over the weighted-average remaining vesting period of 1.7 years.
The weighted-average grant-date fair value of RSUs granted in 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $163.88, $168.26 and $123.66, respectively.
For RSUs vested during 2023, 2022 and 2021, the total fair value, based upon our stock price at the date the RSUs vested, was $389 million, $323 million and $227 million, respectively.
LIABILITY-BASED AWARDS
Other incentive awards can be settled with cash or equity shares at our discretion and final approval from the Compensation and Benefits Committee. These awards are generally settled with cash and thus are classified as liabilities; therefore, the fair value is determined at the grant date and remeasured quarterly as part of compensation expense over the vesting period. Cash paid upon vesting of these awards in 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $55 million, $50 million and $53 million, respectively.
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Retirement Plans
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Retirement Plans
RETIREMENT PLANS
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION RETIREMENT PLANS
We sponsor defined contribution retirement plans, the principal plan being the Retirement Savings Plan (RSP), a 401(k) savings plan with a profit-sharing component. The RSP is a tax-qualified retirement plan subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and covers most employees in the United States. The total expense for all defined contribution retirement plans globally was $380 million, $259 million and $269 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
DEFINED BENEFIT PENSION AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
Our primary defined benefit pension plans that cover certain employees in the United States and United Kingdom are closed to new entrants and existing participants do not accrue any additional benefits. Some employees outside the United States and United Kingdom are covered by local retirement plans, some of which are funded, while other employees receive payments at the time of retirement or termination under applicable labor laws or agreements. We comply with minimum funding requirements in all countries. We also sponsor unfunded other postretirement benefit plans that provide health care and life insurance to certain retired colleagues in the United States. For these plans, the total net benefit was $12 million, $24 million and $26 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
We recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans, measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the projected benefit obligation, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the unfunded status related to the defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans was $212 million and $278 million, respectively, and is recorded in Other liabilities.
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Contingencies and Commitments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Contingencies and Commitments
CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS
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 February 25, 2020, we were named as a defendant in a case filed in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, captioned Laurelwood Cleaners LLC v. American Express Co., et al., in which the plaintiff seeks a public injunction in California prohibiting American Express from enforcing its anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions and from requiring merchants “to offer the service of Amex-card acceptance for free.” The case has been stayed pending the outcome of arbitration proceedings.
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 Anthony Oliver, et al. 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 our anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions 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. We have appealed the court’s class certification decisions.
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. An amended complaint was filed on July 15, 2016. On September 30, 2016, the court denied our motion to dismiss as to claims brought by merchants who do not accept American Express cards, and 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.
In July 2004, we were named as a defendant in a putative class action filed in the Southern District of New York and subsequently transferred to the Eastern District of New York, captioned The Marcus Corporation v. American Express Co., et al., in which the plaintiffs allege an unlawful antitrust tying arrangement between certain of our charge cards and credit cards in violation of various state and federal laws. The plaintiffs in this action seek injunctive relief and an unspecified amount of damages.
In 2006, Mawarid Investments Limited filed a request for confidential arbitration under the 1998 London Court of International Arbitration Rules in connection with certain claims arising under a shareholders agreement between Mawarid and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. relating to a joint venture between the parties, Amex (Middle East) BSC(c) (AEME). In 2008, the tribunal rendered a partial award, including a direction that an audit should take place to verify whether acquirer discount revenue related to transactions occurring with airlines located in the Middle East region had been properly allocated to AEME since its inception in 1992. In September 2021, the tribunal rendered a further partial award regarding the location of transactions through non-physical channels. In May 2022, the tribunal further clarified the 2021 partial award and the discount rate that should apply to transactions through non-physical channels.
In May 2020, we began responding to a review by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division regarding historical sales practices relating to sales to small business customers in the United States. In January 2021, we received a grand jury subpoena from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York (EDNY) regarding these sales practices issues, as well as a Civil Investigative Demand from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) pertaining to its investigation into sales practices related to consumers. We have also been made aware of a related investigation by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS).
In January 2023, the CFPB notified us that its investigation was completed and that it does not intend to recommend an enforcement action be taken against us at this time. In July 2023, we reached a settlement with the OCC to resolve its review of historical sales practices to certain U.S. small business card customers that occurred between 2015 and 2017. The DOJ, EDNY and NYDFS investigations are ongoing, and we are cooperating with all inquiries.
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 $400 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.
COMMITMENTS
Total lease expense includes rent expenses, adjustments for rent concessions, rent escalations and leasehold improvement allowances and is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Total lease expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $164 million, $188 million and $161 million, respectively.
Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the contractual fixed lease payments, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate as of the lease commencement date or upon modification of the lease. For lease liabilities outstanding as of December 31, 2023, the weighted average remaining lease term was 19 years and the weighted average rate used to discount lease commitments was 3 percent.
The following represents the maturities of our outstanding lease commitments as of December 31, 2023:
(Millions) 
2024$159 
2025139 
2026121 
2027104 
202898 
Thereafter841 
Total Outstanding Fixed Lease Payments$1,462 
Less: Amount representing interest$(536)
Lease Liabilities$926 
As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $14.0 billion in financial commitments outstanding related to agreements with certain cobrand partners under which we are required to make a certain level of minimum payments over the life of the agreement, generally ranging from five to ten years. Generally, such commitments are designed to be satisfied by the payment we make to such cobrand partners primarily based on Card Members’ spending and earning rewards on their cobrand cards and as we acquire new Card Members. In the event these payments do not fully satisfy the commitment, we generally pay the cobrand partner up to the amount of the commitment in exchange for an equivalent value of reward points.
Our U.S. bank subsidiary, AENB, is a member of the Federal Reserve System (the Federal Reserve) and is therefore required to subscribe to a certain amount of shares issued by its Federal Reserve District Bank, with half of the subscribed amount paid up front. As of both December 31, 2023 and 2022, AENB held shares with a carrying value of $132 million, with the remaining half subject to call by the Federal Reserve District Bank Board, the likelihood of which we believe is remote.
v3.24.0.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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.
Market risk is the risk to earnings or asset and liability values resulting from movements in market prices. Our market risk exposures include:
•Interest rate risk due to changes in the relationship between the interest rates on our assets (such as loans, receivables and investment securities) and the interest rates on our liabilities (such as debt and deposits); and
•Foreign exchange risk related to transactions, funding, investments and earnings in currencies other than the U.S. dollar.
We centrally monitor market risks using market risk limits and escalation triggers as defined in our Asset/Liability Management Policy. Our market exposures are in large part by-products of the delivery of our products and services.
Interest rate risk primarily arises through the funding of Card Member receivables and fixed-rate loans with variable-rate borrowings, as well as through the risk to net interest margin from changes in the relationship between benchmark rates such as Prime, the secured overnight financing rate and the overnight indexed swap rate. Interest rate exposure within our charge card and fixed-rate lending products is managed by varying the proportion of total funding provided by short-term and variable-rate debt and deposits compared to fixed-rate debt and deposits. In addition, interest rate swaps are used from time to time to economically convert fixed-rate debt obligations to variable-rate obligations, or to convert variable-rate debt obligations to fixed-rate obligations. We may change the mix between variable-rate and fixed-rate funding based on changes in business volumes and mix, among other factors.
Foreign exchange exposures arise in four principal ways: (1) Card Member spending in currencies that are not the billing currency, (2) cross-currency transactions and balances from our funding activities, (3) cross-currency investing activities, such as in the equity of foreign subsidiaries and (4) revenues generated and expenses incurred in foreign currencies, which impact earnings. Our foreign exchange risk is managed primarily by entering into agreements to buy and sell currencies on a spot basis or by hedging this market exposure, to the extent it is economical, through various means, including the use of derivatives such as foreign exchange forwards.
Derivatives may give rise to counterparty credit risk, which is the risk that a derivative counterparty will default on, or otherwise be unable to perform pursuant to, an uncollateralized derivative exposure. We manage this risk by considering the current exposure, which is the replacement cost of contracts on the measurement date, as well as estimating the maximum potential future exposure of the contracts over the next 12 months, considering such factors as the volatility of the underlying or reference index. To mitigate derivative credit risk, counterparties are required to be pre-approved by us and rated as investment grade, and counterparty risk exposures are centrally monitored.
A majority of our derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 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. To further mitigate counterparty credit risk, we exercise our rights under executed credit support agreements with the respective derivative counterparties for our bilateral interest rate swaps and select foreign exchange contracts. These agreements require that, in the event the fair value change in the net derivatives position between the two parties exceeds certain dollar thresholds, the party in the net liability position posts collateral to its counterparty. All derivative contracts cleared through a central clearinghouse are collateralized to the full amount of the fair value of the contracts.
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 December 31, 2023, these derivatives were not in a material net liability position and we had no material risk exposure to any individual derivative counterparty. Based on our assessment of the credit risk of our derivative counterparties and our own credit risk as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, no credit risk adjustment to the derivative portfolio was required.
Our derivatives are carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The accounting for changes in fair value depends on the instruments’ intended use and the resulting hedge designation, if any, as discussed below. Refer to Note 14 for a description of our methodology for determining the fair value of derivatives.
The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31:
Other Assets Fair ValueOther Liabilities Fair Value
(Millions)2023202220232022
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a)
$— $— $99 $211 
Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts9 350 455 251 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments9 350 554 462 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign exchange contracts and other
71 171 423 339 
Total derivatives, gross80 521 977 801 
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b)
(57)(257)(57)(257)
Cash collateral netting (c)
— (11)(106)(212)
Total derivatives, net$23 $253 $814 $332 
(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 $175 million and $8 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS THAT QUALIFY FOR HEDGE ACCOUNTING
Derivatives executed for hedge accounting purposes are documented and designated as such when we enter into the contracts. In accordance with our risk management policies, we structure our hedges with terms similar to those of the item being hedged. We formally assess, at inception of the hedge accounting relationship and on a quarterly basis, whether derivatives designated as hedges are highly effective in offsetting the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usually are made through the application of a regression analysis method. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, we will discontinue the application of hedge accounting.
FAIR VALUE HEDGES
A fair value hedge involves a derivative designated to hedge our exposure to future changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability, or an identified portion thereof, that is attributable to a particular risk.
Interest Rate Contracts
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 $11.7 billion and $8.1 billion of fixed-rate debt obligations designated in fair value hedging relationships as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Gains or losses on the fair value hedging instrument principally offset the losses or gains on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk. The changes in the fair value of the derivative and the changes in the hedged item may not fully offset due to differences between a debt obligation’s interest rate and the benchmark rate, primarily due to credit spreads at inception of the hedging relationship that are not reflected in the fair value of the interest rate swap.
The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the years ended December 31:
Gains (losses)
(Millions)202320222021
Fixed-rate long-term debt$(289)$473 $385 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments290 (476)(385)
Total$1 $(3)$— 
The carrying values of the hedged liabilities, recorded within Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, were $11.7 billion and $7.8 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, including the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments of $53 million and $(236) million for the respective periods.
We recognized in Interest expense on Long-term debt a net increase of $189 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and net decreases of $57 million and $256 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. These were 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 as net investment hedges to reduce our exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on our investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. We had notional amounts of approximately $14.1 billion and $12.5 billion of foreign currency derivatives designated as net investment hedges as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The gain or loss on net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in AOCI as part of the cumulative translation adjustment, was a loss of $640 million and gains of $237 million and $176 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Net investment hedge reclassifications out of AOCI into the Consolidated Statements of Income were not significant for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
DERIVATIVES NOT DESIGNATED AS HEDGES
We have derivatives that act as economic hedges, but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contracts, primarily foreign exchange forwards. These hedges generally mature within one year. Foreign currency contracts involve the purchase and sale of designated currencies at an agreed upon rate for settlement on a specified date.
The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures. We had notional amounts of approximately $25.3 billion and $21.7 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The changes in the fair value of the derivatives and the related underlying foreign currency exposures resulted in a net gains of $82 million and $8 million and a net loss of $21 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, 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 December 31, 2023 and 2022.This embedded derivative had a fair value of $18 million and $27 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative resulted in a loss of $9 million and a gain of $4 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which were recognized in Service fees and other revenue in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
v3.24.0.1
Fair Values
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Values
FAIR VALUES
Fair value is defined as the price that would be required to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, based on the principal or, in the absence of a principal, most advantageous market for the specific asset or liability.
GAAP provides for a three-level hierarchy of inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value, defined as follows:
•Level 1 ― Inputs that are quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity can access.
•Level 2 ― Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, including:
– Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets;
– Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active;
– Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability; and
– Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
•Level 3 ― Inputs that are unobservable and reflect our own estimates about the estimates market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available in the circumstances (e.g., internally derived assumptions surrounding the timing and amount of expected cash flows).
We monitor the market conditions and evaluate the fair value hierarchy levels at least quarterly. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were no Level 3 transfers.
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 described in the preceding paragraphs), as of December 31:
20232022
(Millions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Investment securities: (a)
Equity securities$66 $66 $— $— $41 $40 $1 $— 
Debt securities 2,120 — 2,046 74 4,537 — 4,490 47 
Derivatives, gross (a)(b)
80 — 62 18 521 — 494 27 
Total Assets2,266 66 2,108 92 5,099 40 4,985 74 
Liabilities:
Derivatives, gross (a)
977 — 977 — 801 — 801 — 
Total Liabilities$977 $— $977 $— $801 $— $801 $— 
(a)Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 13 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 13 for additional information about this embedded derivative.
VALUATION TECHNIQUES USED IN THE FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES CARRIED AT FAIR VALUE
For the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (categorized in the valuation hierarchy table above), we apply the following valuation techniques:
Investment Securities
When available, quoted prices of identical investment securities in active markets are used to estimate fair value. Such investment securities are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
When quoted prices of identical investment securities in active markets are not available, the fair values for our investment securities are obtained primarily from pricing services engaged by us, and we receive one price for each security. The fair values provided by the pricing services are estimated using pricing models, where the inputs to those models are based on observable market inputs or recent trades of similar securities. Such investment securities are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The inputs to the valuation techniques applied by the pricing services vary depending on the type of security being priced but are typically benchmark yields, benchmark security prices, credit spreads, prepayment speeds, reported trades and broker-dealer quotes, all with reasonable levels of transparency. The pricing services did not apply any adjustments to the pricing models used. In addition, we did not apply any adjustments to prices received from the pricing services.
We reaffirm our understanding of the valuation techniques used by our pricing services at least annually. In addition, we corroborate the prices provided by our pricing services by comparing them to alternative pricing sources. In instances where price discrepancies are identified between different pricing sources, we evaluate such discrepancies to ensure that the prices used for our valuation represent the fair value of the underlying investment securities. Refer to Note 4 for additional information on investment securities.
Within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy are our holdings of debt securities issued by Community Development Financial Institutions. We take the carrying value for these investment securities to be a reasonable proxy for their fair value unless we determine, based on our internal credit model, that there are indicators that the contractual cash flows will not be received in full.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The fair value of our Level 2 derivative financial instruments is estimated by using third-party pricing models, where the inputs to those models are readily observable from active markets. The pricing models used are consistently applied and reflect the contractual terms of the derivatives as described below. We reaffirm our understanding of the valuation techniques at least annually and validate the valuation output on a quarterly basis.
The fair value of our interest rate swaps is determined based on a discounted cash flow method using the following significant inputs: the contractual terms of the swap such as the notional amount, fixed coupon rate, floating coupon rate and tenor, as well as discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cash flows are denominated.
The fair value of foreign exchange forward contracts is determined based on a discounted cash flow method using the following significant inputs: the contractual terms of the forward contracts such as the notional amount, maturity dates and contract rate, as well as relevant foreign currency forward curves, and discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cash flows are denominated.
Our Level 3 derivative financial instrument represents an embedded derivative in the form of C Ordinary Shares of GBT JerseyCo Limited. The fair valuation is performed by an independent third party using a Monte Carlo Simulation technique that models a range of probable future stock prices using the following significant inputs: term of the earnout, initial stock price, annual expected volatility of the common stock over the expected term, annual risk-neutral rate of return over the contractual term and dividend yield, which is further reviewed by management.
Credit valuation adjustments are necessary when the market parameters, such as a benchmark curve, used to value derivatives are not indicative of our credit quality or that of our counterparties. We consider the counterparty credit risk by applying an observable forecasted default rate to the current exposure. Refer to Note 13 for additional information on derivative financial instruments.
FINANCIAL ASSETS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES CARRIED AT OTHER THAN FAIR VALUE
The following table summarizes 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 December 31, 2023 and 2022. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
2023 (Billions)
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or
approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
$47 $47 $45 $2 $— 
Other financial assets(b)
63 63 — 63 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves(c)
128 133 — — 133 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value143 143 — 143 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit(d)
19 18 — 18 — 
Long-term debt(c)
$48 $48 $— $48 $— 
2022 (Billions)
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or
approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
$34 $34 $32 $2 $— 
Other financial assets(b)
60 60 — 60 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves(c)
110 113 — — 113 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value123 123 — 123 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit(d)
16 16 — 16 — 
Long-term debt(c)
$43 $42 $— $42 $— 
(a)Level 2 fair value amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments.
(b)Balances include Card Member receivables (including fair values of Card Member receivables of $4.6 billion and 5.2 billion held by a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively), other receivables and other miscellaneous assets.
(c)Balances include amounts held by a consolidated VIE for which the fair values of Card Member loans were $28.6 billion and $28.4 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $13.3 billion and $12.3 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
(d)Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
VALUATION TECHNIQUES USED IN THE FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES CARRIED AT OTHER THAN FAIR VALUE
For the financial assets and liabilities that are not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis (categorized in the valuation hierarchy table), we apply the following valuation techniques to measure fair value:
Financial Assets For Which Carrying Values Equal Or Approximate Fair Value
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include cash and cash equivalents, Card Member receivables, accrued interest and certain other assets. For these assets, the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short term in duration, have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate.
Financial Assets Carried At Other Than Fair Value
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves
Card Member and Other loans are recorded at historical cost, less reserves, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In estimating the fair value for our loans, we use a discounted cash flow model. Due to the lack of a comparable whole loan sales market for similar loans and the lack of observable pricing inputs thereof, we use various inputs to estimate fair value. Such inputs include projected income, discount rates and forecasted write-offs. The valuation does not include economic value attributable to future receivables generated by the accounts associated with the loans.
Financial Liabilities For Which Carrying Values Equal Or Approximate Fair Value
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include accrued interest, customer deposits (excluding certificates of deposit, which are described further below), Travelers Cheques and other prepaid products outstanding, accounts payable, short-term borrowings and certain other liabilities for which the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short term in duration, have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate.
Financial Liabilities Carried At Other Than Fair Value
Certificates of Deposit
Certificates of deposit (CDs) are recorded at their historical issuance cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Fair value is estimated using a discounted cash flow methodology based on the future cash flows and the discount rate that reflects the current market rates for similar types of CDs within similar markets.
Long-term Debt
Long-term debt is recorded at historical issuance cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheets adjusted for (i) unamortized discount and unamortized fees, (ii) the impact of movements in exchange rates on foreign currency denominated debt and (iii) the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes that have been swapped to floating rate through the use of interest rate swaps. The fair value of our long-term debt is measured using quoted offer prices when quoted market prices are available. If quoted market prices are not available, the fair value is determined by discounting the future cash flows of each instrument at rates currently observed in publicly-traded debt markets for debt of similar terms and credit risk. For long-term debt, where there are no rates currently observable in publicly traded debt markets of similar terms and comparable credit risk, we use market interest rates and adjust those rates for necessary risks, including our own credit risk. In determining an appropriate spread to reflect our credit standing, we consider credit default swap spreads, bond yields of other long-term debt offered by us, and interest rates currently offered to us for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities.
NONRECURRING FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. For these assets, measurement at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition is applicable if they are determined to be impaired or where there are observable price changes for equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
We estimate the Level 3 fair value of equity investments without readily determinable fair values, which include investments in our Amex Ventures portfolio, based on price changes as of the date of new similar equity financing transactions completed by the companies in the portfolio. 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 impaired investments represents a Level 3 fair value measurement.
The carrying value of equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $0.9 billion and $1.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, of which approximately nil and $0.6 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, represented a nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurement for certain of our equity investments. These amounts are included within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We recorded unrealized gains of $18 million, $94 million and $729 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Unrealized losses were $142 million, $388 million and $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, 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 for equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $1.1 billion and $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and cumulative unrealized losses were $431 million and $394 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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 December 31, 2023 and 2022.
v3.24.0.1
Guarantees
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Guarantees [Abstract]  
Guarantees
GUARANTEES
The maximum potential undiscounted future payments and related liability resulting from guarantees and indemnifications provided by us in the ordinary course of business were $1 billion and $24 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2023 and $1 billion and $21 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2022, all of which were primarily related to our real estate arrangements and business dispositions.
