Sexytime

I was approved for an AMEX last week and was hoping to use it to book a flight this weekend. Unfortunately, I don't think it's going to arrive in time.

Does anyone know if I call AMEX with my SS number and identification, if they can give me the card number over the phone? Or do I have to wait for the card to come in the mail?

penguinsix

No.

Well, probably not. The card needs to be 'activated' once it arrives as part of the security process so it is unlikely they'll do so over the phone.

But hey, it's a free call...Give it a try.

RoadWarriorFromLP

You could just phone them up and ask them.

They'll most likely tell you "no", though. As Penguin notes, you need to activate it first, which requires having it in your possession.

Jerseygirl

I doubt it very much for security reasons. Like someone else said it has to be activated...plus you would need to know the security code and expiry date as well as the number. I wouldn't think AMEX would give you that info over the phone.

Big D

Did you know that not all cards actually activate the card - its a marketing ploy to get you on the phone and try and cross sell you other products

Noorah101

I agree, if you want to use the card over the phone to buy tickets, you will need the card number, expiration date, and the security code on the back of the card.

I doubt AmEx will give you all that information ahead of time on the phone.

Rene

Just Jenney

As a former credit card call center worker, I can GUARANTEE that they will not, under ANY circumstances, give you this information over the phone. You could offer to verify everything under the sun and they still won't. And frankly this is a good thing, even if it's inconvenient.

What you COULD do, though, is ask them to ship the card to you via express mail (FedEx, etc) and pay whatever fee they charge for doing that.

~ Jenney

Jerseygirl

I didn't but it doesn't surprise me.

tonrob

Still nowadays? I can't remember how many years ago it was that I actually spoke to a person when I called in to activate a card (and I have quite a few on the go). It all seems to be automated systems now so no sales pitch.

penguinsix

Same with me. It's all automatic and usually pretty quick, but they do have a 'click 1 to hear about this or that' if you stay on the line.

cindyabs

Well in any event, would you want to activate a card that is presumably about to be mailed or enroute already just floating around in the postal system?

Rete

No even that would help. When you are using an Amex online or over the phone you need to give the security numbers. You won't know those until the card arrives.