Banking » Compare Banks » American Express vs Chase Bank: Which Is Best For Me?
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American Express vs Chase Bank: Which Is Best For Me?

Chase has some innovative features, but American Express offers far better rates on savings. However, the lack of a checking account may make Chase a more viable option.
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Writer, Contributor

Experience

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor, which helps consumers make better financial decisions.  Silvermann’s areas of expertise include investing, banking, and credit cards. Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more. Aside from being a finance expert, his background includes working as a business and financial analyst. Above all, he is passionate about teaching people how to manage their money and helping millions on their journey to a better financial future.
Interest Rates Last Update: September 20, 2023
The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.
Author: Baruch Mann (Silvermann)
Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Writer, Contributor

Experience

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor, which helps consumers make better financial decisions.  Silvermann’s areas of expertise include investing, banking, and credit cards. Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more. Aside from being a finance expert, his background includes working as a business and financial analyst. Above all, he is passionate about teaching people how to manage their money and helping millions on their journey to a better financial future.
Interest Rates Last Update: September 20, 2023

The banking product interest rates, including savings, CDs, and money market, are accurate as of this date.

We earn a commission from our partner links on this page. It doesn't affect the integrity of our unbiased, independent editorial staff. Transparency is a core value for us, read our advertiser disclosure and how we make money.

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Chase Bank may have a modern, trendy image, but it is one of the United States' oldest banks. Chase Bank is the consumer division of JP Morgan Chase, one of the largest banks in the United States. Even though its interest rates aren't particularly competitive compared to online banks and credit unions, loyal Chase customers who keep a large amount of money with the bank can earn slightly better rates.

While most central banks have had a difficult couple of decades, Chase is an exception. JP Morgan Chase was one of the big winners of the 2008 Wall Street meltdown, acquiring the majority of what was left of Washington Mutual.

American Express is best known for being a credit card company. However, the financial services firm also operates a banking subsidiary that provides high-yield savings and CD accounts and recently launched its first rewards checking account. The American Express High Yield Savings Account is a popular option for those looking to save money with a well-known financial institution.

 As an online-only bank, Amex Bank cannot provide customers with in-person support at local branches. However, it offers phone support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Banking Options

Chase
American Express
Savings Accounts
Checking Accounts
CDs
Money Market Account
Debit Card
Credit Cards
Personal Loans
Mortgage
Government Mortgage
Business Loans
Investing Capabilities

Savings Account

When comparing American Express and Chase savings accounts, it is immediately apparent that American Express has far better rates, with an impressive 4.25% that makes it one of the best choices for a savings account.

Another advantage is that the American Express savings account is fee-free, while Chase charges $5 per month unless you can meet the requirements. 

Additionally, while American Express and Chase have withdrawal limits, Amex allows nine compared to the 6 with Chase.

Chase
American Express
APY
0.01% – 0.02%
4.25%
Fees
$5 per month Can be waived if you carry $300 account balance at the start of the month, $25+ autosave or linking a Chase checking account
$0
Minimum Deposit
$25
$0
Checking Needed?
No
No
Main Benefits
  • Up to 6 transfers or withdrawals, 16,000+ ATMs
  • Quick Deposit checks by taking a picture with your smartphone
  • Up to 9 transfers or withdrawals per month
  • Option for paper monthly statements

Checking Account

Chase is the most popular bank in the US, including various options for personal banking, many branches, and much more personal access than Amex. Chase offers several options for checking accounts, such as the famous Total Checking, which is the most popular,  Chase Premier Plus account, Chase College account for students, and even a premium account for Chase customers – Chase Private Client.

Amex offers higher APY on the cash you carry in your Amex checking account, there are no monthly fees, and you may use an app and debit card to manage your account. Unlike other online checking accounts, you can earn American Express rewards, which you can use for travel, gift cards, or experiences. 

You’ll earn one point for every $2 you spend on eligible purchases made with your debit card. Eligible purchases are goods and services less any returns or other credits. 

