| Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2015 |
| Policy (Text Block) [Abstract] | |
| Principles of Consolidation | Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Significant intercompany transactions are eliminated. The Company consolidates entities in which it holds a “ controlling financial interest .” For voting interest entities, the Company is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is abl e to exercise control over the investees ’ operating and f inancial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), it is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is determined to be the primary beneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the party that has both: (1) the power to direct the activiti es that most significantly impact that entity’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The determination of whether an entity is a V IE is based on the amount and characteristics of the entity’s equity. Entities in which the Company’s voting interest in common equity does not provide it with control, but allows the Company to exert significant influence over the operating and financial decisions , are accounted for under the equity method. All other investments in equity securities, to the extent that they are not considered marketable securities, are accounted for under the cost method. |
| Foreign Currency | Foreign Currency Assets and liabilities denomin ated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based upon exchange rates prevailing at the end of each year. The resulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comp rehensive income (loss) (AOCI) , a component of shareholders’ equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hedge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of investments in foreign operations. Revenues a nd expenses are tra nslated at the average month-end exchange rates during the year. Gains and losses related to transactions in a currency other than the functional currency, including operations outside the U.S. where the functional currency is the U.S. d ollar, are reported net in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income, in other non-interest revenue, interest inc ome, interest expense, or other expense s , depending on the nature of the activity. Net foreign currency transaction gains amounted to app roximately $ 44 million, $ 108 million and $ 120 million in 2014 , 2013 and 2012 , respectively. |
| Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions | Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions Accounting estimates are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements. These estimates are based, in part, on management’s assumptions concerning future events. Among the more significant assumptions are those that relate to reserves for C ard M ember losses on loans and receivables, the proprietary point liability for Membership Rewards cost s , fair value measurement, goodwill and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ. |
| Total Revenues Net of Interest Expense | Total Revenues Net of Interest Expense Discount Revenue Discount revenue represents the amount earned by the Company on transactions occurring at merchants with which the Company, or a Global Network Services (GNS) partner, has entered into card acceptance agreements for facilitating transactions between the merchants and the Company’s Card Member s. The discount fee generally is deducted from the payment to the merchant and recorded as discount revenue at the time t he charge is captured . Net Card Fees Card fees , net of direct card acquisition costs and a reserve for projected membership cancellations, are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the 12-month card membership period as Net Card F ees in the Conso lidated Statements of Income. T he unamortized net card fee balance is reported net in Other L iabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets (refer to Note 10 ). Travel Commissions and Fees The Company earns travel commissions and fees by charging clients transaction or management fees for selling and arranging travel and for travel management services. Client transaction fee revenue is recognized at the time the client books the travel arrangements. Travel management services revenue is recognized over the contractual term of the agreement. The Comp any’s travel suppliers (e.g., airlines, hotels and car rental companies) pay commissions and fees on tickets issued, sales and other services based on contractual agreements. Commissions and fees from tra vel suppliers are generally recognized at the time a ticket is purchased or over the term of the contract. Commissions and fees that are based on services rendered (e.g. , hotel stays and car rentals) are recognized based on usage . Other Commissions and F ees Other commissions and fees include foreign currency conversion fees, Card Member delinquency fe es, service fees and other card- related assessments, which are recognized primarily in the period in which they are charged to the Card Member (refer to Not e 19) . In addition, service fees are also earned from other customers (e.g., merchants) for a variety of services and are recognized when the service is performed, which is generally in the period the fee is charged. A lso included are fees related to the Company’s Membership Rewards program, which are deferred and recognized over the period covered by the fee. The unamortized Membership Rewards fee balance is included in Other L iabilities on the Consolidated Bal ance Sheets (refer to Note 10). Contra-reven ue The Company regularly makes payments through contractual arrangements with merchants, corporate payments c lients , Card Members and certain other customers . Payments to such customers , including cash rebates paid to Card Members, are generally classifie d as contra-revenue unless a specifically identifiable benefit (e.g. , goods or services) is received by the Company or its Card Members in consideration for that payment , and the fair value of such benefit is determinable and measurable. If no such benefit is identified, then the entire payment is classified as contra-revenue and included in the Consolidated Statements of Income in the revenue line item where the related transaction s are recorded (e.g. , discount revenue, travel commissions and fees and othe r commissions and fees). If such a benefit is identified, then the payment is classified as expense up to the estimated fair value of the benefit. Interest