American Express (AXP) 10-Q 24 Apr 20 2020 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Cover

Cover - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Apr. 20, 2020
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2020
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	1-7657
Entity Registrant Name	AMERICAN EXPRESS CO
Entity Central Index Key	0000004962
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	NY
Entity Tax Identification Number	13-4922250
Entity Address, Address Line One	200 Vesey Street
Entity Address, City or Town	New York
Entity Address, State or Province	NY
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	10285
City Area Code	212
Local Phone Number	640-2000
Title of 12(b) Security	Common shares (par value $0.20 per share)
Trading Symbol	AXP
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		804,971,499
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Entity Shell Company	false

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Non-interest revenues
Non-interest revenues		$ 7,980	$ 8,305
Interest income
Interest on loans		2,909	2,725
Interest and dividends on investment securities		38	33
Deposits with banks and other		99	196
Total interest income		3,046	2,954
Interest expense
Deposits		326	399
Long-term debt and other		390	496
Total interest expense		716	895
Net interest income		2,330	2,059
Total revenues net of interest expense		10,310	10,364
Provisions for credit losses
Card Member receivables		597	253
Card Member loans		1,876	525
Other		148	31
Total provisions for credit losses		2,621	809
Total revenues net of interest expense after provisions for credit losses		7,689	9,555
Expenses
Marketing and business development		1,705	1,575
Card Member rewards		2,392	2,451
Card Member services		456	550
Salaries and employee benefits		1,395	1,422
Other, net		1,289	1,599
Total expenses		7,237	7,597
Pretax income		452	1,958
Income tax provision		85	408
Net income		$ 367	$ 1,550
Earnings per Common Share
Basic (in dollars per share)	[1]	$ 0.41	$ 1.81
Diluted (in dollars per share)	[1]	$ 0.41	$ 1.80
Average common shares outstanding for earnings per common share:
Basic (in shares)		807	841
Diluted (in shares)		808	843
Discount revenue [Member]
Non-interest revenues
Non-interest revenues		$ 5,838	$ 6,195
Net card fees [Member]
Non-interest revenues
Non-interest revenues		1,110	944
Other fees and commissions [Member]
Non-interest revenues
Non-interest revenues		720	803
Other [Member]
Non-interest revenues
Non-interest revenues		$ 312	$ 363
[1]	Represents net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $2 million and $11 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $32 million and $21 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Consolidated Statements of In_2

Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Earnings allocated to participating share awards	$ 2	$ 11
Dividends on preferred shares	$ 32	$ 21

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 367	$ 1,550
Other comprehensive loss:
Net unrealized debt securities gains, net of tax	57	17
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(322)	8
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax	6	(27)
Other comprehensive loss	(259)	(2)
Comprehensive income	$ 108	$ 1,548

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and due from banks	$ 2,286	$ 3,402
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks (includes securities purchased under resale agreements)	33,662	20,392
Short-term investment securities	147	138
Total cash and cash equivalents	36,095	23,932
Card Member receivables (includes gross receivables available to settle obligations of consolidated variable interest entity), less reserves	44,269	56,794
Card Member loans (includes gross loans available to settle obligations of consolidated variable interest entity), less reserves	72,464	84,998
Other loans, less reserves for credit losses	4,954	4,626
Investment securities	5,032	8,406
Premises and equipment, less accumulated depreciation and amortization	4,798	4,834
Other assets (includes restricted cash of consolidated variable interest entities)	18,448	14,731
Total assets	186,060	198,321
Liabilities
Customer deposits	77,962	73,287
Accounts payable	7,977	12,738
Short-term borrowings	3,497	6,442
Long-term debt (includes debt issued by consolidated variable interest entities)	52,588	57,835
Other liabilities	23,030	24,948
Total liabilities	165,054	175,250
Contingencies (Note 7)
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred shares	0	0
Common shares	161	163
Additional paid-in capital	11,680	11,774
Retained earnings	12,161	13,871
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Net unrealized debt securities gains (losses), net of tax	90	33
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(2,511)	(2,189)
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax	(575)	(581)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(2,996)	(2,737)
Total shareholders’ equity	21,006	23,071
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$ 186,060	$ 198,321

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and cash equivalents
Securities purchased under resale agreements	$ 230	$ 87
Accounts receivable
Card Member receivables, gross	44,728	57,413
Card Member receivables, reserves	459	619
Loans
Card Member loans, gross	77,700	87,381
Card Member loans, reserves	5,236	2,383
Other loans, reserves	241	152
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	6,799	6,562
Restricted cash of consolidated variable interests	2,513	514
Liabilities [Abstract]
Long-term debt of consolidated variable interest entities	$ 52,588	$ 57,835
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1.667	$ 1.667
Preferred shares, authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	1,600	1,600
Preferred shares, outstanding	1,600	1,600
Common shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.20	$ 0.20
Common shares, authorized	3,600,000,000	3,600,000,000
Common shares, issued	805,000,000	810,000,000
Common shares, outstanding	805,000,000	810,000,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Net unrealized securities gains, tax	$ 29	$ 11
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax	(59)	(319)
Net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefits, tax	(196)	(208)
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Accounts receivable
Card Member receivables, gross	3,815	8,284
Loans
Card Member loans, gross	28,103	32,230
Restricted cash of consolidated variable interests	2,013	85
Liabilities [Abstract]
Long-term debt of consolidated variable interest entities	$ 16,275	$ 19,668

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income	$ 367	$ 1,550
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
Provisions for credit losses	2,621	809
Depreciation and amortization	337	297
Deferred taxes and other	333	137
Stock-based compensation	43	85
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
Other assets	309	(357)
Accounts payable & other liabilities	(6,229)	6,026
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	(2,219)	8,547
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Maturities and redemptions of investment securities	4,376	2,227
Purchase of investments	(997)	(4,060)
Net decrease (increase) in Card Member loans and receivables, and other loans	18,883	(656)
Purchase of premises and equipment, net of sales	(335)	(348)
Acquisitions/dispositions, net of cash acquired	0	(20)
Other investing activities	0	148
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	21,927	(2,709)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net increase in customer deposits	4,701	2,892
Net decrease in short-term borrowings	(2,880)	(1,099)
Proceeds from long-term debt	0	3,633
Payments of long-term debt	(5,849)	(3,821)
Issuance of American Express common shares	16	19
Repurchase of American Express common shares and other	(1,023)	(1,352)
Dividends paid	(383)	(355)
Net cash used in financing activities	(5,418)	(83)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	(128)	68
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	14,162	5,823
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period	24,446	27,808
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period	$ 38,608	$ 33,631

Consolidated Statements of Ca_2

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Sales of premises and equipment	$ 0	$ 33,000,000
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	36,095,000,000	33,177,000,000
Restricted cash included in Other assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets	2,513,000,000	454,000,000
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	$ 38,608,000,000	$ 33,631,000,000

Consolidated Statements of Shar

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Preferred Shares [Member]	Common Shares [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Series B Preferred Stock [Member]	Series B Preferred Stock [Member]Retained Earnings [Member]	Series C Preferred Stock [Member]	Series C Preferred Stock [Member]Retained Earnings [Member]
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 22,290	$ 0	$ 170	$ 12,218	$ (2,597)	$ 12,499
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	1,550					1,550
Other comprehensive loss	(2)				(2)	0
Repurchase of common shares	(1,245)		(3)	(267)		(975)
Other changes, primarily employee plans	(27)		1	12		(40)
Cash dividends declared preferred									$ (21)	$ (21)
Cash dividends declared common	(327)					(327)
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2019	22,218	0	168	11,963	(2,599)	12,686
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)									$ 24.50
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	23,071	0	163	11,774	(2,737)	13,871
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Impact of new accounting guidance, net of tax | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]	1,170
Impact of new accounting guidance, tax | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]	288
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	23,071	0	163	11,774	(2,737)	13,871
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	367					367
Other comprehensive loss	(259)				(259)	0
Repurchase of common shares	(875)		(2)	(105)		(768)
Other changes, primarily employee plans	(36)		0	11		(47)
Cash dividends declared preferred							$ (11)	$ (11)	$ (21)	$ (21)
Cash dividends declared common	(348)					(348)
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2020	21,006	$ 0	$ 161	$ 11,680	$ (2,996)	$ 12,161
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)							$ 14.09		$ 24.50
Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - Reserve for Credit Losses	$ (882)

Consolidated Statements of Sh_2

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Cash dividends declared
Common stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.43	$ 0.39
Series B Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends declared
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)	14.09
Series C Preferred Stock [Member]
Cash dividends declared
Preferred stock, dividend per share (in dollars per share)	$ 24.50	$ 24.50

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The Company We are a globally integrated payments company that provides our customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Our principal products and services are credit and charge card products, along with travel and lifestyle related services, offered to consumers and businesses around the world. Business travel-related services are offered through the non-consolidated joint venture, American Express Global Business Travel. Our various products and services are sold globally to diverse customer groups, including consumers, small businesses, mid-sized companies and large corporations. These products and services are sold through various channels, including mobile and online applications, affiliate marketing, customer referral programs, third-party vendors and business partners, direct mail, telephone, in-house sales teams, and direct response advertising. The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. If not materially different, certain note disclosures included therein have been omitted from these Consolidated Financial Statements. The interim Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report have not been audited. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, which consist of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the interim Consolidated Financial Statements, have been made. Results of operations reported for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire year. The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ. Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation. Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Standards In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new accounting guidance related to the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The guidance, effective for reporting periods through December 31, 2022, provides accounting relief for contract modifications that replace an interest rate impacted by reference rate reform (e.g., LIBOR) with a new alternative reference rate. The guidance is applicable to investment securities, receivables, loans, debt, leases, derivatives and hedge accounting elections and other contractual arrangements. We adopted the guidance as of March 31, 2020, with no material impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. There were no significant changes to our accounting policies, business processes or internal controls as a result of adopting the new guidance. Effective January 1, 2020, we adopted the new credit reserving methodology, applicable to certain financial instruments, known as the Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) methodology under a modified retrospective transition. The CECL methodology requires measurement of expected credit losses for the estimated life of the financial instrument, not only based on historical experience and current conditions, but also by including reasonable and supportable forecasts incorporating forward-looking information. Upon implementation, total loan reserves increased by $1,663 million and total receivable reserves decreased by $493 million, along with the associated current and deferred tax impact of $288 million, and an offset to the opening balance of retained earnings, net of tax, of $882 million. There were no material changes to our business processes or internal controls as a result of adopting the new guidance. Refer to Note 3 for additional information on how management estimates reserves for credit losses in accordance with the CECL methodology.

