American Express Charge Card building Credit?

bstepo1

Hi All,

I’m new to the MSE Forum and having just turned 18 I wanted to make a positive start and start building my credit history.

Having checked my eligiblity for different cards I saw I was eligible for a few American Express Cards so I applied for one of their Charge Cards as I didn’t like the idea of being able to carry a balance over or paying interest. I didn’t get an instant decision but after calling and providing ID and other documents I was approved.

I was quite surprised as I don’t have a credit history yet but not complaining.

My question is as this is not a credit card or Loan will it still build my credit in the same way? I apparently have a good chance of getting a Barclaycard is it worth completing the application or should I just stick with my new American Express Charge Card?

Many thanks for your advice in advance. :j

stevenhp1987

Charge cards are still reported to your credit report, the same as credit cards.

Using an Amex is usually better than using anything else when spending due to the points/cashback/avios etc. you can earn.

Having a backup Visa/Mastercard cashback card would always be great too as Amex is not accepted everywhere.

Rather than go for a Barclaycard, could you go for a card like Aqua Reward, or a Tandem as a backup for places that don't take Amex?

[Deleted User]

You would build credit history yes.

Try some more eligibility checkers to see what else you qualify for and use the one on Amex’s website as well if you want the Amex card