Income Interest on Card Member loans is assessed using the average daily balance method. Unless t he loan is classified as non-accrual, interest is recognized based upon the outstanding balance, in accordance with the terms of the applicable account agreement, until the outstanding balance is paid or written off. Interest and dividends on investment s ecurities primarily relates to the Company’s performing fixed-income securities. Interest income is accrued as earned using the effective interest method, which adjusts the yield for security premiums and discounts, fees and other payments, so that a const ant rate of return is recognized on the investment security’s outstanding balance. Amounts are recognized until such time as a security is in default or when it is likely that future interest payments will not be received as scheduled. Interest on deposit s with banks and other is recognized as earned, and primarily relates to the placement of cash in interest-bearing time deposits, overnight sweep accounts, and other interest-bearing demand and call accounts. Interest Expense Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to fund Card Member loans, charge card product receivables, general corporate purposes, and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred. Interest expense is divided principally into two categories: ( i ) deposits, which primari ly relates to interest expense on deposits taken from customers and institutions, and (ii) long-term debt and other, which primarily relates to interest expense on the Company’s long-term financing and short-term borrowings, and the realized impact of deri vatives hedging interest rate risk. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, including securities purchased under resale agreements , and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less. |
| Premises and Equipment | Premises and Equipment Premises and equipment, including leasehold improvements, are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Costs incurred during construction are capitalized and are depr eciated once an asset is placed in service. Depreciation is generally computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of assets, which range from 3 to 10 years for equipment , furniture and building improvement s . Premises are depreciated based upon their estimated useful life at the acquisition date , which generally ranges from 30 to 50 years. Leasehold improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over the lesser of the remaining term of the leased facility or the economic life of the improvement, which ranges from 5 to 10 years. The Company maintains operatin g leases worldwide for facilities and equipment. Rent expense for facility leases is recognized ratably over the lease term, and include s adjustments for rent concessions, rent escalations and leasehold improvement allowances. The Company recognizes lease restoration obligations at the fair value of the restoration liabilities when incurred, and amortiz es the restor ation assets over the lease term. |
| Software Development Costs | The Company capitalizes certain costs associated with the acquisition or development of internal-use software. Once the software is ready for its intended use, these costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the software’s es timated useful life, generally 5 years. |
| Card Member and Other Receivables and Loans | Card Member and Other Receivables Card Member receivables , represent ing amounts due on charge card products, are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sa le transaction with a merchant. Each cha rge card transaction is authorized based on its likely economics, a Card Member’s most recent credit information and spend patterns. Additionally, global spend limits are establish ed to limit the maximum exposure for the Company. Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each month. Card Member receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for losse s (refer to Note 4), and include principal and any related accrued fees. Ca rd Member and Other Loans Card Member loans , represent ing revolving amounts due on lending card products, are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction w ith a merchant, as well as amounts due from charge Card Members who utilize the lending-on-charge feature on their account and elect to revolve a portion of the outstanding balance by enter ing into a revolving payment arrangement with the Company . These lo ans have a range of terms such as credit limits, interest rates, fees and payment structures, which can be revised over time based on new information about Card Members and in accordance with applicable regulations and the respective product’s terms and co nditions. Card Members holding revolving loans are typically required to make monthly payments based on pre-established amounts. The amounts that Card Members choose to revolve are subject to finance charges. Card Member loans are presented on the Consolid ated Balance Sheets net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 4), and include principal, accrued interest and fees receivable. The Company’s policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, and es tablish reserves for interest that the Company believes will not be collected. Impaired Card Member Loans and Receivables Impaired loans and receivables are individual larger balance or homogeneous pools of smaller balance loans and receivables for which it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the original contractual term s of the Card Member agreement. The Company considers impaired loans and receivables to include: ( i ) loans over 90 days past due still accruing interest, (ii) nonaccrual loans and (iii) loans and receivables modifi ed as troubled debt restructurings (TDRs). The Company may modify, through various programs, Card Member loans and receivables in instances where the Card Member is experiencing financial difficulty in order to minimize losses and improve collectability, while providing Card Members with temporary or permanent financial relief. The Company has classified Card Member loans and receivables in these modification programs as TDRs. Beginning January 1, 2015, on a prospective basis the Company continues to class ify Card Member accounts that have exited a modification program as a TDR, with such accounts iden tified as “Out of Program TDRs.” Such modifications to the loans and receivables primarily include ( i ) temporary