Loans and Card Member Receivabl

Loans and Card Member Receivables	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Loans Notes Trade And Other Receivables Disclosure [Abstract]
Loans and Card Member Receivables	Loans and Card Member Receivables Our lending and charge payment card products result in the generation of Card Member loans and Card Member receivables. We also extend credit to consumer and commercial customers through non-card financing products, resulting in Other loans. Reserves for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2020 are presented using the CECL methodology, while comparative information continues to be reported in accordance with the incurred loss methodology in effect for prior periods. Card Member loans by segment and Other loans as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 consisted of: (Millions) 2020 2019 Global Consumer Services Group (a) $ 63,849 $ 73,266 Global Commercial Services 13,851 14,115 Card Member loans 77,700 87,381 Less: Reserve for credit losses 5,236 2,383 Card Member loans, net $ 72,464 $ 84,998 Other loans, net (b) $ 4,954 $ 4,626 (a) Includes approximately $28.1 billion and $32.2 billion of gross Card Member loans available to settle obligations of a consolidated variable interest entity (VIE) as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (b) Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products. Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $241 million and $152 million as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Card Member receivables by segment as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 consisted of: (Millions) 2020 2019 Global Consumer Services Group (a) $ 15,816 $ 22,844 Global Commercial Services (b) 28,912 34,569 Card Member receivables 44,728 57,413 Less: Reserve for credit losses 459 619 Card Member receivables, net $ 44,269 $ 56,794 (a) Includes $8.3 billion of gross Card Member receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2019. (b) Includes $3.8 billion of gross Card Member receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of March 31, 2020. Card Member Loans and Receivables Aging Generally, a Card Member account is considered past due if payment is not received within 30 days after the billing statement date. The following table presents the aging of Card Member loans and receivables as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 (Millions) Current 30-59 60-89 90+ Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group $ 62,758 $ 301 $ 232 $ 558 $ 63,849 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 13,597 63 47 88 13,795 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) — 56 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 15,541 85 61 129 15,816 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services $ 15,382 $ 112 $ 78 $ 131 $ 15,703 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) $ 139 $ 13,209 2019 (Millions) Current 30-59 60-89 90+ Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group $ 72,101 $ 322 $ 253 $ 590 $ 73,266 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 13,898 56 40 85 14,079 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) — 36 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 22,560 86 58 140 22,844 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services $ 17,113 $ 99 $ 58 $ 134 $ 17,404 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) $ 136 $ 17,165 (a) Global Corporate Payments (GCP) reflects global, large and middle market corporate accounts. Delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. A Card Member account is considered 90 days past billing if payment has not been received within 90 days of the Card Member’s billing statement date. In addition, if we initiate collection procedures on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card Member loan or receivable balance is classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (b). (b) Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past due can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances. Credit Quality Indicators for Card Member Loans and Receivables The following tables present the key credit quality indicators as of or for the three months ended March 31: 2020 2019 Net Write-Off Rate Net Write-Off Rate Principal Only (a) Principal, Interest & Fees (a) 30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total Principal Only (a) Principal, Interest & Fees (a) 30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group 2.6 % 3.2 % 1.7 % 2.3 % 2.8 % 1.5 % Global Small Business Services 1.9 % 2.2 % 1.4 % 1.8 % 2.1 % 1.3 % Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 2.0 % 2.2 % 1.7 % 1.7 % 1.9 % 1.3 % Global Small Business Services 2.2 % 2.5 % 2.0 % 1.9 % 2.1 % 1.6 % Global Corporate Payments (b) 1.0 % (c) (b) (d) (c) (a) We present a net write-off rate based on principal losses only (i.e., excluding interest and/or fees) to be consistent with industry convention. In addition, because we consider uncollectible interest and/or fees in estimating our reserves for credit losses, a net write-off rate including principal, interest and/or fees is also presented. (b) Net write-off rate based on principal losses only is not available due to system constraints. (c) For GCP Card Member receivables, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. 90+ Days Past Billing as a % of total was 1.1% and 0.6% for the periods ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. (d) Net loss ratio was the credit quality indicator for GCP Card Member receivables for prior periods, and represents the ratio of GCP Card Member receivables write-offs, consisting of principal (resulting from authorized transactions) and fee components, less recoveries, on Card Member receivables expressed as a percentage of gross amounts billed to corporate Card Members. The net loss ratio for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was 0.08%. Refer to Note 3 for additional indicators, including external environmental qualitative factors, management considers in its evaluation process for reserves for credit losses. Impaired Card Member Loans and Receivables Impaired Card Member loans and receivables are individual larger balance or homogeneous pools of smaller balance loans and receivables for which it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual terms of the Card Member agreement. In certain cases, these Card Member loans and receivables are included in one of our various Troubled Debt Restructuring (TDR) modification programs. Impaired Card Member loans and receivables outside the U.S. are not significant as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019; therefore, such loans and receivables are not included in the following tables unless otherwise noted. The following tables provide additional information with respect to our impaired Card Member loans and receivables as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: As of March 31, 2020 Accounts Classified as a TDR (c) 2020 (Millions) Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a) Non- Accruals (b) In Program (d) Out of Program (e) Total Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group (f) $ 361 $ 268 $ 557 $ 185 $ 1,371 $ 235 Global Commercial Services 46 56 112 41 255 64 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group — — 63 14 77 9 Global Commercial Services — — 123 34 157 18 Total $ 407 $ 324 $ 855 $ 274 $ 1,860 $ 326 As of December 31, 2019 Accounts Classified as a TDR (c) 2019 (Millions) Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a) Non- Accruals (b) In Program (d) Out of Program (e) Total Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group (f) $ 384 $ 284 $ 500 $ 175 $ 1,343 $ 137 Global Commercial Services 44 54 97 38 233 22 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group — — 56 16 72 3 Global Commercial Services — — 109 30 139 6 Total $ 428 $ 338 $ 762 $ 259 $ 1,787 $ 168 (a) Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 180 days past due). We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected. Amounts presented exclude Card Member loans classified as a TDR. (b) Non-accrual loans not in modification programs primarily include certain Card Member loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest. Amounts presented exclude Card Member loans classified as a TDR. (c) Accounts classified as a TDR include $27 million and $26 million that are over 90 days past due and accruing interest and $11 million and $10 million that are non-accruals as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (d) In Program TDRs include Card Member accounts that are currently enrolled in a modification program. (e) Out of Program TDRs include $197 million and $188 million of Card Member accounts that have successfully completed a modification program and $77 million and $72 million of Card Member accounts that were not in compliance with the terms of the modification programs as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (f) Global Consumer Services Group (GCSG) includes balances outside the U.S. of $82 million and $93 million that are over 90 days and accruing interest as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Card Member Loans and Receivables Modified as TDRs The following table provides additional information with respect to Card Member loans and receivables modified as TDRs for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019: Three Months Ended Number of Outstanding Balances (millions) (a) Average Interest Average Payment Troubled Debt Restructurings: Card Member Loans 24 $ 195 14 (b) Card Member Receivables 3 74 (c) 25 Total 27 $ 269 Three Months Ended Number of Outstanding Balances (millions) (a) Average Interest Average Payment Troubled Debt Restructurings: Card Member Loans 17 $ 128 13 (b) Card Member Receivables 2 40 (c) 27 Total 19 $ 168 (a) Represents the outstanding balance immediately prior to modification. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on Card Member loans and principal and fees on Card Member receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance. (b) For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions. (c) We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing. The following table provides information with respect to Card Member loans and receivables modified as TDRs that subsequently defaulted within 12 months of modification. A Card Member is considered in default of a modification program after one and up to two missed payments, depending on the terms of the modification program. For all Card Members that defaulted from a modification program, the probability of default is factored into the reserves for Card Member loans and receivables. Three Months Ended Number of Accounts (thousands) Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default (millions) (a) Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted: Card Member Loans 4 $ 28 Card Member Receivables 1 9 Total 5 $ 37 Three Months Ended Number of Accounts (thousands) Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default (millions) (a) Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted: Card Member Loans 2 $ 17 Card Member Receivables 1 4 Total 3 $ 21 (a) The outstanding balances upon default include principal, fees and accrued interest on Card Member loans, and principal and fees on Card Member receivables.

Reserves for Credit Losses

Reserves for Credit Losses	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]
Reserve for Credit Losses	Reserves for Credit Losses Reserves for credit losses represent our best estimate of the expected credit losses in our outstanding portfolio of Card Member loans and receivables as of the balance sheet date. The CECL methodology, which became effective January 1, 2020, requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses by incorporating historical loss experience, as well as current and future economic conditions over a reasonable and supportable period (R&S Period) beyond the balance sheet date. We make various judgments combined with historical loss experience to calculate a reserve rate that is applied to the outstanding loan or receivable balance to produce a reserve for expected credit losses . We use a combination of statistically-based models that incorporate current and future economic conditions throughout the R&S Period. The process of estimating expected credit losses is based on several key parameters: Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at Default (EAD), and future recoveries for each month of the R&S Period. Beyond the R&S Period, we estimate expected credit losses using our historical loss rates. • PD models are used to estimate the likelihood an account will be written-off. • EAD models are used to estimate the balance of an account at the time of write-off. This includes balances less expected repayments based on historical payment and revolve behavior, which vary by customer. Due to the nature of revolving loan portfolios, the EAD models are complex and involve assumptions regarding the relationship between future spend and payment behaviors. • Future recoveries are the amounts received from Card Members after default occurs, typically as a result of collection efforts. Future recoveries are estimated taking into consideration the time of default, time elapsed since default and macroeconomic conditions. These three parameters calculate the quantitative future expected credit losses. We also consider the likelihood a previously written off account will be recovered. This calculation is dependent on how long ago the account was written off and future economic conditions, which estimate the likelihood and magnitude of recovery. Our models are developed using historical loss experience covering the economic cycle and consider the impact of account characteristics on expected losses. Future economic conditions include multiple macroeconomic scenarios provided to us by an independent third party and reviewed by management. These macroeconomic scenarios contain certain geographic based variables that are influential to our modelling process, including unemployment rates and real gross domestic product. The process of estimating credit reserves incorporates the above factors over the R&S Period explicitly considering macroeconomic forward-looking information. Additionally, we consider whether to adjust the quantitative reserves to address possible limitations within the models or factors not included within the models, such as external factors, portfolio trends or management risk actions. Lifetime losses for most of our loans and receivables are evaluated collectively based on similar risk characteristics, including past spend and remittance behaviors, credit bureau scores where available, delinquency status, tenure of balance outstanding, amongst others. We report losses on accrued interest within provision for credit losses, rather than reversing interest income. Separate models are used for accounts deemed a troubled debt restructuring, which are measured individually using a discounted cash flow model. See Note 2 for information on troubled debt restructurings. Loans and receivable balances are written off when we consider amounts to be uncollectible, which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due for pay in full or revolving loans and 120 days past due for term loans. Loans and receivables in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2020 are presented using the CECL methodology while comparative information continues to be reported in accordance with the incurred loss methodology in effect for prior periods. Changes in Card Member Loans Reserve for Credit Losses The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31: (Millions) 2020 2019 Balance, January 1 (a) $ 4,027 $ 2,134 Provisions (b) 1,876 525 Net write-offs (c) Principal (518) (457) Interest and fees (107) (92) Other (d) (42) 11 Balance, March 31 $ 5,236 $ 2,121 (a) Includes an increase of $1,643 million related to the adoption of the CECL methodology. (b) Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. (c) Principal write-offs are presented less recoveries of $145 million and $124 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant. Amounts include net (write-offs) recoveries from TDRs of $(31) million and $(15) million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. (d) Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $(42) million and $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Card Member loans reserve for credit losses increased for the three months ended March 31, 2020, primarily driven by a significant reserve build, which reflects the deterioration of the estimated global macroeconomic outlook, including unemployment and GDP, as a result of COVID-19 impacts. Changes in Card Member Receivables Reserve for Credit Losses The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31: (Millions) 2020 2019 Balance, January 1 (a) $ 126 $ 573 Provisions (b) 597 253 Net write-offs (c) (258) (216) Other (d) (6) (2) Balance, March 31 $ 459 $ 608 (a) Includes a decrease of $493 million related to the adoption of the CECL methodology. (b) Provisions for principal and fee reserve components. (c) Net write-offs are presented less recoveries of $92 million and $91 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Amounts include net (write-offs) recoveries from TDRs of $(7) million and $(4) million, for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. (d) Primary includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $(5) million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses increased for the three months ended March 31, 2020, primarily driven by a significant reserve build, which reflects the deterioration of the estimated global macroeconomic outlook, including unemployment and GDP, as a result of COVID-19 impacts.