To date, we have not experienced any significant losses related to guarantees or indemnifications. Our recognition of these instruments is at fair value. In addition, we establish reserves when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
v3.24.0.1
Common and Preferred Shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Equity [Abstract]  
Common and Preferred Shares
COMMON AND PREFERRED SHARES
The following table shows authorized shares and provides a reconciliation of common shares issued and outstanding for the years ended December 31:
(Millions, except where indicated)202320222021
Common shares authorized (billions) (a)
3.6 3.6 3.6 
Shares issued and outstanding at beginning of year743 761 805 
Repurchases of common shares(22)(20)(46)
Net shares issued for RSUs and stock option exercises (b)
2 2 2 
Shares issued and outstanding as of December 31723 743 761 
(a)Of the common shares authorized but unissued as of December 31, 2023, approximately 16 million shares are reserved for issuance under employee stock and employee benefit plans.
(b)Shares issued for RSUs are reported net of shares withheld for tax withholding obligations.
On March 8, 2023, the Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 120 million common shares from time to time, subject to market conditions and in accordance with our capital plans. This authorization replaced the prior repurchase authorization made on September 23, 2019. During 2023, 2022 and 2021, we repurchased 22 million common shares with a cost basis of $3.5 billion, 20 million common shares with a cost basis of $3.3 billion, and 46 million common shares with a cost basis of $7.6 billion, respectively. The cost basis includes excise tax and commissions of $32 million in 2023, and commissions of $4 million and $6 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 99 million common shares remaining under the Board share repurchase authorization.
Common shares are generally retired by us upon repurchase (except for 2.3 million, 2.4 million and 2.5 million shares held as treasury shares as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively); retired common shares and treasury shares are excluded from the shares outstanding in the table above. The treasury shares, with a cost basis of $252 million, $262 million and $271 million as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are included as a reduction to Additional paid-in capital in Shareholders’ equity on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
PREFERRED SHARES
The Board of Directors may authorize the issuance of up to 20 million preferred shares at a par value of $1.662/3 per share without further shareholder approval. We have the following perpetual Fixed Rate Reset Noncumulative Preferred Share series issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023:
 Series D
Issuance dateAugust 3, 2021
Securities issued
1,600 Preferred shares; represented by 1,600,000 depositary shares
Dividend rate per annum
3.55% through September 14, 2026; resets September 15, 2026 and every subsequent 5-year anniversary at 5-year Treasury rate plus 2.854%
Dividend payment dateQuarterly beginning September 15, 2021
Earliest redemption date
September 15, 2026
Aggregate liquidation preference$1,600 million
Carrying value (a)
$1,584 million
(a)Carrying value, presented in the Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, represents the issuance proceeds, net of underwriting fees and offering costs.
In the event of the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, the preferred shares then outstanding take precedence over our common shares for the payment of dividends and the distribution of assets out of funds legally available for distribution to shareholders. We may redeem the outstanding series of preferred shares at $1 million per preferred share (equivalent to $1,000 per depositary share) plus any declared but unpaid dividends in whole or in part, from time to time, on any dividend payment date on or after the earliest redemption date, or in whole, but not in part, within 90 days of certain bank regulatory changes.
In 2021, we paid $1.6 billion to redeem in full the previously outstanding Series B and Series C preferred shares. The difference between the redemption value and carrying value of the redeemed Series B and Series C preferred shares resulted in a $16 million reduction to net income available to common shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2021.
v3.24.0.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 a balance sheet item in Shareholders’ equity on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. It 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 years ended December 31 were as follows:
(Millions), net of tax
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt
Securities
Foreign Currency
Translation Adjustment
Gains (Losses), Net of Hedges (a)
Net Unrealized Pension
and Other Postretirement Benefit
Gains (Losses)		Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balances as of December 31, 2020$65 $(2,229)$(731)$(2,895)
Net change(42)(163)155 (50)
Balances as of December 31, 202123 (2,392)(576)(2,945)
Net change(87)(230)52 (265)
Balances as of December 31, 2022(64)(2,622)(524)(3,210)
Net change50 51 37 138 
Balances as of December 31, 2023$(14)$(2,571)$(487)$(3,072)
(a)Refer to Note 13 for additional information on hedging activity.
The following table shows the tax impact for the years ended December 31 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above:
Tax expense (benefit)
(Millions)202320222021
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities
$16 $(27)$(13)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of hedges(158)75 51 
Pension and other postretirement benefits(3)27 52 
Total tax impact$(145)$75 $90 
Reclassifications out of AOCI into the Consolidated Statements of Income, net of taxes, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were not significant.
v3.24.0.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Service fees$1,518 $1,444 $1,385 
Foreign currency-related revenue1,428 1,202 624 
Delinquency fees963 809 637 
Travel commissions and fees637 507 244 
Other fees and revenues
459 559 426 
Total Service fees and other revenue$5,005 $4,521 $3,316 
The following is a detail of Other expenses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Data processing and equipment$2,805 $2,606 $2,431 
Professional services2,029 2,074 1,958 
Net unrealized and realized losses (gains) on Amex Ventures investments (a)
152 302 (767)
Other
1,821 1,499 1,195 
Total Other expenses$6,807 $6,481 $4,817 
(a)Refer to Note 14 for further information regarding Amex Ventures investments accounted for as equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]  
Restructuring
RESTRUCTURING
We periodically initiate restructuring programs to enhance our overall effectiveness and efficiency and to support new business strategies. These programs are generally completed within a year of when they are initiated. In connection with these programs, we will typically incur severance and other exit costs.
We had $216 million, $135 million and $67 million accrued in total restructuring reserves as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Restructuring expense, which primarily relates to new severance charges, net of revisions to existing reserves, was $179 million, $142 million and $(10) million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and is included within Salaries and employee benefits within our Consolidated Statements of Income. The cumulative cost relating to restructuring programs initiated in 2023 or in prior years that were in progress during 2023 was $277 million. There were no programs initiated prior to 2022 that were still in progress during 2023. Cumulative amounts were not material to any reportable operating segment.
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes
INCOME TAXES
The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31 included in the Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows:
(Millions)202320222021
Current income tax expense:
U.S. federal$2,455 $2,445 $1,656 
U.S. state and local351 339 351 
Non-U.S.662 476 328 
Total current income tax expense3,468 3,260 2,335 
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
U.S. federal(952)(763)231 
U.S. state and local(139)(117)22 
Non-U.S.(238)(309)41 
Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense(1,329)(1,189)294 
Total income tax expense$2,139 $2,071 $2,629 
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21 percent as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, to our actual income tax rate was as follows:
 202320222021
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
(Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from:
Tax credits and tax-exempt income
(0.7)(0.9)(0.1)
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit2.4 3.1 3.0 
Non-U.S. subsidiaries’ earnings (a)
(0.8)(0.1)1.1 
Tax settlements and lapse of statute of limitations
(2.0)(2.1)(0.3)
Valuation allowances
0.1 (0.1)— 
Other0.3 0.7 (0.1)
Actual tax rates20.3 %21.6 %24.6 %
(a)In certain jurisdictions outside the United States, we benefit from agreements that temporarily lower our income tax expense. The impact of these agreements was not material to our Consolidated Statements of Income.
We record a deferred income tax (benefit) provision when there are differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting and for income tax return purposes. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years and are measured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse.
The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are reflected in the following table:
(Millions)20232022
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes$4,552 $4,052 
Employee compensation and benefits335 353 
Net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards466 411 
Capitalized developed software
743 — 
Other723 776 
Gross deferred tax assets6,819 5,592 
Valuation allowance(614)(537)
Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance6,205 5,055 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangibles and fixed assets683 671 
Deferred revenue62 126 
Deferred interest114 118 
Investment in joint ventures
— 17 
Other566 618 
Gross deferred tax liabilities1,425 1,550 
Net deferred tax assets$4,780 $3,505 
The net operating loss and tax credit carryforward balance as of December 31, 2023, shown in the table above, is related to pre-tax U.S. federal and non-U.S. net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards of $13 million and $1.2 billion, respectively, and foreign tax credit (FTC) carryforwards of $132 million. If not utilized, certain U.S. federal and non-U.S. NOL carryforwards will expire between 2024 and 2034, whereas others have an unlimited carryforward period. The FTC carryforwards will expire between 2030 and 2034.
A valuation allowance is established when management determines that it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the benefit of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The valuation allowances for both periods presented above are associated with certain non-U.S. deferred tax assets, state NOLs, and FTC carryforwards.
Accumulated earnings of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries, which totaled approximately $1.1 billion as of December 31, 2023, are intended to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S. We do not provide for state income and foreign withholding taxes on foreign earnings intended to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S. Accordingly, state income and foreign withholding taxes, which would have aggregated to approximately $0.1 billion as of December 31, 2023, have not been provided on those earnings.
Net income taxes paid by us during 2023, 2022 and 2021, were approximately $3.3 billion, $3.0 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively. These amounts include estimated tax payments and cash settlements relating to prior tax years.
We are subject to the income tax laws of the United States, its states and municipalities and those of the foreign jurisdictions in which we operate. These tax laws are complex, and the manner in which they apply to the taxpayer’s facts is sometimes open to interpretation. Given these inherent complexities, we must make judgments in assessing the likelihood that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the tax position. A tax position is recognized only when, based on management’s judgment regarding the application of income tax laws, it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination. The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes is based on management’s best judgment of the largest amount of benefit that is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement with the taxing authority given the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. We adjust the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome.
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.
The following table presents changes in unrecognized tax benefits:
(Millions)202320222021
Balance, January 1$962 $1,024 $790 
Increases:
Current year tax positions132 119 64 
Tax positions related to prior years40 30 225 
Decreases:
Tax positions related to prior years
(50)(30)(14)
Settlements with tax authorities
(160)(74)(15)
Lapse of statute of limitations(49)(104)(17)
Effects of foreign currency translations— (3)(9)
Balance, December 31$875 $962 $1,024 
Included in the unrecognized tax benefits of $0.9 billion, $1.0 billion and $1.0 billion for December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are approximately $670 million, $750 million and $780 million, respectively, that, if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate in a future period.
We believe it is reasonably possible that our unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next twelve months by as much as $117 million, principally as a result of potential resolutions of prior years’ tax items with various taxing authorities. The prior years’ tax items include unrecognized tax benefits relating to the deductibility of certain expenses or losses and the attribution of taxable income to a particular jurisdiction or jurisdictions. Of the $117 million of unrecognized tax benefits, approximately $92 million relates to amounts that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate in a future period.
Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we recognized approximately $30 million, $10 million and $40 million, respectively, in expenses for interest and penalties.
We had approximately $410 million and $380 million accrued for the payment of interest and penalties as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (EPS)
The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
(Millions, except per share amounts)
202320222021
Numerator:
Basic and diluted:
Net income
$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Preferred dividends(58)(57)(71)
Equity-related adjustments (a)
— — (16)
Net income available to common shareholders8,316 7,457 7,973 
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (b)
(64)(57)(56)
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$8,252 $7,400 $7,917 
Denominator: (b)
Basic: Weighted-average common stock
735 751 789 
Add: Weighted-average stock options (c)
1 1 1 
Diluted
736 752 790 
Basic EPS
$11.23 $9.86 $10.04 
Diluted EPS$11.21 $9.85 $10.02 
(a)Represents the difference between the redemption value and carrying value of the Series C and Series B preferred shares, which were redeemed on September 15, 2021 and November 15, 2021, respectively. The carrying value represents the original issuance proceeds, net of underwriting fees and offering costs for the preferred shares.
(b)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.
(c)The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS 1.38 million, 0.39 million and 0.01 million of options for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.
v3.24.0.1
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy [Abstract]  
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy
REGULATORY MATTERS AND CAPITAL ADEQUACY
We are supervised and regulated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve and are subject to the Federal Reserve’s requirements for risk-based capital and leverage ratios. Our U.S. bank subsidiary, AENB, is subject to supervision and regulation, including regulatory capital and leverage requirements, by the OCC.
Under the risk-based capital guidelines of the Federal Reserve, we are required to maintain minimum ratios of CET1, Tier 1 and Total (Tier 1 plus Tier 2) capital to risk-weighted assets, as well as a minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio (Tier 1 capital to average adjusted on-balance sheet assets).
Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional, discretionary actions by regulators, that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on our operating activities.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we met all capital requirements to which we were subject and maintained regulatory capital ratios in excess of those required to qualify as well capitalized.
The following table presents the regulatory capital ratios:
(Millions, except percentages)CET 1
capital		Tier 1 capitalTotal capitalCET 1 capital
ratio		Tier 1 capital
ratio		Total capital
ratio		Tier 1 leverage
ratio
December 31, 2023: (a)
American Express Company$23,174 $24,779 $28,784 10.5 %11.3 %13.1 %9.9 %
American Express National Bank$17,038 $17,038 $19,548 11.6 %11.6 %13.3 %9.5 %
December 31, 2022: (a)
American Express Company$20,030 $21,627 $24,926 10.3 %11.1 %12.8 %9.9 %
American Express National Bank$14,820 $14,820 $17,273 11.3 %11.3 %13.2 %9.7 %
Well-capitalized ratios (b)
American Express CompanyN/A6.0 %10.0 %N/A
American Express National Bank6.5 %8.0 %10.0 %5.0 %
Minimum capital ratios (c)
4.5 %6.0 %8.0 %4.0 %
Effective Minimum (d)
American Express Company7.0 %8.5 %10.5 %4.0 %
American Express National Bank7.0 %8.5 %10.5 %4.0 %
(a)Capital ratios reported using Basel III capital definitions and risk-weighted assets using the Basel III standardized approach.
(b)Represents requirements for bank holding companies and banking subsidiaries to be considered “well capitalized” pursuant to regulations issued under the Federal Reserve Regulation Y and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act, respectively. There is no CET1 capital ratio or Tier 1 leverage ratio requirement for a bank holding company to be considered “well capitalized.”
(c)As defined by the regulations issued by the Federal Reserve and OCC.
(d)Represents Basel III minimum capital requirement and applicable regulatory buffers as defined by the federal banking regulators, which includes the stress capital buffer for American Express Company and the capital conservation buffer for American Express National Bank.
RESTRICTED NET ASSETS OF SUBSIDIARIES
Certain of our subsidiaries are subject to restrictions on the transfer of net assets under debt agreements and regulatory requirements. These restrictions have not had any effect on our shareholder dividend policy and management does not anticipate any impact in the future. Procedures exist to transfer net assets between the Company and its subsidiaries, while ensuring compliance with the various contractual and regulatory constraints. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate amount of net assets of subsidiaries that are restricted to be transferred was approximately $13.6 billion.
BANK HOLDING COMPANY DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS
We are limited in our ability to pay dividends by the Federal Reserve, which could prohibit a dividend that would be considered an unsafe or unsound banking practice. It is the policy of the Federal Reserve that bank holding companies generally should pay dividends on preferred and common stock only out of net income available to common shareholders generated over the past year, and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s current and expected future capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. Moreover, bank holding companies are required by statute to be a source of strength to their insured depository institution subsidiaries and should not maintain dividend levels that undermine their ability to do so. On an annual basis, we are required to develop and maintain a capital plan, which includes planned dividends. We may be subject to limitations and restrictions on our dividends, if, among other things, (i) our regulatory capital ratios do not satisfy applicable minimum requirements and buffers or (ii) we are required to resubmit our capital plan.
BANK DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS
In the year ended December 31, 2023, AENB paid dividends from retained earnings to its parent of $3.6 billion. AENB is limited in its ability to pay dividends by banking statutes, regulations and supervisory policy. In general, applicable federal and state banking laws prohibit, without first obtaining regulatory approval, insured depository institutions, such as AENB, from making dividend distributions if such distributions are not paid out of available retained earnings or would cause the institution to fail to meet capital adequacy standards. If AENB’s risk-based capital ratios do not satisfy minimum regulatory requirements and applicable buffers, it will face graduated constraints on dividends and other capital distributions. In determining the dividends to pay its parent, AENB must also consider the effects on applicable risk-based capital and leverage ratio requirements, as well as policy statements of the federal regulatory agencies. In addition, AENB’s banking regulators have authority to limit or prohibit the payment of a dividend by AENB under a number of circumstances, including if, in the banking regulator’s opinion, payment of a dividend would constitute an unsafe or unsound banking practice in light of the financial condition of the banking organization.
v3.24.0.1
Significant Credit Concentrations
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]  
Significant Credit Concentrations
SIGNIFICANT CREDIT CONCENTRATIONS
Concentrations of credit risk exist when changes in economic, industry or geographic factors similarly affect groups of counterparties whose aggregate credit exposure is material in relation to American Express’ total credit exposure. Our customers operate in diverse industries, economic sectors and geographic regions.
The following table details our maximum credit exposure of the on-balance sheet assets by category as of December 31:
(Billions)20232022
Individuals: (a)
$178 $156 
United States145 129 
Outside the United States (b)
33 27 
Institutions:
Financial services (c)
12 11 
Other (d)
17 17 
Federal Reserve Bank
37 25 
U.S. Government and agencies (e)
1 4 
Total on-balance sheet$245 $213 
(a)Primarily reflects loans and receivables from global consumer and small business Card Members, which are governed by individual credit risk management.
(b)The geographic regions with the largest concentration outside the United States include the United Kingdom, Japan, the European Union, Australia, Canada and Mexico.
(c)Represents banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations, which are governed by institutional credit risk management.
(d)Primarily reflects loans and receivables from global corporate Card Members, which are governed by institutional credit risk management.
(e)Represent debt obligations of the U.S. Government and its agencies, states and municipalities and government-sponsored entities. Risk management for these balances is governed by our Asset and Liability Management Committee.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our most significant concentration of credit risk was with individuals. These amounts are generally advanced on an unsecured basis. However, we review each potential customer’s credit application and evaluate the applicant’s financial history and ability and willingness to repay. We also consider credit performance by customer tenure, industry and geographic location in managing credit exposure.
As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $398 billion of unused credit available to customers, approximately 80 percent of which was related to customers within the United States. As of December 31, 2022, we had approximately $350 billion of unused credit, primarily available to customers as part of established lending product agreements, of which approximately 80 percent was related to customers within the United States. Total unused credit does not represent potential future cash requirements, as a significant portion of this unused credit will likely not be drawn. Charge card products with no pre-set spending limits are not reflected in unused credit for either period.
v3.24.0.1
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations
REPORTABLE OPERATING SEGMENTS AND GEOGRAPHIC OPERATIONS
REPORTABLE OPERATING SEGMENTS
We consider a combination of factors when evaluating the composition of our reportable operating segments, including the results reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, economic characteristics, products and services offered, classes of customers, product distribution channels, geographic considerations (primarily United States versus outside the United States), and regulatory environment considerations.
The following is a brief description of the primary business activities of our four reportable operating segments:
•U.S. Consumer Services (USCS), which issues a wide range of proprietary consumer cards and provides services to U.S. consumers, including travel and lifestyle services as well as banking and non-card financing products.
•Commercial Services (CS), which issues a wide range of proprietary corporate and small business cards and provides services to U.S. businesses, including payment and expense management, banking and non-card financing products. CS also issues proprietary corporate cards and provides services to select global corporate clients.
•International Card Services (ICS), which issues a wide range of proprietary consumer, small business and corporate cards outside the United States. ICS also provides services to our international customers, including travel and lifestyle services, and manages certain international joint ventures and our loyalty coalition businesses.
•Global Merchant and Network Services (GMNS), which operates a global payments network that processes and settles card transactions, acquires merchants and provides multi-channel marketing programs and capabilities, services and data analytics, leveraging our global integrated network. GMNS manages our partnership relationships with third-party card issuers (including our network partnership agreements in China), merchant acquirers and a prepaid reloadable and gift card program manager, licensing the American Express brand and extending the reach of the global network.
Corporate functions and certain other businesses and operations are included in Corporate & Other.
The following table presents certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(Millions, except where indicated)USCSCSICSGMNS
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
2023
Total non-interest revenues$18,464 $12,931 $9,472 $6,620 $(106)$47,381 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
13,715 11,379 6,155 6,006 (37)37,218 
Interest income12,336 3,328 2,076 57 2,186 19,983 
Interest expense2,684 1,483 1,118 (719)2,283 6,849 
Total revenues net of interest expense28,116 14,776 10,430 7,396 (203)60,515 
Pretax income (loss)5,433 2,861 973 3,656 (2,410)10,513 
Total assets (billions)
$107 $55 $42 $24 $33 $261 
2022
Total non-interest revenues$16,440 $12,196 $8,262 $6,123 $(54)$42,967 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
12,478 10,844 5,301 5,603 (7)34,219 
Interest income8,457 2,070 1,453 23 655 12,658 
Interest expense983 697 654 (329)758 2,763 
Total revenues net of interest expense23,914 13,569 9,061 6,475 (157)52,862 
Pretax income (loss)5,400 2,880 578 2,954 (2,227)9,585 
Total assets (billions)
$94 $51 $37 $20 $26 $228 
2021
Total non-interest revenues$12,989 $9,833 $6,761 $5,021 $26 $34,630 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
9,823 8,659 4,368 4,694 172 27,716 
Interest income6,328 1,408 1,116 16 165 9,033 
Interest expense395 330 442 (92)208 1,283 
Total revenues net of interest expense18,922 10,911 7,435 5,129 (17)42,380 
Pretax income (loss)5,958 2,936 929 1,874 (1,008)10,689 
Total assets (billions)
$77 $45 $33 $15 $19 $189 
(a)Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity.
(b)Includes discount revenue, certain service fees and other revenue and processed revenues from customers.
