Answer
An American Express virtual reward card opens from the delivery email. Choose Claim your card. That link opens the card.
When this applies
This fits when an American Express virtual reward was redeemed and the question is how to open it or spend it. A card that has not been emailed yet follows Where is the reward I ordered?
What to do
- Open the email that says the redemption has been delivered. Choose Claim your card.
- On the card page, copy the gift card code or print it. The card number, the expiration date, and the code are on that page.
- To pay in a store, add the card to Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Pay. Open the wallet, take a photo of the card or enter the card details, then follow the instructions on the screen.
- To pay online, the balance has to cover the full purchase, including tax. Some transactions place a hold of up to 20% above the purchase amount. The cardholder agreement explains that hold.
- At checkout, choose Credit or Debit. Do not choose Gift Card. Enter the card the same way as a credit or debit card, then enter the billing name and address.
The card can be used at merchants that accept American Express in the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. A $3 monthly service fee starts after 6 months. The funds expire on the last day of the month printed on the front of the card.
If that didn't work
A checkout that was set to Gift Card will not take this card. Switch the payment method to Credit or Debit. A purchase that is declined can also be over the balance once tax and the hold are included.
When to contact us
Card questions, including the balance and the expiration date, go to American Express card service at 1-833-249-6098. Use the Help page when the delivery email has not arrived after the time in Where is the reward I ordered?