interest rate reductions (possibly as low as zero percent, in which case t he loan is characterized as non- accrual in the Company’s TDR disclosures), (ii) placing the Card Member on a fixed payment plan not to exceed 60 months and (iii) suspending delinquency fees until the Card Member exits the modifi cation program. Upon entering the modification program, the Card Member’s ability to make future purchases is either cancelled, or in certain cases suspended until the Card Member successfully exits the modification program. In accordance with the modific ation agreement with the Card Member, loans may revert back to the original contractual terms (including the contractual interest rate) when the Card Member exits the modification program, which is ( i ) when all payments have been made in accordance with th e modification agreement or, (ii) when the Card Member defaults out of the modification program. The Company establishes a reserve for Card Member interest charges and fees considered to be uncollectible. Reserves for Card Member loans and receivables mod ified as TDRs are determined as the difference between the cash flows expected to be received from the Card Member (taking into consideration the probability of subsequent defaults), discounted at the original effective interest rates, and the carrying val ue of the related Card Member loan or receivable balance. The Company determines the original effective interest rate as the interest rate in effect prior to the imposition of any penalty interest rate. All changes in the impairment measurement are include d in the P rovision s for losses in the Consolidated Statements of Income. |
| Reserves for Losses | R eserves for losses relating to Card Member receivables and loans represent management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in the Company’s outstanding portfolio of loans and receivables , as of the balance sheet date . Management’s evaluation process requires certain estimates and judgments. Reserves for losses are primarily based upon statistical and analytical models that analyze portfolio performance and reflect management’s judgment regarding the quantit ative components of the reserve. The models take into account several factors, including delinquency-based loss migration rates , loss emergence periods and average losses and recoveries over an appropriate historical period. Management considers whether to adjust the quantitative reserves for certain external and internal qualitative factors , which may increase or decrease the reserves for losses on Card Member receivables and loans. These external factors include employment, spend, sentiment, housing and c redit, and changes in the l egal and regulatory environment, while the internal factors include increased risk in certain portfolios, impact of risk management initiatives, changes in underwriting requirements and overall process stability. As part of this evaluation process, management also considers various reserve coverage metrics, such as reserves as a percentage of past due amounts, reserves as a percentage of Card Member receivables or loans , and net write-off coverage ratios . Card Member receivables and loans balances are written off when management considers 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 . Card Member r eceivables and loans in bankruptcy or owe d by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification , and r ecoveries are recognized as they are collected . |
| Investment Securities | Investment securities principally include debt securities that the Company classifies as available-for-sale and carries at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, with unrealized gains (losses) recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of income taxes. Realized gains and losses are recognized on a trade-date basis in results of operations upon disposition of the securities using the specific identification method . Refer to Note 15 for a description of the Company’s methodology for determining the fair value of investment securities. |
| Asset Securitizations | NOTE 6 Asset Securitizations The Company periodically securitizes Card Member receivables and loans arising from its card business , including Card Member loans and receivables HFS, through the transfer of those assets to securitization trusts. The trusts then issue debt securities to third-party investors, collateralized by the transferred assets. Card Member receivables are transferred to the American Express Issuance Trust II ( the Charge Trust). Card Member loans are transferred to the American Express Credit Account Master Trust (the Lending Trust , collectively the Trusts ). The Trust s are consolidated by American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. (TRS), which is a c onsolidated subsidiary of the Company. The T rusts 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 receivables and loans. Det ails on the principl e s of consolidation can be found in the summary of significant accounting policies (refer to Note 1). TRS, in its role as servicer of the Trust s , has the power to direct the mo st significant activity of the T rusts, which is the collection of the underlying Card Member receivables and loans . In addition, TRS , excluding its consolidated subsidiaries, owned approximately $ 1.0 billion of subordinated securities issued by the Lending Trust as of December 31 , 2015 . These subordinated securities have the obligation to absorb losses of the Lending Trust and p rovide the right to receive benefits from the Lending Trust, both of which are significant to the VIE . TRS’ role as servicer for the Charge Trust does n ot provide it with a significant obligation to absorb losses or a significant right to receive benefits. However, TRS’ position as the parent company of the entities that transferred the receivables to the Charge Trust makes it the party most closely relat ed to the Charge Trust . Based on these considerations, TRS is the primary beneficiary of both Trusts. The debt securities issued by the Trust s are non-recourse to the Company. The s ecuritized Card Member receivables and loans held by the Charge Trust and t he Lending Trust , respectively, are available only for payment of the debt securities or other obligations issued or arising in th e securitization transactions (refer to Note 3). The long-term debt of each T rust is payable only out of collections on their respective underlying securitized assets (refer to Note 9). |