Total Revenues Net of Interest Expense
We allocate discount revenue and certain other revenues among segments using a transfer pricing methodology. Within the USCS, CS and ICS segments, discount revenue generally reflects the issuer component of the overall discount revenue generated by each segment’s Card Members; within the GMNS segment, discount revenue generally reflects the network and acquirer component of the overall discount revenue being allocated.
Net card fees, processed revenue and certain other revenues are directly attributable to the segment in which they are reported.
Interest and fees on loans and certain investment income is directly attributable to the segment in which it is reported. Interest expense represents an allocated funding cost based on a combination of segment funding requirements and internal funding rates.
Provisions for Credit Losses
The provisions for credit losses are directly attributable to the segment in which they are reported.
Expenses
Card Member rewards and Card Member services expenses are included in each segment based on the actual expenses incurred. Business development and Marketing expenses are included in each segment based on the actual expenses incurred. Global brand advertising is primarily allocated to the segments based on the relative levels of revenue.
Salaries and employee benefits and other expenses reflect both costs incurred directly within each segment, as well as allocated expenses. The allocated expenses include service costs, which primarily reflect salaries and benefits associated with our technology and customer servicing groups, and overhead expenses. Service costs are allocated based on activities directly attributable to the segment, and overhead expenses are allocated based on the relative levels of revenue and Card Member loans and receivables.
GEOGRAPHIC OPERATIONS
The following table presents our total revenues net of interest expense and pretax income (loss) from continuing operations in different geographic regions based, in part, upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment.
(Millions)United States
EMEA(a)
APAC(a)
LACC(a)
Other Unallocated(b)
Consolidated
2023
Total revenues net of interest expense$47,140 $5,633 $4,372 $3,571 $(201)$60,515 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,717 854 592 760 (2,410)10,513 
2022
Total revenues net of interest expense$41,396 $4,871 $3,835 $2,917 $(157)$52,862 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,383 550 376 500 (2,224)9,585 
2021
Total revenues net of interest expense$33,103 $3,643 $3,418 $2,238 $(22)$42,380 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,325 460 420 494 (1,010)10,689 
(a)EMEA represents Europe, the Middle East and Africa; APAC represents Asia Pacific, Australia and New Zealand; and LACC represents Latin America, Canada and the Caribbean.
(b)Other Unallocated includes net costs which are not directly allocated to specific geographic regions, including costs related to the net negative interest spread on excess liquidity funding and executive office operations expenses.
v3.24.0.1
Parent Company
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Parent Company
PARENT COMPANY
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Revenues
Non-interest revenues
Other$407 $388 $343 
Total non-interest revenues407 388 343 
Interest income1,558 614 96 
Interest expense1,436 857 482 
Total revenues net of interest expense529 145 (43)
Expenses
Salaries and employee benefits487 408 359 
Other408 372 346 
Total expenses895 780 705 
Loss before income tax and equity in net income of subsidiaries
(366)(635)(748)
Income tax benefit(163)(244)(248)
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates8,577 7,905 8,560 
Net income$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax5 10 151 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net
133 (275)(201)
Comprehensive income$8,512 $7,249 $8,010 
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31 (Millions)
20232022
Assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$9,652 $8,188 
Equity in net assets of subsidiaries and affiliates28,019 24,702 
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates25,471 22,658 
Due from subsidiaries and affiliates1,261 1,342 
Other assets349 156 
Total assets64,752 57,046 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities
Accounts payable and other liabilities2,188 2,271 
Due to subsidiaries and affiliates555 632 
Long-term debt33,952 29,432 
Total liabilities36,695 32,335 
Shareholders’ Equity
Total shareholders’ equity28,057 24,711 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity$64,752 $57,046 
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates(8,577)(7,905)(8,560)
Dividends received from subsidiaries and affiliates5,326 5,549 9,102 
Other operating activities, primarily with subsidiaries and affiliates360 160 (305)
Net cash provided by operating activities5,483 5,318 8,297 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net increase in loans to subsidiaries and affiliates(2,836)(4,850)(176)
Investments in subsidiaries and affiliates— (1)(60)
Net cash used in investing activities(2,836)(4,851)(236)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net decrease in short-term debt from subsidiaries and affiliates— (136)(2,636)
Proceeds from long-term debt9,969 13,202 3,000 
Payments of long-term debt(5,750)(5,675)(5,000)
Issuance of American Express preferred shares— — 1,584 
Redemption of American Express preferred shares— — (1,600)
Issuance of American Express common shares 28 56 64 
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other(3,650)(3,502)(7,652)
Dividends paid(1,780)(1,565)(1,448)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(1,183)2,380 (13,688)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents1,464 2,847 (5,627)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year8,188 5,341 10,968 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$9,652 $8,188 $5,341 
Supplemental cash flow information
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Non-Cash Investing Activities
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates$— $— $(1,787)
Non-Cash Financing Activities
Proceeds from long-term debt$— $— $1,787 
v3.24.0.1
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Pay vs Performance Disclosure      
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
v3.24.0.1
Insider Trading Arrangements
 3 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Principles of Consolidation
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION
The Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Significant intercompany transactions are eliminated.
We consolidate entities in which we hold a “controlling financial interest.” For voting interest entities, we are considered to hold a controlling financial interest when we are able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), the determination of which is based on the amount and characteristics of the entity’s equity, we are considered to hold a controlling financial interest when we are determined to be the primary beneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the party that has both: (1) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact that VIE’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to absorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to that VIE.
Entities in which our voting interest in common equity does not provide it with control, but allows us to exert significant influence over operating and financial decisions, are accounted for under the equity method. We also have investments in equity securities where our voting interest is below the level of significant influence, including investments that we make in non-public companies in the ordinary course of business. Such investments are initially recorded at cost and adjusted to fair value through earnings for observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar instruments of the same company or if they are determined to be impaired. See Note 4 for the accounting policy for our marketable equity securities.
Foreign Currency
FOREIGN CURRENCY
Transactions conducted in currencies other than the applicable functional currency of an entity are converted to the functional currency at the exchange rate on the transaction date. At the period end, monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency using period end rates. The resulting transaction gains and losses are recorded in Other, net expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
For subsidiaries where the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar, the monetary assets and liabilities and results of operations are translated for consolidation purposes into U.S. dollars at period-end rates for monetary assets and liabilities and generally at average rates for results of operations. The resulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholders’ equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hedge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of investments in foreign operations.
Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions
AMOUNTS BASED ON ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS
Accounting estimates are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements. These estimates are based, in part, on management’s assumptions concerning future events. Among the more significant assumptions are those that relate to reserves for Card Member credit losses on loans and receivables, Membership Rewards liability, goodwill and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ.
Revenue
Revenue is recognized when obligations under the terms of a contract with our customers are satisfied. We are not required to disclose revenue that is expected to be recognized in future periods related to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less and contracts with variable consideration (e.g., discount revenue). Non-interest revenue expected to be recognized in future periods related to all other contracts with customers is not material.
Discount Revenue
Discount revenue represents the amount we earn and retain from the merchant payable for facilitating transactions between Card Members and merchants on payment products issued by American Express. The amount of fees charged for accepting our cards as payment, or merchant discount, varies with, among other factors, the industry in which the merchant conducts business, the merchant’s overall American Express-related transaction volume, the method of payment, the settlement terms with the merchant, the method of submission of transactions and, in certain instances, the geographic scope of the card acceptance agreement between the merchant and us (e.g., local or global) and the transaction amount. Discount revenue is generally recorded at the time the Card Member transaction occurs.
Card acceptance agreements, which include the agreed-upon terms for charging the merchant discount fee, vary in duration. Our contracts with small- and mid-sized merchants generally have no fixed contractual duration, while those with large merchants are generally for fixed periods, which typically range from three to seven years in duration. Our fixed-period agreements may include auto-renewal features, which may allow the existing terms to continue beyond the stated expiration date until a new agreement is reached. We satisfy our obligations under these agreements over the contract term, often on a daily basis, including through the processing of Card Member transactions and the availability of our payment network.
In cases where the merchant acquirer is a third party, we receive a network rate fee in our settlement with the merchant acquirer, which is negotiated between us and that merchant acquirer and is recorded as discount revenue at the time the Card Member transaction occurs.
Net Card Fees
Net card fees represent revenue earned from annual card membership fees, which vary based on the type of card and the number of cards for each account. These fees, net of acquisition costs and a reserve for projected refunds for Card Member cancellations, are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the twelve-month card membership period as Net card fees in the Consolidated Statements of Income and are therefore more stable in relation to short term business or economic shifts. The unamortized net card fee balance is reported in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Service Fees and Other Revenue
Service fees and other revenue includes service fees earned from merchants and other customers and travel commissions and fees, which are generally recognized in the period when the service is performed, and delinquency and foreign currency-related fees, which are primarily recognized in the period when they are charged to the Card Member. In addition, Service fees and other revenue includes income (losses) from our investments in which we have significant influence and therefore account for under the equity method. Refer to Note 18 for additional information.
Processed Revenue
Processed revenue primarily represents revenues related to network partnership agreements, comprising royalties, fees and amounts earned for facilitating transactions on cards issued by network partners. In our role as the operator of the American Express network, we settle with merchants and our third-party merchant acquirers on behalf of our network card issuing partners. The amount of fees charged for accepting American Express-branded cards is generally deducted from the payment to the merchant or third-party merchant acquirer and recorded as Processed revenue at the time the Card Member transaction occurs. Our network card issuing partners receive an issuer rate that is individually negotiated between that issuer and us and is recorded as contra-revenue within Processed revenue to the extent that there is revenue from the same customer, after which any additional issuer rate is recorded as expense in Business development. Processed revenue also includes fees related to alternative payment solutions, which are generally recognized when the service is performed.
Contra-revenue
Payments made pursuant to contractual arrangements with our merchants, network partners and other customers are classified as contra-revenue, except where we receive goods, services or other benefits for which the fair value is determinable and measurable, in which case they are recorded as expense.
Interest Income
Interest on Card Member loans is assessed using the average daily balance method. Unless the loan is classified as non-accrual, interest is recognized based upon the principal amount outstanding, in accordance with the terms of the applicable account agreement, until the outstanding balance is paid, or written off.
Interest and dividends on investment securities primarily relate to our performing fixed-income securities. Interest income is recognized as earned using the effective interest method, which adjusts the yield for security premiums and discounts, fees and other payments, so that a constant rate of return is recognized on the investment security’s outstanding balance. Amounts are recognized until securities are in default or when it becomes likely that future interest payments will not be made as scheduled.
Interest on deposits with banks and other is recognized as earned, and primarily relates to the placement of cash, in excess of near-term funding requirements, in interest-bearing time deposits, overnight sweep accounts, and other interest-bearing demand and call accounts.
Interest Expense
Interest Expense
Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to fund Card Member loans and receivables, general corporate purposes and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred. Interest expense is divided principally into two categories: (i) deposits, which primarily relates to interest expense on deposits taken from customers and institutions and (ii) debt, which primarily relates to interest expense on our long-term debt and short-term borrowings, as well as the realized impact of derivatives used to hedge interest rate risk on our long-term debt.
Expenses
Card Member Rewards
We issue credit, charge and debit cards that allow Card Members to participate in various rewards programs (e.g., Membership Rewards, cash back and cobrand). Rewards expense is recognized in the period Card Members earn rewards, generally by spending on their enrolled card products. For Membership Rewards and cash back, we record a liability that represents the rewards that are expected to be redeemed, as well as, for Membership Rewards, the estimated cost of points earned. For cobrand, we record a liability based primarily on rewards earned on Card Member spending on cobrand cards, and make associated payments to our cobrand partners. The partner is liable for providing rewards to the Card Member under the cobrand partner’s own loyalty program. Card Member rewards liabilities are impacted over time by enrollment levels, attrition, the volume of points earned and redeemed, and the associated redemption costs. Changes in the Card Member rewards liabilities during the period are taken as an increase or decrease to the Card Member rewards expense in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
Business Development
Business development expense includes payments to our cobrand partners, corporate client incentive payments earned on achievement of pre-set targets and certain payments to network partners. These costs are generally expensed as incurred.
Card Member Services
Card Member services expense represents costs incurred in providing our Card Members with various value-added benefits and services, which are generally expensed as incurred.
Marketing
Marketing expense includes costs incurred in the development and initial placement of advertising, which are expensed in the period in which the advertising first takes place. All other marketing expenses are generally expensed as incurred.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, including securities purchased under resale agreements, restricted cash, and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less. Restricted cash primarily represents amounts related to Card Member credit balances as well as upcoming debt maturities of consolidated VIEs.
Goodwill
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition cost of an acquired business over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. We allocate goodwill to our reporting units for the purpose of impairment testing. A reporting unit is defined as an operating segment, or a business that is one level below an operating segment, for which discrete financial information is regularly reviewed by the operating segment manager.
Prior to completing the annual assessment of goodwill for impairment, we perform a recoverability test of certain long-lived assets. We have historically evaluated goodwill for impairment annually as of June 30, or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of one or more of our reporting units below its carrying value. In the fourth quarter of 2023, we changed our annual impairment assessment date to November 1 for all reporting units. The change in the annual testing date for goodwill impairment is considered a change in accounting principle, which we believe is preferable as the new date better aligns with our long-term planning and forecasting process. We have determined that it is impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flows and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of each November 1 of the prior reporting periods without the use of hindsight. As such, we prospectively applied the change in annual goodwill impairment testing date beginning November 1, 2023. The change in assessment date did not delay, accelerate or avoid a potential impairment charge.
We have the option to perform a qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. Alternatively, we can perform a more detailed quantitative assessment of goodwill impairment.
This qualitative assessment entails the evaluation of factors such as economic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance of the reporting unit and other company and reporting unit-specific events. If we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we then perform the impairment evaluation using the quantitative assessment.
The quantitative assessment compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount over and above the reporting unit’s fair value.
When measuring the fair value of our reporting units in the quantitative assessment, we use widely accepted valuation techniques, applying a combination of the income approach (discounted cash flows) and market approach (market multiples). When preparing discounted cash flow models under the income approach, we use internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows expected to be generated by the reporting units. To discount these cash flows, we use the expected cost of equity, determined by using a capital asset pricing model. We believe the discount rates appropriately reflect the risks and uncertainties in the financial markets generally and specifically in our internally-developed forecasts. When using market multiples under the market approach, we apply comparable publicly traded companies’ multiples (e.g., earnings or revenues) to our reporting units’ operating results.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we performed assessments for each reporting unit in connection with our annual goodwill impairment evaluation as of both June 30, 2023 and November 1, 2023, in accordance with the change in goodwill impairment testing date. As of both testing dates, we determined that it was more likely than not that the fair values of each of our reporting units exceeded their carrying values and accordingly no impairment was recognized.
In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2022, we performed a quantitative goodwill impairment assessment for those reporting units which were impacted by the realignment of our operating segments and concluded that their fair values exceeded their carrying values.
OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives of 1 to 22 years. We review long-lived assets and asset groups, including intangible assets, for impairment whenever events and circumstances indicate their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. An impairment is recognized if the carrying amount is not recoverable and exceeds the asset or asset group’s fair value.
Premises and Equipment
Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Costs incurred during construction are capitalized and are depreciated once an asset is placed in service. Depreciation is generally computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 to 10 years for equipment, furniture and building improvements, and from 40 to 50 years for premises, which are depreciated based upon their estimated useful life at the acquisition date.
Certain costs associated with the acquisition or development of internal-use software are also capitalized and recorded in Premises and equipment. Once the specific software feature is ready for its intended use, these costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the software’s estimated useful life, generally 5 years. We review these assets for impairment using the same impairment methodology used for our intangible assets.
Leasehold improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the leased facility, or the economic life of the improvement, and range from 5 to 10 years. We recognize lease restoration obligations at the fair value of the restoration liabilities when incurred and amortize the restoration assets over the lease term.
Leases
Leases
We have operating leases worldwide for facilities and equipment, which, for those leases with terms greater than 12 months, are recorded as lease-related assets and liabilities. We do not separate lease and non-lease components. Lease-related assets, or right-of-use assets, are recognized at the lease commencement date at amounts equal to the respective lease liabilities, adjusted for prepaid lease payments, initial direct costs and lease incentives. Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the contractual fixed lease payments, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate as of the lease commencement date or upon modification of the lease. Operating lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, while variable lease payments are expensed as incurred.
Classification of Various Items
CLASSIFICATION OF VARIOUS ITEMS
Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation.
Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards
RECENTLY ADOPTED AND ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Effective January 1, 2023, we adopted new accounting guidance on troubled debt restructurings (TDR) and vintage disclosures on a prospective basis. The new guidance eliminated the existing TDR guidance for those entities that have adopted ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, created a single loan modification accounting model and enhanced disclosure requirements for loan modifications and write-offs. The implementation did not have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Refer to Note 2 for further information, including the enhanced disclosures.
In March 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance to allow the proportional amortization method (PAM) to be applied to tax credit structures beyond low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) investments. Having implemented PAM in relation to LIHTC investments in January 2021, we early adopted the updated guidance with respect to other qualifying investments in the fourth quarter of 2023. The impact of this change is immaterial to our Consolidated Financial Statements, therefore we implemented the updated guidance on a prospective basis.
In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance for Segment Reporting, effective January 1, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance requires enhanced disclosures for significant expenses by reportable operating segment. Significant expense categories and amounts are those regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (CODM) and included in the measure of a segment’s profit or loss. The updated guidance will also require us to disclose the title and position of our CODM, including an explanation of how our CODM uses the reported measure(s) of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. We plan to adopt the new standard for the annual reporting period beginning January 1, 2024, and for interim periods beginning January 1, 2025. The updated guidance is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
In December 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued updated accounting guidance on Disclosures for Income Taxes, effective January 1, 2025, with early adoption permitted. The updated guidance requires additional disclosure and disaggregated information in the Income Tax Rate reconciliation using both percentages and reporting currency amounts, with additional qualitative explanations of individually significant reconciling items. The updated guidance also requires disclosure of the amount of income taxes paid (net of refunds received) disaggregated by jurisdictional categories (federal (national), state and foreign). We are currently assessing the updated guidance, however it is not expected to have a material impact to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Card Member and Other Loans, Card Member Receivables and Reserve for Credit Losses
CARD MEMBER AND OTHER LOANS
Card Member loans are generally recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant and represent revolve-eligible transactions on our card products, as well as any finance charges and associated card-related fees. Card Members with outstanding revolving loans are required to make a minimum monthly payment, and the balances that Card Members choose to revolve are subject to finance charges. These loans have varying terms such as credit limits, interest rates, fees and payment structures, which can be revised over time based on new information about Card Members and in accordance with applicable regulations and the respective product’s terms and conditions.
Card Member loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees. Our policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, and establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected.
Other loans are recorded at the time any extension of credit is provided to consumer and commercial customers for non-card financing products. These loans have a range of fixed terms such as interest rates, fees and repayment periods. Borrowers are typically required to make pre-established monthly payments over the term of the loan. Non-card financing products are not associated with a Card Member agreement, and instead are governed by a separate borrowing relationship. Other loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees.
CARD MEMBER RECEIVABLES
Card Member receivables are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant and represent amounts due on our card products and card-related fees that need to be paid in full on or before the Card Member’s payment due date.
Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each month. Card Member receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for credit losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued fees.
Reserves for credit losses represent our best estimate of the expected credit losses in our outstanding portfolio of Card Member loans and receivables as of the balance sheet date. The 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 loan or receivable 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 loans and receivables 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 loans and receivables 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. Separate models are used for accounts deemed a troubled debt restructuring, which are measured individually and incorporate a discounted cash flow model. See Note 2 for information on TDRs.
Loans and receivable balances 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 pay in full or revolving loans and 120 days past due for term loans. Loans and receivables in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification.
Investment Securities Investment securities principally include available-for-sale debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The methodology for estimating credit losses for available for sale debt securities requires us to estimate lifetime credit losses for all available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position. When estimating a security’s probability of default and the recovery rate, we assess the security’s credit indicators, including credit ratings. If our assessment indicates that an estimated credit loss exists, we determine the portion of the unrealized loss attributable to credit deterioration and record a reserve for the estimated credit loss through 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.
Asset Securitizations
We periodically securitize Card Member loans and receivables 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 Member loans and receivables. Refer to Note 1 for further details on the principles of consolidation. 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 Member loans and receivables. 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 $15.3 billion and $16.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and in the Charge Trust was $4.6 billion and $5.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
The debt securities issued by the Trusts are non-recourse to us. The securitized Card Member loans and receivables held by the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust, respectively, are available only for payment of the debt securities or other obligations issued or arising in the securitization transactions (refer to Note 2). The long-term debt of each Trust is payable only out of collections on their respective underlying securitized assets (refer to Note 8).
Other Assets We account for such tax credit investments using the Proportional Amortization Method, which we elected to implement prospectively on January 1, 2021 for LIHTC investments and in the fourth quarter of 2023 for other qualifying investments.
