You can change your American Express username through the Amex website or mobile app, but the process depends on whether you want to change your login username or your account display name.
American Express treats these as two separate things. Your login username is what you type into the sign-in box — this is the hardest to change and Amex discourages it. Your display name is what appears on your account and statements — this you can change yourself in seconds. Most people who think they want to change their username actually want to change their display name, which takes less than a minute.
If you genuinely need to change your login username, you will need to contact Amex customer service directly. They can do it, but they ask questions first because changing your login credential is a security step they do not take lightly.
Key Takeaways
- Your display name (what shows on statements) can be changed yourself through the Amex website or app in under a minute.
- Your login username can only be changed by calling Amex customer service at the number on the back of your card.
- Amex requires you to verify your identity before changing your login username for security reasons.
- Changing your display name does not affect your login credentials or password.
How to change your display name on your Amex account
Log into your American Express account on the website or open the Amex mobile app. Go to your account settings — on the website this is usually in the top right corner under your name or a menu icon. Look for a section called "Profile," "Account Settings," or "Personal Information."
Find the field that says "Name" or "Account Name" and click edit. Type in the name you want to appear on your account and statements, then save the change. The update takes effect when ready. This name appears on your billing statements and when you view your account online, but it does not change how you log in.
How to change your login username through customer service
Call the number on the back of your American Express card. Tell the representative you want to change your login username. They will ask you to verify your identity — expect questions about your card number, Social Security number, or recent transactions.
Once verified, the representative can change your login username to whatever you request, as long as it is not already taken by another Amex customer. Write down your new username before you hang up, or ask the representative to email it to you. You will use this new username the next time you log in.
The change usually takes effect within a few minutes, though Amex recommends waiting 15 minutes before trying to log in with your new username. If you get an error message, wait a bit longer and try again.
Why Amex makes login username changes difficult
Amex requires you to call rather than change it online because your login username is tied to your account security. If someone gains access to your account, one of the first things they might try is changing your username to lock you out. By requiring a phone call and identity verification, Amex makes sure it is actually you making the change.
This is also why Amex does not let you change your username through the app or website even if you are already logged in — the company treats it as a high-security change, similar to changing your password or adding a new authorized user.
What to do if you forgot your login username
Go to the Amex login page and click "Forgot username?" or "Need help signing in?" You will be asked to enter your email address or card number. Amex will send you a link or display your username on screen after you verify your identity.
If you do not remember the email address associated with your account, call the number on the back of your card and a representative can help you recover it or reset your login credentials entirely.
Changing your username on the Amex mobile app
The Amex mobile app does not let you change your login username — you must do this through customer service by phone. However, you can change your display name through the app the same way you would on the website: open settings, find your profile or personal information section, and edit your name.
If you want to change your login username and prefer not to call, you can also log into the Amex website on your phone's web browser and call from there, so you have your account information in front of you while you speak with a representative.
Common reasons people want to change their Amex username
Many people want to change their username because they set it up years ago with a name they no longer use, or because they want something shorter and easier to remember. Others want to change it for privacy reasons — if your username contains your full name or birthdate, you might want something more anonymous.
If your reason is privacy, remember that changing your display name does not change your login username. You need to call Amex to change the username you actually type in at sign-in. Changing your display name only affects what appears on your statements and in your online account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing my username affect my password?
No. Your username and password are separate. Changing your username does not reset your password or require you to create a new one. You will straightforward log in with your new username and your existing password the next time you sign in.
Can I change my username to something someone else is already using?
No. Amex usernames must be unique across all cardholders. If you request a username that is already taken, the customer service representative will tell you and ask you to choose a different one.
How long does it take to change my login username?
The phone call with Amex takes about 5 to 10 minutes. The change itself takes effect within a few minutes to 15 minutes. You should be able to log in with your new username within 15 minutes of the call ending.
What if I change my username and then forget the new one?
You can recover it the same way you would recover any forgotten username: go to the Amex login page, click "Forgot username?", and follow the prompts to verify your identity. Amex will show you your current username.
Can I change my username without calling customer service?
Not for your login username. Amex requires a phone call for security reasons. However, if you only want to change the name that appears on your account and statements, you can do that yourself through the website or app in seconds.