| Goodwill and Intangible Assets | Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of acquisition cost of an acquired business over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The Company assigns goodwill to its re porting units for the purpose of impairment testing. A reporting unit is defined as an operating segment, or a business that is one level below an operating segment for which discrete financial information is regularly reviewed by the operating segment man ager. The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment annually as of June 30 and between annual tests if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of the reporting unit below its carrying value. The goodwill i mpairment test utilizes a two-step approach. The first step in the impairment test identifies whether there is potential impairment by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to the carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the second step of the impairment test is required to measure the amount of any impairment loss. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 , goodwill was not impaired and there were no accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill impairment testing involves management judgment, requiring an assessment of whether the carrying value of the reporting unit can be supported by its fair value using widely accepted valuation techniques. The Company uses a combination of the incom e approach (discounted cash flows) and market approach (market multiples). When preparing discounted cash flow models under the income approach, the Company uses internal forecasts to estimate future cash flows expected to be generated by the reporting uni ts. Actual results may differ from forecasted results. The Company calculates discount rates based on the expected cost of equity financing, estimated using a capital asset pricing model, to discount future cash flows for each reporting unit. The Company b elieves the discount rates used appropriately reflect the risks and uncertainties in the financial markets generally and specifically in the Company’s internally developed forecasts. When using market multiples under the market approach, the Company applie s comparable publically traded companies’ multiples (e.g. earnings, revenues) to its reporting units’ actual results. Other Intangible Assets Intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, are amortized over their estimated useful lives of 3 to 22 years on a straight-line basis . The Company reviews intangible assets for impairment quarterly and whenever events and circumstances indicate their carrying amounts may not be recoverable. In addition, on an annual basis, the Company performs an impairment evaluation of all intangible assets by assessing the recoverability of the asset values based on the cash flows generated by the relevant assets or asset groups. An impairment is recognized if the carrying amount is not recoverable and exceeds the asset’s fair value. Intangible assets acquired in 2015 and 2014 are being amortized, on average, over 5 and 7 years, respectively. |
| Membership Rewards | Membership Rewards The Membership Rewards program al lows enrolled Card Members to earn points that can be redeemed for a broad range of rewards including travel, entertainment, retail certificates and merchandise. The Company records a balance sheet liability that represents management’s best estimate of th e cost of points earned that are expected to be redeemed in the future. The weighted average cost ( WAC ) per point and the Ultimate Redemption Rate ( URR ) are key assumptions used to estimate the Membership Rewards liability. The expense for Membership Rew ards points is included in marketing, promotion, rewards and Card Member services expenses. The Company periodically evaluates its liability estimation process and assumptions based on developments in redemption patterns, cost per point redeemed, partner c ontract changes and other factors. |
| Stock-based Compensation | Stock O ptions Each stock option has an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of gran t and a contractual term of 10 years from the date of grant. Stock options generally vest 100 percent on the third anniversary of the grant date. Restricted Stock Awards RSAs are valued based on the stock price on the date of grant , contain either a) service conditions or b) both service and performance conditions, and generally vest 25 percent per year beginning with t he firs t anniversary of the grant date. RSAs containing both service and performance conditions generally vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, and the number of shares earned depends on the achievement of predetermined Company metrics. All RSA holders receive non-forfeitable dividends or dividend equivalents. Liability-based Awards Certain employees are awarded PGs and other incentive awards that can be settled with cash or equity shares at the Company’s discretion and final Compensation and Benefits Committee payout approval. These awards earn value based on performance, market and service conditions, and vest over periods of one to three years. PGs and other incentive awards are generally settled with cash and thus are classified as liabilities; therefore, the fair value is determined at the date of grant and remeasured quarterl y as part of compensation expense over the vesting period. |
| Retirement Plans | Defined Contribution Retirement Plans The Company sponsors defined contribution retirement plans, the principal plan being the Retirement Savings Plan (RSP), a 401(k) savings plan with a profit-sharing component. The RSP is a tax-qualified retirement plan subject to the Employee Retirement Income Securit y Act of 1974 and covers most employees in the United S tates . Defined Benefit Pension and other postretirement benefit Plans The Company’s primary defined benefit pension plans that c over certain employees in the United S tates and United Kingdom are closed to new entrants and existing participants do not accrue any additional benefits. Most employees outside the U nited States and United Kingdom are covered by local retirement plans, some of which are funded, while other employees receiv e payments at the time of retirement or termination under applicable labor laws or agreements. The Company complies with minimum funding requirements in all countries. The Company sponsors unfunded other postretirement benefit plans that provide health car e and life insurance to certain retired U.S. employees. The Company recognizes the funded sta tus of its defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans, measured as the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the projected benefit obligation , in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. |
