When an AMEX (American Express) account becomes delinquent, it can seriously damage your credit score. You should handle all delinquent credit card accounts as expeditiously as possible. Depending upon how delinquent your account is, you may be able to resolve the matter directly through AMEX. Otherwise, you may have to handle the matter through a third-party agency.
Contact the American Express billing department if your account has not been placed with a collection agency. If you are unsure whether your account has been turned over to a collection agency, the AMEX billing department can advise you. The number for AMEX billing is 1-800-472-9297.
Advise the AMEX billing representative that you would like to handle your delinquent account. The representative will process your payment. If you are unable to pay the delinquent balance in full, ask the billing representative if you can set up a payment plan. If you establish a payment plan, stick to the plan until the account is brought current.
Contact the third-party collection agency that is assigned to your AMEX account if the account is no longer being handled by American Express. Advise the collection agency that you would like to handle the delinquent amount.
Collection agencies will often negotiate a lower balance with you if you are unable to pay the full delinquent amount. If you are unable to pay the lump sum that the collection agency is requesting, you can ask the representative to set up a payment plan. Stick to the payment plan until the balance is paid off.