Investment Securities

Investment Securities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Investment Securities	Investment Securities Investment securities principally include available-for-sale debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The CECL methodology, which became effective January 1, 2020, requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses for all available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position. Comparative information continues to be reported in accordance with the methodology in effect for prior periods. When estimating a security’s probability of default and the recovery rate, we assess the security’s credit indicators, including credit ratings. If our assessment indicates that an expected credit loss exists, we determine the portion of the unrealized loss attributable to credit deterioration and record an allowance for the expected credit loss through the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other loans Provision for credit losses. Unrealized gains and any portion of a security’s unrealized loss attributable to non-credit losses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, net of tax. Investment securities also include equity securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with unrealized gains and losses recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense. Realized gains and losses are recognized upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method. The following is a summary of investment securities as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 2019 Description of Securities (Millions) Cost Gross Gross Estimated Cost Gross Gross Estimated Available-for-sale debt securities: State and municipal obligations $ 194 $ 10 $ — $ 204 $ 236 $ 8 $ (1) $ 243 U.S. Government agency obligations 8 — — 8 9 — — 9 U.S. Government treasury obligations 4,001 104 — 4,105 7,395 35 (1) 7,429 Corporate debt securities 24 — — 24 27 — — 27 Mortgage-backed securities (a) 37 3 — 40 39 2 — 41 Foreign government bonds and obligations 574 2 — 576 578 1 — 579 Equity securities (b) (c) 55 22 (2) 75 55 25 (2) 78 Total $ 4,893 $ 141 $ (2) $ 5,032 $ 8,339 $ 71 $ (4) $ 8,406 (a) Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae. (b) Equity securities comprise investments in common stock, exchange-traded funds and mutual funds. (c) During the fourth quarter of 2019, an equity investment was transferred from Other assets to Investment securities following the completion of an initial public offering by the issuer of the security. The investment had a fair value of $25 million and $28 million as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, with an associated cost of $3 million. The gross unrealized gains include $9 million that were recognized during 2018. The following table provides information about our available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2019. There were no available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2020. 2019 Less than 12 months 12 months or more Description of Securities (Millions) Estimated Fair Value Gross Estimated Fair Value Gross State and municipal obligations $ 18 $ (1) $ — $ — U.S. Government treasury obligations — — 324 (1) Total $ 18 $ (1) $ 324 $ (1) The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses by ratio of fair value to amortized cost as of December 31, 2019. There were no available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2020. Less than 12 months 12 months or more Total Ratio of Fair Value to Amortized Cost (Dollars in millions) Number of Estimated Gross Number of Estimated Gross Number of Estimated Gross 2019: 90%–100% 2 $ 18 $ (1) 3 $ 324 $ (1) 5 $ 342 $ (2) Total as of December 31, 2019 2 $ 18 $ (1) 3 $ 324 $ (1) 5 $ 342 $ (2) Contractual maturities for investment securities with stated maturities as of March 31, 2020 were as follows: (Millions) Cost Estimated Due within 1 year $ 2,703 $ 2,725 Due after 1 year but within 5 years 1,798 1,868 Due after 5 years but within 10 years 161 177 Due after 10 years 176 187 Total $ 4,838 $ 4,957 The expected payments on state and municipal obligations, U.S. government agency obligations and mortgage-backed securities may not coincide with their contractual maturities because the issuers have the right to call or prepay certain obligations.

Asset Securitizations

Asset Securitizations	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Asset Securitizations [Abstract]
Asset Securitizations	Asset Securitizations We periodically securitize Card Member loans and receivables arising from our card businesses through the transfer of those assets to securitization trusts, American Express Credit Account Master Trust (the Lending Trust) and American Express Issuance Trust II (the Charge Trust and together with the Lending Trust, the Trusts). The Trusts then issue debt securities collateralized by the transferred assets to third-party investors. The Trusts are considered VIEs as they have insufficient equity at risk to finance their activities, which are to issue debt securities that are collateralized by the underlying Card Member loans and receivables. We perform the servicing and key decision making for the Trusts, and therefore have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Trusts’ economic performance, which are the collection of the underlying Card Member loans and receivables. In addition, we hold all of the variable interests in both Trusts, with the exception of the debt securities issued to third-party investors. As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, our ownership of variable interests was $12.1 billion and $12.9 billion, respectively, for the Lending Trust and $3.8 billion and $8.3 billion, respectively, for the Charge Trust. These variable interests held by us provide us with the right to receive benefits and the obligation to absorb losses, which could be significant to both the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust. Based on these considerations, we are the primary beneficiary of the Trusts and therefore consolidate the Trusts. The following table provides information on the restricted cash held by the Trusts as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets: (Millions) 2020 2019 Lending Trust $ 2,013 $ 85 Charge Trust — — Total $ 2,013 $ 85 These amounts relate to collections of Card Member loans and receivables to be used by the Trusts to fund future expenses and obligations, including interest on debt securities, credit losses and upcoming debt maturities. Under the respective terms of the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust agreements, the occurrence of certain triggering events associated with the performance of the assets of each Trust could result in payment of trust expenses, establishment of reserve funds, or, in a worst-case scenario, early amortization of debt securities. During the three months ended March 31, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2019, no such triggering events occurred.

Customer Deposits

Customer Deposits	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Banking and Thrift [Abstract]
Customer Deposits	Customer Deposits As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S.: Interest-bearing $ 76,459 $ 72,445 Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2020, $791; 2019, $389) 815 415 Non-U.S.: Interest-bearing 25 23 Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2020, $661; 2019, $401) 663 404 Total customer deposits $ 77,962 $ 73,287 Customer deposits by deposit type as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S. retail deposits: Savings accounts – Direct $ 48,981 $ 46,394 Certificates of deposit: Direct 2,360 1,854 Third-party (brokered) 8,715 8,076 Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered) 16,403 16,121 Other deposits: U.S. non-interest bearing deposits 24 26 Non-U.S. deposits 27 26 Card Member credit balances ― U.S. and non-U.S. 1,452 790 Total customer deposits $ 77,962 $ 73,287 The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2020 were as follows: (Millions) U.S. Non-U.S. Total 2020 $ 4,180 $ 11 $ 4,191 2021 3,233 2 3,235 2022 2,747 — 2,747 2023 508 — 508 2024 267 — 267 After 5 years 140 — 140 Total $ 11,075 $ 13 $ 11,088 As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, certificates of deposit in denominations of $250,000 or more, in the aggregate, were as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S. $ 839 $ 622 Non-U.S. 4 4 Total $ 843 $ 626

Contingencies

Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies In the ordinary course of business, we and our subsidiaries are subject to various pending and potential legal actions, arbitration proceedings, claims, investigations, examinations, information gathering requests, subpoenas, inquiries and matters relating to compliance with laws and regulations (collectively, legal proceedings). Based on our current knowledge, and taking into consideration our litigation-related liabilities, we do not believe we are a party to, nor are any of our properties the subject of, any legal proceeding that would have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition or liquidity. However, in light of the uncertainties involved in such matters, including the fact that some pending legal proceedings are at preliminary stages or seek an indeterminate amount of damages, it is possible that the outcome of legal proceedings could have a material impact on our results of operations. Certain legal proceedings involving us or our subsidiaries are described below. A putative merchant class action in the Eastern District of New York, consolidated in 2011 and collectively captioned In re: American Express Anti-Steering Rules Antitrust Litigation (II) , alleged that provisions in our merchant agreements prohibiting merchants from differentially surcharging our cards or steering a customer to use another network’s card or another type of general-purpose card (“anti-steering” and “non-discrimination” contractual provisions) violate U.S. antitrust laws. On January 15, 2020, our motion to compel arbitration of claims brought by merchants who accept American Express and to dismiss claims of merchants who do not was granted. Plaintiffs have sought leave to file a motion seeking the right to file an interlocutory appeal. On February 25, 2020, we were named as a defendant in a case filed in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, captioned Laurelwood Cleaners LLC v. American Express Co., et al. , in which the plaintiff seeks a public injunction prohibiting American Express from enforcing its anti-steering and non-discrimination provisions and from requiring merchants “to offer the service of Amex-card acceptance for free.” We intend to vigorously defend the case. In July 2004, we were named as a defendant in another putative class action filed in the Southern District of New York and subsequently transferred to the Eastern District of New York, captioned The Marcus Corporation v. American Express Co., et al. , in which the plaintiffs allege an unlawful antitrust tying arrangement between certain of our charge cards and credit cards in violation of various state and federal laws. The plaintiffs in this action seek injunctive relief and an unspecified amount of damages. On March 8, 2016, plaintiffs B&R Supermarket, Inc. d/b/a Milam’s Market and Grove Liquors LLC, on behalf of themselves and others, filed a suit, captioned B&R Supermarket, Inc. d/b/a Milam’s Market, et al. v. Visa Inc., et al. , for violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Clayton Antitrust Act, California’s Cartwright Act and unjust enrichment in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, against American Express Company, other credit and charge card networks, other issuing banks and EMVCo, LLC. Plaintiffs allege that the defendants, through EMVCo, conspired to shift liability for fraudulent, faulty and otherwise rejected consumer credit card transactions from themselves to merchants after the implementation of EMV chip payment terminals. Plaintiffs seek damages and injunctive relief. An amended complaint was filed on July 15, 2016. On September 30, 2016, the court denied our motion to dismiss as to claims brought by merchants who do not accept American Express cards, and on May 4, 2017, the California court transferred the case to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. We are being challenged in a number of countries regarding our application of value-added taxes (VAT) to certain of our international transactions, which are in various stages of audit, or are being contested in legal actions. While we believe we have complied with all applicable tax laws, rules and regulations in the relevant jurisdictions, the tax authorities may determine that we owe additional VAT. In certain jurisdictions where we are contesting the assessments, we were required to pay the VAT assessments prior to contesting. Our legal proceedings range from cases brought by a single plaintiff to class actions with millions of putative class members to governmental proceedings. These legal proceedings involve various lines of business and a variety of claims (including, but not limited to, common law tort, contract, application of tax laws, antitrust and consumer protection claims), some of which present novel factual allegations and/or unique legal theories. While some matters pending against us specify the damages sought, many seek an unspecified amount of damages or are at very early stages of the legal process. Even when the amount of damages claimed against us are stated, the claimed amount may be exaggerated and/or unsupported. As a result, some matters have not yet progressed sufficiently through discovery and/or development of important factual information and legal issues to enable us to estimate an amount of loss or a range of possible loss, while other matters have progressed sufficiently such that we are able to estimate an amount of loss or a range of possible loss. We have accrued for certain of our outstanding legal proceedings. An accrual is recorded when it is both (a) probable that a loss has occurred and (b) the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. There may be instances in which an exposure to loss exceeds the accrual. We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in legal proceedings that could cause an increase or decrease in the amount of the accrual that has been previously recorded, or a revision to the disclosed estimated range of possible losses, as applicable. For those disclosed material legal proceedings where a loss is reasonably possible in future periods, whether in excess of a recorded accrual for legal or tax contingencies, or where there is no such accrual, and for which we are able to estimate a range of possible loss, the current estimated range is zero to $190 million in excess of any accruals related to those matters. This range represents management’s estimate based on currently available information and does not represent our maximum loss exposure; actual results may vary significantly. As such legal proceedings evolve, we may need to increase our range of possible loss or recorded accruals. In addition, it is possible that significantly increased merchant steering or other actions impairing the Card Member experience as a result of an adverse resolution in one or any combination of the disclosed merchant cases could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Derivatives and Hedging Activit

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	Derivatives and Hedging Activities We use derivative financial instruments to manage exposures to various market risks. These instruments derive their value from an underlying variable or multiple variables, including interest rates, foreign exchange rates, and an equity index or price, and are carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These instruments enable end users to increase, reduce or alter exposure to various market risks and, for that reason, are an integral component of our market risk management. We do not transact in derivatives for trading purposes. In relation to our credit risk, certain of our bilateral derivative agreements include provisions that allow our counterparties to terminate the agreement in the event of a downgrade of our debt credit rating below investment grade and settle the outstanding net liability position. As of March 31, 2020, these derivatives were not in a significant net liability position. Based on our assessment of the credit risk of our derivative counterparties and our own credit risk as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, no credit risk adjustment to the derivative portfolio was required. A majority of our derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 are subject to master netting agreements with our derivative counterparties. We have no derivative amounts subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that are not offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: Other Assets Fair Value Other Liabilities Fair Value (Millions) 2020 2019 2020 2019 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a) $ 617 $ 185 $ — $ — Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts 763 24 63 186 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 1,380 209 63 186 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 826 134 356 254 Total derivatives, gross 2,206 343 419 440 Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b) (266) (90) (266) (90) Cash collateral netting (c)(d) (629) (185) — (9) Total derivatives, net $ 1,311 $ 68 $ 153 $ 341 (a) For our centrally cleared derivatives, variation margin payments are legally characterized as settlement payments as opposed to collateral. (b) Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement. (c) Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts and certain foreign exchange contracts with the right to cash collateral held from the counterparty or cash collateral posted with the counterparty. (d) We posted $80 million and $47 million as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, as initial margin on our centrally cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not netted against the derivative balances. Fair Value Hedges We are exposed to interest rate risk associated with our fixed-rate debt obligations. At the time of issuance, certain fixed-rate long-term debt obligations are designated in fair value hedging relationships, using interest rate swaps, to economically convert the fixed interest rate to a floating interest rate. We have $20.6 billion and $22.6 billion of fixed-rate debt obligations designated in fair value hedging relationships as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the three months ended March 31: Gains (losses) Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Fixed-rate long-term debt $ (597) $ (160) Derivatives designated as hedging instruments 611 158 Total $ 14 $ (2) The carrying values of the hedged liabilities, recorded within Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, were $21.3 billion and $22.7 billion as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, including the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments of $814 million and $217 million for the respective periods. We recognized a net decrease of $21 million and a net increase of $38 million in Interest expense on Long-term debt for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily related to the net settlements (interest accruals) on our interest rate derivatives designated as fair value hedges. Net Investment Hedges We had notional amounts of approximately $10.0 billion and $9.8 billion of foreign currency derivatives designated as net investment hedges as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. The gain or loss on net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in AOCI as part of the cumulative translation adjustment, was a gain of $732 million and a loss of $162 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures. The changes in the fair value of the derivatives and the related underlying foreign currency exposures resulted in a net gains of $20 million and $4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, that are recognized in Other, net expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Fair Values

