Johannesburg, Gauteng -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2013 -- Johannesburg, South Africa - Owning an American Express card gives you access to a number of financial benefits. Not only do these cards offer you the convenience of making unplanned or emergency payments, but you also get the opportunity to build a credit history which is necessary to take out larger loans in the future.

American Express cards offer great day-to-day benefits as well as added benefits when you travel. American Express Credit and Change cards have made managing finances while overseas a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy your holiday. If you travel a lot and don't already own a credit card, take a look at these advantages.

The Advantages of Using Your America Express Card Abroad
American Express Credit and Change cards offer the easiest method of payment when travelling outside of South Africa. They can be used around the world to either swipe or withdraw cash in the currency of the country you are visiting. Below are the three main advantages of using your credit card when traveling:

Automatic Travel Insurance
Enjoy automatic travel insurance when you purchase your flight tickets with your American Express credit change card. Depending on the type of card you have, your travel insurance can include cover for medical emergencies like sudden injury or illness, lost or stolen possessions and 24hour emergency service. Feel safer on your travels knowing you and your possessions are covered. Most credit cards come with this benefit for both local and international trips however it is advisable to verify what you are covered for with your bank.

No More Travellers Cheques
There is no need for travellers' cheques if you have an American Express card, which cuts out the frustrating process of finding the right bank to cash your cheque in a foreign country by using a credit card.

As technology improves, fewer foreign retailers are accepting traveller's cheques, forcing visitors to either pay cash or use a credit card. You can pay for accommodation, meals and entertainment all with your change or credit card. As a globally accepted payment method you can swipe or withdraw cash with your credit or charge card at any pay point displaying the American Express logo.

Safer Finances
Carrying money or traveller's cheques when abroad is a safety risk. If your cash gets stolen it's impossible to replace and if you lose your traveller's cheques the process of cancelling and replacing them is time consuming and will ruin your holiday.

Fortunately, credit cards provide you with several options to safeguard your cash. The most plausible option for travellers would be to link more than one card to the same account. If one credit card is stolen or lost, you can simply cancel it and continue transacting with the other credit card.

Important Details to Verify With Your Bank Before You Travel

Always make sure you visit your bank before you leave for an overseas trip. Remember it's the banks duty to keep your money safe, so any suspicious behaviour – which includes transactions in foreign countries - will set off alarms and your account may be suspended.

Before you leave, inform the bank that you will be leaving the country and make sure you get their international contact number so you can contact them if assistance is required. Provide the bank with the name of the country you are visiting and the estimated period you will be there. As an extra precaution, you can visit the bank on your return.

Lastly, remember to ask about additional fees payable on different transactions e.g. withdrawals, swipes ect. In most cases, rates in foreign countries tend to be higher so make sure you know what to expect.

American Express is at the forefront of travel and financial services for consumers and business clients in South Africa and is one of the world's leading global financial services brands.

American Express offers world-class Personal Cards, Small Business Cards, Corporate Cards, Merchant Services, Forex and Travel Services providing the financial solution best suited to your individual needs with the added option of rewarding yourself through the American Express Rewards Programme.

Get a Charge Card or Credit Card for personal use or let American Express help you run your Small Business with a revolving credit card where you enjoy flexibility and more business spending power. If you are a larger business, make use of a Corporate Card which provides the perfect platform to manage business expenses with a range of added benefits while Merchants who accept American Express cards help make their businesses grow.

Take control of your finances and apply for an American Express card today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Johannesburg, Gauteng -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/07/2013 -- An American Express charge card gives you more financial flexibility while you enjoy a host of exclusive benefits. With the American Express Charge card you decide how you want to control your finances. On top of the quality services and benefits America Express is known for, you can enhance your lifestyle with a charge card.

How the Charge Card Works
The charge card has the benefit of no pre-set spending limit, unlike debit and credit cards. After making a purchase, you are then required to repay the full amount on the payment due date. Remaining balances are not carried over to the next month unless you add a specific amount to the budget feature on the card.

Although there is no pre-set spending limit on the charge card, there is a shadow limit assigned to the card which gives you more control over your finances. This shadow limit assigned to the card which gives you more control over your finances. This shadow limit is determined by several factors including your credit history, spending patterns and your current financial status. To ensure card members always get the most out of the charge card, the shadow limit it reviewed on a regular basis.

The American Express Gold Charge Card

The Gold Card offers you exclusive benefits that can be enjoyed worldwide. To apply for the Gold card, you need to:
- Be a South African resident over 18 years old
- Have a good credit rating
- Have an annual income of R200 000 or more

You can have a life of luxury and comfort with the American Express Gold Card.

Additional Benefits

Complimentary Travel Benefits
The American Express Gold Charge Card is accepted around the world, making it the perfect travel companion. The travel benefits of the card include automatic travel insurance and emergency cash which allows you to relax knowing you are covered in case of emergency while on vacation.

The Membership Reward Programme
With the American Express Gold Charge Card you can choose to join the Membership Rewards Programme that earns you points with each transaction made. The points never expire and can be used to get discounts, book flights, dine at restaurants, shop at malls as well as pay for your annual membership fees. The more you spend, the more points you accumulate so make sure you use your card for everyday spending. With the Platinum Card® card members enjoy automatic enrolment to the Membership Rewards Programme.

Account Security
Charge Card accounts are frequently monitored for unusual spending patterns which sometimes indicate fraudulent behaviour. When fraud is suspected card members are immediately contracted to verify transactions and if necessary the around is suspended. Additionally, all American Express cards require a PIN to access funds as a safer more secure way for clients to transact.

Exclusive benefits, exceptional service and total financial flexibility make the American Express Charge Card one of the most rewarding cards available.

About American Express
American Express is at the forefront of travel and financial services for consumers and business clients in South Africa and is one of the world's leading global financial services brands.

American Express offers world-class Personal Cards, Small Business Cards, Corporate Cards, Merchant Services, Forex and Travel Services providing the financial solution best suited to your individual needs with the added option of rewarding yourself through the American Express Rewards Programme.

Get a Charge Card or Credit Card for personal use or let American Express help you run your Small Business with a revolving credit card where you enjoy flexibility and more business spending power. If you are a larger business, make use of a Corporate Card which provides the perfect platform to manage business expenses with a range of added benefits while Merchants who accept American Express cards help make their businesses grow.

Take control of your finances and apply for an American Express card today.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm