American Express Credit 10-K/A 22 Jun 18 2017 FY Annual report (amended) Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Mar. 01, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	AMERICAN EXPRESS CREDIT CORPORATION
Entity Central Index Key	4,969
Document Type	10-K/A
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 0
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		1,504,938

Consolidated Statements of Inco

Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues
Discount revenue earned from purchased Card Member receivables and loans	$ 760	$ 471	$ 479
Interest income from affiliates and other	279	207	246
Finance revenue	48	40	30
Total revenues	1,087	718	755
Expenses
Provisions for losses	244	151	165
Interest expense	495	317	350
Interest expense to affiliates	58	24	10
Other, net	15	14	(22)
Total expenses	812	506	503
Pretax income	275	212	252
Income tax provision	878	15	38
Net (loss) income	$ (603)	$ 197	$ 214

Consolidated Statement of Compr

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net (loss) income	$ (603)	$ 197	$ 214
Other comprehensive income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	265	(107)	(369)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	265	(107)	(369)
Comprehensive (loss) income	$ (338)	$ 90	$ (155)

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 196	$ 1,211
Card Member receivables, less reserves	20,131	18,108
Card Member loans, less reserves	556	471
Loans to affiliates and other	14,527	10,659
Due from affiliates	189	997
Other assets	290	490
Total assets	35,889	31,936
Liabilities
Short-term debt	1,308	2,993
Short-term debt to affiliates	5,997	4,559
Long-term debt	24,153	20,512
Long-term debt to affiliates	270	0
Total debt	31,728	28,064
Due to affiliates	1,988	1,517
Accrued interest and other liabilities	302	146
Total liabilities	34,018	29,727
Shareholder's Equity
Common stock, $0.10 par value, authorized 3 million shares; issued and outstanding 1.5 million shares	0	0
Additional paid-in-capital	161	161
Retained earnings	2,708	3,311
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(998)	(1,263)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(998)	(1,263)
Total shareholder's equity	1,871	2,209
Total liabilities and shareholder's equity	$ 35,889	$ 31,936

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets
Card Member receivables, reserves	$ 145	$ 110
Card Member loans, reserves	$ 5	$ 5
Shareholder's Equity
Common stock, par value	$ 0.1	$ 0.1
Common stock, authorized	3	3
Common stock, issued	1.5	1.5
Common stock, outstanding	1.5	1.5
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax	$ 17	$ 329

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net (loss) income		$ (603)	$ 197	$ 214
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provisions for losses		244	151	165
Amortization of underwriting expense		28	23	30
Deferred taxes		55	14	8
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Interest, taxes and other amounts due to/from affiliates		1,088	(39)	(262)
Other operating assets and liabilities		(378)	475	458
Net cash provided by operating activities		434	821	613
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net increase in Card Member receivables and loans, including held for sale	[1]	(1,998)	(1,059)	(3,592)
Increase in interest bearing restricted cash to affiliates		(100)	0	0
Net (increase) decrease in loans to affiliates and other		(1,245)	2,973	152
Net (decrease) increase in due to/from affiliates		(1,718)	(515)	2,605
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities		(5,061)	1,399	(835)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net (decrease) increase in short-term debt		(1,685)	873	1,351
Net increase (decrease) in short-term debt to affiliates		1,414	(861)	1,112
Proceeds from long-term debt		8,438	3,791	6,522
Principal payments of long-term debt		(4,900)	(4,961)	(8,545)
Proceeds from long-term debt to affiliates		270	0	0
Dividends paid		0	0	(115)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		3,537	(1,158)	325
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents		75	(24)	(4)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents		(1,015)	1,038	99
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		1,211	173	74
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		$ 196	$ 1,211	$ 173
[1]	Refer to Note 1 for additional information

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Non cash investing activities
Transfer of Card Member loans and receivables to Card Member loans and receivables held for sale		$ 0	$ 0	$ 21
Replacement of due from affiliate balance with new loan arrangement with affiliates	[1]	$ 2,129	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	To more effectively manage inter-affiliate funding, Credco entered into new loan agreements in July 2017 with American Express Limited and American Express International, Inc. The new loans were funded by the assignment of its existing loan to American Express Company and outstanding due from affiliate balance with TRS.

