Makes sense,
it doesn't really matter how much you make if you only have 1 dollar in your account. People win the lottery and blow it all in a year.
it could very well be they want to verify that your reported income matches your deposits. (Which is also why they say you can hook up multiple accounts in case your direct deposit is split)
Amex has been asking some applicants to link a bank account through Yodlee when their internal review needs more income or asset verification; it’s not universal but seems more common with borderline approvals or limited recent credit history. If you’re not comfortable granting access; unfortunately it may mean the app can’t move forward. Some people get around it by applying after building stronger credit or banking history with Amex first; but if you want to avoid the account-link step entirely; waiting and applying later might be the safer route.