Membership Rewards
MEMBERSHIP REWARDS
The Membership Rewards program allows enrolled Card Members to earn points that can be redeemed for a broad variety of rewards including, but not limited to, travel, shopping, gift cards, and covering eligible charges. We record a Membership Rewards liability that represents our best estimate of the cost of points earned that are expected to be redeemed by Card Members in the future. The weighted average cost (WAC) per point and the Ultimate Redemption Rate (URR) are the key assumptions used to estimate the liability. We use statistical and actuarial models to estimate the URR based on redemption trends, card product type, enrollment tenure, card spend levels and credit attributes. The WAC per point assumption is derived from 12 months of redemptions and is adjusted as appropriate for certain changes in redemption costs that are not representative of future cost expectations and expected developments in redemption patterns.
The expense for Membership Rewards points is included in Card Member rewards expense. We periodically evaluate our liability estimation process and assumptions based on changes in cost per point redeemed, partner contract changes and developments in redemption patterns, which may be impacted by product refreshes, changes in redemption options and mix of proprietary cards-in-force.
Stock-based Compensation
Stock-based compensation expense is generally recognized ratably based on the grant-date fair value of the awards, net of expected forfeitures, over the vesting period. Generally, the vesting period is the time from the grant date to the earlier of the vesting date defined in each award agreement or the date the colleague will become eligible to retire. Retirement eligibility is dependent upon age and/or years of service.
RSUs containing only service conditions generally vest ratably over three years, or four years for awards granted prior to 2022, beginning with the first anniversary of the grant date. RSUs containing both service and performance conditions generally vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, and the number of shares earned generally ranges from zero to 120 percent of target depending on the achievement of predetermined Company metrics. RSU holders receive dividend equivalents or dividends.Other incentive awards can be settled with cash or equity shares at our discretion and final approval from the Compensation and Benefits Committee. These awards are generally settled with cash and thus are classified as liabilities; therefore, the fair value is determined at the grant date and remeasured quarterly as part of compensation expense over the vesting period.
Retirement Plans We recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans, measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the projected benefit obligation, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Legal 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 $400 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 and Hedging Activities A majority of our derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 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. Our derivatives are carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The accounting for changes in fair value depends on the instruments’ intended use and the resulting hedge designation, if any, as discussed below.We formally assess, at inception of the hedge accounting relationship and on a quarterly basis, whether derivatives designated as hedges are highly effective in offsetting the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usually are made through the application of a regression analysis method. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, we will discontinue the application of hedge accounting.Gains or losses on the fair value hedging instrument principally offset the losses or gains on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk.We primarily designate foreign currency derivatives as net investment hedges to reduce our exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on our investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries.
We have derivatives that act as economic hedges, but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contracts, primarily foreign exchange forwards. These hedges generally mature within one year. Foreign currency contracts involve the purchase and sale of designated currencies at an agreed upon rate for settlement on a specified date.
The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures.
Fair Value Measurements We monitor the market conditions and evaluate the fair value hierarchy levels at least quarterly.
We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. For these assets, measurement at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition is applicable if they are determined to be impaired or where there are observable price changes for equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
We estimate the Level 3 fair value of equity investments without readily determinable fair values, which include investments in our Amex Ventures portfolio, based on price changes as of the date of new similar equity financing transactions completed by the companies in the portfolio. 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 impaired investments represents a Level 3 fair value measurement.
The carrying value of equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $0.9 billion and $1.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, of which approximately nil and $0.6 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, represented a nonrecurring Level 3 fair value measurement for certain of our equity investments. These amounts are included within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
We recorded unrealized gains of $18 million, $94 million and $729 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Unrealized losses were $142 million, $388 million and $2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, 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 for equity investments without readily determinable fair values totaled $1.1 billion and $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and cumulative unrealized losses were $431 million and $394 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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 December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Guarantees Our recognition of these instruments is at fair value. In addition, we establish reserves when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
Income Taxes
We record a deferred income tax (benefit) provision when there are differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting and for income tax return purposes. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years and are measured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse.
A valuation allowance is established when management determines that it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the benefit of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The valuation allowances for both periods presented above are associated with certain non-U.S. deferred tax assets, state NOLs, and FTC carryforwards.
Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision.
Income Tax Uncertainties The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes is based on management’s best judgment of the largest amount of benefit that is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement with the taxing authority given the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. We adjust the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome.
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy
RESTRICTED NET ASSETS OF SUBSIDIARIES
Certain of our subsidiaries are subject to restrictions on the transfer of net assets under debt agreements and regulatory requirements. These restrictions have not had any effect on our shareholder dividend policy and management does not anticipate any impact in the future. Procedures exist to transfer net assets between the Company and its subsidiaries, while ensuring compliance with the various contractual and regulatory constraints. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate amount of net assets of subsidiaries that are restricted to be transferred was approximately $13.6 billion.
BANK HOLDING COMPANY DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS
We are limited in our ability to pay dividends by the Federal Reserve, which could prohibit a dividend that would be considered an unsafe or unsound banking practice. It is the policy of the Federal Reserve that bank holding companies generally should pay dividends on preferred and common stock only out of net income available to common shareholders generated over the past year, and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s current and expected future capital needs, asset quality and overall financial condition. Moreover, bank holding companies are required by statute to be a source of strength to their insured depository institution subsidiaries and should not maintain dividend levels that undermine their ability to do so. On an annual basis, we are required to develop and maintain a capital plan, which includes planned dividends. We may be subject to limitations and restrictions on our dividends, if, among other things, (i) our regulatory capital ratios do not satisfy applicable minimum requirements and buffers or (ii) we are required to resubmit our capital plan.
BANK DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS
In the year ended December 31, 2023, AENB paid dividends from retained earnings to its parent of $3.6 billion. AENB is limited in its ability to pay dividends by banking statutes, regulations and supervisory policy. In general, applicable federal and state banking laws prohibit, without first obtaining regulatory approval, insured depository institutions, such as AENB, from making dividend distributions if such distributions are not paid out of available retained earnings or would cause the institution to fail to meet capital adequacy standards. If AENB’s risk-based capital ratios do not satisfy minimum regulatory requirements and applicable buffers, it will face graduated constraints on dividends and other capital distributions. In determining the dividends to pay its parent, AENB must also consider the effects on applicable risk-based capital and leverage ratio requirements, as well as policy statements of the federal regulatory agencies. In addition, AENB’s banking regulators have authority to limit or prohibit the payment of a dividend by AENB under a number of circumstances, including if, in the banking regulator’s opinion, payment of a dividend would constitute an unsafe or unsound banking practice in light of the financial condition of the banking organization.
Segment Reporting
We consider a combination of factors when evaluating the composition of our reportable operating segments, including the results reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, economic characteristics, products and services offered, classes of customers, product distribution channels, geographic considerations (primarily United States versus outside the United States), and regulatory environment considerations.
Total Revenues Net of Interest Expense
We allocate discount revenue and certain other revenues among segments using a transfer pricing methodology. Within the USCS, CS and ICS segments, discount revenue generally reflects the issuer component of the overall discount revenue generated by each segment’s Card Members; within the GMNS segment, discount revenue generally reflects the network and acquirer component of the overall discount revenue being allocated.
Net card fees, processed revenue and certain other revenues are directly attributable to the segment in which they are reported.
Interest and fees on loans and certain investment income is directly attributable to the segment in which it is reported. Interest expense represents an allocated funding cost based on a combination of segment funding requirements and internal funding rates.
Provisions for Credit Losses
The provisions for credit losses are directly attributable to the segment in which they are reported.
Expenses
Card Member rewards and Card Member services expenses are included in each segment based on the actual expenses incurred. Business development and Marketing expenses are included in each segment based on the actual expenses incurred. Global brand advertising is primarily allocated to the segments based on the relative levels of revenue.
Salaries and employee benefits and other expenses reflect both costs incurred directly within each segment, as well as allocated expenses. The allocated expenses include service costs, which primarily reflect salaries and benefits associated with our technology and customer servicing groups, and overhead expenses. Service costs are allocated based on activities directly attributable to the segment, and overhead expenses are allocated based on the relative levels of revenue and Card Member loans and receivables.
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Schedule of other significant accounting policies
The following table identifies our other significant accounting policies, along with the related Note.
Significant Accounting PolicyNote
Number		Note Title
Loans and Card Member ReceivablesNote 2Loans and Card Member Receivables
Reserves for Credit LossesNote 3Reserves for Credit Losses
Investment SecuritiesNote 4Investment Securities
Asset SecuritizationsNote 5Asset Securitizations
Legal ContingenciesNote 12Contingencies and Commitments
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging ActivitiesNote 13Derivatives and Hedging Activities
Fair Value MeasurementsNote 14Fair Values
GuaranteesNote 15Guarantees
Income TaxesNote 20Income Taxes
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Receivables [Abstract]  
Card member and other loan detail
Card Member and Other loans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 consisted of:
(Millions)20232022
Consumer (a)
$98,111 $84,964 
Small Business27,833 22,947 
Corporate51 53 
Card Member loans125,995 107,964 
Less: Reserves for credit losses5,118 3,747 
Card Member loans, net$120,877 $104,217 
Other loans, net (b)
$6,960 $5,357 
(a)Includes approximately $28.6 billion and $28.5 billion of gross Card Member loans available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
(b)Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $126 million and $59 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 consisted of:
(Millions)20232022
Consumer$25,578 $22,885 
Small Business19,286 19,629 
Corporate(a)
15,547 15,099 
Card Member receivables60,411 57,613 
Less: Reserves for credit losses174 229 
Card Member receivables, net$60,237 $57,384 
(a)Includes $4.6 billion and $5.2 billion of gross Card Member receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Aging of receivables The following table presents the aging of Card Member loans and receivables as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
2023 (Millions)
Current30-59
Days
Past Due		60-89
Days
Past Due		90+
Days
Past Due		Total
90+ Days Past Due and Still Accruing Interest (c)
Non-Accruals(d)
Card Member Loans:
Consumer$96,779 $420 $298 $614 $98,111 $393 $344 
Small Business27,444 133 85 171 27,833 109 95 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)— 51 — — 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer25,355 70 47 106 25,578 — — 
Small Business$19,020 $104 $62 $100 $19,286 $— $— 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)$67 $15,547 $— $— 
2022 (Millions)
Current30-59
Days Past Due		60-89
Days Past Due		90+
Days Past
Due		Total
Card Member Loans:
Consumer$84,102 $281 $198 $383 $84,964 
Small Business22,731 81 49 86 22,947 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)— 53 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer22,634 83 56 112 22,885 
Small Business$19,330 $120 $69 110 19,629 
Corporate (a)
(b)(b)(b)$85 $15,099 
(a)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 Member loan or receivable balance is classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (b).
(b)Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past due can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
(c)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.
(d)Non-accrual 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 tables present the key credit quality indicators as of or for the years ended December 31:
20232022
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 Member Loans:
Consumer1.8 %2.2 %1.4 %0.9 %1.2 %1.0 %
Small Business1.7 %1.9 %1.4 %0.7 %0.8 %0.9 %
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer1.5 %1.6 %0.9 %0.8 %0.9 %1.1 %
Small Business2.2 %2.4 %1.4 %1.1 %1.2 %1.5 %
Corporate
(b)0.6 %(c)(b)0.4 %(c)
(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 receivables, 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 % of total was 0.4% and 0.6% as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Modifications of loans and receivables
The following table provides information relating to loans and receivables modifications for borrowers experiencing financial difficulty during the year ended December 31, 2023:
As of December 31, 2023
2023 (Millions)
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 Member Loans
Consumer$1,572 1.6 %16.4 %(b)
Small Business550 2.0 %15.9 %(b)
Corporate— — — (b)
Term Extension
Card Member Receivables
Consumer346 1.4 %(c)27
Small Business543 2.8 %(c)28
Corporate13 0.1 %(c)9
Other Loans23 0.3 %— 18
Interest Rate Reduction
and Term Extension
Other Loans$42 0.6 %2.1 %20
Total$3,089 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken in the last year for loans and receivables that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, December 31, 2023. The outstanding balances include principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
The following table provides information with respect to loans and receivables modified on or after January 1, 2023 that subsequently defaulted in the period presented. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
As of December 31, 2023
Account Balance (Millions) (a)
Interest Rate Reduction
Term ExtensionInterest Rate Reduction and Term ExtensionTotal
Card Member Loans
Consumer$53 (b)$—$53 
Small Business20 (b)—20 
Corporate— (b)—— 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer(c)9 — 9 
Small Business(c)14 — 14 
Corporate(c)— — — 
Other Loans— — 1 1 
Total$73 $23 $1 $97 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken on or after January 1, 2023 and subsequently defaulted in the past year. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
The following table provides information relating to the performance of loans and receivables that were modified on or after January 1, 2023.
As of December 31, 2023
Account Balances (Millions) (a)
Current
30-89 Days Past Due
90+ Days Past Due
Card Member Loans
Consumer$1,433 $103 $36 
Small Business489 45 16 
Corporate— — — 
Card Member Receivables:
Consumer314 25 7 
Small Business479 52 12 
Corporate11 2 — 
Other Loans59 4 2 
Total$2,785 $231 $73 
(a)Represents the outstanding balances as of December 31, 2023 of all modifications undertaken on or after January 1, 2023 for loans and receivables that remain in modification programs as of, or that defaulted on or before, December 31, 2023. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables
The following tables provide additional information with respect to loans and receivables that were modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021:
2022
Number of
Accounts (Thousands)
Account
Balances (Millions) (a)
Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points)
Average Payment Term Extensions
(# of months)
Troubled Debt Restructurings:
Card Member Loans149 $1,002 14 (b)
Card Member Receivables27 900 (c)20
Other Loans (d)
4 $8 2 17
Total180 $1,910 
2021
Number of
Accounts (Thousands)
Account
Balances (Millions) (a)
Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points)
Average Payment Term Extensions
(# of months)
Troubled Debt Restructurings:
Card Member Loans112 $789 13 (b)
Card Member Receivables21 437 (c)18
Other Loans (d)
4 $13 3 16
Total137 $1,239 
(a)Represents the outstanding balance immediately prior to modification. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on loans and principal and fees on receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance.
(b)For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions.
(c)We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
(d)Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products.
Impaired card member loans and receivables
The following tables provide additional information with respect to our impaired loans and receivables as of December 31, 2022 and 2021:
As of December 31, 2022
Accounts Classified as a
TDR (c)
2022 (Millions)
Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a)
Non-
Accruals (b)
In
Program (d)
Out of
Program (e)
Total
Impaired
Balance		Reserve for Credit
Losses-
TDRs
Card Member Loans
Consumer252 155 781 1,098 2,286 335 
Small Business54 34 267 380 735 108 
Corporate— — — — — — 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer— — 257 179 436 20 
Small Business— — 403 402 805 40 
Corporate— — 6 7 13 1 
Other Loans3 2 19 2 26 — 
Total309 $191 1,733 $2,068 $4,301 $504 
As of December 31, 2021
Accounts Classified as a
TDR (c)
2021 (Millions)
Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a)
Non-
Accruals (b)
In
Program (d)
Out of
Program (e)
Total
Impaired
Balance		Reserve for Credit
Losses-
TDRs
Card Member Loans
Consumer149 82 708 997 1,936 415 
Small Business19 14 176 332 541 132 
Corporate— — — — — — 
Card Member Receivables
Consumer— — 133 130 263 9 
Small Business— — 247 297 544 39 
Corporate— — 1 6 7 — 
Other Loans1 — 67 2 70 1 
Total169 $96 1,332 $1,764 $3,361 $596 
(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. Amounts presented exclude loans classified as a TDR.
(b)Non-accrual loans not in modification programs primarily include certain loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest. Amounts presented exclude loans classified as TDRs.
(c)Accounts classified as a TDR include $48 million and $41 million that were over 90 days past due and accruing interest and $17 million and $19 million that were non-accruals as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(d)In Program TDRs include accounts that are currently enrolled in a modification program.
(e)Out of Program TDRs include $1,922 million and $1,621 million of accounts that have successfully completed a modification program and $146 million and $143 million of accounts that were not in compliance with the terms of the modification programs as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Troubled debt restructurings on financing receivables with subsequent default
The following tables provide information with respect to loans and receivables modified as TDRs that subsequently defaulted within twelve months of modification. A customer can miss up to three payments before being considered in default, depending on the terms of the modification program.
2022
Number of Accounts
(Thousands)
Aggregated
Outstanding Balances
Upon Default
(Millions) (a)
Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted:
Card Member Loans14 $81 
Card Member Receivables3 38 
Other Loans (b)
1 1 
Total18 $120 
2021
Number of Accounts
(Thousands)
Aggregated
Outstanding Balances
Upon Default
(Millions) (a)
Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted:
Card Member Loans24 $174 
Card Member Receivables5 56 
Other Loans (b)
3 9 
Total32 $239 
(a)The outstanding balances upon default include principal, fees and accrued interest on loans, and principal and fees on receivables.
(b)Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products.
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 used, in conjunction with other inputs, to calculate reserves for credit losses:
U.S. Unemployment Rate
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) (a)
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Fourth quarter of 2023
4%
3% - 8%
1%
6% - 0.2%
First quarter of 2024
3% - 6%
3% - 8%
4% - (3)%
2% - 0.3%
Fourth quarter of 2024
3% - 8%
3% - 7%
3% - 1%
3% - 2%
Fourth quarter of 2025
3% - 7%
3% - 6%
2%
4% - 3%
(a)Real GDP quarter over quarter percentage change seasonally adjusted to annualized rates.
Schedule of changes in card member loans and receivables
The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for credit losses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Beginning Balance$3,747 $3,305 $5,344 
Provisions(a)
3,839 1,514 (1,155)
Net write-offs (b)
Principal(2,043)(837)(672)
Interest and fees(443)(229)(207)
Other(c)
18 (6)(5)
Ending Balance$5,118 $3,747 $3,305 
(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 $537 million, $539 million and $657 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $18 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and $(6) million for both the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Beginning Balance$229 $64 $267 
Provisions (a)
880 627 (73)
Net write-offs (b)
(937)(462)(129)
Other (c)
2 — (1)
Ending Balance$174 $229 $64 
(a)Provisions for principal 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 $297 million, $257 million and $378 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(c)Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $1 million, $2 million and $(1) million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Schedule of available for sale securities by type
The following is a summary of investment securities as of December 31:
20232022
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$61 $— $(6)$55 $64 $— $(10)$54 
U.S. Government agency obligations4 — — 4 5 — — 5 
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,217 1 (12)1,206 3,859 — (73)3,786 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)
12 — (1)11 13 — — 13 
Foreign government bonds and obligations770 — — 770 633 — (1)632 
Other (b)
74 — — 74 47 — — 47 
Equity securities (c)(d)
60 16 (10)66 50 — (9)41 
Total$2,198 $17 $(29)$2,186 $4,671 $— $(93)$4,578 
(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, exchange-traded funds and mutual funds.
(d)During the third quarter of 2023, certain equity securities were reclassified from Other assets to Investment securities following the completion of transactions pursuant to which the issuers of the securities became public companies. The investments had a fair value of $24 million with an associated cost basis of $10 million as of December 31, 2023. The gross unrealized gain and loss amounts include net unrealized gains of $37 million that were recognized prior to such transactions.
Available-for-sale securities, continuous unrealized loss position, fair value
The following table provides information about our available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
20232022
Less than 12 months12 months or moreLess than 12 months12 months or more
Description of Securities (Millions)
Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross Unrealized
Losses
State and municipal obligations$— $— $33 $(6)$52 $(10)$— $— 
U.S. Government treasury obligations— — 1,114 (12)3,710 (72)52 (1)
Mortgage-backed securities
— — 7 (1)— — — — 
Foreign government bonds and obligations— — — — 549 (1)— — 
Total$— $— $1,154 $(19)$4,311 $(83)$52 $(1)
Available for sale securities ratio of fair value to amortized cost
The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses for available-for-sale debt securities by ratio of fair value to amortized cost as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Less than 12 months12 months or moreTotal
Ratio of Fair Value to
Amortized Cost (Dollars in millions)
Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Number of
Securities		Estimated
Fair Value		Gross
Unrealized
Losses
2023:
90%–100%—$— $— 69$1,140 $(14)69$1,140 $(14)
Less than 90%—— — 214 (5)214 (5)
Total as of December 31, 2023—$— $— 71$1,154 $(19)71$1,154 $(19)
2022:
90%–100%74$4,287 $(74)3$52 $(1)77$4,339 $(75)
Less than 90%1424 (9)—— — 1424 (9)
Total as of December 31, 202288$4,311 $(83)3$52 $(1)91$4,363 $(84)
Contractual maturities of investment securities
Weighted average yields and contractual maturities for available-for-sale debt securities with stated maturities as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)Due within 1 yearDue after 1 year but within 5 yearsDue after 5 years but within 10 yearsDue after 10 yearsTotal
State and municipal obligations (a)
$— $1 $20 $34 $55 
U.S. Government agency obligations (a)
— — — 4 4 
U.S. Government treasury obligations1,010 194 2 — 1,206 
Mortgage-backed securities (a)(b)
— — — 11 11 
Foreign government bonds and obligations768 2 — — 770 
Other (c)
— 64 10 — 74 
Total Estimated Fair Value$1,778 $261 $32 $49 $2,120 
Total Cost$1,784 $265 $33 $56 $2,138 
Weighted average yield (d)
4.68 %3.17 %4.76 %2.80 %4.44 %
(a)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.