Consolidated Statement of Share

Consolidated Statement of Shareholder's Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 2,389	$ 0	$ 161	$ (787)	$ 3,015
Net (loss) income	214				214
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(369)			(369)
Cash Dividends Paid	(115)				(115)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	2,119	0	161	(1,156)	3,114
Net (loss) income	197				197
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(107)			(107)
Cash Dividends Paid	0				0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016	2,209	0	161	(1,263)	3,311
Net (loss) income	(603)				(603)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	265			265
Cash Dividends Paid	0				0
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2017	$ 1,871	$ 0	$ 161	$ (998)	$ 2,708

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure Text Block [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Note 1 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The Company American Express Credit Corporation (Credco), together with its subsidiaries, is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. (TRS), which is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Express Company (American Express). Credco is engaged in the business of financing non-interest-earning Card Member receivables arising from the use of the American Express charge cards issued in the United States and in certain countries outside the United States . Credco also finances certain interest-earning revolving loans generated by Card Member spending on American Express credit cards issued in non-U.S. markets, although interest-earning revolving loans are prim arily funded by subsidiaries of TRS other than Credco. Credco executes material transactions with its affiliates. The agreements between Credco and its affiliates provide that the parties intend that the transactions thereunder be conducted on an arm’s le ngth basis; however, there can be no assurance that the terms of these arrangements are the same as would be negotiated between independent, unrelated parties. American Express provides Credco with financial support with respect to maintenance of its minim um overall 1.25 fixed charge coverage ratio, which is achieved by charging appropriate discount rates on the purchases of receivables Credco makes from, and the interest rates on the loans Credco provides to, TRS and other American Express subsidi aries. Each monthly period, the discount and interest rates are determined to generate income for Credco that is sufficient to maintain its minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The revenue earned by Credco from purchasing Card Member receivables and loans at a discount is reported as discount revenue on the Consolidated Statements of Income. Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements of Credco are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United Stat es of America (GAAP). Significant intercompany transactions are eliminated. Credco consolidate s entities in which it holds a controlling financial interest. For voting interest entities, Credco is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), t he determination of which is based on the amount and characteristics of the en tity’s equity, Credco is considered to hold a controll ing 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 activities that most significantly impact that VIE’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to a bsorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potent ially be significant to that VIE. Foreign Currency Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based upon excha nge rates prevailing at the end of th e reporting period; non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated at the historic exchange rate at the date of the transaction; r evenues and expenses are translated at the average month-end exchange rates during th e year . R esulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholder’s equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hed ge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of in vestments in foreign operations . Gains and losses related to transactions in a currency other than the functional currency are reported net in Other expenses, in Credco’s Co nsolidated Statements of Income . Net foreign currency transaction gains amounted to approximately $ 21 million, $ 1 million and $ 14 million in 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Amount s 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 Card Member losses on receivables and loans, fair value measurement s and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ. Discount Revenue Earned from Purc hased Card Member Receivables and Loans Credco earns discount revenue from purchasing Card Member receivables and loans at a discount to par value. The discount is deferred and recognized as revenue over the period that the receivables and loans are estima ted to be outstanding or funded. Estimates are based on the historical average life of Card Member receivables and loans. Interest Income from Affiliates Interest income from affiliates is earned on interest-bearing loans made by Credco to affiliates. In terest income is accrued primarily using the average daily balance method on loans and is recognized based on the outstanding loan principal amount and interest rates specified in the agreements until the outstanding loan balance is paid. Finance Revenue Finance revenue is assessed using the average daily balance method for Card Member loans and is recognized based upon the loan principal amount outstanding in accordance with the terms of the applicable account agreement until the outstanding balance is p aid or written off. Interest Expense Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to fund Card Member receivables and loans, general corporate purposes and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash e quivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less . Other Significant Accounting Policies The following table identifies Credco’s other significant accounting policies, the Note and page where the Note can be found. Note Significant Accounting Policy Number Note Title Page Card Member Receivables and Loans Note 2 Card Member Receivables and Loans 38 Reserves for Losses – Card Member Receivables and Loans Note 3 Reserves for Losses 41 Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Note 6 Derivatives and Hedging Activities 43 Fair Value Measurements Note 7 Fair Values 47 Income Taxes Note 11 Income Taxes 54 Recently Issued Accounting Standards