Fair Values	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Values	Fair Values Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Fair Value The following table summarizes our financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy, as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 2019 (Millions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Investment securities: (a) Equity securities $ 75 $ 74 $ 1 $ — $ 78 $ 77 $ 1 $ — Debt securities 4,957 — 4,957 — 8,328 — 8,328 — Derivatives, gross (a) 2,206 — 2,206 — 343 — 343 — Total Assets 7,238 74 7,164 — 8,749 77 8,672 — Liabilities: Derivatives, gross (a) 419 — 419 — 440 — 440 — Total Liabilities $ 419 $ — $ 419 $ — $ 440 $ — $ 440 $ — (a) Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 8 for the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities, on a further disaggregated basis. Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Other Than Fair Value The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of our financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at amortized cost, and not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, and require management’s judgment. These figures may not be indicative of future fair values, nor can the fair value of American Express be estimated by aggregating the amounts presented. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2020 (Billions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value Cash and cash equivalents (a) $ 36 $ 36 $ 35 $ 1 $ — Other financial assets (b) 49 49 — 49 — Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses (c) 77 81 — — 81 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 86 86 — 86 — Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Certificates of deposit (d) 11 11 — 11 — Long-term debt (c) $ 53 $ 53 $ — $ 53 $ — Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2019 (Billions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value Cash and cash equivalents (a) $ 24 $ 24 $ 23 $ 1 $ — Other financial assets (b) 60 60 — 60 — Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses (c) 90 91 — — 91 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 92 92 — 92 — Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Certificates of deposit (d) 10 10 — 10 — Long-term debt (c) $ 58 $ 60 $ — $ 60 $ — (a) Level 2 amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments. (b) Balances include Card Member receivables (including fair values of Card Member receivables of $3.8 billion and $8.2 billion held by a consolidated VIE as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively), other receivables, restricted cash and other miscellaneous assets. (c) Balances include amounts held by a consolidated VIE for which the fair values of Card Member loans were $27.7 billion and $32.0 billion as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $16.4 billion and $19.8 billion as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (d) Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. For these assets, measurement at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition is applicable if they are determined to be impaired or where there are observable price changes for equity investments without readily determinable fair values. During the three months ended March 31, 2020 and the year ended December 31, 2019, we did not have any material assets that were measured at fair value due to impairment and there were no material fair value adjustments for equity investments without readily determinable fair values.

Guarantees

Guarantees	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Guarantees [Abstract]
Guarantees	Guarantees The maximum potential undiscounted future payments and related liability resulting from guarantees and indemnifications provided by us in the ordinary course of business were $1 billion and $24 million, respectively, as of March 31, 2020, and $1 billion and $29 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2019, all of which were primarily related to our real estate and business dispositions. To date, we have not experienced any significant losses related to guarantees or indemnifications. Our recognition of these instruments is at fair value. In addition, we establish reserves when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.

Changes in Accumulated Other Co

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income AOCI is comprised of items that have not been recognized in earnings but may be recognized in earnings in the future when certain events occur. Changes in each component for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 (Millions), net of tax Net Unrealized Foreign Currency Net Unrealized Accumulated Other Balances as of December 31, 2019 $ 33 $ (2,189) $ (581) $ (2,737) Net unrealized gains 57 — — 57 Net translation losses on investments in foreign operations — (1,054) — (1,054) Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations — 732 — 732 Pension and other postretirement benefits — — 6 6 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 57 (322) 6 (259) Balances as of March 31, 2020 $ 90 $ (2,511) $ (575) $ (2,996) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (Millions), net of tax Net Unrealized Foreign Currency Net Unrealized Accumulated Balances as of December 31, 2018 $ (8) $ (2,133) $ (456) $ (2,597) Net unrealized gains 17 — — 17 Net translation gains on investments in foreign operations — 170 — 170 Net losses related to hedges of investments in foreign operations — (162) — (162) Pension and other postretirement benefits — — (27) (27) Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 17 8 (27) (2) Balances as of March 31, 2019 $ 9 $ (2,125) $ (483) $ (2,599) The following table shows the tax impact for the three months ended March 31 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above: Tax expense (benefit) Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Net unrealized debt securities $ 18 $ 4 Net translation on investments in foreign operations 30 14 Net hedges on investments in foreign operations 230 (50) Pension and other postretirement benefits 12 (11) Total tax impact $ 290 $ (43) Reclassifications out of AOCI into the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the sale or liquidation of a business for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019 were not material.

Other Fees and Commissions and

Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses [Abstract]
Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses	Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses The following is a detail of Other fees and commissions for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Fees charged to Card Members: Delinquency fees $ 260 $ 251 Foreign currency conversion fee revenue 193 230 Other customer fees: Loyalty coalition-related fees 108 114 Travel commissions and fees 60 108 Service fees and other (a) 99 100 Total Other fees and commissions $ 720 $ 803 (a) Other includes Membership Rewards program fees that are not related to contracts with customers. Revenue expected to be recognized in future periods related to contracts that have an original expected duration of one year or less and contracts with variable consideration (e.g. discount revenue) are not required to be disclosed. Non-interest revenue expected to be recognized in future periods through remaining contracts with customers is not material. The following is a detail of Other expenses for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Occupancy and equipment $ 549 $ 508 Professional services 439 494 Other (a) 301 597 Total Other expenses $ 1,289 $ 1,599 (a) Other expense primarily includes general operating expenses, communication expenses, Card Member and merchant-related fraud losses, other non-income taxes, unrealized gains and losses on certain equity investments and litigation expenses.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The effective tax rate was 18.8 percent and 20.8 percent for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The change in tax rate primarily reflects discrete tax benefits in the current period in relation to lower pretax income. We are under continuous examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and tax authorities in other countries and states in which we have significant business operations. The tax years under examination and open for examination vary by jurisdiction. Tax years from 2016 onwards are open for examination by the IRS. We believe it is reasonably possible that our unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next 12 months by as much as $113 million, principally as a result of potential resolutions of prior years’ tax items with various taxing authorities. The prior years’ tax items include unrecognized tax benefits relating to the deductibility of certain expenses or losses and the attribution of taxable income to a particular jurisdiction or jurisdictions. Of the $113 million of unrecognized tax benefits, approximately $96 million relates to amounts that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate in a future period.

Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)

Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Common Share (EPS)	Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the three months ended March 31 were as follows: Three Months Ended (Millions, except per share amounts) 2020 2019 Numerator: Basic and diluted: Net income $ 367 $ 1,550 Preferred dividends (32) (21) Net income available to common shareholders $ 335 $ 1,529 Earnings allocated to participating share awards (a) (2) (11) Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 333 $ 1,518 Denominator: (a) Basic: Weighted-average common stock 807 841 Add: Weighted-average stock options (b) 1 2 Diluted 808 843 Basic EPS $ 0.41 $ 1.81 Diluted EPS $ 0.41 $ 1.80 (a) Our unvested restricted stock awards, which include the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents, are considered participating securities. Calculations of EPS under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator. (b) The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS 0.3 million and 0.9 million of options for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.

Reportable Operating Segments

Reportable Operating Segments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Reportable Operating Segments	Reportable Operating Segments Effective for the first quarter of 2020, we made certain enhancements to our transfer pricing methodology related to the sharing of revenues between our card issuing, network and merchant businesses, and our methodology related to the allocation of certain funding costs primarily related to our Card Member loan and Card Member receivable portfolios. These enhancements resulted in certain changes to Non-interest revenues, Interest expense and operating expenses across our reportable operating segments. Prior period amounts have been revised to conform to the current period presentation. These changes had no impact on our Consolidated Results of Operations. The following table presents certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 (Millions, except where indicated) GCSG GCS GMNS Corporate & Other (a) Consolidated Total non-interest revenues $ 3,894 $ 2,788 $ 1,346 $ (48) $ 7,980 Revenue from contracts with customers (b) 2,693 2,372 1,245 (14) 6,296 Interest income 2,411 499 6 130 3,046 Interest expense 328 200 (36) 224 716 Total revenues net of interest expense 5,977 3,087 1,388 (142) 10,310 Net income (loss) $ 201 $ 38 $ 417 $ (289) $ 367 Total assets (billions) $ 87 $ 47 $ 10 $ 42 $ 186 Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (Millions, except where indicated) GCSG GCS GMNS Corporate & Other (a) Consolidated Total non-interest revenues $ 3,912 $ 2,926 $ 1,449 $ 18 $ 8,305 Revenue from contracts with customers (b) 2,824 2,541 1,330 2 6,697 Interest income 2,272 454 9 219 2,954 Interest expense 435 256 (80) 284 895 Total revenues net of interest expense 5,749 3,124 1,538 (47) 10,364 Net income (loss) $ 954 $ 512 $ 571 $ (487) $ 1,550 Total assets (billions) $ 99 $ 54 $ 22 $ 22 $ 197 (a) Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity. (b) Includes discount revenue, certain other fees and commissions and other revenues from customers.