(b)Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae.
(c)Represents investments in debt securities issued by Community Development Financial Institutions.
(d)Average yields for investment securities have been calculated using the effective yield on the date of purchase. Yields on tax-exempt investment securities have been computed on a tax-equivalent basis using the U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 21 percent.
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Assets [Abstract]  
Other assets
The following is a summary of Other assets as of December 31:
(Millions)20232022
Goodwill$3,851 $3,786 
Other intangible assets, at amortized cost98 146 
Other (a)
15,165 13,757 
Total$19,114 $17,689 
(a)Primarily includes net deferred tax assets, other receivables net of reserves, investments in non-consolidated entities, prepaid assets, tax credit investments and right-of-use lease assets.
Changes in carrying amount of goodwill
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill reported in our reportable operating segments were as follows:
(Millions)USCSCSICSGMNSTotal
Balance as of December 31, 2021$368 $2,123 $753 $560 $3,804 
Acquisitions13 — — — 13 
Dispositions— — — — — 
Other (a)
(2)(1)(28)— (31)
Balance as of December 31, 2022$379 $2,122 $725 $560 $3,786 
Acquisitions
— 30 — 18 48 
Dispositions— — — — — 
Other (a)
— (1)18 — 17 
Balance as of December 31, 2023$379 $2,151 $743 $578 $3,851 
(a)Primarily includes foreign currency translation.
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 years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision$185 $161 $226 
Equity method expenses recognized in Other, net expenses$— $9 $13 
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits (a) recognized in tax provision
$204 $196 $182 
(a)Other income tax benefits are a result of tax deductible expenses generated by our tax credit investments.
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Deposits [Abstract]  
Customer deposits by component and type
As of December 31, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows:
(Millions)20232022
U.S.:
Interest-bearing$128,146 $109,119 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $495; 2022, $605)
557 663 
Non-U.S.:
Interest-bearing12 15 
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $426; 2022, $439)
429 442 
Total customer deposits$129,144 $110,239 
Customer deposits by deposit type as of December 31 were as follows:
(Millions)20232022
U.S. retail deposits:
Savings and transaction accounts$93,722 $76,731 
Certificates of deposit:
Direct5,557 2,760 
Third-party (brokered)12,960 13,331 
Sweep accounts ― Third-party (brokered)
15,907 16,297 
Total U.S. retail deposits
$128,146 $109,119 
Other deposits77 76 
Card Member credit balances921 1,044 
Total customer deposits$129,144 $110,239 
Time deposits by maturity
The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)20242025202620272028After 5 yearsTotal
Certificates of deposit (a)
$11,740 $4,370 $933 $776 $704 $— $18,523 
(a)Includes $6 million of non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023.
v3.24.0.1
Debt (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Short-term borrowings
Our short-term borrowings outstanding, defined as borrowings with original contractual maturity dates of less than one year, as of December 31 were as follows:
20232022
(Millions, except percentages)Outstanding Balance
Year-End Stated
Interest Rate on
Debt (a)
Outstanding Balance
Year-End Stated
Interest Rate on
Debt (a)
Short-term borrowings (b)
$1,293 1.03 %$1,348 0.94 %
Total$1,293 1.03 %$1,348 0.94 %
(a)For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rates are weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
(b)Includes borrowings from banks and book overdrafts with banks, which represents negative cash balances for accounts with an associated overdraft facility, due to timing differences arising in the ordinary course of business.
Long-term debt
Our long-term debt outstanding, defined as debt with original contractual maturity dates of one year or greater, as of December 31 was as follows:
20232022
(Millions, except percentages)Original
Contractual
Maturity
Dates
Outstanding
Balance(a)
Year-End
Interest Rate
on Debt(b)
Year-End
Interest Rate with
Swaps(b)(c)
Outstanding
Balance(a)
Year-End
Interest Rate
on Debt(b)
Year-End
Interest Rate
with
Swaps(b)(c)
American Express Company
(Parent Company only)
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2024 - 2042$20,930 3.48 %4.14 %$23,813 3.34 %4.00 %
Floating Rate Senior Notes2024 - 20272,400 6.21 — 3,000 4.78 — 
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes2026 - 20348,769 5.38 5.91 1,250 4.42 — 
Fixed Rate Subordinated Notes2024586 3.63 6.74 574 3.63 5.46 
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes2033 - 20341,257 5.24 5.92 750 4.99 — 
American Express Credit Corporation
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2027330 3.30 328 3.30 — 
Lending Trust
Fixed Rate Senior Notes2024 - 202813,449 3.36 3.49 10,499 2.81 — 
Floating Rate Senior Notes— — — 2,125 4.67 — 
Floating Rate Subordinated Notes— — — 61 4.89 — 
Other
Finance Leases— — 3 5.76 — 
Floating Rate Borrowings2024 - 2026238 0.42 254 0.41 — %
Unamortized Underwriting Fees(93)(84)
Total Long-Term Debt$47,866 3.96 %$42,573 3.42 %
(a)The outstanding balances include (i) unamortized discount, (ii) the impact of movements in exchange rates on foreign currency denominated debt and (iii) the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes that have been swapped to floating rate through the use of interest rate swaps. Refer to Note 13 for more details on our treatment of fair value hedges.
(b)For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rate on debt is weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
(c)Interest rates with swaps are only presented when swaps are in place to hedge the underlying debt. The interest rates with swaps are weighted based on the outstanding principal balances and the interest rates on the floating leg of the swaps in effect as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
(Millions)20242025202620272028ThereafterTotal
American Express Company (Parent Company only)$7,500 $5,250 $6,700 $6,411 $— $8,523 $34,384 
American Express Credit Corporation— — — 339 — — 339 
Lending Trust2,750 7,250 2,100 — 1,350 — 13,450 
Other105 63 70 238 
$10,355 $12,563 $8,870 $6,750 $1,350 $8,523 $48,411 
Unamortized Underwriting Fees(93)
Unamortized Discount and Premium(505)
Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting53 
Total Long-Term Debt$47,866 
v3.24.0.1
Other Liabilities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Summary of other liabilities
The following is a summary of Other liabilities as of December 31:
(Millions)
20232022
Membership Rewards liability
$13,742 $12,789 
Book overdraft balances (a)
9,897 7,352 
Deferred card and other fees, net
3,442 3,027 
Employee-related liabilities (b)
2,567 2,530 
Card Member rebate and reward accruals (c)
2,061 2,126 
Income tax liability (d)
1,275 1,651 
Other (e)
8,655 7,875 
Total
$41,639 $37,350 
(a)Primarily includes negative cash balances for accounts without an associated overdraft facility, due to timing differences arising in the ordinary course of business.
(b)Includes employee benefit plan obligations and incentive compensation.
(c)Card Member rebate and reward accruals include payments to third-party reward partners and cash-back rewards.
(d)Includes repatriation tax liability of $998 million and $1,012 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which represents our remaining obligation under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017 (Tax Act) to pay a one-time transition tax on unrepatriated earnings and profits of certain foreign subsidiaries, the net position for current federal, state and non-U.S. income tax liabilities and deferred tax liabilities for foreign jurisdictions.
(e)Primarily includes prepaid products and Travelers Cheques, lease liabilities, derivative liabilities, accruals for general operating expenses, payments to cobrand partners, unfunded commitments for tax credit investments, client incentives and dividends payable.
Carrying amount of deferred card and other fees
The carrying amount of deferred card and other fees, net of deferred direct acquisition costs and reserves for membership cancellations, as of December 31, 2023 was as follows:
(Millions)20232022
Deferred card and other fees (a)
$3,818 $3,380 
Deferred direct acquisition costs(158)(173)
Reserves for membership cancellations(218)(180)
Deferred card and other fees, net$3,442 $3,027 
(a)Includes deferred fees for Membership Rewards program participants.
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Summary of stock option and RSU activity
Our stock options and RSUs outstanding as of December 31, 2023, and changes during the year, are as follows:
 Stock OptionsService-Based RSUsService and Performance-Based RSUs
(Numbers in thousands)
Number
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
Number
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
Number
Weighted-
Average Grant-
Date Fair Value
Outstanding as of December 31, 20223,634 $113.80 1,788 $142.92 3,472 $135.57 
Granted230 173.61 910 172.02 1,395 158.57 
Options exercised/RSUs vested(311)89.62 (787)134.97 (1,498)136.16 
Forfeited— — (84)162.18 (73)153.04 
Expired— — — — — — 
Outstanding as of December 31, 20233,553 119.80 1,827 $159.95 3,296 $144.64 
Options vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20233,547 119.74 
Options exercisable as of December 31, 20231,810 $90.94 
Weighted-average assumptions used for options
The fair value of options without market conditions is estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used for options granted in 2023, 2022 and 2021:
202320222021
Dividend yield1.4 %1.0 %1.5 %
Expected volatility(a)
32 %31 %31 %
Risk-free interest rate3.5 %1.7 %0.8 %
Expected life of stock option (in years)(b)
7.17.17.2
Weighted-average fair value per option$60.03 $55.30 $32.38 
(a)The expected volatility is based on historical and implied volatilities of our common stock price.
(b)The expected life of stock options was determined using historical option exercise behavior.
Weighted-average remaining contractual life and aggregate intrinsic value of stock options
The weighted-average remaining contractual life and the aggregate intrinsic value (the amount by which the fair value of our stock price exceeds the exercise price of the option) of the stock options outstanding, exercisable, and vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:
OutstandingExercisableVested and
Expected to Vest
Weighted-average remaining contractual life (in years)
5.23.55.2
Aggregate intrinsic value (millions)
$240 $174 $240 
Schedule of share-based payment award, valuation assumptions The weighted averages of the following assumptions used in 2023, 2022 and 2021 were:
202320222021
Expected volatility
45 %42 %41 %
Risk-free interest rate3.7 %1.4 %0.2 %
Remaining performance period (in years)
2.92.92.9
v3.24.0.1
Contingencies and Commitments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of future minimum rental payments for operating leases
The following represents the maturities of our outstanding lease commitments as of December 31, 2023:
(Millions) 
2024$159 
2025139 
2026121 
2027104 
202898 
Thereafter841 
Total Outstanding Fixed Lease Payments$1,462 
Less: Amount representing interest$(536)
Lease Liabilities$926 
v3.24.0.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 December 31:
Other Assets Fair ValueOther Liabilities Fair Value
(Millions)2023202220232022
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a)
$— $— $99 $211 
Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts9 350 455 251 
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments9 350 554 462 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign exchange contracts and other
71 171 423 339 
Total derivatives, gross80 521 977 801 
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b)
(57)(257)(57)(257)
Cash collateral netting (c)
— (11)(106)(212)
Total derivatives, net$23 $253 $814 $332 
(a)For our centrally cleared derivatives, variation margin payments are legally characterized as settlement payments as opposed to collateral.
(b)Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement.
(c)Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts and certain foreign exchange contracts with the right to cash collateral held from the counterparty or cash collateral posted with the counterparty.
Effect of fair value hedges on results of operations
The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the years ended December 31:
Gains (losses)
(Millions)202320222021
Fixed-rate long-term debt$(289)$473 $385 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments290 (476)(385)
Total$1 $(3)$— 
v3.24.0.1
Fair Values (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 described in the preceding paragraphs), as of December 31:
20232022
(Millions)TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Assets:
Investment securities: (a)
Equity securities$66 $66 $— $— $41 $40 $1 $— 
Debt securities 2,120 — 2,046 74 4,537 — 4,490 47 
Derivatives, gross (a)(b)
80 — 62 18 521 — 494 27 
Total Assets2,266 66 2,108 92 5,099 40 4,985 74 
Liabilities:
Derivatives, gross (a)
977 — 977 — 801 — 801 — 
Total Liabilities$977 $— $977 $— $801 $— $801 $— 
(a)Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 13 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 13 for additional information about this embedded derivative.
Estimated fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities
The following table summarizes 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 December 31, 2023 and 2022. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 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.
2023 (Billions)
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or
approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
$47 $47 $45 $2 $— 
Other financial assets(b)
63 63 — 63 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves(c)
128 133 — — 133 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value143 143 — 143 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit(d)
19 18 — 18 — 
Long-term debt(c)
$48 $48 $— $48 $— 
2022 (Billions)
Carrying
Value		Corresponding Fair Value Amount
TotalLevel 1Level 2Level 3
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or
approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents(a)
$34 $34 $32 $2 $— 
Other financial assets(b)
60 60 — 60 — 
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member and Other loans, less reserves(c)
110 113 — — 113 
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value123 123 — 123 — 
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit(d)
16 16 — 16 — 
Long-term debt(c)
$43 $42 $— $42 $— 
(a)Level 2 fair value amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments.
(b)Balances include Card Member receivables (including fair values of Card Member receivables of $4.6 billion and 5.2 billion held by a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively), other receivables and other miscellaneous assets.
(c)Balances include amounts held by a consolidated VIE for which the fair values of Card Member loans were $28.6 billion and $28.4 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $13.3 billion and $12.3 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
(d)Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
v3.24.0.1
Common and Preferred Shares (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Equity [Abstract]  
Authorized shares and a reconciliation of common shares issued and outstanding
The following table shows authorized shares and provides a reconciliation of common shares issued and outstanding for the years ended December 31:
(Millions, except where indicated)202320222021
Common shares authorized (billions) (a)
3.6 3.6 3.6 
Shares issued and outstanding at beginning of year743 761 805 
Repurchases of common shares(22)(20)(46)
Net shares issued for RSUs and stock option exercises (b)
2 2 2 
Shares issued and outstanding as of December 31723 743 761 
(a)Of the common shares authorized but unissued as of December 31, 2023, approximately 16 million shares are reserved for issuance under employee stock and employee benefit plans.
(b)Shares issued for RSUs are reported net of shares withheld for tax withholding obligations.
Perpetual fixed rate noncumulative preferred shares issued and outstanding We have the following perpetual Fixed Rate Reset Noncumulative Preferred Share series issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023:
 Series D
Issuance dateAugust 3, 2021
Securities issued
1,600 Preferred shares; represented by 1,600,000 depositary shares
Dividend rate per annum
3.55% through September 14, 2026; resets September 15, 2026 and every subsequent 5-year anniversary at 5-year Treasury rate plus 2.854%
Dividend payment dateQuarterly beginning September 15, 2021
Earliest redemption date
September 15, 2026
Aggregate liquidation preference$1,600 million
Carrying value (a)
$1,584 million
(a)Carrying value, presented in the Statements of Shareholders’ Equity, represents the issuance proceeds, net of underwriting fees and offering costs.
v3.24.0.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 years ended December 31 were as follows:
(Millions), net of tax
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt
Securities
Foreign Currency
Translation Adjustment
Gains (Losses), Net of Hedges (a)
Net Unrealized Pension
and Other Postretirement Benefit
Gains (Losses)		Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balances as of December 31, 2020$65 $(2,229)$(731)$(2,895)
Net change(42)(163)155 (50)
Balances as of December 31, 202123 (2,392)(576)(2,945)
Net change(87)(230)52 (265)
Balances as of December 31, 2022(64)(2,622)(524)(3,210)
Net change50 51 37 138 
Balances as of December 31, 2023$(14)$(2,571)$(487)$(3,072)
(a)Refer to Note 13 for additional information on hedging activity.
AOCI income tax effect
The following table shows the tax impact for the years ended December 31 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above:
Tax expense (benefit)
(Millions)202320222021
Net unrealized gains (losses) on debt securities
$16 $(27)$(13)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of hedges(158)75 51 
Pension and other postretirement benefits(3)27 52 
Total tax impact$(145)$75 $90 
v3.24.0.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
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 years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Service fees$1,518 $1,444 $1,385 
Foreign currency-related revenue1,428 1,202 624 
Delinquency fees963 809 637 
Travel commissions and fees637 507 244 
Other fees and revenues
459 559 426 
Total Service fees and other revenue$5,005 $4,521 $3,316 
Other expenses
The following is a detail of Other expenses for the years ended December 31:
(Millions)202320222021
Data processing and equipment$2,805 $2,606 $2,431 
Professional services2,029 2,074 1,958 
Net unrealized and realized losses (gains) on Amex Ventures investments (a)
152 302 (767)
Other
1,821 1,499 1,195 
Total Other expenses$6,807 $6,481 $4,817 
(a)Refer to Note 14 for further information regarding Amex Ventures investments accounted for as equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Components of income tax expense
The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31 included in the Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows:
(Millions)202320222021
Current income tax expense:
U.S. federal$2,455 $2,445 $1,656 
U.S. state and local351 339 351 
Non-U.S.662 476 328 
Total current income tax expense3,468 3,260 2,335 
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
U.S. federal(952)(763)231 
U.S. state and local(139)(117)22 
Non-U.S.(238)(309)41 
Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense(1,329)(1,189)294 
Total income tax expense$2,139 $2,071 $2,629 
Effective income tax rate reconciliation
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21 percent as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, to our actual income tax rate was as follows:
 202320222021
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
(Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from:
Tax credits and tax-exempt income
(0.7)(0.9)(0.1)
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit2.4 3.1 3.0 
Non-U.S. subsidiaries’ earnings (a)
(0.8)(0.1)1.1 
Tax settlements and lapse of statute of limitations
(2.0)(2.1)(0.3)
Valuation allowances
0.1 (0.1)— 
Other0.3 0.7 (0.1)
Actual tax rates20.3 %21.6 %24.6 %
(a)In certain jurisdictions outside the United States, we benefit from agreements that temporarily lower our income tax expense. The impact of these agreements was not material to our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities
The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are reflected in the following table:
(Millions)20232022
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes$4,552 $4,052 
Employee compensation and benefits335 353 
Net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards466 411 
Capitalized developed software
743 — 
Other723 776 
Gross deferred tax assets6,819 5,592 
Valuation allowance(614)(537)
Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance6,205 5,055 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Intangibles and fixed assets683 671 
Deferred revenue62 126 
Deferred interest114 118 
Investment in joint ventures
— 17 
Other566 618 
Gross deferred tax liabilities1,425 1,550 
Net deferred tax assets$4,780 $3,505 
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits
The following table presents changes in unrecognized tax benefits:
(Millions)202320222021
Balance, January 1$962 $1,024 $790 
Increases:
Current year tax positions132 119 64 
Tax positions related to prior years40 30 225 
Decreases:
Tax positions related to prior years
(50)(30)(14)
Settlements with tax authorities
(160)(74)(15)
Lapse of statute of limitations(49)(104)(17)
Effects of foreign currency translations— (3)(9)
Balance, December 31$875 $962 $1,024 
v3.24.0.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Computation of basic and diluted EPS
The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31 were as follows:
(Millions, except per share amounts)
202320222021
Numerator:
Basic and diluted:
Net income
$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Preferred dividends(58)(57)(71)
Equity-related adjustments (a)
— — (16)
Net income available to common shareholders8,316 7,457 7,973 
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (b)
(64)(57)(56)
Net income attributable to common shareholders
$8,252 $7,400 $7,917 
Denominator: (b)
Basic: Weighted-average common stock
735 751 789 
Add: Weighted-average stock options (c)
1 1 1 
Diluted
736 752 790 
Basic EPS
$11.23 $9.86 $10.04 
Diluted EPS$11.21 $9.85 $10.02 
(a)Represents the difference between the redemption value and carrying value of the Series C and Series B preferred shares, which were redeemed on September 15, 2021 and November 15, 2021, respectively. The carrying value represents the original issuance proceeds, net of underwriting fees and offering costs for the preferred shares.
(b)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.
(c)The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS 1.38 million, 0.39 million and 0.01 million of options for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.
v3.24.0.1
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy [Abstract]  
Regulatory capital ratios
The following table presents the regulatory capital ratios:
(Millions, except percentages)CET 1
capital		Tier 1 capitalTotal capitalCET 1 capital
ratio		Tier 1 capital
ratio		Total capital
ratio		Tier 1 leverage
ratio
December 31, 2023: (a)
American Express Company$23,174 $24,779 $28,784 10.5 %11.3 %13.1 %9.9 %
American Express National Bank$17,038 $17,038 $19,548 11.6 %11.6 %13.3 %9.5 %
December 31, 2022: (a)
American Express Company$20,030 $21,627 $24,926 10.3 %11.1 %12.8 %9.9 %
American Express National Bank$14,820 $14,820 $17,273 11.3 %11.3 %13.2 %9.7 %
Well-capitalized ratios (b)
American Express CompanyN/A6.0 %10.0 %N/A
American Express National Bank6.5 %8.0 %10.0 %5.0 %
Minimum capital ratios (c)
4.5 %6.0 %8.0 %4.0 %
Effective Minimum (d)
American Express Company7.0 %8.5 %10.5 %4.0 %
American Express National Bank7.0 %8.5 %10.5 %4.0 %
(a)Capital ratios reported using Basel III capital definitions and risk-weighted assets using the Basel III standardized approach.
(b)Represents requirements for bank holding companies and banking subsidiaries to be considered “well capitalized” pursuant to regulations issued under the Federal Reserve Regulation Y and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act, respectively. There is no CET1 capital ratio or Tier 1 leverage ratio requirement for a bank holding company to be considered “well capitalized.”
