Newbie here....AMEX question

[BrickTime]

I have been reading posts on here for a few weeks, and finally decided to join! I love how frank and honest everyone is on here about their situation, and how everyone really tries to provide good advice to those who need it. There aren't too many forums online anymore that stay mature and civil. I am slowly trying to get my credit back to a good place, but it has been a long process. I will be leaning on some of you experts out there for good advice in the future!

That being said, my first question is this: I had an AMEX Green that was closed by lender back in 1996. I paid it in full as soon as it was closed. Will I ever be able to be approved for one again once I have a decent credit score? I have read on here about an AMEX Bl. How true is it, and how rigid is it for someone like me to ever get back in?

Thanks!

[webhopper]

You'll probably have better luck with a charge card. Hopefully it will backdate yo show that your new card is opened in 96. That would be great. I would app for the zync if you are inclined to do so. If it doesn't automatically backdate do you have a copy of an old reciept or cancelled check from paying your bill or old statement? If not I would be on a mission to find something!

[Anonymous]

I'd think you should be able to qualify for an Amex again, assuming your credit is good enough otherwise.

[BrickTime]

Thanks. I was planning on waiting until I can have at least a 700 FICO before app. At that point I will shoot for one if their charge cards.

[Coldness]

It's hard to say without knowing your credit profile and situation, but I can say I (and many others) got approved for a Zync with only a 1 year average age of accounts and thin overall credit profile. No clue what my scores were at the time, but I've heard people with negative payment history, lates, chargeoffs, etc get approved for it as well. It really is a very good card, and one I plan to keep in my wallet for its flexible spending ability even though it is no longer my main card. 

It's always smart to wait to apply, though. 

[Anonymous]

I got approved for a Gold with a total of 8 months credit history, 7 months AAoA, and 2 inquiries.  So, you can get a charge card with a very thin credit profile.

[Coldness]

Right - despite your scores, unless you've got some negative enteries on your reports that are recent I'd imagine you could get a charge card right away given the credit limits on your current cards. 

[bettercreditguy1]

Yes, you will be able to qualify again. They are tough in that they will (upon qualifying you again), they will soft pull often to "track" and see how you are reponding/treating your other cc providers . Should you desire "their card brand" be CERTAIN that all other trades you have are and remain current. AMEX is the ELITE. THEY only wnat THE BEST in the credit class, (speaking Gold and above). The Status is worth the efforts.

[BrickTime]

Thanks for all of the replies. I have two 30 days from 2006. One from Cap 1 Platinum, and one from student loan. I have 2 charge offs which should fall off at end of 2013 (along with both 30 days mentioned above). My other two cards and my auto loan have never had a late payment. My utilization on credit is about 49%, so that is hurting my score. Also, I have zero inquiries showing, and no public records, judgements, liens, etc.

[webhopper]

I think you can probably get it now. If they cant approve you for NPSL then they will counter offer likely. Amex has the power to drastically change your score due to that 90s era account