Does having Zync make getting better AMEX cards easier??

[TheConductor]

Someone posted on here that the criteria for all of their charge cards is the same, so if you want a higher charge card, you could attempt to go for it.

The consensus from another thread discussing the underwriting for Amex charge cards seemed to be that Zync criteria ARE laxer than the other charge cards, particularly when it comes to thin files & limited history. (Based on my having one at the current stage of my rebuild, I'd say that's so). Green, Gold, and PRG are said to be so close together you might as well treat them the same and app the one you want. Platinum is thought to be slightly higher requirements but still very close to those for Green/Gold/PRG

Zync is a great foot in the door. Certainly not the only way in, but it's particularly great for situations like mine. I had a prior history with Amex, with no lates, but they had closed the card due to other activity on my credit report that apparently spooked them. Not even a financial review at the time, just "your account has been closed". In month 11, no less, when they were about to get an annual fee from me for the first time.

Zync has been a great way for me to get myself back in with them a good 6 mos - 1 yr before I would ever be able to on one of the other cards. I get the advantages of backdating, plus the Packs system actually works for the way I live & shop.

You're right that ultimately there's nothing special about Zync in their internal scoring. Having ANY Amex card in good standing will make getting other Amex cards much easier. BUT, for those of us on the borderline of having an Amex card, the Zync is apparently the lowest hanging fruit, and can be the difference between having that first Amex card now versus having it later.

Incidentally, I know some years back the Gold Delta Skymiles was regarded as the easiest Amex to qualify for. Anyone know if it is still the best "gateway" revolver?

[LS2982]

I'm interested in the Gold Delta card as well. Hope someone chimes in on that.

[Cageym]

On advice from folks in the forum I applied for the Zync, was approved instantly, and immedietly applied for the Delta Gold Skymiles and was approved. Not a sky high limit or anything but I got it, and will try for the 3x CLI in November. EDIT: It showed up as one HP.

[LS2982]

CONGRATS!!!!

Made out with 1 HP, nice!!

[CruzImperial]

I don't think the zync made my BCP approval any easier, considering I got both cards on the same day.

[LS2982]

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@CruzImperial wrote:

I don't think the zync made my BCP approval any easier, considering I got both cards on the same day.

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Probably not. Its more of a safe thing to do if your unsure you'll be approved. Kinda "added protection"

[Revelate]

Establishing history with virtually any prime lender these days is nothing but goodness (assuming no lates / other negatives).

Especially with Amex, the more clear idea of your financial picture they have, the more likely they'd be willing to extend you a revolver at some limit which they're usually more conservative on.   While it's nearly impossible to know for certain, we are pretty clear that Amex (and probably everyone else) has internal scoring methods, and that all of the higher tier lenders appear to be chasing customer loyalty now (which they sort of have to given the market).

So it's a reasonable assumption that's incredibly hard to disprove that having good history with a lender is a benefit; it's certainly not a detriment.  That goes for anyone not just Amex I think.

Anyway regards to the Amex Delta co-branded card; It probably is still the easiest, but both the BCE/P and SPG cards appear to have dropped significantly in their underwriting requirements.  I'd purely guess the Amex Delta is around a 660 FICO entry point, and the rest closer to 680'ish right now.  I think if you're qualified for a Gold/Plat anyway you can get a Delta card without any issue assuming no negative history specific to Amex.

[WhiteCollar]

Although I really want to get my foot in the door with AMEX, I don't feel that ZYNC is the card for me. I'd prefer to have a BCP or True Earnings. I plan to app with them again in 6 months. Hopefully it will be successful. Thanks peeps! 

[espnjunkie]

BCP is a great card. While you do not have to have a history with Amex to get the card, I definitely believe it helps if you do. Six months or so with one of their charge cards gives them a chance to get to know you and build up a track record of paying them on time. Personally, I'd skip the Zync and go strsight for Green because it's far more rewarding. ymmv of course

[Anonymous]

Nope! No such luck for me...applied for the BCP at one month then the Green (which app got "cancelled" for some apparent reason?)the next month, then the Gold another month later,lastly this month BCE and all "Declined!!" I guess for now I have no choice but to cherish my little glittery Zync. Lol!