Basis of Presentation (Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	The preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ. Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards	In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued new accounting guidance related to the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The guidance, effective for reporting periods through December 31, 2022, provides accounting relief for contract modifications that replace an interest rate impacted by reference rate reform (e.g., LIBOR) with a new alternative reference rate. The guidance is applicable to investment securities, receivables, loans, debt, leases, derivatives and hedge accounting elections and other contractual arrangements. We adopted the guidance as of March 31, 2020, with no material impact on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. There were no significant changes to our accounting policies, business processes or internal controls as a result of adopting the new guidance. Effective January 1, 2020, we adopted the new credit reserving methodology, applicable to certain financial instruments, known as the Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) methodology under a modified retrospective transition. The CECL methodology requires measurement of expected credit losses for the estimated life of the financial instrument, not only based on historical experience and current conditions, but also by including reasonable and supportable forecasts incorporating forward-looking information. Upon implementation, total loan reserves increased by $1,663 million and total receivable reserves decreased by $493 million, along with the associated current and deferred tax impact of $288 million, and an offset to the opening balance of retained earnings, net of tax, of $882 million. There were no material changes to our business processes or internal controls as a result of adopting the new guidance. Refer to Note 3 for additional information on how management estimates reserves for credit losses in accordance with the CECL methodology.
Investments	Investment securities also include equity securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with unrealized gains and losses recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Income as Other, net expense. Realized gains and losses are recognized upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method.
Asset Securitizations	We periodically securitize Card Member loans and receivables arising from our card businesses through the transfer of those assets to securitization trusts, American Express Credit Account Master Trust (the Lending Trust) and American Express Issuance Trust II (the Charge Trust and together with the Lending Trust, the Trusts). The Trusts then issue debt securities collateralized by the transferred assets to third-party investors.The Trusts are considered VIEs as they have insufficient equity at risk to finance their activities, which are to issue debt securities that are collateralized by the underlying Card Member loans and receivables. We perform the servicing and key decision making for the Trusts, and therefore have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the Trusts’ economic performance, which are the collection of the underlying Card Member loans and receivables. In addition, we hold all of the variable interests in both Trusts, with the exception of the debt securities issued to third-party investors.These variable interests held by us provide us with the right to receive benefits and the obligation to absorb losses, which could be significant to both the Lending Trust and the Charge Trust. Based on these considerations, we are the primary beneficiary of the Trusts and therefore consolidate the Trusts.
Contingencies	We have accrued for certain of our outstanding legal proceedings. An accrual is recorded when it is both (a) probable that a loss has occurred and (b) the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. There may be instances in which an exposure to loss exceeds the accrual. We evaluate, on a quarterly basis, developments in legal proceedings that could cause an increase or decrease in the amount of the accrual that has been previously recorded, or a revision to the disclosed estimated range of possible losses, as applicable.
Derivatives	The changes in the fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedges are intended to offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses of the underlying foreign currency exposures.
Fair Values	We have certain assets that are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. For these assets, measurement at fair value in periods subsequent to their initial recognition is applicable if they are determined to be impaired or where there are observable price changes for equity investments without readily determinable fair values.
Guarantees	Our recognition of these instruments is at fair value. In addition, we establish reserves when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.
Reserves for Credit Losses	Reserves for credit losses represent our best estimate of the expected credit losses in our outstanding portfolio of Card Member loans and receivables as of the balance sheet date. The CECL methodology, which became effective January 1, 2020, requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses by incorporating historical loss experience, as well as current and future economic conditions over a reasonable and supportable period (R&S Period) beyond the balance sheet date. We make various judgments combined with historical loss experience to calculate a reserve rate that is applied to the outstanding loan or receivable balance to produce a reserve for expected credit losses . We use a combination of statistically-based models that incorporate current and future economic conditions throughout the R&S Period. The process of estimating expected credit losses is based on several key parameters: Probability of Default (PD), Exposure at Default (EAD), and future recoveries for each month of the R&S Period. Beyond the R&S Period, we estimate expected credit losses using our historical loss rates. • PD models are used to estimate the likelihood an account will be written-off. • EAD models are used to estimate the balance of an account at the time of write-off. This includes balances less expected repayments based on historical payment and revolve behavior, which vary by customer. Due to the nature of revolving loan portfolios, the EAD models are complex and involve assumptions regarding the relationship between future spend and payment behaviors. • Future recoveries are the amounts received from Card Members after default occurs, typically as a result of collection efforts. Future recoveries are estimated taking into consideration the time of default, time elapsed since default and macroeconomic conditions. These three parameters calculate the quantitative future expected credit losses. We also consider the likelihood a previously written off account will be recovered. This calculation is dependent on how long ago the account was written off and future economic conditions, which estimate the likelihood and magnitude of recovery. Our models are developed using historical loss experience covering the economic cycle and consider the impact of account characteristics on expected losses. Future economic conditions include multiple macroeconomic scenarios provided to us by an independent third party and reviewed by management. These macroeconomic scenarios contain certain geographic based variables that are influential to our modelling process, including unemployment rates and real gross domestic product. The process of estimating credit reserves incorporates the above factors over the R&S Period explicitly considering macroeconomic forward-looking information. Additionally, we consider whether to adjust the quantitative reserves to address possible limitations within the models or factors not included within the models, such as external factors, portfolio trends or management risk actions. Lifetime losses for most of our loans and receivables are evaluated collectively based on similar risk characteristics, including past spend and remittance behaviors, credit bureau scores where available, delinquency status, tenure of balance outstanding, amongst others. We report losses on accrued interest within provision for credit losses, rather than reversing interest income. Separate models are used for accounts deemed a troubled debt restructuring, which are measured individually using a discounted cash flow model. See Note 2 for information on troubled debt restructurings. Loans and receivable balances are written off when we consider amounts to be uncollectible, which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due for pay in full or revolving loans and 120 days past due for term loans. Loans and receivables in bankruptcy or owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2020 are presented using the CECL methodology while comparative information continues to be reported in accordance with the incurred loss methodology in effect for prior periods.
Investment Securities	Investment securities principally include available-for-sale debt securities carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The CECL methodology, which became effective January 1, 2020, requires us to estimate lifetime expected credit losses for all available-for-sale debt securities in an unrealized loss position. Comparative information continues to be reported in accordance with the methodology in effect for prior periods. When estimating a security’s probability of default and the recovery rate, we assess the security’s credit indicators, including credit ratings. If our assessment indicates that an expected credit loss exists, we determine the portion of the unrealized loss attributable to credit deterioration and record an allowance for the expected credit loss through the Consolidated Statements of Income in Other loans Provision for credit losses. Unrealized gains and any portion of a security’s unrealized loss attributable to non-credit losses are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, net of tax.

Loans and Card Member Receiva_2

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Loans Notes Trade And Other Receivables Disclosure [Abstract]
Card Member receivables segment and other loans detail	Card Member loans by segment and Other loans as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 consisted of: (Millions) 2020 2019 Global Consumer Services Group (a) $ 63,849 $ 73,266 Global Commercial Services 13,851 14,115 Card Member loans 77,700 87,381 Less: Reserve for credit losses 5,236 2,383 Card Member loans, net $ 72,464 $ 84,998 Other loans, net (b) $ 4,954 $ 4,626 (a) Includes approximately $28.1 billion and $32.2 billion of gross Card Member loans available to settle obligations of a consolidated variable interest entity (VIE) as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (b) Other loans primarily represent consumer and commercial non-card financing products. Other loans are presented net of reserves for credit losses of $241 million and $152 million as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. Card Member receivables by segment as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 consisted of: (Millions) 2020 2019 Global Consumer Services Group (a) $ 15,816 $ 22,844 Global Commercial Services (b) 28,912 34,569 Card Member receivables 44,728 57,413 Less: Reserve for credit losses 459 619 Card Member receivables, net $ 44,269 $ 56,794 (a) Includes $8.3 billion of gross Card Member receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2019.
Aging of Card Member loans and receivables	The following table presents the aging of Card Member loans and receivables as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 (Millions) Current 30-59 60-89 90+ Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group $ 62,758 $ 301 $ 232 $ 558 $ 63,849 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 13,597 63 47 88 13,795 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) — 56 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 15,541 85 61 129 15,816 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services $ 15,382 $ 112 $ 78 $ 131 $ 15,703 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) $ 139 $ 13,209 2019 (Millions) Current 30-59 60-89 90+ Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group $ 72,101 $ 322 $ 253 $ 590 $ 73,266 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 13,898 56 40 85 14,079 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) — 36 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 22,560 86 58 140 22,844 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services $ 17,113 $ 99 $ 58 $ 134 $ 17,404 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) $ 136 $ 17,165 (a) Global Corporate Payments (GCP) reflects global, large and middle market corporate accounts. Delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. A Card Member account is considered 90 days past billing if payment has not been received within 90 days of the Card Member’s billing statement date. In addition, if we initiate collection procedures on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card Member loan or receivable balance is classified as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (b). (b) Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past due can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
Credit quality indicators for loans and receivables	The following tables present the key credit quality indicators as of or for the three months ended March 31: 2020 2019 Net Write-Off Rate Net Write-Off Rate Principal Only (a) Principal, Interest & Fees (a) 30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total Principal Only (a) Principal, Interest & Fees (a) 30+ Days Past Due as a % of Total Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group 2.6 % 3.2 % 1.7 % 2.3 % 2.8 % 1.5 % Global Small Business Services 1.9 % 2.2 % 1.4 % 1.8 % 2.1 % 1.3 % Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group 2.0 % 2.2 % 1.7 % 1.7 % 1.9 % 1.3 % Global Small Business Services 2.2 % 2.5 % 2.0 % 1.9 % 2.1 % 1.6 % Global Corporate Payments (b) 1.0 % (c) (b) (d) (c) (a) We present a net write-off rate based on principal losses only (i.e., excluding interest and/or fees) to be consistent with industry convention. In addition, because we consider uncollectible interest and/or fees in estimating our reserves for credit losses, a net write-off rate including principal, interest and/or fees is also presented. (b) Net write-off rate based on principal losses only is not available due to system constraints. (c) For GCP Card Member receivables, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. Delinquency data for periods other than 90+ days past billing is not available due to system constraints. 90+ Days Past Billing as a % of total was 1.1% and 0.6% for the periods ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Impaired Card Member loans and receivables	The following tables provide additional information with respect to our impaired Card Member loans and receivables as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: As of March 31, 2020 Accounts Classified as a TDR (c) 2020 (Millions) Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a) Non- Accruals (b) In Program (d) Out of Program (e) Total Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group (f) $ 361 $ 268 $ 557 $ 185 $ 1,371 $ 235 Global Commercial Services 46 56 112 41 255 64 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group — — 63 14 77 9 Global Commercial Services — — 123 34 157 18 Total $ 407 $ 324 $ 855 $ 274 $ 1,860 $ 326 As of December 31, 2019 Accounts Classified as a TDR (c) 2019 (Millions) Over 90 days Past Due & Accruing Interest (a) Non- Accruals (b) In Program (d) Out of Program (e) Total Reserve for Credit Losses - TDRs Card Member Loans: Global Consumer Services Group (f) $ 384 $ 284 $ 500 $ 175 $ 1,343 $ 137 Global Commercial Services 44 54 97 38 233 22 Card Member Receivables: Global Consumer Services Group — — 56 16 72 3 Global Commercial Services — — 109 30 139 6 Total $ 428 $ 338 $ 762 $ 259 $ 1,787 $ 168 (a) Our policy is generally to accrue interest through the date of write-off (typically 180 days past due). We establish reserves for interest that we believe will not be collected. Amounts presented exclude Card Member loans classified as a TDR. (b) Non-accrual loans not in modification programs primarily include certain Card Member loans placed with outside collection agencies for which we have ceased accruing interest. Amounts presented exclude Card Member loans classified as a TDR. (c) Accounts classified as a TDR include $27 million and $26 million that are over 90 days past due and accruing interest and $11 million and $10 million that are non-accruals as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (d) In Program TDRs include Card Member accounts that are currently enrolled in a modification program. (e) Out of Program TDRs include $197 million and $188 million of Card Member accounts that have successfully completed a modification program and $77 million and $72 million of Card Member accounts that were not in compliance with the terms of the modification programs as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (f) Global Consumer Services Group (GCSG) includes balances outside the U.S. of $82 million and $93 million that are over 90 days and accruing interest as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively.
Troubled debt restructurings	The following table provides additional information with respect to Card Member loans and receivables modified as TDRs for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019: Three Months Ended Number of Outstanding Balances (millions) (a) Average Interest Average Payment Troubled Debt Restructurings: Card Member Loans 24 $ 195 14 (b) Card Member Receivables 3 74 (c) 25 Total 27 $ 269 Three Months Ended Number of Outstanding Balances (millions) (a) Average Interest Average Payment Troubled Debt Restructurings: Card Member Loans 17 $ 128 13 (b) Card Member Receivables 2 40 (c) 27 Total 19 $ 168 (a) Represents the outstanding balance immediately prior to modification. The outstanding balance includes principal, fees and accrued interest on Card Member loans and principal and fees on Card Member receivables. Modifications did not reduce the principal balance. (b) For Card Member loans, there have been no payment term extensions. (c) We do not offer interest rate reduction programs for Card Member receivables as the receivables are non-interest bearing.
Troubled debt restructurings that subsequently defaulted	The following table provides information with respect to Card Member loans and receivables modified as TDRs that subsequently defaulted within 12 months of modification. A Card Member is considered in default of a modification program after one and up to two missed payments, depending on the terms of the modification program. For all Card Members that defaulted from a modification program, the probability of default is factored into the reserves for Card Member loans and receivables. Three Months Ended Number of Accounts (thousands) Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default (millions) (a) Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted: Card Member Loans 4 $ 28 Card Member Receivables 1 9 Total 5 $ 37 Three Months Ended Number of Accounts (thousands) Aggregated Outstanding Balances Upon Default (millions) (a) Troubled Debt Restructurings That Subsequently Defaulted: Card Member Loans 2 $ 17 Card Member Receivables 1 4 Total 3 $ 21 (a) The outstanding balances upon default include principal, fees and accrued interest on Card Member loans, and principal and fees on Card Member receivables.