(c)As defined by the regulations issued by the Federal Reserve and OCC.
(d)Represents Basel III minimum capital requirement and applicable regulatory buffers as defined by the federal banking regulators, which includes the stress capital buffer for American Express Company and the capital conservation buffer for American Express National Bank.
v3.24.0.1
Significant Credit Concentrations (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]  
Maximum credit exposure by category
The following table details our maximum credit exposure of the on-balance sheet assets by category as of December 31:
(Billions)20232022
Individuals: (a)
$178 $156 
United States145 129 
Outside the United States (b)
33 27 
Institutions:
Financial services (c)
12 11 
Other (d)
17 17 
Federal Reserve Bank
37 25 
U.S. Government and agencies (e)
1 4 
Total on-balance sheet$245 $213 
(a)Primarily reflects loans and receivables from global consumer and small business Card Members, which are governed by individual credit risk management.
(b)The geographic regions with the largest concentration outside the United States include the United Kingdom, Japan, the European Union, Australia, Canada and Mexico.
(c)Represents banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations, which are governed by institutional credit risk management.
(d)Primarily reflects loans and receivables from global corporate Card Members, which are governed by institutional credit risk management.
(e)Represent debt obligations of the U.S. Government and its agencies, states and municipalities and government-sponsored entities. Risk management for these balances is governed by our Asset and Liability Management Committee.
v3.24.0.1
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Operating segment information
The following table presents certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:
(Millions, except where indicated)USCSCSICSGMNS
Corporate & Other (a)
Consolidated
2023
Total non-interest revenues$18,464 $12,931 $9,472 $6,620 $(106)$47,381 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
13,715 11,379 6,155 6,006 (37)37,218 
Interest income12,336 3,328 2,076 57 2,186 19,983 
Interest expense2,684 1,483 1,118 (719)2,283 6,849 
Total revenues net of interest expense28,116 14,776 10,430 7,396 (203)60,515 
Pretax income (loss)5,433 2,861 973 3,656 (2,410)10,513 
Total assets (billions)
$107 $55 $42 $24 $33 $261 
2022
Total non-interest revenues$16,440 $12,196 $8,262 $6,123 $(54)$42,967 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
12,478 10,844 5,301 5,603 (7)34,219 
Interest income8,457 2,070 1,453 23 655 12,658 
Interest expense983 697 654 (329)758 2,763 
Total revenues net of interest expense23,914 13,569 9,061 6,475 (157)52,862 
Pretax income (loss)5,400 2,880 578 2,954 (2,227)9,585 
Total assets (billions)
$94 $51 $37 $20 $26 $228 
2021
Total non-interest revenues$12,989 $9,833 $6,761 $5,021 $26 $34,630 
Revenue from contracts with customers (b)
9,823 8,659 4,368 4,694 172 27,716 
Interest income6,328 1,408 1,116 16 165 9,033 
Interest expense395 330 442 (92)208 1,283 
Total revenues net of interest expense18,922 10,911 7,435 5,129 (17)42,380 
Pretax income (loss)5,958 2,936 929 1,874 (1,008)10,689 
Total assets (billions)
$77 $45 $33 $15 $19 $189 
(a)Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity.
(b)Includes discount revenue, certain service fees and other revenue and processed revenues from customers.
Total revenues net of interest expense and pretax income
The following table presents our total revenues net of interest expense and pretax income (loss) from continuing operations in different geographic regions based, in part, upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment.
(Millions)United States
EMEA(a)
APAC(a)
LACC(a)
Other Unallocated(b)
Consolidated
2023
Total revenues net of interest expense$47,140 $5,633 $4,372 $3,571 $(201)$60,515 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,717 854 592 760 (2,410)10,513 
2022
Total revenues net of interest expense$41,396 $4,871 $3,835 $2,917 $(157)$52,862 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,383 550 376 500 (2,224)9,585 
2021
Total revenues net of interest expense$33,103 $3,643 $3,418 $2,238 $(22)$42,380 
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations10,325 460 420 494 (1,010)10,689 
(a)EMEA represents Europe, the Middle East and Africa; APAC represents Asia Pacific, Australia and New Zealand; and LACC represents Latin America, Canada and the Caribbean.
(b)Other Unallocated includes net costs which are not directly allocated to specific geographic regions, including costs related to the net negative interest spread on excess liquidity funding and executive office operations expenses.
v3.24.0.1
Parent Company (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Condensed statements of income and comprehensive income
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Revenues
Non-interest revenues
Other$407 $388 $343 
Total non-interest revenues407 388 343 
Interest income1,558 614 96 
Interest expense1,436 857 482 
Total revenues net of interest expense529 145 (43)
Expenses
Salaries and employee benefits487 408 359 
Other408 372 346 
Total expenses895 780 705 
Loss before income tax and equity in net income of subsidiaries
(366)(635)(748)
Income tax benefit(163)(244)(248)
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates8,577 7,905 8,560 
Net income$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax5 10 151 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net
133 (275)(201)
Comprehensive income$8,512 $7,249 $8,010 
Condensed balance sheets
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31 (Millions)
20232022
Assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$9,652 $8,188 
Equity in net assets of subsidiaries and affiliates28,019 24,702 
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates25,471 22,658 
Due from subsidiaries and affiliates1,261 1,342 
Other assets349 156 
Total assets64,752 57,046 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities
Accounts payable and other liabilities2,188 2,271 
Due to subsidiaries and affiliates555 632 
Long-term debt33,952 29,432 
Total liabilities36,695 32,335 
Shareholders’ Equity
Total shareholders’ equity28,057 24,711 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity$64,752 $57,046 
Condensed statements of cash flows
PARENT COMPANY – CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income$8,374 $7,514 $8,060 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates(8,577)(7,905)(8,560)
Dividends received from subsidiaries and affiliates5,326 5,549 9,102 
Other operating activities, primarily with subsidiaries and affiliates360 160 (305)
Net cash provided by operating activities5,483 5,318 8,297 
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net increase in loans to subsidiaries and affiliates(2,836)(4,850)(176)
Investments in subsidiaries and affiliates— (1)(60)
Net cash used in investing activities(2,836)(4,851)(236)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net decrease in short-term debt from subsidiaries and affiliates— (136)(2,636)
Proceeds from long-term debt9,969 13,202 3,000 
Payments of long-term debt(5,750)(5,675)(5,000)
Issuance of American Express preferred shares— — 1,584 
Redemption of American Express preferred shares— — (1,600)
Issuance of American Express common shares 28 56 64 
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other(3,650)(3,502)(7,652)
Dividends paid(1,780)(1,565)(1,448)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(1,183)2,380 (13,688)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents1,464 2,847 (5,627)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year8,188 5,341 10,968 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$9,652 $8,188 $5,341 
Supplemental cash flow information
Years Ended December 31 (Millions)
202320222021
Non-Cash Investing Activities
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates$— $— $(1,787)
Non-Cash Financing Activities
Proceeds from long-term debt$— $— $1,787 
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Discount Revenue (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Minimum  
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]  
Contract terms with large merchants 3 years
Maximum  
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]  
Contract terms with large merchants 7 years
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill (Details)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Goodwill impairment charges $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Premises and Equipment (Details)
Dec. 31, 2023
Equipment, Furniture And Building Improvements | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 3 years
Equipment, Furniture And Building Improvements | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 10 years
Premises | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 40 years
Premises | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 50 years
Software  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 5 years
Leasehold Improvements | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 5 years
Leasehold Improvements | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]  
Estimated useful life 10 years
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Card Member and other Loans (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Card Member loans        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 125,995 $ 107,964    
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 5,118 3,747 $ 3,305 $ 5,344
Financing receivables, net 120,877 104,217    
Card Member loans | Consumer        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 98,111 84,964    
Card Member loans | Small Business        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 27,833 22,947    
Card Member loans | Corporate        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 51 53    
Other loans        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 126 59    
Financing receivables, net 6,960 5,357    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member loans        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 28,590 28,461    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member loans | Consumer        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 28,600 $ 28,500    
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Card Member Receivables (Details) - Card Member receivables - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 60,411 $ 57,613    
Financing receivables, reserves for credit losses 174 229 $ 64 $ 267
Financing receivables, net 60,237 57,384    
Consumer        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 25,578 22,885    
Small Business        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 19,286 19,629    
Corporate        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 15,547 15,099    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross 4,587 5,193    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Corporate        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Financing receivables, gross $ 4,600 $ 5,200    
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Aging (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest   $ 309 $ 169
Non-accruals   $ 191 96
Threshold period past due for write-off   180 days  
Card Member loans      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Threshold period past due 30 days    
Financing receivables, gross $ 125,995 $ 107,964  
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days    
Card Member loans | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross $ 98,111 84,964  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 393 252 149
Non-accruals 344 155 82
Card Member loans | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 27,833 22,947  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 109 54 19
Non-accruals 95 34 14
Card Member loans | Corporate      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 51 53  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals $ 0 0 0
Card Member receivables      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Threshold period past due 30 days    
Financing receivables, gross $ 60,411 57,613  
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days    
Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross $ 25,578 22,885  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0 0
Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 19,286 19,629  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0 0
Card Member receivables | Corporate      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 15,547 15,099  
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0 $ 0
Current | Card Member loans | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 96,779 84,102  
Current | Card Member loans | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 27,444 22,731  
Current | Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 25,355 22,634  
Current | Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 19,020 19,330  
30-59 Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 420 281  
30-59 Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 133 81  
30-59 Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 70 83  
30-59 Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 104 120  
60-89 Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 298 198  
60-89 Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 85 49  
60-89 Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 47 56  
60-89 Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 62 69  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 614 383  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 171 86  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member loans | Corporate      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 0 0  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 106 112  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross 100 110  
90+ Days Past Due | Card Member receivables | Corporate      
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]      
Financing receivables, gross $ 67 $ 85  
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Credit Quality (Details)
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
90+ Days Past Billing as a % of total 0.40% 0.60%
Card Member loans | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 1.40% 1.00%
Card Member loans | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 1.40% 0.90%
Card Member loans | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.80% 0.90%
Card Member loans | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.70% 0.70%
Card Member loans | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.20% 1.20%
Card Member loans | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.90% 0.80%
Card Member receivables | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 0.90% 1.10%
Card Member receivables | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total 1.40% 1.50%
Card Member receivables | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.50% 0.80%
Card Member receivables | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.20% 1.10%
Card Member receivables | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Consumer    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 1.60% 0.90%
Card Member receivables | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Small Business    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 2.40% 1.20%
Card Member receivables | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees | Corporate    
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables    
Net Write-Off Rate 0.60% 0.40%
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Modifications (Details)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Maximum payment term extension 60 months
Unused credit available $ 83
Account Balances 3,089
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Consumer  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 1,572
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 1.60%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 16.40%
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Small Business  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 550
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 2.00%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 15.90%
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Corporate  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 0
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.00%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 0.00%
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Consumer  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 346
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 1.40%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 27 months
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Small Business  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 543
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 2.80%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 28 months
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Corporate  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 13
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.10%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 9 months
Other loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 42
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.60%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 2.10%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 20 months
Other loans | Term Extension  
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]  
Account Balances $ 23
% of Total Class of Financing Receivables 0.30%
Weighted Average Interest Rate Reduction (% points) 0.00%
Weighted Average Payment Term Extensions (# of months) 18 months
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Modifications that Subsequently Defaulted (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default $ 97 $ 120 $ 239
Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 1    
Interest Rate Reduction      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 73    
Term Extension      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 23    
Card Member loans      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default   81 174
Card Member loans | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 53    
Card Member loans | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 20    
Card Member loans | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 53    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 20    
Card Member loans | Interest Rate Reduction | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member receivables      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default   38 56
Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 9    
Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 14    
Card Member receivables | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member receivables | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member receivables | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member receivables | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 9    
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 14    
Card Member receivables | Term Extension | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Other loans      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 1 $ 1 $ 9
Other loans | Interest Rate Reduction and Term Extension      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 1    
Other loans | Interest Rate Reduction      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default 0    
Other loans | Term Extension      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account balance, modified and subsequent default $ 0    
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Performance (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   $ 1,733 $ 1,332
Current      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances $ 2,785    
30-89 Days Past Due      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 231    
90+ Days Past Due      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 73    
Card Member loans | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   781 708
Card Member loans | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   267 176
Card Member loans | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   0 0
Card Member loans | Current | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 1,433    
Card Member loans | Current | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 489    
Card Member loans | Current | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 0    
Card Member loans | 30-89 Days Past Due | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 103    
Card Member loans | 30-89 Days Past Due | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 45    
Card Member loans | 30-89 Days Past Due | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 0    
Card Member loans | 90+ Days Past Due | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 36    
Card Member loans | 90+ Days Past Due | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 16    
Card Member loans | 90+ Days Past Due | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 0    
Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   257 133
Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   403 247
Card Member receivables | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   6 1
Card Member receivables | Current | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 314    
Card Member receivables | Current | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 479    
Card Member receivables | Current | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 11    
Card Member receivables | 30-89 Days Past Due | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 25    
Card Member receivables | 30-89 Days Past Due | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 52    
Card Member receivables | 30-89 Days Past Due | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 2    
Card Member receivables | 90+ Days Past Due | Consumer      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 7    
Card Member receivables | 90+ Days Past Due | Small Business      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 12    
Card Member receivables | 90+ Days Past Due | Corporate      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 0    
Other loans      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances   $ 19 $ 67
Other loans | Current      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 59    
Other loans | 30-89 Days Past Due      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances 4    
Other loans | 90+ Days Past Due      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Account Balances $ 2    
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Impaired Loans and Receivables, Prior to Adoption (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest   $ 309 $ 169
Non-accruals   191 96
Account classified as a TDR in program   1,733 1,332
Account classified as a TDR out of program   2,068 1,764
Total impaired loans and receivables   4,301 3,361
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   $ 504 596
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals      
Threshold period past due for write-off   180 days  
Account classified as TDR, past due 90 days and still accruing   $ 48 41
Accounts classified as TDR, non-accrual   17 19
Out of Program TDR accounts that completed modification programs   1,922 1,621
Out of Program TDR accounts not in compliance with modification programs   146 143
Card Member loans      
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals      
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days    
Card Member loans | Consumer      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest $ 393 252 149
Non-accruals 344 155 82
Account classified as a TDR in program   781 708
Account classified as a TDR out of program   1,098 997
Total impaired loans and receivables   2,286 1,936
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   335 415
Card Member loans | Small Business      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 109 54 19
Non-accruals 95 34 14
Account classified as a TDR in program   267 176
Account classified as a TDR out of program   380 332
Total impaired loans and receivables   735 541
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   108 132
Card Member loans | Corporate      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals $ 0 0 0
Account classified as a TDR in program   0 0
Account classified as a TDR out of program   0 0
Total impaired loans and receivables   0 0
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   0 0
Card Member receivables      
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals      
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days    
Card Member receivables | Consumer      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest $ 0 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0 0
Account classified as a TDR in program   257 133
Account classified as a TDR out of program   179 130
Total impaired loans and receivables   436 263
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   20 9
Card Member receivables | Small Business      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals 0 0 0
Account classified as a TDR in program   403 247
Account classified as a TDR out of program   402 297
Total impaired loans and receivables   805 544
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   40 39
Card Member receivables | Corporate      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest 0 0 0
Non-accruals $ 0 0 0
Account classified as a TDR in program   6 1
Account classified as a TDR out of program   7 6
Total impaired loans and receivables   13 7
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   1 0
Other loans      
Impaired loans and receivables      
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest   3 1
Non-accruals   2 0
Account classified as a TDR in program   19 67
Account classified as a TDR out of program   2 2
Total impaired loans and receivables   26 70
Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs   $ 0 $ 1
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - Modified as TDR, Prior to Adoption (Details)
account in Thousands, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
account
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
account
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Number of Accounts | account 180 137
Account Balances | $ $ 1,910 $ 1,239
Card Member loans    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Number of Accounts | account 149 112
Account Balances | $ $ 1,002 $ 789
Average Interest Rate Reduction (as a percent) 14.00% 13.00%
Card Member receivables    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Number of Accounts | account 27 21
Account Balances | $ $ 900 $ 437
Average Payment Term Extension (in months) 20 months 18 months
Other loans    
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]    
Number of Accounts | account 4 4
Account Balances | $ $ 8 $ 13
Average Interest Rate Reduction (as a percent) 2.00% 3.00%
Average Payment Term Extension (in months) 17 months 16 months
v3.24.0.1
Loans and Card Member Receivables - TDR Subsequently Defaulted, Prior to Adoption (Details)
account in Thousands, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
account
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
account
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Number of Accounts | account   18 32
Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default | $ $ 97 $ 120 $ 239
Card Member loans      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Number of Accounts | account   14 24
Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default | $   $ 81 $ 174
Card Member receivables      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Number of Accounts | account   3 5
Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default | $   $ 38 $ 56
Other loans      
Financing Receivable, Modifications [Line Items]      
Number of Accounts | account   1 3
Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default | $ $ 1 $ 1 $ 9
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses (Details Textual)
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]    
CECL reasonable and supportable period 3 years  
Threshold period past due for write-off   180 days
Revolving Loans    
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]    
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days  
Pay In Full Loans    
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]    
Threshold period past due for write-off 180 days  
Term Loans    
Financing Receivable, Past Due [Line Items]    
Threshold period past due for write-off 120 days  
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Key Variables (Details)
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Fourth quarter of 2023    
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 2023    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.03
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | First quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03 0.03
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03 0.03
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2025    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.03 0.03
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2023    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.08
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | First quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.06 0.08
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.08 0.07
U.S. Unemployment Rate | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2025    
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) | Fourth quarter of 2023    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.01  
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Fourth quarter of 2025    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.02  
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2023    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.002
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | First quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input (0.03) 0.003
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.01 0.02
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Minimum | Fourth quarter of 2025    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.03
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2023    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.06
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | First quarter of 2024    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input 0.04 0.02
U.S. GDP Growth (Contraction) | Maximum | Fourth quarter of 2024    
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 2025    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Financing receivable, reserves for credit losses, measurement input   0.04