In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new accounting guidance on revenue recognition. The accounting standard establishes the principles to apply to determine the amount and timing of revenue recognition, specifying the accounting for certain costs related to revenue, and requiring additional disclosures about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and related cash flows. The guidance, as amended and effective January 1, 2018 , supersedes most of the revenue recognition requirements in effect prior to that date . Most revenue associated with financial instruments, including interest income, loan origination fees and credit card fees, is outside the scope of the new revenue standard. Gains and losses on investment securities, derivatives and sales of financial instruments are similarly excluded from the scope. As Credco is engaged in the business of financing Card Member receivables and loans, and in providing loans to certai n of its affiliates, the new revenue standard has no impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements and underlying operational proc esses and accounting policies. Credco’s implementation efforts have included analyzing revenues and related costs to identify any within the scope of the new standard to determine if any changes will be required. Credco has completed the evaluation of the potential impact of this guidance on the timing, recognition, and presentation o f revenues and expenses and has not identified any changes. In January 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities , which was effective and adopted by Credco as of January 1, 2018 . The guidance , makes targeted changes to GAAP; specifically to the classification and measurement of equity securities, and to certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial assets and liabilitie s. The adoption of the guidance, as of January 1, 2018, did not have a material impact on Credco’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Credco implemented changes to its accounting policies, business processes and internal controls in support of the new guidance. In June 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance for recognition of credit losses on financial instruments, effective January 1, 2020, with early adoption permitted on January 1, 2019. The guidance introduces a new credit reserving model known as the Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) model, which is based on expected losses, and differs significantly from the incurred loss approach used today. The CECL model requires measurement of expected credit losses not only based on historical experience and current conditions, but also by including reasonable and supportable forecasts incorporating forward-looking information . The guidance requires a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the reporting period of adoption . Credco does not intend to adopt the new standard early and is currently evaluating the impact the new guidance will have on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows; however, it is expected that the CECL model will alter the assumptions used in estimating cr edit losses on Card Member receivables and loans, and may result in material increases to Credco’s credit reserves as the new guidance involves earlier recognition of expected losses for the life of the assets . American Express has established a n enterpris e -wide, cross-discipline governance structur e to implement the new standard, and continues to identify and conclude on key interpretive issues along with evaluating existing American Express’ credit loss forecasting models and processes in relation to the new guidance to determine what modifications may be required. In November 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on the cash flow classification and presentation of changes in restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents, effective January 1, 2018 . The guidance provides specifically that amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents on the statement of cash flows. Credco holds a restricted cash balance such that it b ecomes a material change to the way balances will be presented on the statement of cash flows. Beginning with the quarter ending March 31, 2018, Credco’s consolidated statements of cash flows will reflect the adoption of the standard using the full retrosp ective method, which applies the new standard to each prior reporting period presented. In August 2017, the FASB issued new accounting guidance providing targeted improvements to the accounting for hedging activities, effective January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted in any interim period or fiscal year before the effective date. The guidance introduces a number of amendments, several of which are optional, that are designed to simplify the application of hedge accounting, improve financial statement transparency and more closely align hedge accounting with an entity’s risk management strategies. Effective January 1, 2018, Credco adopted the guidance with no material impact on it s financial position, results of operations and cash flows, along with associated changes to its accounting policies, business processes and internal controls in support of the new guidance. In February 2018, as a result of the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the Tax Act), the FASB issued new accounting guidance on the reclassification of certain tax effects from AOCI to retained earnings. The optional guidance is effective January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Credco is evaluating whether it will adopt the new guidance along with any impacts on the Credco’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows, none of which are expected to be material. Other Information During the fourth quarter of 2015, American Exp ress determined it would sell Card Member loans and receivables related to certain of its cobrand partnerships. As a result of the determination, Credco classified Card Member receivables related to the Costco portfolio purchased from American Express Rece ivables Financing Corporation VIII LLC (RFC VIII) in the form of participation interest as Card Member receivables held for sale (HFS) on its Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 and March 31, 2016. During the first half of 2016, American Ex press completed the sales of substantially all of its outstanding Card Member loans and receivables HFS, and consequently Credco also sold back all of its participation interests in Card Member receivables HFS to RFC VIII .