Reserves for Credit Losses (Tab

Reserves for Credit Losses (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]
Changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses	The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31: (Millions) 2020 2019 Balance, January 1 (a) $ 4,027 $ 2,134 Provisions (b) 1,876 525 Net write-offs (c) Principal (518) (457) Interest and fees (107) (92) Other (d) (42) 11 Balance, March 31 $ 5,236 $ 2,121 (a) Includes an increase of $1,643 million related to the adoption of the CECL methodology. (b) Provisions for principal, interest and fee reserve components. (c) Principal write-offs are presented less recoveries of $145 million and $124 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Recoveries of interest and fees were not significant. Amounts include net (write-offs) recoveries from TDRs of $(31) million and $(15) million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. (d) Primarily includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $(42) million and $6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Changes in the Card Member receivable reserve for losses	The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for credit losses for the three months ended March 31: (Millions) 2020 2019 Balance, January 1 (a) $ 126 $ 573 Provisions (b) 597 253 Net write-offs (c) (258) (216) Other (d) (6) (2) Balance, March 31 $ 459 $ 608 (a) Includes a decrease of $493 million related to the adoption of the CECL methodology. (b) Provisions for principal and fee reserve components. (c) Net write-offs are presented less recoveries of $92 million and $91 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Amounts include net (write-offs) recoveries from TDRs of $(7) million and $(4) million, for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. (d) Primary includes foreign currency translation adjustments of $(5) million and $3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Investment Securities (Tables)

Investment Securities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Schedule of Available for Sale Securities by Type	The following is a summary of investment securities as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 2019 Description of Securities (Millions) Cost Gross Gross Estimated Cost Gross Gross Estimated Available-for-sale debt securities: State and municipal obligations $ 194 $ 10 $ — $ 204 $ 236 $ 8 $ (1) $ 243 U.S. Government agency obligations 8 — — 8 9 — — 9 U.S. Government treasury obligations 4,001 104 — 4,105 7,395 35 (1) 7,429 Corporate debt securities 24 — — 24 27 — — 27 Mortgage-backed securities (a) 37 3 — 40 39 2 — 41 Foreign government bonds and obligations 574 2 — 576 578 1 — 579 Equity securities (b) (c) 55 22 (2) 75 55 25 (2) 78 Total $ 4,893 $ 141 $ (2) $ 5,032 $ 8,339 $ 71 $ (4) $ 8,406 (a) Represents mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac or Ginnie Mae. (b) Equity securities comprise investments in common stock, exchange-traded funds and mutual funds.
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	The following table provides information about our available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2019. There were no available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2020. 2019 Less than 12 months 12 months or more Description of Securities (Millions) Estimated Fair Value Gross Estimated Fair Value Gross State and municipal obligations $ 18 $ (1) $ — $ — U.S. Government treasury obligations — — 324 (1) Total $ 18 $ (1) $ 324 $ (1)
Available for Sale Securities Ratio of Fair Value to Amortized Cost	The following table summarizes the gross unrealized losses by ratio of fair value to amortized cost as of December 31, 2019. There were no available-for-sale debt securities with gross unrealized losses as of March 31, 2020. Less than 12 months 12 months or more Total Ratio of Fair Value to Amortized Cost (Dollars in millions) Number of Estimated Gross Number of Estimated Gross Number of Estimated Gross 2019: 90%–100% 2 $ 18 $ (1) 3 $ 324 $ (1) 5 $ 342 $ (2) Total as of December 31, 2019 2 $ 18 $ (1) 3 $ 324 $ (1) 5 $ 342 $ (2)
Contractual Maturities of Investment Securities	Contractual maturities for investment securities with stated maturities as of March 31, 2020 were as follows: (Millions) Cost Estimated Due within 1 year $ 2,703 $ 2,725 Due after 1 year but within 5 years 1,798 1,868 Due after 5 years but within 10 years 161 177 Due after 10 years 176 187 Total $ 4,838 $ 4,957

Asset Securitizations (Tables)

Asset Securitizations (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Asset Securitizations [Abstract]
Restricted cash held by trusts	The following table provides information on the restricted cash held by the Trusts as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets: (Millions) 2020 2019 Lending Trust $ 2,013 $ 85 Charge Trust — — Total $ 2,013 $ 85

Customer Deposits (Tables)

Customer Deposits (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Banking and Thrift [Abstract]
Deposits By Component Alternative	As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, customer deposits were categorized as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S.: Interest-bearing $ 76,459 $ 72,445 Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2020, $791; 2019, $389) 815 415 Non-U.S.: Interest-bearing 25 23 Non-interest-bearing (includes Card Member credit balances of: 2020, $661; 2019, $401) 663 404 Total customer deposits $ 77,962 $ 73,287
Deposits By Type	Customer deposits by deposit type as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S. retail deposits: Savings accounts – Direct $ 48,981 $ 46,394 Certificates of deposit: Direct 2,360 1,854 Third-party (brokered) 8,715 8,076 Sweep accounts – Third-party (brokered) 16,403 16,121 Other deposits: U.S. non-interest bearing deposits 24 26 Non-U.S. deposits 27 26 Card Member credit balances ― U.S. and non-U.S. 1,452 790 Total customer deposits $ 77,962 $ 73,287
Time Deposits By Maturity	The scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit as of March 31, 2020 were as follows: (Millions) U.S. Non-U.S. Total 2020 $ 4,180 $ 11 $ 4,191 2021 3,233 2 3,235 2022 2,747 — 2,747 2023 508 — 508 2024 267 — 267 After 5 years 140 — 140 Total $ 11,075 $ 13 $ 11,088
Time Deposits $250,000 Or More	As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, certificates of deposit in denominations of $250,000 or more, in the aggregate, were as follows: (Millions) 2020 2019 U.S. $ 839 $ 622 Non-U.S. 4 4 Total $ 843 $ 626

Derivatives and Hedging Activ_2

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of derivative instruments in statement of financial position, fair value	The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: Other Assets Fair Value Other Liabilities Fair Value (Millions) 2020 2019 2020 2019 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a) $ 617 $ 185 $ — $ — Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts 763 24 63 186 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 1,380 209 63 186 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 826 134 356 254 Total derivatives, gross 2,206 343 419 440 Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b) (266) (90) (266) (90) Cash collateral netting (c)(d) (629) (185) — (9) Total derivatives, net $ 1,311 $ 68 $ 153 $ 341 (a) For our centrally cleared derivatives, variation margin payments are legally characterized as settlement payments as opposed to collateral. (b) Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement. (c) Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts and certain foreign exchange contracts with the right to cash collateral held from the counterparty or cash collateral posted with the counterparty. (d) We posted $80 million and $47 million as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, as initial margin on our centrally cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not netted against the derivative balances.
Effect of fair value hedges on results of operations	The following table presents the gains and losses recognized in Interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the fair value hedges of our fixed-rate long-term debt for the three months ended March 31: Gains (losses) Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Fixed-rate long-term debt $ (597) $ (160) Derivatives designated as hedging instruments 611 158 Total $ 14 $ (2)

Fair Values (Tables)

Fair Values (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis	The following table summarizes our financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy, as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019: 2020 2019 (Millions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Investment securities: (a) Equity securities $ 75 $ 74 $ 1 $ — $ 78 $ 77 $ 1 $ — Debt securities 4,957 — 4,957 — 8,328 — 8,328 — Derivatives, gross (a) 2,206 — 2,206 — 343 — 343 — Total Assets 7,238 74 7,164 — 8,749 77 8,672 — Liabilities: Derivatives, gross (a) 419 — 419 — 440 — 440 — Total Liabilities $ 419 $ — $ 419 $ — $ 440 $ — $ 440 $ — (a) Refer to Note 4 for the fair values of investment securities and to Note 8 for the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities, on a further disaggregated basis.
Estimated fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities	The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of our financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at amortized cost, and not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, and require management’s judgment. These figures may not be indicative of future fair values, nor can the fair value of American Express be estimated by aggregating the amounts presented. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2020 (Billions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value Cash and cash equivalents (a) $ 36 $ 36 $ 35 $ 1 $ — Other financial assets (b) 49 49 — 49 — Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses (c) 77 81 — — 81 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 86 86 — 86 — Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Certificates of deposit (d) 11 11 — 11 — Long-term debt (c) $ 53 $ 53 $ — $ 53 $ — Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2019 (Billions) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value Cash and cash equivalents (a) $ 24 $ 24 $ 23 $ 1 $ — Other financial assets (b) 60 60 — 60 — Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses (c) 90 91 — — 91 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 92 92 — 92 — Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Certificates of deposit (d) 10 10 — 10 — Long-term debt (c) $ 58 $ 60 $ — $ 60 $ — (a) Level 2 amounts reflect time deposits and short-term investments. (b) Balances include Card Member receivables (including fair values of Card Member receivables of $3.8 billion and $8.2 billion held by a consolidated VIE as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively), other receivables, restricted cash and other miscellaneous assets. (c) Balances include amounts held by a consolidated VIE for which the fair values of Card Member loans were $27.7 billion and $32.0 billion as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, and the fair values of Long-term debt were $16.4 billion and $19.8 billion as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. (d) Presented as a component of Customer deposits on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Changes in Accumulated Other _2

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	Changes in each component for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 (Millions), net of tax Net Unrealized Foreign Currency Net Unrealized Accumulated Other Balances as of December 31, 2019 $ 33 $ (2,189) $ (581) $ (2,737) Net unrealized gains 57 — — 57 Net translation losses on investments in foreign operations — (1,054) — (1,054) Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations — 732 — 732 Pension and other postretirement benefits — — 6 6 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 57 (322) 6 (259) Balances as of March 31, 2020 $ 90 $ (2,511) $ (575) $ (2,996) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (Millions), net of tax Net Unrealized Foreign Currency Net Unrealized Accumulated Balances as of December 31, 2018 $ (8) $ (2,133) $ (456) $ (2,597) Net unrealized gains 17 — — 17 Net translation gains on investments in foreign operations — 170 — 170 Net losses related to hedges of investments in foreign operations — (162) — (162) Pension and other postretirement benefits — — (27) (27) Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 17 8 (27) (2) Balances as of March 31, 2019 $ 9 $ (2,125) $ (483) $ (2,599)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Income - Tax Effect	The following table shows the tax impact for the three months ended March 31 for the changes in each component of AOCI presented above: Tax expense (benefit) Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Net unrealized debt securities $ 18 $ 4 Net translation on investments in foreign operations 30 14 Net hedges on investments in foreign operations 230 (50) Pension and other postretirement benefits 12 (11) Total tax impact $ 290 $ (43)

Other Fees and Commissions an_2

Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses [Abstract]
Other Commissions And Fees	The following is a detail of Other fees and commissions for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Fees charged to Card Members: Delinquency fees $ 260 $ 251 Foreign currency conversion fee revenue 193 230 Other customer fees: Loyalty coalition-related fees 108 114 Travel commissions and fees 60 108 Service fees and other (a) 99 100 Total Other fees and commissions $ 720 $ 803 (a) Other includes Membership Rewards program fees that are not related to contracts with customers.
Other Net Expense	The following is a detail of Other expenses for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended (Millions) 2020 2019 Occupancy and equipment $ 549 $ 508 Professional services 439 494 Other (a) 301 597 Total Other expenses $ 1,289 $ 1,599 (a) Other expense primarily includes general operating expenses, communication expenses, Card Member and merchant-related fraud losses, other non-income taxes, unrealized gains and losses on certain equity investments and litigation expenses.