Chase
American Express
APY
None
1.00%
Fees
$12 Can be waived if you maintain a $1,000 minimum daily balance, making direct deposits or Associated SnapDeposits of $500 or more per statement cycle, or holding $2,500 in combined deposit accounts with the same statement cycle date or having a Health Savings Account or investment account
$0
Minimum Deposit
$0
$0
Main Benefits
  • Online secure bill payments through the website or app
  • Introductory welcome bonus if you open a qualified checking account
  • Paperless statements for up to seven years
  • Account alerts
  • Combine Rewards Points
  • Mobile Check Deposit
  • Transfer Points to Travel Partners
  • Purchase Protection, Large ATM Network

CDs

As of September 2023, Amex CD rates are better than Chase, but Chase offers a variety of CD terms, unlike Amex. 

Also, Amex doesn't have a minimum deposit.

American Express
Chase
Minimum Deposit
$0
$1000
APY Range
Up to 5.00%
3.00% – 5.00%
APY 6 months
/
4.00% – 5.00%
APY 12 months
4.25%
3.00% – 3.75%
APY 24 months
4.25%
2.00%
APY 36 months
1.15%
2.00%
No Penalty CD
/
/

Credit Cards

American Express is well known as an established credit card provider, so it is no surprise that there is an impressive choice of card options. There is a choice of reward cards including the Platinum card that pays 5x membership reward points, but has an annual membership fee of $695.

If you want a lower annual membership fee, the Gold Card is $250 and offers 4x points or the Green Card has a $150 annual fee and offers 3x points. There are other reward card options offering varying reward levels including the Amex EveryDay, Amex EveryDay Preferred and Blue Card.

If you prefer cash back cards, American Express has decent options. Blue Cash EveryDay, Blue Cash Preferred and Cash Magnet offer as much as 6% cash back depending on the card. Additionally, there is no annual fee, apart from after the first year with the Blue Cash Preferred.

American Express also offers SkyMiles and Hotel Cards, but there is also a prepaid Serve card that can help you to build your credit with no credit check on application. Additionally, if you receive a direct deposit of $500+ in the statement period, the $6.95 monthly fee is waived.

Chase credit card options are almost higher than any other credit card company. This includes 20+ Travel cards, 7 hotel cards and 7 business cards. Chase partners with United, Southwest, Avios, Hyatt, Amazon, Disney and even Starbucks, so you can tailor your card to your preferred brands to get the best rewards. Most of the cards have no annual fee, but there are some notable exceptions, such as the Sapphire Preferred that offers an extensive rewards for its customers. Chase has some of the best rewards credit cards in the market.

Chase also has some innovative cards like the Slate Edge that allows you to lower your interest rate by up to 2% each year, with an automatic review to obtain a higher credit limit when you spend $500 in the first six months and pay on time. Chase even has a Freedom Student card that allows those in full time education to earn 1% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee.

Personal Loans

Chase no longer provides unsecured personal loans, whereas American Express does. However, loans are only accessible to pre-approved Amex card members, so you won't be able to apply unless you already have an Amex account. American Express offers terms of 12, 24, and 36 months. The terms available to you will be determined by the size of your loan and your credit score.

Remember that shorter loan terms result in higher monthly payments and lower interest costs. Longer terms have lower payments but higher total costs. These loan terms are perfect for people who only need a personal loan for a short time.

The proceeds of an Amex loan, like most personal loans, can be used for almost anything, such as debt consolidation, wedding, or home improvement. 

American Express
APR
6.98% – 19.99%
Loan Amount
$3,500 – $40,000
Terms
12-36 months

Customer Service

American Express offers 24/7 customer support online or on the phone, so if you have a query or need help, you can easily access the customer service team. You can easily access the customer service team if you have a query or need help

Chase’s customer service system is quite comprehensive. In addition to an in-depth help website page, there are customer service lines, Twitter and Facebook support 7 am to 11 pm ET Monday to Friday, and 10 am to 7 pm ET on the weekends, or you can schedule a meeting with an agent in your local branch. Chase even has a dedicated line for military personnel and veterans, whether here or overseas.

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Online/Digital Experience

Both American Express and Chase have an app for iOS and Android devices. The American Express app has a rating of 4.9/5 and 4.5/5 respectively on the Apple Store and Google Play. Chase’s app has similar ratings with 4.8/5 on the Apple Store and 4.4 out of 5 on Google Play.

Both sites have a clean design and are easy to use that offer a great user experience. You can fully explore and compare the products and access how-to videos and other support materials.

Which Bank is The Winner?

