Review: American Express FX International Payments
Summary
American Express is decommissioning its FX offering by the end of 2023.
In May 2023, Amex decided to discontinue its foreign exchange services for business customers outside the US by the end of 2023. This decision will impact Amex's Australian workforce and the businesses that rely on Amex for their operations.
The primary reason for Amex's exit from Australia is attributed to the "significant foreign exchange volatility" resulting from aggressive monetary policy tightening by global central banks. In 2022, a mere 22% of Amex's total revenue came from business activities outside the US. However, businesses that require international money transfers still have a range of other providers to choose from, some of which might offer more competitive rates and lower fees.
Details
Product details
| Product Name | American Express money transfer business |
| Customer Service | Phone, Email |
| Maximum Transfer Amount | Unlimited |
| Number of Currencies | 83 |
What are the fees for sending money with American Express?
Though you won’t pay fees for opening or maintaining an account, or for receiving incoming currency payments, you’ll see fees on your outgoing foreign and same-currency payments – and it won't be clear what they are until you start a transfer.
The fees depend on your recipient's country and the amount of money you’re sending. Any fees are deducted from your connected bank account.
What services does Amex offer for international payments?
Make one-off outgoing and incoming transfers, as well as:
- Forward contracts. Lock in today's exchange rate for up to to 12 months.
- Foreign currency drafts. A quick solution to getting a cheque overseas that's much faster than sending one by mail.
- Rewards. If your business has an American Express card, you could earn reward points for every $30 you transfer. Use the points for things like shopping, travel and dining.
Pros
- Easy to use. You can lodge your invoice online or over the phone.
- Variety of transfer options. Choose from bank transfers, foreign currency drafts, cross-currency transactions and forward contracts.
- Extensive currencies worldwide. You can make payments in more than 80 currencies.
- Rewards. If you’re a cardholder, you can earn rewards for every $30 that you transfer.
- Low fees. There are no set-up or maintenance fees, and no fees for incoming currency payments.
- Keep records of payments. American Express keeps a record of all of your transfers.
Cons
- Limited customer service. Customer support is only available Monday through Friday.
- Transfer fees. Fees for outgoing foreign and same-currency payments are only made available after you initiate a transfer.
- Foreign exchange rates. While you receive real-time access to foreign exchange rates, these may not be available outside of business hours.
How do I make international payments through American Express?
- Sign up. Provide your name and the name, address and phone number of your business, then American Express will confirm your info to verify your account.
- Contact FX International Business Payments. Once you place an order overseas, log into your account or call and provide the supplier with your information.
- Lock in your rates. Once you provide the details of your transfer, your rate is locked in.
- Make your payment. Initiate the payment over the phone or online.
Next steps
- Manage your international payments. Keep track of your transfers, upload files to save time and reduce errors and link your account to any Australian business bank all through your account.
- Get support. Customer support is available for you Monday through Friday by calling 1300 885 749, though you can access the online system 24/7.
What are some alternatives for business transfers?
Use our comparison calculator to assess the transfer fees and exchange rates of our money transfer partners when sending money overseas.
Bottom line
With over a century of experience, American Express offers an easy way to settle up with suppliers overseas in almost any country you do business with. The company claims to have competitive exchange rates and fees, but those aren't clear until you register your business and start a transfer.
Compare other overseas fund transfer companies for businesses before deciding what's best for your business.
Your reviews
Leah Finder
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