| Legal Contingencies | Legal Contingencies In the ordinary course of business, the Company and its subsidiaries are subject to various claims, investigations, examinations, pending and potential legal actions, and other matters relating to compliance with laws and regulations (collectively, legal proceedings). The Company discloses its material legal proceedings under “Legal Proceedings ”. The Company has recorded reserves for certain of its outstanding legal proceedings. A reser ve is record ed 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 recorded reserve. The Company evaluates, on a quarterly basis, deve lopments in legal proceedings that could cause an increase or decrease in the amount of the reserve that has been previously recorded, or a revision to the disclosed estimated range of possible losses, as applicable. The Company’s legal proceedings range from cases brought by a single plaintiff to class actions with millions of putative class members. These legal proceedings involve various lines of business of the Company and a variety of claims (including, but not limited to, common law tort, contract, a ntitrust and consumer protection claims), some of which present novel factual allegations and/or unique legal theories. While some matters pending against the Company specify the damages claimed by the plaintiff or class, 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 the Company are stated, the claimed amount may be exaggerated and/or unsupported. As a result, some matters have not yet progressed sufficiently thro ugh discovery and/or development of important factual information and legal issues to enable the Company to estimate an amount of loss or a range of possible loss , while other matters have progressed sufficiently such that the Company is able to estimate a n amount of loss or a range of possible loss . For those disclosed material legal proceedings where a loss is reasonably possible in future periods, whether in excess of a related reserve for legal contingencies or where there is no such reserve , and for w hich the Company is able to estimate a range of possible loss, the current estimated range is zero to $ 350 million in excess of any reserves related to these matters. This range represents management’s estimate based on currently available information and does not represent the Company’s maximum loss exposure; actual results may vary significantly. As such proceedings evolve, including the merchant claims described under “Legal Proceedings , ” the Company may need to increase its range of possible loss o r reserves for legal contingencies. Based on its current knowledge, and taking into consideration its litigation-related liabilities, the Company believes it is not a party to, nor are any of its properties the subject of, any legal proceeding that would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial condition or liquidity. However, in light of the uncertainties involved in such matters, it is possible that the outcome of legal proceedings, including the possible resolution of merch ant claims, could have a material impact on the Company’s results of operations. |
| Derivatives Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities | A majority of the Company’s derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , are subject to master netting agreements with its derivative counterparties. As noted previously , the Company has no derivative amounts subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that are not offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Derivative Financial Instruments That Qualify For Hedge Accounting Derivatives executed for hedge accountin g purposes are documented and designated as such when the Comp any enters into the contracts. In accordance with its risk management policies, the Company structures its hedges with terms similar to those of the item being hedged. The Company formally assesses, at inception of the hedge accounting relationship and on a quarterly basis, whether derivatives designated as hedges are highly effective in offsetting the fair value or c ash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usually are made through t he application of a regression analysis method. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, the Company will discontinue the application of hedge accounting. Fair Value Hedges A fair value hedge involves a derivative designat ed to hedge the Company’s exposure to future changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability, or an identified portion thereof , that is attributable to a particular risk. Interest Rate Contracts The Com pany is exposed to interest rate risk associated with its fixed-rate long-term debt. The Company uses interest rate swaps to economically convert certain fixed-rate debt obligations to floating-rate obligations at the time of issuance. To the extent the fair value hedge is effective, the gain or loss on the hedging i nstrument offsets the loss or gain on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk. Any difference between the changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item is referred to as hedge ineffectiveness and is reflected in earnings as a comp onent of O ther expenses. Hedge ineffectiveness may be caused by differences between a debt instrument’s interest coupon and the benchmark rate, primarily due to credit spreads at inception of the hedging relationship that are not reflected in the valuation of the interest rate swap. Furthermore, hedge ineffectiveness may be caused by changes in the relationship between 3-month LIBOR and 1-month LIBOR, as well as between the overnight indexed swap rate (OIS) and 1-month LIBOR, as spreads between these rates may impact the valuation of the interest rate swap without causing an offsetting impact in the value of the hedged debt. If a fair value hedge is de-designated or no longer considered to be effective, changes in fair value of the derivative continue to be recorded through earnings but the hedged asset or liability is no longer adjusted for changes in fair value resulting from changes in interest rates . The existing basis adjustment of the hedged asset or liability is amortized or accreted as an adjustment to yield over