Both American Express and Chase are large reputable financial institutions, so to summarize which bank is better, we’ll need to recap the positives and potential negatives.

Chase has some innovative features, but American Express offers far better rates on savings. Chase offers promotions and bonuses for new customers, personal service and sophisticated loan products such as government mortgage.  

However, Amex checking account has no fees, no minimum deposits and higher APY on your cash. While it's an online only bank, if you can skip the personal service – it may be a better option.

Both banks offer a vast choice of credit card options, so it really comes down to what rewards and what brands you prefer to decide which bank offers the best choice for you.

American_Express

Chase_logo
The Smart Investor Logo
APY Savings The annual percentage yield (APY) is a percentage that represents the amount of money or interest earned on your savings account over the course of a year. The APY factored in compound interest. A savings calculator can help you quickly determine how much you'll earn with a given APY.
4.25%
0.01% – 0.02%
Up to 5.02%
Checking Fee The monthly fee on checking account
$0
$12 Can be waived if you maintain a $1,000 minimum daily balance, making direct deposits or Associated SnapDeposits of $500 or more per statement cycle, or holding $2,500 in combined deposit accounts with the same statement cycle date or having a Health Savings Account or investment account
Compare Banking
Mobile App Rating
4.8/5 on iOS
4.3/5 on Android
4.8/5 on iOS
4.7/5 on Android
Various Banks
Learn More
Learn More
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FAQs

Chase offers checking account bonuses as well as sign-up bonuses on many credit cards. As of September 2023 , the Chase Total Checking offers $200 bonus for new customers.

American express promotions are mainly relevant for new credit card customers, but from time to time you can find welcome bonuses on other banking products.

Because having multiple American Express cards multiplies the benefits of each card, the company must limit the number of cards that each individual can own.

A single account holder can currently apply for up to four American Express credit cards. Of course, depending on your credit score and credit history, your individual eligibility may vary.

American Express has been in business since 1850 and is a household name in the credit card industry. As a national bank, this online-only platform has some outstanding features.

With no minimum deposit requirements or monthly fees, you can earn competitive rates on your savings. So, unless you're looking specifically for a checking account, American Express National Bank is a good option.

American Express National Bank has a limited product offering, with only savings and certificate of deposit accounts available. There are also no physical locations to visit, so all transactions must be completed online.

Chase Bank is a full-service bank that dates back to 1799. While it has nearly 4,900 branches, it also provides excellent online banking services. With its online banking platform and popular app, the company has a strong digital presence.

The app is available for both Android and iOS devices and allows you to manage all of your Chase accounts at any time. Transfers, mobile check depositing, bill paying, account alerts, card lock, and automated savings are all included.

The main drawback is the low interest rate you'll get in most of Chase products. Compared to other high yield savings account and even compared to the national average –  the rates are low.

Banking Reviews

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Discover Bank is a full-service online bank as well as a provider of payment services. Discover can be used for banking and retirement planning by individuals. Discover is best known for its credit cards with rewards, but it also provides personal, student, and home equity loans.

American Express is one of the world's most well-known credit card brand names. Customers can get a personal banking solution from American Express National Bank, which offers online savings and CD options. Personal savings accounts have a high potential yield. They do not, however, provide as many products as Discover Bank does.

Read Full Comparison: Discover vs American Express: Which Bank Account Is Better?

Capital One is a premium online banking service that offers convenient, dependable service and physical locations to anyone looking for them. Capitol One 360, in addition to providing a trustworthy and dependable service, has no hidden fees or minimums, allowing you to continue earning interest on your daily money. There are over 38,000 fee-free ATMs and over 2,000 Capital One ATMs to meet your money access needs.

American Express is one of the world's most well-known credit card brand names. Customers can get a personal banking solution from American Express National Bank, which offers online savings and CD options. Personal savings accounts have a high potential yield. American Express National Bank is a respectable, secure banking option that does not offer any extra features but does offer the most important one.

Read Full Comparison: American Express vs Capital One: Which Bank Is Better For You?

The Citi checking account is a fairly standard product. The account does have a $12 monthly fee, but it is waived if you make a qualifying deposit or make a qualifying bill payment. Overdraft protection is also available, which automatically transfers funds from your savings account to avoid overdraft fees.

Because the American Express savings account has a high yield, the number of withdrawals or transfers you can make each month is limited to nine. It's also a nice touch that American Express allows you to choose paper statements if you prefer the old-fashioned way.

Read Full Comparison: American Express vs Citi: Where to Save Your Money?

CIT Bank is similar to a traditional high street bank in that it offers a variety of savings accounts, an eChecking account, CDs, mortgages, and home loans. The only obvious gaps in the product line are the absence of a credit card or personal loan option.

American Express began as a credit card company, but in recent years, it has expanded into a broader range of banking products. You can access savings accounts and personal loans in addition to its numerous credit card options. However, if you're looking for a full-service bank, American Express doesn't offer a checking account or mortgage options.

Read Full Comparison: CIT Bank vs American Express: Which Bank Account Is Better For You?

CIT Bank is similar to a traditional high street bank in that it offers a variety of savings accounts, an eChecking account, CDs, mortgages, and home loans. The only obvious gaps in the product line are the absence of a credit card or personal loan option.

American Express began as a credit card company, but in recent years, it has expanded into a broader range of banking products. You can access savings accounts and personal loans in addition to its numerous credit card options. However, if you're looking for a full-service bank, American Express doesn't offer a checking account or mortgage options.

Read Full Comparison: CIT Bank vs American Express: Which Bank Account Is Better For You?

The Discover checking account is more traditional. While the account does not pay interest, you can earn 1% cash back on debit card purchases. There are also no fees if you require a replacement debit card, have a deposit item returned, or have insufficient funds in your account.

Chase offers a wide range of banking products, including savings accounts, checking accounts, home loans, home equity options, auto loans, and a wide range of credit cards. In addition, Chase's customer service system is quite extensive.

Read Full Comparison: Discover vs Chase: Which Bank Account Suits You Best?

Chase and Wells Fargo appear to offer very similar products at first glance, so we need to dig a little deeper. There is little to distinguish the savings accounts, and both banks provide a variety of checking accounts.

While Chase's account maintenance fee is slightly higher, it does have some more interesting features. Chase also has an advantage in terms of CDs, but Wells Fargo is a better option for loans and mortgages.

Read Full Comparison: Chase vs Wells Fargo: Where to Save Your Money?

The Chase and Citi checking accounts both have no minimum deposit and a monthly account maintenance fee of $12. This can also be waived with a balance of $1,500 or more, or with qualifying deposits.

Furthermore, both have a very impressive selection of more than credit card options.

Read Full Comparison: Chase vs Citi: Which Bank Account Wins?

Chase has some great features including a massive selection of credit card options. Both banks also offer some great mortgage packages. PNC also has some innovative credit card options, and you can also access personal loans.

Read Full Comparison: Chase vs PNC Bank: Which Bank Account Is Better?

Chase and Capital One both have banking product lines that compete with traditional high street banks.

Capital One also has a competitive advantage in terms of checking accounts. The Capital One checking account is not only fee-free, but you can also earn interest on your account balance. Chase's checking account does not pay interest, and you must meet certain requirements to have the $12 monthly fee waived.

However, when you open a qualifying account, Chase will give you a welcome bonus, and its checking account has some nice features such as paperless statements for up to seven years and checking account upgrade options.

Read Full Comparison: Chase vs Capital One: Compare Banking Options

Because both Chase and TD Bank provide a comprehensive range of products, we'll need to summarize the benefits and drawbacks to determine which bank is superior.

Chase offers some novel features, including the possibility of comparable CD rates without the TD Bank's minimum deposit. However, there is little to distinguish the checking accounts, as TD Bank's savings rate is twice that of Chase.

Although Chase has more credit card options, don't discount TD Bank, which has some interesting options.

Read Full Comparison: Chase vs TD Bank: Which Bank Suits You Best?

Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Mann (Silvermann)

Baruch Silvermann is a financial expert, experienced analyst, and founder of The Smart Investor, which helps consumers make better financial decisions.  Silvermann's areas of expertise include investing, banking, and credit cards. Silvermann has contributed to Yahoo Finance and cited as an authoritative source in financial outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, CNBC Select, CNET, Bankrate, Fox Business, The Street, and more. Aside from being a finance expert, his background includes working as a business and financial analyst. Above all, he is passionate about teaching people how to manage their money and helping millions on their journey to a better financial future.
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