Card Member Receivables and Loa

Card Member Receivables and Loans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Card Member Receivables and Loans [Abstract]
Card Member Receivables and Loans	Note 2 – Card Member Receivables and Loans American Express’ charge and credit card products result in the generation of Card Member receivables and Card Member loans, respectively. Card Member Receivables Card Member receivables represent amounts due on American Express charge card products. For American Express, the Card Member receivables are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant. Each charge 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 established to limit the maximum exposure for American Express. Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each mo nth. Credco records these Card Member receivables at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries that issue the card (card issuers). Card Member receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 3). Card Member receivables also include participation interests purchased from an affiliate. Participation interests in Card Member receivables represent undivided interests in the cash flows of the non-interest-earning Card Mem ber receivables. In conjunction with TRS’ securitization program, Credco, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Credco Receivables Corporation (CRC), purchases participation interests from American Express Receivables Financing Corporation VIII LLC (RFC VII I), a wholly owned subsidiary of TRS that receives undivided, pro rata interests in Card Member receivables transferred to the American Express Issuance Trust (the Charge Trust), by TRS. The Charge Trust is a special purpose entity that is consolidated by TRS. Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of: (Millions) 2017 2016 U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,557 $ 3,518 International Consumer and Network Services (a) 1,827 1,526 Global Commercial Services (b) 14,892 13,174 Card Member receivables (c) 20,276 18,218 Less: Reserve for losses 145 110 Card Member receivables, net (d) $ 20,131 $ 18,108 Comprised of International consumer card business. Comprised of Corporate and Small Business Services. Net of deferred discount revenue totaling $ 43 million and $ 27 million as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Card Member receivables modified in a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) program were immaterial. Card Member Loans Card Member loans represent revolving amounts due on American Express cards. For American Express lending card products, these Card Member loans are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant, as well as amounts due from charge Card Members who utilize the Pay Over Time feature s on their account and elect to revolve a portion of the outstanding balance by entering into a revolving payment arrangement with American Express. These loans 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 conditions. Card Members holding revolving loans are typically required to make monthly payments based on pre-established amounts and the amounts that Card M embers choose to revolve are subject to finance charges. Credco records these Card Member loans at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries that issue the card (card issuers). Card Member loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees. American Express’ policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, a nd establish reserves for interest that will not be collected. Card Member loans as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of: (Millions) 2017 2016 International Consumer and Network Services (a) $ 561 $ 476 Less: Reserve for losses 5 5 Card Member loans, net (b) $ 556 $ 471 Comprised of International consumer card business. Card Member loans modified in a TDR program were immaterial. Card Member Receivables and Loans 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 receivables and Card Member loans as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2017 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,531 $ 10 $ 6 $ 10 $ 3,557 International Consumer and Network Services 1,805 8 5 9 1,827 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 1,397 5 4 6 1,412 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) 112 13,480 Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services $ 557 $ 1 $ 1 $ 2 $ 561 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2016 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,501 $ 9 $ 3 $ 5 $ 3,518 International Consumer and Network Services 1,506 6 4 10 1,526 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 1,202 9 2 5 1,218 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) 108 11,956 Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services $ 472 $ 1 $ 1 $ 2 $ 476 For Global Corporate Payments Card Member receivables in Global Commercial Services, 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 collection procedures are initiated on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card Member receivable balance is classified as 90 da ys past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (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 Receivables and Loans The following table s pre sent the key credit quality indicators as of or for the years ended December 31: 2017 2016 30+ Days 30+ Days Net Past Due Net Past Due Write-off as a % of Write-off as a % of Rate (a) Total Rate (a) Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services 0.83 % 0.73 % 0.54 % 0.48 % International Consumer and Network Services 1.50 % 1.20 % 1.86 % 1.31 % Global Small Business Services 1.11 % 1.06 % 1.03 % 1.31 % Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services 1.24 % 0.71 % 1.15 % 0.84 % 2017 2016 Net Loss 90+ Days Net Loss 90+ Days Ratio as a Past Ratio as a Past % of Billing % of Billing Charge as a % of Charge as a % of Volume (b) Receivables Volume (b) Receivables Card Member Receivables: Global Corporate Payments 0.08 % 0.83 % 0.06 % 0.90 % Represents the amount of Card Member receivables or Card Member loans owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a percentage of the average Card Member receivables or Card Member loans balances in each of the periods indicated. Represents the amount of Card Member receivables owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a percentage of the volume of Card Member receivables purchased by Credco in each of the periods indicated. Refer to Note 3 for additional indicators, including external environmental qualitative factors, management considers in its monthly evaluation process for reserves for losses.

Reserves for Losses

Reserves for Losses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Reserves for Losses [Abstract]
Reserves for Losses	Note 3 – Reserves for Losses Reserves for losses relating to Card Member receivables and loans represent management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in Credco’s outstanding portfolio of receivables and loans, 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 quantitative 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 credit, and changes in the legal 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 unco llectible , 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 owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification , and r ecov eries are recognized as they are collected . This Note is presented excluding amounts associated with the Card Member receivables HFS as of December 31, 2015 ; Credco did not have any Card Member receivab les HFS as of December 31 , 2017 or 2016 . Changes in Card Member Receivables Reserve for Losses The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for losses for the years ended December 31 : (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 110 $ 114 $ 94 Provisions 238 145 160 Other credits (a) 58 20 32 Net write-offs (b) (198) (146) (157) Other debits (c)(d) (63) (23) (15) Balance, December 31 $ 145 $ 110 $ 114 Primarily reserve balances applicable to new groups of Card Member receivables purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries and participation interests from affiliates. New groups of Card Member receivables purchased totaled $ 9.4 billion, $ 5.4 billion and $ 5.8 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Net of recoveries of $ 95 million, $ 91 million and $ 100 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances related to participation interests in Card Member receivables sold to an affiliate . P articipation interests in Card Member receivables sold t otaled $ 9.4 billion, $ 5.7 billion and $ 2.6 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. 2015 includes the impact of the transfer of reserves relating to the HFS portfolio, which was not significant. Changes in Card Member Loans Reserve for Losses The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 5 $ 4 $ 3 Provisions 6 6 5 Net write-offs (a) (6) (5) (4) Balance, December 31 $ 5 $ 5 $ 4 Net of recoveries of $ 1 million for each of the yea rs ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 .