the remaining life of that asset or liability. Total Return Contract The Company hedged its exposure to changes in the fair value of its equity investment in ICBC in local currency . The Company used a TRC to transfer its exposure to its derivative counterparty. On July 18, 2014, the Company sold its remaining shares in ICBC and terminated the TRC. Net Investment Hedges A net investment hedge is used to hedge future changes in currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. The Company primarily designates foreign currency derivatives, typically foreign exchange forwards, and on occasion foreign currency denominated debt, as hedges of net investments in certain foreign operations. These instruments reduce exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on the Company’s investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges The Company has derivatives that act as economic hedges , but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions and non-U.S. dollar cash flow exposures from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contracts, primarily foreign exchange forwards, options and cross-currency swaps. These hedges generally mature within one year. Foreign currency contracts involve the purchase and sale of des ignated currencies at an agreed upon rate for settlement on a specified date. The changes in the fair value of the derivatives effectively offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses on the underlying balance sheet exposures . F rom time to time, the Company also may enter into interest rate swaps to specifically manage funding costs related to its proprietary card business. The Company also has certain operating agreements containing payments that may be linked to a market rate or price, pr imaril y foreign currency rates. The payment components of these agreements may meet the definition of an embedded derivative, in which case the embedded derivative is accounted for separately and is classified as a foreign exchange contract based on its primary risk exposure. For derivatives that are not designated as hedges, changes in fair value are reported in current period earnings. |
| Fair Value Measurements | Fair Values Fair value is defined as the price that would be re quired to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, based on the Company’s principal or , in the absence of a principal, most advantageous market for t he specific asset or liability. GAAP provide s for a three-level hierarchy of inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value, defined as follows: Level 1 ― Inputs that are quoted prices ( unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity can access . Level 2 ― Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantiall y the full term of the asset or liability, including: - Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets ; - Quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active ; - Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability ; and - Inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. Level 3 ― Inputs that are unobservable and reflect the Company’s own estimates about the estimates market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available in the circumstances (e.g., internally derived assumptions surrounding the timing and amount of expected cash flows). The Company d id not measure any financial instruments presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during the years ended December 31 , 2015 and 2014 , although the disclosed fair va lue of certain assets that are not carried at fair value, as presented later in this Note, are classified within Level 3. The Company monitors the market conditions and evaluates the fair value hierarchy levels at least quarterly. For any transfers in and out of the levels of the fair value hierarchy, the Company disclose s the fair value measurement at the beginning of the reporting period during which the transfer occurred. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, there were no significant transfers between levels. Valuation Techniques Used in the Fair Value Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Fair Value For the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (categorized in the valuation hierarchy table above ) the Company applies the following valuation techniques : Investment Securities When available, quoted prices of identical investment securities in active markets are used to estimate fair value. Such investment securities are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. When quoted prices of identical investment securities in active market s are not available, the fair values for the Company’s investment securities are obtained primarily from pricing services engaged by the Company, and the Company receives one price for each security. The fair values provided by the pricing services are estimated using pricing models, where the inputs to those models are based on observable market inputs or recent trades of similar securities. Such investmen t securities are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The inputs to the valuation techniques applied by the pricing services vary depending on the type of security being priced but are typically benchmark yields, benchmark security prices , credit spreads, prepayment speeds, reported trades and broker-dealer quotes, all with reasonable levels of transparency. The pricing services did not apply any adjustments to the pricing models used. In addition, the Company did not apply any adjustments to prices received from the pricing services. The Company reaffirms its understanding of the valuation techniques used by its pricing services at least annually. In addition, the Company corroborates the prices provided by its pricing services for reason ableness by comparing the prices from the respective pricing services to valuations obtained from different pricing sources . In instances where price discrepancies are identified between different pricing sources, the Company evaluates such discrepancies t o ensure that the prices used for its valuation represent the fair value of the underlying investment securities. Refer to Note 5 for additional fair value information. Derivative Financial Instruments The fair value of the Company’s derivative financ ial instruments is estimated by third-party valuation service s that use proprietary pricing models or by internal pricing models, where the inputs to those models are readily observable from actively