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Changes in Loan Reserve (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Provisions $ 4,923 $ 2,182 $ (1,419)
Card Member loans      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance 3,747 3,305 5,344
Provisions 3,839 1,514 (1,155)
Other 18 (6) (5)
Ending Balance 5,118 3,747 3,305
Recoveries 537 539 657
Foreign currency translation adjustments 18 (6) (6)
Card Member loans | Principal      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Net write-offs (2,043) (837) (672)
Card Member loans | Interest and fees      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Net write-offs $ (443) $ (229) $ (207)
v3.24.0.1
Reserves for Credit Losses - Change in Receivables Reserve (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Provisions $ 4,923 $ 2,182 $ (1,419)
Card Member receivables      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance 229 64 267
Provisions 880 627 (73)
Net write-offs (937) (462) (129)
Other 2 0 (1)
Ending Balance 174 229 64
Recoveries 297 257 378
Card Member receivables | Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]      
Foreign currency translation adjustments $ 1 $ 2 $ (1)
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]    
Accrued interest available-for-sale debt securities $ 5 $ 12
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2023
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   $ 2,138  
Estimated Fair Value   2,120 $ 4,537
Equity securities      
Cost   60 50
Gross Unrealized Gains   16 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   (10) (9)
Estimated Fair Value   66 41
Total Cost   2,198 4,671
Total Gross Unrealized Gains   17 0
Total Gross Unrealized Losses   (29) (93)
Total Estimated Fair Value   2,186 4,578
New public companies      
Equity securities      
Cost   10  
Estimated Fair Value   24  
Net unrealized gains on equity securities $ 37    
State and municipal obligations      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   61 64
Gross Unrealized Gains   0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   (6) (10)
Estimated Fair Value   55 54
U.S. Government agency obligations      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   4 5
Gross Unrealized Gains   0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   0 0
Estimated Fair Value   4 5
U.S. Government treasury obligations      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   1,217 3,859
Gross Unrealized Gains   1 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   (12) (73)
Estimated Fair Value   1,206 3,786
Mortgage-backed securities      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   12 13
Gross Unrealized Gains   0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   (1) 0
Estimated Fair Value   11 13
Foreign government bonds and obligations      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   770 633
Gross Unrealized Gains   0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   0 (1)
Estimated Fair Value   770 632
Other      
Available-for-sale debt securities:      
Cost   74 47
Gross Unrealized Gains   0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses   0 0
Estimated Fair Value   $ 74 $ 47
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities - Gross Unrealized Losses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months $ 0 $ 4,311
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 1,154 52
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (83)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (19) (1)
State and municipal obligations    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months 0 52
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 33 0
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (10)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (6) 0
U.S. Government treasury obligations    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months 0 3,710
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 1,114 52
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (72)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (12) (1)
Mortgage-backed securities    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months 0 0
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 7 0
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 0
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (1) 0
Foreign government bonds and obligations    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months 0 549
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 0 0
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities - Gross Unrealized Losses Ratio to Fair Value (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
security
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
security
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Number of Securities, Less than 12 months | security 0 88
Number of Securities, 12 months or more | security 71 3
Number of Securities, Total | security 71 91
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months $ 0 $ 4,311
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 1,154 52
Estimated Fair Value, Total 1,154 4,363
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (83)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (19) (1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total $ (19) $ (84)
90%–100%    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Number of Securities, Less than 12 months | security 0 74
Number of Securities, 12 months or more | security 69 3
Number of Securities, Total | security 69 77
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months $ 0 $ 4,287
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 1,140 52
Estimated Fair Value, Total 1,140 4,339
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (74)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (14) (1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total $ (14) $ (75)
Less than 90%    
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Number of Securities, Less than 12 months | security 0 14
Number of Securities, 12 months or more | security 2 0
Number of Securities, Total | security 2 14
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time    
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months $ 0 $ 24
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more 14 0
Estimated Fair Value, Total 14 24
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses    
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 months 0 (9)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more (5) 0
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total $ (5) $ (9)
v3.24.0.1
Investment Securities - Contractual Maturities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year $ 1,778    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 261    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 32    
Due after 10 years 49    
Total 2,120 $ 4,537  
Total Cost      
Due within 1 year 1,784    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 265    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 33    
Due after 10 years 56    
Total $ 2,138    
Weighted average yields      
Weighted average yields, due within 1 year 4.68%    
Weighted average yields, due after 1 years but within 5 years 3.17%    
Weighted average yields, due after 5 years but within 10 years 4.76%    
Weighted average yield, due after 10 years 2.80%    
Total 4.44%    
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
State and municipal obligations      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year $ 0    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 1    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 20    
Due after 10 years 34    
Total 55 $ 54  
Total Cost      
Total 61 64  
U.S. Government agency obligations      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year 0    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 0    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 0    
Due after 10 years 4    
Total 4 5  
Total Cost      
Total 4 5  
U.S. Government treasury obligations      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year 1,010    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 194    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 2    
Due after 10 years 0    
Total 1,206 3,786  
Total Cost      
Total 1,217 3,859  
Mortgage-backed securities      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year 0    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 0    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 0    
Due after 10 years 11    
Total 11 13  
Total Cost      
Total 12 13  
Foreign government bonds and obligations      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year 768    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 2    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 0    
Due after 10 years 0    
Total 770 632  
Total Cost      
Total 770 633  
Other      
Total Estimated Fair Value      
Due within 1 year 0    
Due after 1 year but within 5 years 64    
Due after 5 years but within 10 years 10    
Due after 10 years 0    
Total 74 47  
Total Cost      
Total $ 74 $ 47  
v3.24.0.1
Asset Securitizations (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Securitized Trusts [Line Items]    
Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ 514 $ 544
Lending Trust    
Securitized Trusts [Line Items]    
Direct and indirect ownership of variable interests 15,300 16,000
Restricted cash and cash equivalents 66 59
Charge Trust    
Securitized Trusts [Line Items]    
Direct and indirect ownership of variable interests 4,600 5,200
Restricted cash and cash equivalents $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Other Assets [Abstract]      
Goodwill $ 3,851 $ 3,786 $ 3,804
Other intangible assets, at amortized cost 98 146  
Other 15,165 13,757  
Total $ 19,114 $ 17,689  
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance $ 3,786 $ 3,804
Acquisitions 48 13
Dispositions 0 0
Other 17 (31)
Goodwill, ending balance 3,851 3,786
USCS    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance 379 368
Acquisitions 0 13
Dispositions 0 0
Other 0 (2)
Goodwill, ending balance 379 379
CS    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance 2,122 2,123
Acquisitions 30 0
Dispositions 0 0
Other (1) (1)
Goodwill, ending balance 2,151 2,122
ICS    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance 725 753
Acquisitions 0 0
Dispositions 0 0
Other 18 (28)
Goodwill, ending balance 743 725
GMNS    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance 560 560
Acquisitions 18 0
Dispositions 0 0
Other 0 0
Goodwill, ending balance $ 578 $ 560
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Accumulated goodwill impairment losses $ 221 $ 221  
Gross carrying amount 717 720  
Accumulated amortization 619 574  
Amortization expense 49 51 $ 57
Expected amortization expense in 2024 44    
Expected amortization expense in 2025 21    
Expected amortization expense in 2026 11    
Expected amortization expense in 2027 9    
Expected amortization expense in 2028 4    
Expected amortization expense thereafter 8    
Tax credit investments 1,369 1,207  
Tax credit investments unfunded commitment $ 573    
Earliest Year      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Tax credit investments commitment, year to be paid 2024    
Latest Year      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Tax credit investments commitment, year to be paid 2040    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Tax credit investments $ 1,126 $ 1,042  
Tax credit investments unfunded commitment 409    
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Off-Balance Sheet Obligations      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Tax credit investments off balance sheet obligation $ 3    
Minimum      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Estimated useful lives 1 year    
Maximum      
Other Assets [Line Items]      
Estimated useful lives 22 years    
v3.24.0.1
Other Assets - Tax Credit Investments Expenses and Related Income Tax Credits and Other Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]      
Proportional amortization recognized in tax provision $ 185 $ 161 $ 226
Equity method expenses recognized in Other, net expenses 0 9 13
Income tax credits and Other income tax benefits (a) recognized in tax provision $ 204 $ 196 $ 182
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits - Categorized as Interest or Non-interest Bearing (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
U.S.:    
Interest-bearing $ 128,146 $ 109,119
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $495; 2022, $605) 557 663
Non-U.S.:    
Interest-bearing 12 15
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $426; 2022, $439) 429 442
Total customer deposits 129,144 110,239
Card Member Credit Balances    
U.S.:    
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $495; 2022, $605) 495 605
Non-U.S.:    
Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2023, $426; 2022, $439) $ 426 $ 439
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits - By Deposit Type (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Deposits, by Type    
Savings and transaction accounts $ 93,722 $ 76,731
Certificates of deposit:    
Direct 5,557 2,760
Third-party (brokered) 12,960 13,331
Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered) 15,907 16,297
Total U.S. retail deposits 128,146 109,119
Other deposits 77 76
Total customer deposits 129,144 110,239
Card Member Credit Balances    
Certificates of deposit:    
Card Member credit balances $ 921 $ 1,044
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits - Scheduled Maturities (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Time Deposits By Maturity  
2024 $ 11,740
2025 4,370
2026 933
2027 776
2028 704
After 5 years 0
Total 18,523
Non-U.S. direct certificates of deposit $ 6
v3.24.0.1
Customer Deposits (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]    
Certificates of deposit that met or exceeded the insured limit $ 1.8 $ 1.0
v3.24.0.1
Debt - Short-term Borrowings (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Short-term Debt [Line Items]    
Outstanding Balance $ 1,293 $ 1,348
Short-term Debt    
Short-term Debt [Line Items]    
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 1.03% 0.94%
Other Short Term Borrowings    
Short-term Debt [Line Items]    
Outstanding Balance $ 1,293 $ 1,348
Other Short Term Borrowings | Short-term Debt    
Short-term Debt [Line Items]    
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 1.03% 0.94%
v3.24.0.1
Debt (Details Textual)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Line of credit maximum capacity $ 4,000,000,000.0 $ 3,500,000,000  
Fees to maintain credit lines 20,200,000 14,100,000  
Interest paid $ 6,400,000,000 2,200,000,000 $ 1,100,000,000
Minimum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Common equity tier one ratio 4.5    
Maximum      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Common equity tier one ratio 6.5    
Short-term Debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Fees to maintain credit lines $ 12,000,000 7,800,000  
Lending Trust      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt term 3 years    
Line of credit maximum capacity $ 3,000,000,000    
Subsidiaries      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Line of credit maximum capacity 185,000,000 186,000,000  
Amount drawn from committed lines 0 20,900,000  
Charge Trust      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Line of credit maximum capacity $ 3,000,000,000    
Debt instrument, term 3 years    
Specified date face amount of eligible notes issued Jul. 15, 2026    
Amount drawn from committed lines $ 0 $ 0  
v3.24.0.1
Debt - Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 47,866 $ 42,573
Unamortized Underwriting Fees (93)  
Long-term Debt    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 47,866 $ 42,573
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 3.96% 3.42%
Unamortized Underwriting Fees $ (93) $ (84)
Parent Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance 33,952 29,432
Fixed Rate Senior Notes | Parent Company | Long-term Debt | American Express Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 20,930 $ 23,813
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 3.48% 3.34%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 4.14% 4.00%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes | Subsidiaries | Long-term Debt | American Express Credit Corporation    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 330 $ 328
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 3.30% 3.30%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes | Subsidiaries | Long-term Debt | Lending Trust    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 13,449 $ 10,499
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 3.36% 2.81%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 3.49% 0.00%
Floating Rate Senior Notes | Parent Company | Long-term Debt | American Express Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 2,400 $ 3,000
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 6.21% 4.78%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00% 0.00%
Floating Rate Senior Notes | Subsidiaries | Long-term Debt | Lending Trust    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 0 $ 2,125
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 0.00% 4.67%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00%
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Senior Notes | Parent Company | Long-term Debt | American Express Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 8,769 $ 1,250
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 5.38% 4.42%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 5.91% 0.00%
Fixed Rate Subordinated Notes | Parent Company | Long-term Debt | American Express Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 586 $ 574
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 3.63% 3.63%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 6.74% 5.46%
Fixed-to-Floating Rate Subordinated Notes | Parent Company | Long-term Debt | American Express Company    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 1,257 $ 750
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 5.24% 4.99%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 5.92% 0.00%
Floating Rate Subordinated Notes | Subsidiaries | Long-term Debt | Lending Trust    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 0 $ 61
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 0.00% 4.89%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00%
Fixed Rate Instruments | Subsidiaries | Financed Leases | Long-term Debt | Other Subsidiaries    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 0 $ 3
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 0.00% 5.76%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00%
Floating Rate Borrowings | Subsidiaries | Long-term Debt | Other Subsidiaries    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Outstanding balance $ 238 $ 254
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt (as a percent) 0.42% 0.41%
Year-End Interest Rate with Swaps (as a percent) 0.00%
v3.24.0.1
Debt - Annual Maturities of Long-term Debt Obligations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations    
2024 $ 10,355  
2025 12,563  
2026 8,870  
2027 6,750  
2028 1,350  
Thereafter 8,523  
Total 48,411  
Unamortized Underwriting Fees (93)  
Unamortized Discount and Premium (505)  
Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting 53 $ (236)
Total Long-Term Debt 47,866 42,573
Parent Company    
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations    
2024 7,500  
2025 5,250  
2026 6,700  
2027 6,411  
2028 0  
Thereafter 8,523  
Total 34,384  
Total Long-Term Debt 33,952 $ 29,432
American Express Credit Corporation    
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations    
2024 0  
2025 0  
2026 0  
2027 339  
2028 0  
Thereafter 0  
Total 339  
Lending Trust    
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations    
2024 2,750  
2025 7,250  
2026 2,100  
2027 0  
2028 1,350  
Thereafter 0  
Total 13,450  
Other Subsidiaries    
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations    
2024 105  
2025 63  
2026 70  
2027  
2028  
Thereafter  
Total $ 238  
v3.24.0.1
Other Liabilities - Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Summary of other liabilities    
Membership Rewards liability $ 13,742 $ 12,789
Book overdraft balances 9,897 7,352
Deferred card and other fees, net 3,442 3,027
Employee-related liabilities 2,567 2,530
Card Member rebate and reward accruals 2,061 2,126
Income tax liability 1,275 1,651
Other 8,655 7,875
Total 41,639 37,350
Repatriation tax liability $ 998 $ 1,012
v3.24.0.1
Other Liabilities - Deferred Card and Other Fees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]    
Deferred card and other fees $ 3,818 $ 3,380
Deferred direct acquisition costs (158) (173)
Reserves for membership cancellations (218) (180)
Deferred card and other fees, net $ 3,442 $ 3,027
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Oct. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Common shares unissued and available for grant (in shares)   7 9 12
Stock-based compensation expense   $ 450 $ 373 $ 326
Stock-based compensation expense, income tax benefit   $ 110 $ 90 $ 78
Stock Option        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period   3 years    
Stock options contractual term   10 years    
Dividend yield (as a percent)   1.40% 1.00% 1.50%
Expected volatility (as a percent)   32.00% 31.00% 31.00%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)   3.50% 1.70% 0.80%
Remaining performance period (in years)   7 years 1 month 6 days 7 years 1 month 6 days 7 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-average fair value per option (in dollars per share)   $ 60.03 $ 55.30 $ 32.38
Stock-based compensation, unrecognized compensation cost   $ 32    
Weighted-average remaining vesting period   2 years 1 month 6 days    
Intrinsic value for options exercised   $ 26 $ 56 $ 86
Cash received from exercise of stock options   28 56 64
Income tax benefit related to stock option exercises   $ 4 $ 9 $ 14
Stock Option | Senior Executives        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Stock options contractual term 7 years      
Dividend yield (as a percent) 1.40%      
Expected volatility (as a percent) 34.00%      
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent) 3.90%      
Remaining performance period (in years) 7 years      
Weighted-average fair value per option (in dollars per share) $ 50.10      
Stock Option | Senior Executives | Minimum        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period 3 years      
Stock Option | Senior Executives | Maximum        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period 4 years      
RSUs        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Expected volatility (as a percent)   45.00% 42.00% 41.00%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)   3.70% 1.40% 0.20%
Remaining performance period (in years)   2 years 10 months 24 days 2 years 10 months 24 days 2 years 10 months 24 days
Stock-based compensation, unrecognized compensation cost   $ 258    
Weighted-average remaining vesting period   1 year 8 months 12 days    
RSAs/RSUs Weighted-average grant date fair value of RSAs granted (in dollars per share)   $ 163.88 $ 168.26 $ 123.66
Total fair value of shares vested   $ 389 $ 323 $ 227
Liability-Based Awards        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Cash paid upon vesting of PGs   $ 55 $ 50 $ 53
Service and Performance-Based RSUs        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period   3 years    
RSAs/RSUs Weighted-average grant date fair value of RSAs granted (in dollars per share)   $ 158.57    
Service and Performance-Based RSUs | Minimum        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Award vesting target (as a percent)   0.00%    
Service and Performance-Based RSUs | Maximum        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Award vesting target (as a percent)   120.00%    
Service-Based RSUs        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
RSAs/RSUs Weighted-average grant date fair value of RSAs granted (in dollars per share)   $ 172.02    
Service-Based RSUs | 2022 and subsequent        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period   3 years    
Service-Based RSUs | Prior to 2022        
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]        
Vesting period   4 years    
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation - Stock Options and RSUs Outstanding and Changes (Details)
shares in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
$ / shares
shares
Stock Options, Number  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 3,634
Granted (in shares) | shares 230
Exercised (in shares) | shares (311)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares 0
Expired (in shares) | shares 0
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 3,553
Stock Options, Weighted-Average Exercise Price  
Beginning balance, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 113.80
Granted, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 173.61
Exercised, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 89.62
Forfeited, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 0
Expired, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 0
Ending balance, weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 119.80
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value  
Options vested and expected to vest (in shares) | shares 3,547
Options exercisable (in shares) | shares 1,810
Options vested and expected to vest, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 119.74
Options exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 90.94
Service-Based RSUs  
RSUs, Number  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 1,788
Granted (in shares) | shares 910
Vested (in shares) | shares (787)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares (84)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 1,827
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value  
Beginning balance, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 142.92
RSAs/RSUs Granted, Weighted Average Grant Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 172.02
Vested, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 134.97
Forfeited, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 162.18
Ending balance, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 159.95
Service and Performance-Based RSUs  
RSUs, Number  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 3,472
Granted (in shares) | shares 1,395
Vested (in shares) | shares (1,498)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares (73)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 3,296
RSUs, Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value  
Beginning balance, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 135.57
RSAs/RSUs Granted, Weighted Average Grant Price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 158.57
Vested, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 136.16
Forfeited, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 153.04
Ending balance, weighted average grant price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 144.64
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation - Assumptions Used for Stock Options (Details) - Stock Option - $ / shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Weighted Average Assumptions Used      
Dividend yield (as a percent) 1.40% 1.00% 1.50%
Expected volatility (as a percent) 32.00% 31.00% 31.00%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent) 3.50% 1.70% 0.80%
Expected life of stock option 7 years 1 month 6 days 7 years 1 month 6 days 7 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-average fair value per option (in dollars per share) $ 60.03 $ 55.30 $ 32.38
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation - Weighted-average Remaining Contractual Life and Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options (Details)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Weighted-average remaining contractual life and aggregate intrinsic value of the Company's stock options outstanding, exerciseable, and vested and expected to vest  
Weighted-average remaining contractual life, Outstanding 5 years 2 months 12 days
Aggregate intrinsic value, Outstanding $ 240
Weighted-average remaining contractual life, Exercisable 3 years 6 months
Aggregate intrinsic value, Exercisable $ 174
Weighted-average remaining contractual life, Vested and Expected to Vest 5 years 2 months 12 days
Aggregate intrinsic value, Vested and Expected to Vest $ 240
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation - Assumptions Used for RSUs (Details) - RSUs
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Expected volatility (as a percent) 45.00% 42.00% 41.00%
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent) 3.70% 1.40% 0.20%
Remaining performance period (in years) 2 years 10 months 24 days 2 years 10 months 24 days 2 years 10 months 24 days
v3.24.0.1
Retirement Plans (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Defined Contribution Plans      
Retirement Plans (Textuals) [Abstract]      
Total expense for all defined contribution retirement plans $ 380 $ 259 $ 269
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans      
Retirement Plans (Textuals) [Abstract]      
Total net benefit 12 24 $ 26
Defined benefit plans, unfunded status $ 212 $ 278  
v3.24.0.1
Contingencies and Commitments (Details Textual)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
state
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Total lease expense $ 164 $ 188 $ 161
Weighted average remaining lease term 19 years    
Weighted average lease discount rate (as a percent) 3.00%    
Commitments related to agreements with certain cobrand partners $ 14,000    
American Express National Bank      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Carrying value of Federal Reserve Bank shares held $ 132 $ 132  
Violation Of Federal Antitrust Law And Consumer Laws Class Action Case | Holders of Visa and MasterCard Debit Cards      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Number of states with remaining claims | state 8    
Violation Of Federal Antitrust Law And Consumer Laws Class Action Case | Holders of Visa, MasterCard and Discover Credit Cards with no Rewards or Annual Fee      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Number of states with remaining claims | state 2    
Minimum      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Loss contingency, estimate of possible loss $ 0    
Financial commitments, period 5 years    
Maximum      
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]      
Loss contingency, estimate of possible loss $ 400    
Financial commitments, period 10 years    
v3.24.0.1