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Note 4 – Debt Short-Term Debt Credco’s short-term debt outstanding (excluding short-term debt to affiliates), defined as borrowings with original contractual ma turity dates of less than one year, as of December 31 were as follows : 2017 2016 Outstanding Year-End Stated Outstanding Year-End Stated (Millions, except percentages) Balance Rate on Debt (a) Balance Rate on Debt (a) Commercial paper (b) $ 1,168 1.54 % $ 2,993 1.13 % Other short-term borrowings (c) 140 1.27 ― ― Total $ 1,308 1.51 % $ 2,993 1.13 % For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rates are weighted based on the outstanding balances and rates in effect as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Average commercial paper outst anding was $1,076 million and $491 million in 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Represents interest-bearing overdrafts with banks . Long-Term Debt Credco’s long-term debt outstanding, defined as debt with original contractual maturity dates of one year or greater, as of December 31 was as follows: 2017 2016 Year-End Year-End Original Year-End Effective Year-End Effective Contractual Stated Interest Stated Interest (Millions, except Maturity Outstanding Rate Rate with Outstanding Rate Rate with percentages) Dates Balance (a) on Debt (b) Swaps (b)(c) Balance (a) on Debt (b) Swaps (b)(c) Fixed Rate Senior Notes 2018-2027 $ 19,652 2.24 % 2.27 % $ 16,201 1.98 % 1.44 % Floating Rate Senior Notes 2018-2022 4,550 2.09 ― 4,350 1.52 ― Unamortized Underwriting Fees (49) (39) Total Long-Term Debt $ 24,153 2.21 % $ 20,512 1.88 % The outstanding balances include (i) unamortized discount and premium, (ii) the impact of movements in exchange rates on foreign currency denominated debt and (iii) the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes that have been swapped to floating rate through the use of interest rate swaps. Under fair value hedge accounting, the outstanding balances on these fixed-rate notes are adjusted to reflect the impact of changes in fair value due to changes in interest rates. Refer to No te 6 for more details on Credco’s treatment of fair value hedges. For floating-rate issuances, the stated and effective interest rates are weighted based on outstanding balances and rates in effect as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Effective interes t rates are only presented when swaps are in place to hedge the underlying debt. Aggregate annual maturities o n long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2017 were as follows: (Millions) 2018 $ 3,654 2019 7,150 2020 6,600 2021 2,939 2022 2,050 Thereafter 2,000 Total 24,393 Unamortized Underwriting Fees (49) Unamortized Discount and Premium (36) Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting (155) Total Long-Term Debt $ 24,153 Credco maintained a bank line of credit of $ 3.5 billion and $ 3.0 billion as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, all of which was undrawn as of the respective dates . These undrawn amounts support contingent funding needs. Credco paid $ 6.0 million and $ 2.2 million in fees to maintain these lines for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The availability of the credit line is subject to compliance with certain financial covenants, including the maintenance of a 1.25 ratio of earnings to fixed charges. As of December 31, 2017 , Credco’s ratio o f earnings to fixed charges was 1.50 . As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , Credco was not in violation of any of its debt covenants. The committed facility do es not contain material adverse change clauses that would preclude borro wing under the credit facility. Additionally, the facilit y may not be terminated should there be a change in Credco’s credit ratings. Credco paid total interest , primarily related to short- and long-term debt, and corresponding interest rate swaps of $ 0.5 billion for the ye ar ended Dece mber 31, 2017 , and $ 0.3 billion for both the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 .

Restrictions as to Dividends an

Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtedness	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Restrictions On Dividends And Limitations On Indebetedness [Abstract]
Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtedness	Note 5 – Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtedness The debt instruments issued by Credco impose the requirement that Credco maintain a minimum consolidated net worth of $ 50 million, which limits the amount of dividends Credco c an pay to its parent. There are no limitations on the amount of debt that can be issued by Credco, provided it maintains the minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25 .