Earnings Per Common Share (EP_2

Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Computation of basic and diluted EPS	The computations of basic and diluted EPS for the three months ended March 31 were as follows: Three Months Ended (Millions, except per share amounts) 2020 2019 Numerator: Basic and diluted: Net income $ 367 $ 1,550 Preferred dividends (32) (21) Net income available to common shareholders $ 335 $ 1,529 Earnings allocated to participating share awards (a) (2) (11) Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 333 $ 1,518 Denominator: (a) Basic: Weighted-average common stock 807 841 Add: Weighted-average stock options (b) 1 2 Diluted 808 843 Basic EPS $ 0.41 $ 1.81 Diluted EPS $ 0.41 $ 1.80 (a) Our unvested restricted stock awards, which include the right to receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents, are considered participating securities. Calculations of EPS under the two-class method exclude from the numerator any dividends paid or owed on participating securities and any undistributed earnings considered to be attributable to participating securities. The related participating securities are similarly excluded from the denominator. (b) The dilutive effect of unexercised stock options excludes from the computation of EPS 0.3 million and 0.9 million of options for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, because inclusion of the options would have been anti-dilutive.

Reportable Operating Segments (

Reportable Operating Segments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Operating segment information	The following table presents certain selected financial information for our reportable operating segments and Corporate & Other as of or for the three months ended March 31: Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 (Millions, except where indicated) GCSG GCS GMNS Corporate & Other (a) Consolidated Total non-interest revenues $ 3,894 $ 2,788 $ 1,346 $ (48) $ 7,980 Revenue from contracts with customers (b) 2,693 2,372 1,245 (14) 6,296 Interest income 2,411 499 6 130 3,046 Interest expense 328 200 (36) 224 716 Total revenues net of interest expense 5,977 3,087 1,388 (142) 10,310 Net income (loss) $ 201 $ 38 $ 417 $ (289) $ 367 Total assets (billions) $ 87 $ 47 $ 10 $ 42 $ 186 Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (Millions, except where indicated) GCSG GCS GMNS Corporate & Other (a) Consolidated Total non-interest revenues $ 3,912 $ 2,926 $ 1,449 $ 18 $ 8,305 Revenue from contracts with customers (b) 2,824 2,541 1,330 2 6,697 Interest income 2,272 454 9 219 2,954 Interest expense 435 256 (80) 284 895 Total revenues net of interest expense 5,749 3,124 1,538 (47) 10,364 Net income (loss) $ 954 $ 512 $ 571 $ (487) $ 1,550 Total assets (billions) $ 99 $ 54 $ 22 $ 22 $ 197 (a) Corporate & Other includes adjustments and eliminations for intersegment activity. (b) Includes discount revenue, certain other fees and commissions and other revenues from customers.

Basis of Presentation (Details

Basis of Presentation (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Jan. 01, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Total receivable reserves decrease	$ (459)		$ (619)	$ (608)
Offset to retained earnings	$ (12,161)		(13,871)
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Total loan reserves increase		$ 1,663
Total receivable reserves decrease		493	$ (126)		$ (573)
Current and deferred tax impact		288
Offset to retained earnings		$ 882

Loans and Card Member Receiva_3

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals
Card Member loans	$ 77,700	$ 87,381
Loans segment information
Less: Reserve for credit losses	5,236	2,383
Card Member loans, net	72,464	84,998
Other loans, net	4,954	4,626
Other loans, reserves	241	152
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals
Card Member loans	28,103	32,230
Global Consumer Services Group [Member]
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals
Card Member loans	63,849	73,266
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals
Card Member loans	$ 13,851	$ 14,115

Loans and Card Member Receiva_4

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019
Accounts receivable segment information
Card Member receivables	$ 44,728	$ 57,413
Less: Reserve for credit losses	459	619	$ 608
Card Member receivables, net	44,269	56,794
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Accounts receivable segment information
Card Member receivables	3,815	8,284
Global Consumer Services Group [Member]
Accounts receivable segment information
Card Member receivables	15,816	22,844
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Accounts receivable segment information
Card Member receivables	$ 28,912	$ 34,569

Loans and Card Member Receiva_5

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Card Member loans total aging	$ 77,700	$ 87,381
Card Member receivables total aging	44,728	57,413
Global Consumer Services Group [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Card Member loans total aging	63,849	73,266
Card Member receivables total aging	15,816	22,844
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	62,758	72,101
Card Member loans total aging	63,849	73,266
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	15,541	22,560
Card Member receivables total aging	15,816	22,844
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Financial Asset, 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	301	322
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Financial Asset, 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	85	86
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Financial Asset, 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	232	253
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Financial Asset, 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	61	58
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	558	590
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	129	140
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Card Member loans total aging	13,851	14,115
Card Member receivables total aging	28,912	34,569
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	13,597	13,898
Card Member loans total aging	13,795	14,079
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Corporate Payments [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Card Member loans total aging	56	36
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	15,382	17,113
Card Member receivables total aging	15,703	17,404
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Corporate Payments [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Card Member receivables total aging	13,209	17,165
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Financial Asset, 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	63	56
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Financial Asset, 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	112	99
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Financial Asset, 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	47	40
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Financial Asset, 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	78	58
Global Commercial Services [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	88	85
Global Commercial Services [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Global Corporate Payments [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	0	0
Global Commercial Services [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	131	134
Global Commercial Services [Member] | 90+ days past due [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Global Corporate Payments [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	$ 139	$ 136

Loans and Card Member Receiva_6

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 3)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.60%	2.30%
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	3.20%	2.80%
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.70%	1.50%
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.00%	1.70%
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.20%	1.90%
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.70%	1.30%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.90%	1.80%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.20%	2.10%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.40%	1.30%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate - Principal Only [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.20%	1.90%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.50%	2.10%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	2.00%	1.60%
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | 90+ Days Past Billing As % Of Receivables [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.10%	0.60%
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate Principal Interest, and Fees [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators	1.00%
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Loss Ratio as a % of Charge Volume [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Loans and Receivables
Credit Quality Indicators		0.08%

Loans and Card Member Receiva_7

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	$ 407	$ 428
Non-accrual loans	324	338
Loans and receivables modified as a Troubled Debt Restructuring in Program	855	762
Loans and receivables modified as Troubled Debt Restructuring Out of Program	274	259
Total impaired loans and receivables	1,860	1,787
Related allowance for Troubled Debt Restructurings	326	168
Accounts Receivable and Loans Textuals
Total loans and receivables modified as a TDR, past due 90 days and still accruing	27	26
Total loans and receivables modified as a TDR, non-accrual	11	10
Out of Program TDR accounts that completed modification programs	197	188
Out of Program TDR accounts not in compliance with modification programs	77	72
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	361	384
Non-accrual loans	268	284
Loans and receivables modified as a Troubled Debt Restructuring in Program	557	500
Loans and receivables modified as Troubled Debt Restructuring Out of Program	185	175
Total impaired loans and receivables	1,371	1,343
Related allowance for Troubled Debt Restructurings	235	137
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Non-US [Member]
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	82	93
Global Consumer Services Group [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	0	0
Non-accrual loans	0	0
Loans and receivables modified as a Troubled Debt Restructuring in Program	63	56
Loans and receivables modified as Troubled Debt Restructuring Out of Program	14	16
Total impaired loans and receivables	77	72
Related allowance for Troubled Debt Restructurings	9	3
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	46	44
Non-accrual loans	56	54
Loans and receivables modified as a Troubled Debt Restructuring in Program	112	97
Loans and receivables modified as Troubled Debt Restructuring Out of Program	41	38
Total impaired loans and receivables	255	233
Related allowance for Troubled Debt Restructurings	64	22
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Impaired loans and receivables
Loans over 90 days past due and accruing interest	0	0
Non-accrual loans	0	0
Loans and receivables modified as a Troubled Debt Restructuring in Program	123	109
Loans and receivables modified as Troubled Debt Restructuring Out of Program	34	30
Total impaired loans and receivables	157	139
Related allowance for Troubled Debt Restructurings	$ 18	$ 6

Loans and Card Member Receiva_8

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 5) account in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)account	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)account
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	27	19
Outstanding Balances | $	$ 269	$ 168
Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	24	17
Outstanding Balances | $	$ 195	$ 128
Average Interest Rate Reduction (as a percentage)	14.00%	13.00%
Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	3	2
Outstanding Balances | $	$ 74	$ 40
Average Payment Term Extension (in months)	25 months	27 months

Loans and Card Member Receiva_9

Loans and Card Member Receivables (Details 6) account in Thousands, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)account	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)account
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	5	3
Aggregated Outstanding Balance Upon Default | $	$ 37	$ 21
Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	4	2
Aggregated Outstanding Balance Upon Default | $	$ 28	$ 17
Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]
Number of Accounts | account	1	1
Aggregated Outstanding Balance Upon Default | $	$ 9	$ 4

Reserves for Credit Losses (Det

Reserves for Credit Losses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2020
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Balance, January 1	$ 2,383
Provisions	1,876	$ 525
Net write-offs, principal, interest and fees	(145)	(124)
Balance, March 31	5,236
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Balance, January 1	4,027	2,134
Other	(42)	11
Balance, March 31	5,236	2,121
Increase related to adoption of the CECL methodology			$ 1,643
Net Write Offs [Member] | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Provisions	1,876	525
Principal [Member] | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Net write-offs, principal, interest and fees	(518)	(457)
Interest and Fees [Member] | Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Net write-offs, principal, interest and fees	(107)	(92)
Troubled Debt Restructuring [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Net write-offs, principal, interest and fees	(31)	(15)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Reserve for Losses [Roll Forward]
Other	$ (42)	$ 6

Reserves for Credit Losses (D_2

Reserves for Credit Losses (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Jan. 01, 2020
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 619
Provisions	597	$ 253
Net write-offs	(258)	(216)
Other	(6)	(2)
Ending balance	459	608
Decrease in Card Member receivable reserves	(619)	(608)
Recoveries	92	91
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	126	573
Decrease in Card Member receivable reserves	(126)	(573)	$ 493
Troubled Debt Restructuring [Member]
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Net write-offs	(7)	(4)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]
Other	$ (5)	$ 3

Investment Securities (Details)

Investment Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	$ 4,838
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	4,957
Equity securities
Equity securities, Cost	55	$ 55
Equity securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	22	25
Equity securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	(2)
Equity securities, Estimated Fair Value	75	78
Total Cost	4,893	8,339
Total Gross Unrealized Gains	141	71
Total Gross Unrealized Losses	(2)	(4)
Total Estimated Fair Value	5,032	8,406
Transferred Equity Investment [Member]
Equity securities
Equity securities, Gross Unrealized Gains			$ 9
State and municipal obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	194	236
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	10	8
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(1)
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	204	243
US Government agency obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	8	9
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	8	9
U.S. Government treasury obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	4,001	7,395
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	104	35
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	(1)
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	4,105	7,429
Corporate debt securities [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	24	27
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	24	27
Mortgage-backed securities [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	37	39
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	3	2
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	40	41
Foreign government bonds and obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale debt securities:
Available-for-sale debt securities, Cost	574	578
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	2	1
Available-for-sale debt securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	0	0
Available-for-sale debt securities, Estimated Fair Value	576	579
Other Assets [Member]
Equity securities
Equity securities, Cost		3
Equity securities, Estimated Fair Value	$ 25	$ 28

Investment Securities (Details

Investment Securities (Details 1) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months	$ 18
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more	324
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more	(1)
State and municipal obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months	18
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more	0
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more	0
U.S. Government treasury obligations [Member]
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months	0
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more	324
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	0
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more	$ (1)

Investment Securities (Detail_2

Investment Securities (Details 2) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2019USD ($)security
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Number of securities, less than 12 months | security	2
Number of securities, 12 months or more | security	3
Number of securities, total | security	5
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months	$ 18
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more	324
Estimated Fair Value, Total	342
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	$ (2)
Ratio Of Fair Value To Amortized Cost Between Ninety And One Hundred Percent [Member]
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Number of securities, less than 12 months | security	2
Number of securities, 12 months or more | security	3
Number of securities, total | security	5
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses and length of time
Estimated Fair Value, Less than 12 months	$ 18
Estimated Fair Value, 12 months or more	324
Estimated Fair Value, Total	342
Available-for-sale investment securities with gross unrealized losses
Gross Unrealized Losses, Less than 12 Months	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, 12 months or more	(1)
Gross Unrealized Losses, Total	$ (2)