Contingencies and Commitments - Maturities of Outstanding Lease Commitments (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Minimum aggregate rental commitment under all noncancelable operating leases  
2024 $ 159
2025 139
2026 121
2027 104
2028 98
Thereafter 841
Total Outstanding Fixed Lease Payments 1,462
Less: Amount representing interest (536)
Lease Liabilities $ 926
Operating Lease, Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List] Other Liabilities
v3.24.0.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Margin on interest rate swap not netted $ 175 $ 8  
Hedged Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Outstanding balance Outstanding balance  
Carrying values of hedged liabilities $ 11,700 $ 7,800  
Cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments 53 (236)  
Increase (decrease) in interest expense on long term debt and other 189 (57) $ (256)
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 25,300 21,700  
Other Expense      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Gain (loss) in changes in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges 82 8 (21)
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 11,700 8,100  
Net Investment Hedges      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 14,100 12,500  
Gain (loss) on net investment hedges, net of taxes (640) 237 176
Reclassifications out of AOCI 0 0 $ 0
Embedded Derivative | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Notional amount of derivatives 78 78  
Fair value of embedded derivative asset, gross 18 27  
Embedded Derivative | Noninterest Income | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Gain (loss) on embedded derivative $ (9) $ 4  
v3.24.0.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities - Derivatives Summary (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative assets, gross $ 80 $ 521
Total derivative liabilities, gross 977 801
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, assets (57) (257)
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, liabilities (57) (257)
Cash collateral netting, assets 0 (11)
Cash collateral netting, liabilities (106) (212)
Total derivatives assets, net 23 253
Total derivatives liabilities, net $ 814 $ 332
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Other assets Other assets
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Other Liabilities Other Liabilities
Other Assets | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative assets, gross $ 9 $ 350
Other Assets | Interest Rate Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative assets, gross 0 0
Other Assets | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative assets, gross 9 350
Other Assets | Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative assets, gross 71 171
Other Liabilities | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative liabilities, gross 554 462
Other Liabilities | Interest Rate Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative liabilities, gross 99 211
Other Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative liabilities, gross 455 251
Other Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Contract | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Total derivative liabilities, gross $ 423 $ 339
v3.24.0.1
Derivatives and Hedging Activities - Gains and Losses (Details) - Interest Rate Contracts - Fair Value Hedging - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Fixed-rate long-term debt $ (289) $ 473 $ 385
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments 290 (476) (385)
Total $ 1 $ (3) $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Fair Values - Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Investment securities:    
Equity securities $ 66 $ 41
Debt securities 2,120 4,537
Derivatives, gross 80 521
Total Assets 2,266 5,099
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross 977 801
Total Liabilities 977 801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 66 40
Debt securities 0 0
Derivatives, gross 0 0
Total Assets 66 40
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross 0 0
Total Liabilities 0 0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 0 1
Debt securities 2,046 4,490
Derivatives, gross 62 494
Total Assets 2,108 4,985
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross 977 801
Total Liabilities 977 801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3    
Investment securities:    
Equity securities 0 0
Debt securities 74 47
Derivatives, gross 18 27
Total Assets 92 74
Liabilities    
Derivatives, gross 0 0
Total Liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Fair Values - Not Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Card Member receivables    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross $ 60,411 $ 57,613
Card Member loans    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 125,995 107,964
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member receivables    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 4,587 5,193
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member loans    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 28,590 28,461
Reported Value Measurement    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 47,000 34,000
Other financial assets 63,000 60,000
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Loans, net 128,000 110,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 143,000 123,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 48,000 43,000
Reported Value Measurement | Certificates of deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 19,000 16,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 47,000 34,000
Other financial assets 63,000 60,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 143,000 123,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member receivables    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 4,600 5,200
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 45,000 32,000
Other financial assets 0 0
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 0 0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2    
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value    
Cash and cash equivalents 2,000 2,000
Other financial assets 63,000 60,000
Financial Liabilities:    
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 143,000 123,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, 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 assets carried at other than fair value    
Loans, net 133,000 113,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 48,000 42,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Certificates of deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 18,000 16,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 13,300 12,300
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary | Card Member loans    
Fair Values (Textuals)    
Financing receivables, gross 28,600 28,400
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Loans, net 0 0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Certificates of deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Loans, net 0 0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 48,000 42,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 | Certificates of deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities 18,000 16,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3    
Financial assets carried at other than fair value    
Loans, net 133,000 113,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Long-term debt 0 0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 | Certificates of deposit    
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value    
Financial liabilities $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Fair Values (Details Textual) - Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]      
Carrying value of equity securities without readily determinable fair values $ 900 $ 1,000  
Net upward adjustments of equity securities without readily determinable fair values 18 94 $ 729
Net downward adjustments of equity securities without readily determinable fair values 142 388 $ 2
Cumulative net unrealized gains for equity investments without readily determinable fair values 1,100 1,200  
Cumulative net unrealized losses for equity investments without readily determinable fair values 431 394  
Fair Value, Inputs, 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 $ 0 $ 600  
v3.24.0.1
Guarantees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Guarantees [Abstract]    
Maximum potential amount of undiscounted future payments $ 1,000 $ 1,000
Amount of related liability $ 24 $ 21
v3.24.0.1
Common and Preferred Shares - Common Shares (Details) - shares
shares in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Equity [Abstract]      
Common shares, authorized (in shares) 3,600 3,600 3,600
Schedule Of Stock By Class [Roll Forward]      
Shares issued and outstanding at beginning of year (in shares) 743 761 805
Repurchases of common shares (in shares) (22) (20) (46)
Net shares issued for RSUs and stock option exercises (in shares) 2 2 2
Shares issued and outstanding as of December 31 (in shares) 723 743 761
Shares reserved for issuance under employee stock and employee benefit plans (in shares) 16    
v3.24.0.1
Common and Preferred Shares (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Mar. 08, 2023
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Common share repurchases authorized (up to) (in shares)       120.0
Common shares repurchased (in shares) 22.0 20.0 46.0  
Cost basis of common stock repurchased $ 3,650 $ 3,502 $ 7,652  
Common shares remaining under share repurchase authorizations (in shares) 99.0      
Shares held as treasury shares (in shares) 2.3 2.4 2.5  
Cost basis of treasury stock $ 252 $ 262 $ 271  
Preferred shares, authorized, up to (in shares) 20.0 20.0    
Preferred shares, par value (in dollars per share) $ 1.667 $ 1.667    
Redemption price per preferred share (in dollars per share) 1,000,000      
Depositary shares redemption amount (in dollars per share) $ 1,000      
Equity adjustments in connection with redemption of Preferred Shares $ 0 $ 0 16  
Series D Preferred Stock        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Preferred shares, par value (in dollars per share) $ 1.667      
Series B And Series C Preferred Stock        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Payments for redemption of preferred stock     1,600  
Equity adjustments in connection with redemption of Preferred Shares     16  
Repurchase Agreements        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Cost basis of common stock repurchased $ 3,500 3,300 7,600  
Commissions and excise tax paid included in cost basis of common stock repurchased $ 32      
Commissions paid included in cost basis of common stock repurchased   $ 4 $ 6  
v3.24.0.1
Common and Preferred Shares - Preferred Shares (Details) - Series D Preferred Stock
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
shares
Preferred Shares [Line Items]  
Securities issued (in shares) | shares 1,600
Depositary shares issued (in shares) | shares 1,600,000
Fixed dividend rate per annum (as a percent) 3.55%
Floating dividend rate per annum (as a percent) 2.854%
Aggregate liquidation preference | $ $ 1,600
Carrying value | $ $ 1,584
v3.24.0.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance $ 24,711 $ 22,177 $ 22,984
Net change 138 (265) (50)
Ending Balance 28,057 24,711 22,177
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income      
Total tax impact (145) 75 90
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)      
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (3,210) (2,945) (2,895)
Net change 138 (265) (50)
Ending Balance (3,072) (3,210) (2,945)
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Debt Securities      
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (64) 23 65
Net change 50 (87) (42)
Ending Balance (14) (64) 23
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income      
Total tax impact 16 (27) (13)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Gains (Losses), Net of Hedges      
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (2,622) (2,392) (2,229)
Net change 51 (230) (163)
Ending Balance (2,571) (2,622) (2,392)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income      
Total tax impact (158) 75 51
Net Unrealized Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Gains (Losses)      
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (524) (576) (731)
Net change 37 52 155
Ending Balance (487) (524) (576)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income      
Total tax impact $ (3) $ 27 $ 52
v3.24.0.1
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other comprehensive income (loss) $ 138 $ (265) $ (50)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other comprehensive income (loss) $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses - Service Fees and Other Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Non Interest Revenues [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues $ 47,381 $ 42,967 $ 34,630
Service fees and other revenue      
Non Interest Revenues [Line Items]      
Service fees 1,518 1,444 1,385
Foreign currency-related revenue 1,428 1,202 624
Delinquency fees 963 809 637
Travel commissions and fees 637 507 244
Other fees and revenues 459 559 426
Total non-interest revenues $ 5,005 $ 4,521 $ 3,316
v3.24.0.1
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses - Other Expenses (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Service Fees and Other Revenue and Other Expenses [Abstract]      
Data processing and equipment $ 2,805 $ 2,606 $ 2,431
Professional services 2,029 2,074 1,958
Net unrealized and realized losses (gains) on Amex Ventures investments 152 302 (767)
Other 1,821 1,499 1,195
Total Other expenses $ 6,807 $ 6,481 $ 4,817
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]      
Restructuring reserves $ 216 $ 135 $ 67
Restructuring, Incurred Cost, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Labor and Related Expense Labor and Related Expense Labor and Related Expense
Restructuring charges, net of revisions $ 179 $ 142 $ (10)
Cumulative restructuring expense $ 277    
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Current income tax expense:      
U.S. federal $ 2,455 $ 2,445 $ 1,656
U.S. state and local 351 339 351
Non-U.S. 662 476 328
Total current income tax expense 3,468 3,260 2,335
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:      
U.S. federal (952) (763) 231
U.S. state and local (139) (117) 22
Non-U.S. (238) (309) 41
Total deferred income tax (benefit) expense (1,329) (1,189) 294
Income tax expense (benefit) $ 2,139 $ 2,071 $ 2,629
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]        
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%  
Accumulated earnings intended to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S. $ 1,100      
Aggregate state income and foreign withholding taxes on foreign earnings 100      
Income taxes paid 3,300 $ 3,000 $ 1,600  
Unrecognized tax benefits 875 962 1,024 $ 790
Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect effective tax rate 670 750 780  
Unrecognized tax benefits change as a result of potential resolutions of prior years' tax 117      
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, could impact effective tax rate 92      
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest expense 30 10 $ 40  
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest accrued 410 $ 380    
U.S.        
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]        
NOL carryforwards 13      
Non U.S.        
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]        
NOL carryforwards 1,200      
FTC carryforwards $ 132      
Non U.S. | Minimum        
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]        
FTC carryforward, expiration date Dec. 31, 2030      
Non U.S. | Maximum        
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]        
FTC carryforward, expiration date Dec. 31, 2034      
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Effective tax rate reconciliation      
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
(Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from:      
Tax credits and tax-exempt income (0.70%) (0.90%) (0.10%)
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit 2.40% 3.10% 3.00%
Non-U.S. subsidiaries’ earnings (0.80%) (0.10%) 1.10%
Tax settlements and lapse of statute of limitations (2.00%) (2.10%) (0.30%)
Valuation allowances 0.10% (0.10%) 0.00%
Other 0.30% 0.70% (0.10%)
Actual tax rates 20.30% 21.60% 24.60%
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Deferred tax assets:    
Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes $ 4,552 $ 4,052
Employee compensation and benefits 335 353
Net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards 466 411
Capitalized developed software 743 0
Other 723 776
Gross deferred tax assets 6,819 5,592
Valuation allowance (614) (537)
Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance 6,205 5,055
Deferred tax liabilities:    
Intangibles and fixed assets 683 671
Deferred revenue 62 126
Deferred interest 114 118
Investment in joint ventures 0 17
Other 566 618
Gross deferred tax liabilities 1,425 1,550
Net deferred tax assets $ 4,780 $ 3,505
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]      
Balance, January 1 $ 962 $ 1,024 $ 790
Increases:      
Current year tax positions 132 119 64
Tax positions related to prior years 40 30 225
Decreases:      
Tax positions related to prior years (50) (30) (14)
Settlements with tax authorities (160) (74) (15)
Lapse of statute of limitations (49) (104) (17)
Effects of foreign currency translations 0 (3) (9)
Balance, December 31 $ 875 $ 962 $ 1,024
v3.24.0.1
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Basic and diluted:      
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
Preferred dividends (58) (57) (71)
Equity-related adjustments 0 0 (16)
Net income available to common shareholders 8,316 7,457 7,973
Earnings allocated to participating share awards (64) (57) (56)
Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 8,252 $ 7,400 $ 7,917
Denominator:      
Basic: Weighted-average common stock (in shares) 735,000 751,000 789,000
Add: Weighted-average stock options (in shares) 1,000 1,000 1,000
Diluted (in shares) 736,000 752,000 790,000
Basic EPS (in dollars per share) [1] $ 11.23 $ 9.86 $ 10.04
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share) [1] $ 11.21 $ 9.85 $ 10.02
Stock Option      
Denominator:      
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) 1,380 390 10
[1] Represents net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $64 million, $57 million and $56 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $58 million, $57 million and $71 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and (iii) equity-related adjustments of $16 million related to the redemption of preferred shares for the year ended December 31, 2021.
v3.24.0.1
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy (Details)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy    
Common Equity Tier 1 required, Minimum capital ratio 0.045  
Risk-based capital required, Well-capitalized ratios, Minimum capital ratios 0.060  
Minimum capital ratios 0.080  
Leverage capital required, Minimum capital ratios 0.040  
Parent Company | American Express Company    
Regulatory capital ratios    
CET1 capital $ 23,174 $ 20,030
Tier 1 capital 24,779 21,627
Total capital $ 28,784 $ 24,926
CET1 capital ratio 0.105 0.103
Tier 1 capital ratio 0.113 0.111
Total capital ratio 0.131 0.128
Tier 1 leverage ratio 0.099 0.099
Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy    
Common Equity Tier 1 required, Minimum capital ratio 0.070  
Risk-based capital required, Well-capitalized ratios, Well-capitalized ratios 0.060  
Risk-based capital required, Well-capitalized ratios, Minimum capital ratios, including buffer 0.085  
Well-capitalized ratios 0.100  
Minimum capital ratios 0.105  
Leverage capital required, Minimum capital ratios 0.040  
Subsidiaries | American Express National Bank    
Regulatory capital ratios    
CET1 capital $ 17,038 $ 14,820
Tier 1 capital 17,038 14,820
Total capital $ 19,548 $ 17,273
CET1 capital ratio 0.116 0.113
Tier 1 capital ratio 0.116 0.113
Total capital ratio 0.133 0.132
Tier 1 leverage ratio 0.095 0.097
Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy    
Common Equity Tier 1 required, Well-capitalized ratios 0.065  
Common Equity Tier 1 required, Minimum capital ratio 0.070  
Risk-based capital required, Well-capitalized ratios, Well-capitalized ratios 0.080  
Risk-based capital required, Well-capitalized ratios, Minimum capital ratios, including buffer 0.085  
Well-capitalized ratios 0.100  
Minimum capital ratios 0.105  
Leverage capital required, Well-capitalized ratios 0.050  
Leverage capital required, Minimum capital ratios 0.040  
v3.24.0.1
Regulatory Matters and Capital Adequacy (Details Textual)
$ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]  
Restricted net assets of subsidiaries $ 13.6
American Express National Bank  
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]  
Dividends paid from retained earnings to its parent company $ 3.6
v3.24.0.1
Significant Credit Concentrations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet $ 245 $ 213
Customer Concentration Risk | Individuals | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 178 156
Customer Concentration Risk | Individuals | United States | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 145 129
Customer Concentration Risk | Individuals | Outside the United States | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 33 27
Customer Concentration Risk | Financial Services | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 12 11
Customer Concentration Risk | Other | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 17 17
Customer Concentration Risk | Federal Reserve Bank | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet 37 25
Customer Concentration Risk | U.S. Government and agencies | On-balance sheet assets    
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category    
Total on-balance sheet $ 1 $ 4
v3.24.0.1
Significant Credit Concentrations (Details Textual) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Concentration Risk [Line Items]    
Unused credit available to customers $ 398 $ 350
Geographic | Commitments to Extend Credit | United States    
Concentration Risk [Line Items]    
Concentration risk percentage 80.00% 80.00%
v3.24.0.1
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations (Details Textual)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Number of reportable segments 4
Number of operating segments 4
v3.24.0.1
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations - Selected Financial Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues $ 47,381 $ 42,967 $ 34,630
Revenue from contracts with customers 37,218 34,219 27,716
Interest income 19,983 12,658 9,033
Interest expense 6,849 2,763 1,283
Total revenues net of interest expense 60,515 52,862 42,380
Pretax income (loss) 10,513 9,585 10,689
Total assets 261,108 228,354 189,000
Corporate and Other      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues (106) (54) 26
Revenue from contracts with customers (37) (7) 172
Interest income 2,186 655 165
Interest expense 2,283 758 208
Total revenues net of interest expense (203) (157) (17)
Pretax income (loss) (2,410) (2,227) (1,008)
Total assets 33,000 26,000 19,000
USCS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 18,464 16,440 12,989
Revenue from contracts with customers 13,715 12,478 9,823
Interest income 12,336 8,457 6,328
Interest expense 2,684 983 395
Total revenues net of interest expense 28,116 23,914 18,922
Pretax income (loss) 5,433 5,400 5,958
Total assets 107,000 94,000 77,000
CS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 12,931 12,196 9,833
Revenue from contracts with customers 11,379 10,844 8,659
Interest income 3,328 2,070 1,408
Interest expense 1,483 697 330
Total revenues net of interest expense 14,776 13,569 10,911
Pretax income (loss) 2,861 2,880 2,936
Total assets 55,000 51,000 45,000
ICS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 9,472 8,262 6,761
Revenue from contracts with customers 6,155 5,301 4,368
Interest income 2,076 1,453 1,116
Interest expense 1,118 654 442
Total revenues net of interest expense 10,430 9,061 7,435
Pretax income (loss) 973 578 929
Total assets 42,000 37,000 33,000
GMNS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total non-interest revenues 6,620 6,123 5,021
Revenue from contracts with customers 6,006 5,603 4,694
Interest income 57 23 16
Interest expense (719) (329) (92)
Total revenues net of interest expense 7,396 6,475 5,129
Pretax income (loss) 3,656 2,954 1,874
Total assets $ 24,000 $ 20,000 $ 15,000
v3.24.0.1
Reportable Operating Segments and Geographic Operations - Geographic Operations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense $ 60,515 $ 52,862 $ 42,380
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations 10,513 9,585 10,689
United States      
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense 47,140 41,396 33,103
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations 10,717 10,383 10,325
EMEA      
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense 5,633 4,871 3,643
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations 854 550 460
APAC      
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense 4,372 3,835 3,418
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations 592 376 420
LACC      
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense 3,571 2,917 2,238
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations 760 500 494
Other Unallocated      
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]      
Total revenues net of interest expense (201) (157) (22)
Pretax income (loss) from continuing operations $ (2,410) $ (2,224) $ (1,010)
v3.24.0.1
Parent Company - Condensed Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Non-interest revenues      
Total non-interest revenues $ 47,381 $ 42,967 $ 34,630
Interest income 19,983 12,658 9,033
Interest expense 6,849 2,763 1,283
Total revenues net of interest expense 60,515 52,862 42,380
Expenses      
Salaries and employee benefits 8,067 7,252 6,240
Other 6,807 6,481 4,817
Total expenses 45,079 41,095 33,110
Income tax benefit 2,139 2,071 2,629
Net income 8,374 7,514 8,060
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax 37 52 155
Comprehensive income 8,512 7,249 8,010
Parent Company      
Non-interest revenues      
Other 407 388 343
Total non-interest revenues 407 388 343
Interest income 1,558 614 96
Interest expense 1,436 857 482
Total revenues net of interest expense 529 145 (43)
Expenses      
Salaries and employee benefits 487 408 359
Other 408 372 346
Total expenses 895 780 705
Loss before income tax and equity in net income of subsidiaries (366) (635) (748)
Income tax benefit (163) (244) (248)
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates 8,577 7,905 8,560
Net income 8,374 7,514 8,060
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax 5 10 151
Other comprehensive income (loss), net 133 (275) (201)
Comprehensive income $ 8,512 $ 7,249 $ 8,010
v3.24.0.1
Parent Company - Condensed Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Assets        
Other assets $ 19,114 $ 17,689    
Total assets 261,108 228,354 $ 189,000  
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity        
Long-term debt 47,866 42,573    
Total liabilities 233,051 203,643    
Shareholders’ Equity        
Total shareholders’ equity 28,057 24,711 $ 22,177 $ 22,984
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 261,108 228,354    
Parent Company        
Assets        
Cash and cash equivalents 9,652 8,188    
Equity in net assets of subsidiaries and affiliates 28,019 24,702    
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates 25,471 22,658    
Due from subsidiaries and affiliates 1,261 1,342    
Other assets 349 156    
Total assets 64,752 57,046    
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity        
Accounts payable and other liabilities 2,188 2,271    
Due to subsidiaries and affiliates 555 632    
Long-term debt 33,952 29,432    
Total liabilities 36,695 32,335    
Shareholders’ Equity        
Total shareholders’ equity 28,057 24,711    
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 64,752 $ 57,046    
v3.24.0.1
Parent Company - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Cash Flows from Operating Activities      
Net income $ 8,374 $ 7,514 $ 8,060
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Net cash provided by operating activities 18,559 21,079 14,645
Cash Flows from Investing Activities      
Net cash used in investing activities (24,433) (33,689) (10,529)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities      
Proceeds from long-term debt 15,674 23,230 7,788
Payments of long-term debt (10,703) (18,906) (11,662)
Issuance of American Express preferred shares 0 0 1,584
Redemption of American Express preferred shares 0 0 (1,600)
Issuance of American Express common shares 28 56 64
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other (3,650) (3,502) (7,652)
Dividends paid (1,780) (1,565) (1,448)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 18,379 24,509 (14,933)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 12,682 11,886 (10,937)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 33,914 22,028 32,965
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 46,596 33,914 22,028
Parent Company      
Cash Flows from Operating Activities      
Net income 8,374 7,514 8,060
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Equity in net income of subsidiaries and affiliates (8,577) (7,905) (8,560)
Dividends received from subsidiaries and affiliates 5,326 5,549 9,102
Other operating activities, primarily with subsidiaries and affiliates 360 160 (305)
Net cash provided by operating activities 5,483 5,318 8,297
Cash Flows from Investing Activities      
Net increase in loans to subsidiaries and affiliates (2,836) (4,850) (176)
Investments in subsidiaries and affiliates 0 (1) (60)
Net cash used in investing activities (2,836) (4,851) (236)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities      
Net decrease in short-term debt from subsidiaries and affiliates 0 (136) (2,636)
Proceeds from long-term debt 9,969 13,202 3,000
Payments of long-term debt (5,750) (5,675) (5,000)
Issuance of American Express preferred shares 0 0 1,584
Redemption of American Express preferred shares 0 0 (1,600)
Issuance of American Express common shares 28 56 64
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other (3,650) (3,502) (7,652)
Dividends paid (1,780) (1,565) (1,448)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (1,183) 2,380 (13,688)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 1,464 2,847 (5,627)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 8,188 5,341 10,968
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 9,652 8,188 5,341
Non-Cash Investing Activities      
Loans to subsidiaries and affiliates 0 0 (1,787)
Non-Cash Financing Activities      
Proceeds from long-term debt $ 0 $ 0 $ 1,787