Derivatives and Hedging Activit

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	Note 6 – Derivatives and Hedging Activities Credco uses derivative financial instruments (derivatives) to manage exposures to various market risks. These instruments derive their value from an underlying variable or multiple variables, including interest rates and foreign exchange rates, and are carried a t 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 Credco’s market risk management. Credco does not transact i n derivatives for trading purposes. Market risk is the risk to earnings or asset and liability values resulting from movements in market prices. Credco’s market risk exposures include: Interest rate risk in its funding activities; and Foreign exchange ri sk related to earnings, funding, transactions and investments in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. American Express centrally monitors market risks using market risk limits and escalation triggers as defined in its Asset/Liability Management Policy. I nterest rate exposure within charge card and fixed-rate lending products is managed by varying the proportion of total funding provided by short-term and variable-rate debt compared to fixed-rate debt. In addition, interest rate swaps are used from time to time to economically convert fixed-rate debt obligations to variable-rate obligations or to convert variable-rate debt obligations to fixed-rate obligations. Credco may change the mix between variable-rate and fixed-rate funding based on changes in busine ss volumes and mix, among other factors. Foreign exchange risk is generated by funding foreign currency Card Member receivables and loans with U.S. dollars, foreign currency balance sheet exposures, foreign subsidiary equity and foreign currency earnings i n entities outside the United States. Credco’s foreign exchange risk is managed primarily by entering into agreements to buy and sell currencies on a spot basis or by hedging this market exposure to the extent it is economically justified , through various means, including the use of derivatives such as foreign exchange forwards and cross-currency swap contracts. Exposures from foreign subsidiary equity in Credco’s entities outside the United States are hedged through the use of foreign exchange forwards exe cuted either by Credco or TRS. Derivatives may give rise to counterparty credit risk, which is the risk that a derivative counterparty will default on, or otherwise be unable to perform pursuant to an uncollate ralized derivative exposure. This risk is mana ged by considering the current exposure, which is the replacement cost of contracts on the measurement date, as well as estimating the maximum potential value of the contracts over the next 12 months, considering such factors as the volatility of the under lying or reference index. To mitigate derivative credit risk, counterparties are required to be pre-approved by American Express and rated as investment grade , and counterparty risk exposures are centrally monitored. Additionally, in order to mitigate the bilateral counterparty credit risk associated with derivatives, Credco has in certain instances entered into master netting agreements with its derivative counterparties, which provide a right of offset for certain exposures between the parties. A majorit y of Credco’s derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 are subject to master netting agreements with its derivative counterparties. Credco has no derivative amounts subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that are no t offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. To further mitigate bilateral counterparty credit risk, Credco exercises its rights under executed credit support agreements with certain of its derivative counterparties. These agreements require that, in the event the fair value change in the net derivatives position between the two parties exceeds certain dollar thresholds, the party in the net liability position posts collateral to its counterparty. All derivative contracts cleared through a central clearing house are collateralized to the full amount of the fair value of the contracts. In relation to Credco’s credit risk, under the terms of the derivative agreements it has with its various counterparties, Credco is not required to either immediately settle an y outstanding liability balances or post collateral upon the occurrence of a specified credit risk-related event. Credco has no individually significant derivative counterparties and therefore, no significant risk exposure to any single derivative counterp arty. Based on its assessment of the credit risk of Credco’s derivative counterparties as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no credit risk adjustment to the derivative portfolio was required . Credco’s derivatives are carried at fair value on the Consoli dated Balance Sheets. The accounting for changes in fair value depends on the instruments’ intended use and the resulting hedge designation, if any, as discussed below. Refer to Note 7 for a description of Credco’s methodology for determining the fair valu e of derivatives. The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31: Other Assets Other Liabilities Fair Value Fair Value (Millions) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a) $ ― $ 22 $ ― $ 69 Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts 54 151 38 1 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 54 173 38 70 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 9 128 57 28 Total derivatives, gross 63 301 95 98 Less: Cash collateral netting (b)(c) ― (2) ― (49) Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (d) (26) (27) (26) (27) Total derivatives, net $ 37 $ 272 $ 69 $ 22 E ffective January 2017, the Central Clearing Party (CCP) changed the legal characterization of variation margin payments for centrally cleared derivatives to be settlement payments, as opposed to collateral. As of December 31, 2017 , there was no unsettled derivative asset or liability with the CCP. Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts with the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral. Credco he ld no non- cash collateral as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. To mitigate counterparty credit risk related to derivatives, Credco may accept non-cash collateral from its derivatives counterparties. Additionally, Credco posted $ 115 milli on and $ 144 million as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, as initial margin on its centrally cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not net ted against the derivative balances. Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement. Derivative Financial Instruments that Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivatives executed for hedge accounting purposes are documented and designated as such when Credco enters into the contracts. In accordance with its risk management policies, Credco structures its hedges with terms similar to those of the item being hedged. Credco formally assesses, at inception of the hedge accounting relationship and on a quarterly basis, whether derivatives designated as hedges are highly effective in offsetting th e fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usually are made through the application of a regression analysis method. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, Credco will discontinue the application of hedge accounting. Fair Value Hedges A fair value hedge involves a derivative designated to hedge Credco’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 . Credco is exposed to interest rate risk associated with its fixed-rate long-term debt obligations . At the time of issuance, certain fixed-rate debt obligations are designated in f air v alue hedging relationships using interest rate swaps to economically convert the fixed interest rate to a floating interest rate . Credco has $ 16.2 billion and $ 14.8 billion of fixed-rate debt obligations designated in fair value hedging relationships a s of December 31, 201 7 and 201 6, respectively. To the extent the fair value hedge is effective, the gain or loss on the hedging instrument 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 de rivative and the changes in the hedged item is referred to as hedge ineffectiveness and is reported as a component of Other expenses. Hedge ineffectiveness may be caused by differences between a debt obligation’s intere st rate and the benchmark rate, prima rily due to credit spreads at inception of the hedging relationship that are not reflected in the fair value of the interest rate swap. Furthermore, hedge ineffectiveness may be caused by changes in 1-month LIBOR, 3-month LIBOR and the overnight indexed sw ap rate, as spreads between these rates impact the fair value of the interest rate swap without causing an exact offsetting impact to the fair value of the hedged debt. For the periods presented, Credco considers all fair value hedges to be highly effecti ve and did not de-designate any fair value hedge relationships. The following table summarizes the gains (losses) recognized in Other expenses associated with Credco’s fair value hedges for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Interest rate derivative contracts $ (129) $ (102) $ (31) Hedged items 100 91 44 Net hedge ineffectiveness (losses) gains $ (29) $ (11) $ 13 Credco also recognized a net reduction in interest expense on long-term debt of $ 53 million, $ 126 million and $ 177 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, primarily related to the net settlements (interest accruals) on Credco’s interest rate derivatives designated as fair value hedges. Net Investment Hedges A net investment hedge is used to hedge future changes in currency exposure of a n et investment in a foreign operation. Credco 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 instru ments reduce exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on Credco’s investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. The effective portion of the gain or loss on net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in A OCI as part of the cumulative translation adjustmen t w ere losses of $ 174 million and gains of $ 80 million and $ 235 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, with any ineffective portion recogn ized in Other expenses during the period. No ineffectiveness or other amounts associated with net investment hedges were reclassified from AOCI into income for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 . Derivatives Not Designated A s Hedges Credco has derivatives that act as economic hedges, but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contracts, primarily foreign exchange forwards. These hedges generally mature within one year. Foreign currency contracts involve the purchase and sale of designated currencies at an agreed upon rate for settlement on a specified date. The changes in the fair value of derivat ives 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 $21 million, $1 million and $14 million for t he years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and are recognized in Other expenses.