Investment Securities (Detail_3

Investment Securities (Details 3) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Cost
Due within 1 year	$ 2,703
Due after 1 year but within 5 years	1,798
Due after 5 years but within 10 years	161
Due after 10 years	176
Total	4,838
Estimated Fair Value
Due within 1 year	2,725
Due after 1 year but within 5 years	1,868
Due after 5 years but within 10 years	177
Due after 10 years	187
Total	$ 4,957

Asset Securitizations (Details)

Asset Securitizations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]
Restricted cash included in Other assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets	$ 2,513	$ 514	$ 454	$ 363
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]
Restricted cash included in Other assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets	2,013	85
American Express Lending Trust [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]
Restricted cash included in Other assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets	2,013	85
American Express Charge Trust [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Assets from Trusts [Line Items]
Restricted cash included in Other assets per Consolidated Balance Sheets	$ 0	$ 0

Asset Securitizations (Details

Asset Securitizations (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Billions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
American Express Lending Trust [Member]
Securitized Trusts [Line Items]
Direct and Indirect ownership of variable interests	$ 12.1	$ 12.9
American Express Charge Trust [Member]
Securitized Trusts [Line Items]
Direct and Indirect ownership of variable interests	$ 3.8	$ 8.3

Customer Deposits (Details)

Customer Deposits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
U.S.:
Interest-bearing	$ 76,459	$ 72,445
Non-interest-bearing	815	415
Non-U.S.:
Interest-bearing	25	23
Non-interest-bearing	663	404
Total customer deposits	77,962	73,287
Card Member Credit Balances [Member]
U.S.:
Non-interest-bearing	791	389
Non-U.S.:
Non-interest-bearing	$ 661	$ 401

Customer Deposits (Details 1)

Customer Deposits (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
U.S. retail deposits:
Savings accounts - Direct	$ 48,981	$ 46,394
Certificates of deposit - Direct	2,360	1,854
Certificates of deposit - Third party	8,715	8,076
Sweep accounts - Third party	16,403	16,121
Other deposits:
U.S. non-interest bearing deposits, Other	24	26
Non-US Deposits, Other	27	26
Card Member credit balances - U.S. and non-U.S.	1,452	790
Total customer deposits	$ 77,962	$ 73,287

Customer Deposits (Details 2)

Customer Deposits (Details 2) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Time Deposits By Maturity
2020	$ 4,191
2021	3,235
2022	2,747
2023	508
2024	267
After 5 years	140
Total	11,088
United States [Member]
Time Deposits By Maturity
2020	4,180
2021	3,233
2022	2,747
2023	508
2024	267
After 5 years	140
Total	11,075
Non-US [Member]
Time Deposits By Maturity
2020	11
2021	2
2022	0
2023	0
2024	0
After 5 years	0
Total	$ 13

Customer Deposits (Details 3)

Customer Deposits (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Time Deposits $250,000 Or More [Line Items]
Time Deposits, $250,000 or More	$ 843	$ 626
United States [Member]
Time Deposits $250,000 Or More [Line Items]
Time Deposits, $250,000 or More	839	622
Non-US [Member]
Time Deposits $250,000 Or More [Line Items]
Time Deposits, $250,000 or More	$ 4	$ 4

Contingencies (Details Textuals

Contingencies (Details Textuals)	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Minimum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Current estimated range of possible loss	$ 0
Maximum [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Current estimated range of possible loss	$ 190,000,000

Derivatives and Hedging Activ_3

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	$ 2,206	$ 343
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	419	440
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, assets	(266)	(90)
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting, liabilities	(266)	(90)
Other Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivatives assets, net	1,311	68
Cash collateral netting, assets	(629)	(185)
Other Assets [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	1,380	209
Other Assets [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivatives assets, net	617	185
Other Assets [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivatives assets, net	763	24
Other Assets [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	826	134
Other Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivative liabilities, net	153	341
Cash collateral netting, liabilities	0	(9)
Other Liabilities [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	63	186
Other Liabilities [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivative liabilities, net	0	0
Other Liabilities [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total derivative liabilities, net	63	186
Other Liabilities [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	$ 356	$ 254

Derivatives and Hedging Activ_4

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details 1) - Interest Expense [Member] - Interest Rate Contracts [Member] - Fair Value Hedging [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Fixed-rate long-term debt	$ (597)	$ (160)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	611	158
Total	$ 14	$ (2)

Derivatives and Hedging Activ_5

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details Textuals) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivatives subject to master netting arrangements not offset	$ 0		$ 0
Margin on interest rate swaps	80,000,000		47,000,000
Cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustment	814,000,000		217,000,000
Net increase (reduction) in interest expense on long term debt and other	(21,000,000)	$ 38,000,000
Other Expense [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) in changes in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges	20,000,000	4,000,000
Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Fixed-Rate Debt Obligations [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	20,600,000,000		22,600,000,000
Net Investment Hedges [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amounts of derivatives	10,000,000,000		9,800,000,000
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	21,300,000,000		$ 22,700,000,000
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on net investment hedges, net of taxes	$ 732,000,000	$ (162,000,000)

Fair Values (Details)

Fair Values (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Investment securities:
Equity securities	$ 75	$ 78
Debt securities	4,957	8,328
Derivative assets	2,206	343
Total Assets	7,238	8,749
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	419	440
Total Liabilities	419	440
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Investment securities:
Equity securities	74	77
Debt securities	0	0
Derivative assets	0	0
Total Assets	74	77
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Investment securities:
Equity securities	1	1
Debt securities	4,957	8,328
Derivative assets	2,206	343
Total Assets	7,164	8,672
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	419	440
Total Liabilities	419	440
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Investment securities:
Equity securities	0	0
Debt securities	0	0
Derivative assets	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liabilities
Derivative liabilities	0	0
Total Liabilities	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Values (Details 2)

Fair Values (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses	$ 81,000	$ 91,000
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses	0	0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses	0	0
Portion at Other than Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses	81,000	91,000
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	36,095	23,932	$ 33,177	$ 27,445
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	11,088
Long-term debt	52,588	57,835
Fair Values (Textuals)
Accounts receivable, less reserves	44,269	56,794
Card Member loans, net	72,464	84,998
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Long-term debt	16,275	19,668
Reported Value Measurement [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	36,000	24,000
Other financial assets	49,000	60,000
Financial assets carried at other than fair value
Card Member loans, less reserves for credit losses	77,000	90,000
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	86,000	92,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	11,000	10,000
Long-term debt	53,000	58,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	36,000	24,000
Other financial assets	49,000	60,000
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	86,000	92,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	11,000	10,000
Long-term debt	53,000	60,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Long-term debt	16,400	19,800
Fair Values (Textuals)
Accounts receivable, less reserves	3,800	8,200
Card Member loans, net	27,700	32,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	35,000	23,000
Other financial assets	0	0
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	0	0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	0	0
Long-term debt	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	1,000	1,000
Other financial assets	49,000	60,000
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	86,000	92,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	11,000	10,000
Long-term debt	53,000	60,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents per Consolidated Balance Sheets	0	0
Other financial assets	0	0
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	0	0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value
Certificates of deposit	0	0
Long-term debt	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Values (Details Textuals)

Fair Values (Details Textuals) - USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets measured at fair value due to impairment	$ 0	$ 0

Guarantees (Details)

Guarantees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Guarantees [Abstract]
Maximum potential amount of undiscounted future payments	$ 1,000	$ 1,000
Amount of related liability	$ 24	$ 29

Changes in Accumulated Other _3

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ (2,737)
Pension and other postretirement benefits	6	$ (27)
Balance as of end of period	(2,996)
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Net unrealized debt securities	18	4
Net translation on investments in foreign operations	30	14
Net hedges on investments in foreign operations	230	(50)
Pension and other postretirement benefits	12	(11)
Total tax impact	290	(43)
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Investment Securities [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	33	(8)
Net unrealized gains	57	17
Net translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations	0	0
Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations	0	0
Pension and other postretirement benefits	0	0
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	57	17
Balance as of end of period	90	9
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(2,189)	(2,133)
Net unrealized gains	0	0
Net translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations	(1,054)	170
Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations	732	(162)
Pension and other postretirement benefits	0	0
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(322)	8
Balance as of end of period	(2,511)	(2,125)
Net Unrealized Pension and Other Postretirement Gains (Losses) [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(581)	(456)
Net unrealized gains	0	0
Net translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations	0	0
Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations	0	0
Pension and other postretirement benefits	6	(27)
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	6	(27)
Balance as of end of period	(575)	(483)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(2,737)	(2,597)
Net unrealized gains	57	17
Net translation gains (losses) on investments in foreign operations	(1,054)	170
Net gains related to hedges of investments in foreign operations	732	(162)
Pension and other postretirement benefits	6	(27)
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(259)	(2)
Balance as of end of period	$ (2,996)	$ (2,599)

Other Fees and Commissions an_3

Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Non Interest Income [Line Items]
Delinquency fees	$ 260	$ 251
Foreign currency conversion fee revenue	193	230
Loyalty coalition-related fees	108	114
Travel commissions and fees	60	108
Service fees and other	99	100
Other fees and commissions [Member]
Non Interest Income [Line Items]
Total Other fees and commissions	$ 720	$ 803

Other Fees and Commissions an_4

Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Other Fees and Commissions and Other Expenses [Abstract]
Occupancy and equipment	$ 549	$ 508
Professional services	439	494
Other	301	597
Total Other expenses	$ 1,289	$ 1,599

Income Taxes (Details Textuals)

Income Taxes (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Actual tax rates	18.80%	20.80%
Unrecognized tax benefits change as a result of potential resolutions of prior years' tax	$ 113
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, could impact effective tax rate.	$ 96
Earliest Year [Member] | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Open tax years by major tax jurisdiction	2016

Earnings Per Common Share (EP_3

Earnings Per Common Share (EPS) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Basic and diluted:
Net income		$ 367	$ 1,550
Preferred dividends		(32)	(21)
Net income available to common shareholders		335	1,529
Earnings allocated to participating share awards		(2)	(11)
Net income attributable to common shareholders		$ 333	$ 1,518
Denominator:
Basic: Weighted-average common stock (in shares)		807	841
Add: Weighted-average stock options (in shares)		1	2
Diluted (in shares)		808	843
Basic EPS (in dollars per share)	[1]	$ 0.41	$ 1.81
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share)	[1]	$ 0.41	$ 1.80
Stock options [Member]
Denominator:
The dilutive effect of securities excluded from the calculation of earnings per share (in shares)		0.3	0.9
[1]	Represents net income less (i) earnings allocated to participating share awards of $2 million and $11 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and (ii) dividends on preferred shares of $32 million and $21 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Reportable Operating Segments_2

Reportable Operating Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Non-interest revenues	$ 7,980	$ 8,305
Revenue from contracts with customers	6,296	6,697
Interest income	3,046	2,954
Interest expense	716	895
Total revenues net of interest expense	10,310	10,364
Net income (loss)	367	1,550
Total assets	186,060	197,000	$ 198,321
Global Consumer Services Group [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Non-interest revenues	3,894	3,912
Revenue from contracts with customers	2,693	2,824
Interest income	2,411	2,272
Interest expense	328	435
Total revenues net of interest expense	5,977	5,749
Net income (loss)	201	954
Total assets	87,000	99,000
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Non-interest revenues	2,788	2,926
Revenue from contracts with customers	2,372	2,541
Interest income	499	454
Interest expense	200	256
Total revenues net of interest expense	3,087	3,124
Net income (loss)	38	512
Total assets	47,000	54,000
Global Merchant and Network Services [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Non-interest revenues	1,346	1,449
Revenue from contracts with customers	1,245	1,330
Interest income	6	9
Interest expense	(36)	(80)
Total revenues net of interest expense	1,388	1,538
Net income (loss)	417	571
Total assets	10,000	22,000
Corporate and Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Non-interest revenues	(48)	18
Revenue from contracts with customers	(14)	2
Interest income	130	219
Interest expense	224	284
Total revenues net of interest expense	(142)	(47)
Net income (loss)	(289)	(487)
Total assets	$ 42,000	$ 22,000