If you're an American Express cardholder, you're likely familiar with the importance of providing travel notice. American Express requires you to inform them of your travel plans to ensure your card is not blocked for suspicious activity.
Travel notice requirements vary depending on your card type and membership level. If you have a premium card, you may be required to provide more detailed information about your travel plans.
Providing travel notice can help prevent your card from being blocked, which can be inconvenient, especially while traveling abroad. American Express will also be able to provide you with better assistance if your card is lost or stolen.
To provide travel notice, you can log in to your American Express online account or call their customer service number.
See what others are reading: Travel Agency Payment Plans
American Express Travel Notice
You don't need to notify American Express of your travel plans, as their fraud prevention processes can automatically detect when you're abroad. This is thanks to advanced account monitoring processes and software that keep an eye on customer accounts.
However, it's still a good idea to double-check the travel policy of your card issuer, especially if you're not with American Express or plan on using multiple cards while traveling. This can help avoid stress while you're abroad.
If you need to modify or cancel your travel plans, you can contact American Express no more than 72 hours before your travel date. This is to assist Card Members with more urgent travel.
Notifying Travel Plans
If you're not with AmEx, you'll need to check the travel policy of each card issuer to avoid stress while abroad.
Failing to notify your bank and card network before a trip can lead to limited or blocked card use when overseas transactions appear.
It used to be the case that you always needed to notify your bank and card network before taking a trip to prevent fraud.
This hassle-prone process was particularly frustrating if you forgot to warn your bank of your travel plans in advance.
Make sure to double-check the travel policy of each card issuer to avoid any inconvenience during your trip.
Broaden your view: Citi Credit Card Trip Cancellation Insurance
What Happens If You Don't Notify?
If you don't notify American Express when you travel, you may still be able to use your card without any issues.
However, it's essential to keep your contact information up to date, so the AmEx security team can reach you if they spot any potential fraud on your account.
This is because American Express has advanced automatic and manual fraud prevention tools that can detect unusual transaction patterns.
If the security team tries to contact you and can't reach you, your account may be limited or blocked until they can verify your identity.
Double-check your contact information before you leave to avoid any inconvenience.
Card Member Benefits and Fees
American Express offers a range of benefits to its card members, but there are also some fees to be aware of.
Some credit cards incur a foreign transaction fee for non-U.S. dollar purchases, but some American Express Credit Cards are exempt from this fee. If you travel abroad often, you may want to explore all of these options to help avoid foreign transaction fees when shopping abroad.
Expand your knowledge: Capital One Credit Card Fees International
Overseas Card Member Benefits
If you're a card member who travels frequently, you'll love the benefits of being an overseas card member. You can earn rewards points on international purchases, just like you do at home.
Travel insurance is also included, which can be a huge relief if you encounter unexpected medical or travel-related expenses. This insurance covers you for up to $10 million in medical expenses.
You'll also have access to a 24/7 concierge service, which can help you with everything from booking flights to making restaurant reservations. This service is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and French.
If you lose your card while traveling, you can easily report it and get a replacement sent to you. This service is available 24/7, so you can get back to your travels quickly.
Recommended read: Citi Double Cash Card Phone Number
Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fees
Some credit cards incur a foreign transaction fee for non-U.S. dollar purchases. American Express Credit Cards are exempt from this fee.
If you travel abroad often, you may want to explore these options to help avoid foreign transaction fees when shopping abroad.
If this caught your attention, see: Foreign Transaction Fee American Express Blue Cash
Travel with Help Available
As an American Express Card Member, you can call 1-800-333-AMEX (2639) to reach the Global Assist Hotline for help while traveling over 100 miles from home.
The Global Assist Hotline can coordinate assistance or refer you to a local specialist for emergencies like a lost passport or an injury that requires medical assistance.
You're responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers, so be sure to keep track of your expenses.
Platinum Card Members have unlimited complimentary access to American Express Lounge locations, which can be a great perk for frequent travelers.
To access these lounges, you'll need to present your valid Platinum Card, same-day airline ticket, and government-issued ID upon each visit.
Guest access policies vary by location, so be sure to check ahead of time to avoid any issues.
Amenities, services, and hours of operation may vary among locations, so it's a good idea to check the lounge's website or call ahead to confirm.
Related reading: Global Entry vs Nexus
Frequently Asked Questions
Does American Express send text messages?
Yes, American Express can send text messages to alert you about unusual spending patterns, depending on your notification preferences. You can choose to receive these alerts via text, email, or push notification.
Sources
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel/terms-and-conditions/
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/company/notice/covid-19/
- https://wise.com/us/blog/amex-travel-notification
- https://www.americanexpress.com/us/explore/international-travel-checklist.html
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel/faq/travel-alerts/
Featured Images: pexels.com