quoted markets. The pricing models used are consistently applied and reflect the contractual terms of the derivatives as described below. The Company reaffirms its understanding of the valuation techniques used by the third-party valuation services at least annually. The Company’s derivative instruments are cla ssified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the Company’s interest rate swaps is determined based on a discounted cash flow method using the following significant inputs: the contractual terms of the swap such as the notional amou nt, fixed coupon rate, floating coupon rate (based on interbank rates consistent with the frequency and currency of the interest cash flows) and tenor, as well as discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the c ash flows are denominated. The fair value of foreign exchange forward contracts is determined based on a discounted cash flow method using the following significant inputs: the contractual terms of the forward contracts such as the notional amount, maturi ty dates and contract rate, as well as relevant foreign currency forward curves, and discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cash flows are denominated. Credit valuation adjustments are necessary when the market parameters, such as a benchmark curve, used to value derivatives are not indicative of the credit quality of the Company or its counterparties. The Company considers the counterparty credit risk by applying an observable forecasted default rate to the c urrent exposure. Refer to Note 14 for additional fair value information. |
| Guarantees | The Company provides Card Member protection plans that cover losses associated with purchased products, as well as certain other guarantees and indemnifications in the ordinary course of business. For the Company, guarantees primarily consist of card and travel protection programs, including: Return Protection — refunds the price of qualifying purchases made with the eligible card s where the merchant will not accept the return for up to 90 days from the date of purchase; and Merchant Protection — protects Card Members primarily against non-delivery of goods and services, usually in the event of bankruptcy or liquidation of a merchant. When this occurs, the Card Member may dispute the transaction for which the Company will generally credit the Card Member ’s account. If the Company is unable to collect the amount from the merchant, it wi ll bear the loss for the amount credited to the Card Member. The largest component of the maximum potential future payments relates to Card Member transactions associated with travel-related merchants, primarily through business arrangements where the Company has remitted payment to such merchants for a Card Member travel purchase that has not yet been used or “flown. ” In relation to its maximum potential undiscounted future payments as shown in the table that follows, to date the Company has not experienced any significant losses related to guarantees or indemnifi cations . The Company’s initial recognition of these instruments is at fair value. In addition, the Company establishes reserves when a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. |
| Income Tax Uncertainties | The Company is subject to the income tax laws of the United States , its states and municipalities and those of the foreign jurisdictions in which the Company operat es. These tax laws are complex, and the manner in which they apply to the taxpayer’s facts is sometimes open to interpretation. Given these inherent complexities, the Company must make judgments in assessing the likelihood that a tax position will be susta ined upon examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the tax position. A tax position is recognized only when, based on management’s judgment regarding the application of income tax laws, it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examination. The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes is based on management’s best judgment of the largest amount of benefit that is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement with t he taxing authority given the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. The Company adjusts the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome. |
| Income Taxes | The Company records a deferred income tax (benefit) provision when there are differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting and for income tax return purposes. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years and are measured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established when management determines that it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the benefit of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The valuation allowances as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are associated with net operating losses and other deferred tax assets in certain non-U.S. operations of the Company. Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision. |
| Regulatory Matters And Capital Adequacy [Policy Text Block] | Restricted Net Assets of Subsidiaries Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries are subject to restrictions on the transfer of net assets under debt agreements and regulatory requirements. These restrictions have not had any effect on the Company’s shareholder dividend policy and management does not anticipate any impact in the future. Procedures exist to transfer net assets between the Company and its subsidiaries, while ensuring compliance with the various contractual and regulatory constraints. As of December 31, 2015 , the aggregate amount of net assets of subsidiaries that are restricted to be transferred to the Company was approximately $ 11.3 billion. Bank Holding Company Dividend Restrictions The Company is limited in its ability to p ay dividends by the Federal Reserve , which could prohibit a dividend that would be considered an unsafe or unsound banking practice. It is the policy of the Federal Reserve that bank holding companies generally should pay dividends on preferred and common stock only out of net income available to common shareholders generated over the past year, and only if prospective earnings retention is consistent with the organization’s current and expected future capital needs, asset quality and overall financial cond ition. Moreover, bank holding companies are required by statu t e to be a source of strength to their insured depository institution subsidiaries and should not maintain dividend levels that undermine their ability to do so. On an annual basis, the Company i s required to develop and maintain a capital plan, which includes planned dividends over a two-year horizon, and to submit the capital plan to the Federal Reserve. Banks’ Dividend Restrictions In the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Centurio n Bank paid dividends from retained earnings to its parent of $ 2.0 billion and $ 1.9 billion, respectively, and FSB paid dividends from retained earnings to its parent of $ 2.2 billion and $ 2.1 billion, respectively. The Banks are subject to statutory and regulatory limitations on their ability to pay dividends. The total amount of dividends that may be paid at any date, subject to supervisory considerations of the Banks’ regulators, is general ly limited to the retained earnings of the respective bank. