American Express's dispute rules generally allow up to 120 days to file a dispute — the same headline window as Visa, Mastercard and Discover. As with the other networks, the fine print matters: when the 120 days start, which exceptions apply, and which other clocks (like US federal law) run at the same time.
American Express is unusual: for most of its cards, Amex is both the network and the issuer. There's no separate bank in the middle. That means you file your dispute with Amex itself — through your Amex online account, the app, or by phone — rather than going through a third-party bank's dispute department.
In practice, cardholders often find this simpler: one company, one process, one set of rules. But it also means Amex's own dispute terms are the final word for your case, so the deadlines below deserve your full attention.
Three exceptions catch the most people out:
For goods or services never received, the dispute window starts at the expected delivery date rather than the transaction date — the same principle across all major networks. Pre-orders, event tickets for future dates, and services scheduled ahead all follow this logic. Keep your order confirmations showing the promised delivery date; they're the evidence that sets your window.
US-issued Amex cards are covered by the Fair Credit Billing Act: 60 days from your statement date to dispute a billing error in writing. This is separate from Amex's 120-day network window and has a strict written-notice requirement. Our 60 vs 120 day guide explains how the two interact — and why filing in writing through your Amex account message center is the safest move.
Five questions, sixty seconds — your filing deadline, days remaining, and a step-by-step plan.
