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inzaghi,
Keep it paid, then call up customer service and pick their brains every couple of months. Ask 'em what they look for before making another CLI. Ask 'em which card might have a higher limit. Ask 'em around what FICO score they would consider you for another card. AMEX reps by and large are NOT automatons.
For the most part, AMEX won't ever issue to you. I know they keep meticulous records like Cap 1. Not sure how far they go back, but odds are good they go back 16 years or more.
Friend of mine who works at AMEX told me, circa 2002, that AMEX had customers who in the past had defaulted on accounts, years went by, and later had been issued a card. Pattern had at times repeated over and over. Card member, originally, since 1974, but 2 BKs and 3 cards later, had an account in good standing.
For the most part, today, I hear two things about AMEX.
1) By and large, if you defaulted in the past they won't issue you a card until you settle up. Thru their Oasis program, you can settle up and get an AMEX Optima card. As I understand it, assume you defaulted on $2400, then they'll issue an Optima for $1200. Keep it paid current, and in short order they'll start offering you CLIs and better cards.
2) It appears that at least some, today, are getting AMEX cards issued despite having an account on which they defaulted in the past. Scores in the 700s, or at least high 600s, appear to be needed.
Phouchg wrote:I got my first AMEX in 1989 through a flyer at my college. Used it for minor purchases and was upgraded to Gold after graduating. Got into big financial trouble 2 years later during the recession and I stopped paying AMEX and had a balance on it for over $1200. Was declined once in a store, so the clerk called and the AMEX person said they are never going to approve any more purchases I make, and my account would be summarily closed and I would be hearing from their collections department.I BK'd in 1995, but I have been dilligently trying to rehab my score, and I am back around 620 at EQ, TU and EX. For laughs, I applied online for a green card yesterday, and I got it! I will get my card next week, and I will update you all on my spending limit and other information.