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the Banks’ retained earnings, in the aggregate, available for the payment of dividends were $ 3.2 billion and $ 3.6 billion, respectively. In de te rmining the dividends to pay their parent, the Banks must also consider the effects on applicable risk-based capital and leverage ratio requirements, as well as policy statements of the federal regulatory agencies. In addition, the Banks’ banking regulator s have authority to limit or prohibit the payment of a dividend by the Banks under a num ber of circumstances, including if, in the banking regulator’s opinion, payment of a dividend would constitute an unsafe or unsound banking practice in light of the fin ancial condition of the banking organization. |
| Segment Reporting | Reportable Operating Segments The Company is a global services company that is principally engaged in businesses comprising four reportable operating segments: USCS, ICS, GCS and Global Network & Merchant Services ( GNMS ) . The Company considers a combination of factors when evaluating the composition of its reportable operating segments, including the results reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, economic characteristics, products and services offered, classes of customers, product distribution channels, geographic considerations (primarily United States versus outside the United States) , and regulatory environment considerations. T he following is a brief description of t he primary business activities of the Company’s four reportable operating segments: USCS offers a wide range of card products and services to consumers and small businesses in the United States, provides travel services to Card Members and other consumers, and operates a coalition loyalty business . ICS offers a wide range of card products and services to consumer s and small business es out side the United States, provides travel services to Card Members and other consumers, and operates a coalition loyalty business in various countries . GCS offers global corporate payment services to l arge and mid-sized companies. The Company’s business travel operations, which had been included in GCS, were deconso lidated effective June 30, 2014 in connection with t he formation of the GBT JV, discussed previously. Therefore, there is a lack of comparability against periods p rior to the deconsolidation. The Company’s proportional share of the GBT JV net income or loss is reported within Other revenues. GNMS operates a global payments network that processes and settles proprietary and non-proprietary card transactions. GNMS acquires merchants ; leverages the Company’s global closed-loop network to offer multi-channel marketing programs and capabilities, services and repo rting and analytical data to the Company’s merchants around the world; and provides financing products for qualified merchants. It also enters into partnership agreements with third-party card issuers and acquirers to license the American Express brand and broaden the Card Member and merchant base for the Company’s network worldwide . Corporate functions and certain other businesses, including the Company’s EG business, as well as other Company operations are included in Corporate & Other. Total Revenues Net of Interest Expense The Company allocates discount revenue and certain other revenues among segments using a transfer pricing methodology. Within the USCS, ICS and GCS segments, discount revenue reflects the issuer component of the overall discount revenue generated by each segment ’ s Card Members; within the GNMS segment, discount revenue reflects the network and acquirer component of the overall discount revenue. Net card fees and travel commissions and fees are directly attributabl e to the segment in which they are reported. Interest and fees on loans and certain investment income is directly attributable to the segment in which it is reported. Interest expense represents an allocated funding cost based on a combination of segment f unding requirements and internal funding rates. Provisions for Losses The provisions for losses are directly attributable to the segment in which they are reported. Expenses Marketing and promotion expenses are included in each segment based on actual expenses incurred, with the exception of brand advertising, which is primarily reflected in the GNMS and USCS segment s . Rewards and Card Member services expenses are included in each segment based on actual expenses incurred within each segment. Salaries and employee benefits and other operating expenses includes expenses such as professional services, occupancy and equipment and communications incurred directly within each segment. In addition, e xpenses related to support services, such as technology costs , are allocated to each segment primarily based on support service activities directly attributable to the segment. Other overhead expenses, such as staff group support functions, are allocated from Corporate & Other to the other segments based on a mix of each segment’s direct consumption of services and relative level of pretax income. Capital Each business segment is allocated capital based on established business model operating requirements, risk measures and regulatory capital requirements. The busi ness model operating requirements include capital needed to support operations and specific balance sheet items. The risk measures include considerations for credit, market and operational risk. Income Taxes An income tax provision (benefit) is allocated to each business segment based on the effective tax rates applicable to various businesses that comprise the segment. |