Fair Values

Fair Values	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Values	Note 7 – Fair Values Fair value is defined as the price that would be required to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, based on Credco’s principal or, in the absence of a principal, most advantageous market for the specific asset or liability. GAAP provides 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 (una djusted) 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 substantially t he 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 Credco’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). Credco did not measure a ny 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, 2017 and 2016 , although the disclosed fair value of certain a ssets that are not carried at fair value, as presented later in this Note, are classified within Level 3. Credco 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, Credco discloses the fair value measurement at the beginning of the reporting period during which the transfer occurred. For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , there were no significant transfers between levels. Fin ancial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Fair Value The following table summarizes Credco’s financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy as Level 2 (as described in the preceding paragraphs), as of December 31 : (Millions) 2017 2016 Assets: Derivatives (a) $ 63 $ 301 Total assets 63 301 Liabilities: Derivatives (a) 95 98 Total liabilities $ 95 $ 98 Refer to Note 6 for the fair values of derivative assets and liabilities, on a further disaggregated basis. 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), Credco applies the following valuation techniques: Derivative Financial Instruments The fair value of Credco’s derivative financial instruments is estimated internally by using third-party 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. Credco reaffirms its understanding of the valuation techniques at least annually and validates the valuation output on a quarterly basis . Credco’s derivative instruments are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hi erarchy. The fair value of Credco’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 amount, fixed co upon rate, floating coupon rate and tenor, as well as discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cash 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, maturity dates and contract rate, as well as relevant foreign currency forward curves, and discount rates consistent with the underlying economic fact ors 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 Credco or its counterpartie s. Credco considers the counterparty credit risk by applying an observable forecasted default rate to the current exposure. Refer to Note 6 for additional fair value information. Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Other Than Fair Value The following table summarizes the estimated fair value for Credco’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . The fair values of these financi al instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and require management judgment. These figures may not be i ndicative of future fair values nor can t he fair value of Cre dco be estimated by aggregating the amounts presented. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2017 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value (a) Cash and cash equivalents $ 0.2 $ 0.2 $ 0.2 $ ― $ ― Other financial assets 20.6 20.6 0.1 20.5 ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.6 0.6 ― ― 0.6 Loans to affiliates and other 14.5 14.4 ― 10.0 4.4 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 8.6 8.6 ― 8.6 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt 24.2 24.5 ― 24.5 ― Long-term debt with affiliates $ 0.3 $ 0.3 $ ― $ 0.3 $ ― Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2016 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value (a) Cash and cash equivalents $ 1.2 $ 1.2 $ 0.2 $ 1.0 $ ― Other financial assets 19.3 19.3 ― 19.3 ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.5 0.5 ― ― 0.5 Loans to affiliates and other 10.7 10.7 ― 7.9 2.8 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 9.1 9.1 ― 9.1 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt 20.5 20.7 ― 20.7 ― Long-term debt with affiliates $ ― $ ― $ ― $ ― $ ― Level 1 amounts reflect interest-bearing deposits and Level 2 amount primarily reflects time deposits , short-term investments and Card Member receivables. The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and require management judgment. These figures may not be indicative of future fair values. The fair value of Credco cannot be reliably estimated by aggregating the amounts presented. Valuation Techniques Used in the Fair Value Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Other Than Fair Value For the financial assets and liabilities that are not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis (categorized in the valuation hierarchy table), Credco applies t he following valuation techniques to measure fair value: Financial Assets For Which Carrying Values Equal Or Approximate Fair Value Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include cash and cash equivalents, Card Member r eceivables, due from affiliates, accrued interest and certain other assets. For these assets, the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short term in duration, have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate. Financial Asset s Carried At Other Than Fair Value Card Member loans Card Member loans are recorded at historical cost, less reserves, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In estimating the fair value for Credco’s Card Member loans, Credco uses a discounted cash flow mode l. Due to the lack of a comparable whole loan sales market for similar loans and the lack of observable pricing inputs thereof, Credco uses various inputs derived from an equivalent securitization market to estimate fair value. Such inputs include projecte d income , pay-down rates, discount rates , relevant credit costs and cost of funding assumptions . Loans to affiliates and other Loans to affiliates and other are recorded at historical cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In estimating the fair value for Credco’s loans to affiliates and other, Credco uses discounted cash flow models. For loans to affiliates collateralized by Card Member loans, Credco derives the value of the loans based on the fair value of the underlying collateral used to finance the loans using a discounted cash flow model with inputs as detailed above (Card Member loans), and as such is classified as Level 3. For the remaining loans to affiliates and other, the models use market observable interest rates and adjust those rates for n ecessary risks. Financial Liabilities For Which Carrying Values Equal Or Approximate Fair Value Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include short-term debt, short-term debt to affiliates, due to affiliates, accr ued interest and certain other liabilities for which the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short term in duration, have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate. Financial Liabilities Carried At Other Than Fair Value Long-term debt Long-term debt , includ ing with affiliates , is recorded at historical issuance cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheets adjusted for the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes and current translation rates for foreign-denominated debt. The fair value of Credco’s long-term debt is measured using quoted offer prices when quoted market prices are available. If quoted market prices are not available, the fair value is determined by discounting the future cash flows of each instrument at rates currently observed in publicly-traded debt markets for debt of similar terms and credit risk. For long-term debt, where there are no rates currently observable in publicly-traded debt markets of similar terms and comparable cred it risk, Credco uses market interest rates and adjusts those rates for necessary risks, including its own credit risk. In determining an appropriate spread to reflect its credit standing, Credco considers credit default swap spreads, bond yields of other l ong-term debt offered by Credco, and interest rates currently offered to Credco for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities. Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements Credco did not have any assets that were measured at fair value due to impairment o n a nonrecurring basis during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 .

Variable Interest Entity

Variable Interest Entity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Variable Interest Entity [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entity	Note 8 – Variable Interest Entity Credco has established a VIE, American Express Canada Credit Corporation (AECCC), used primarily to lend funds to affiliates, through the issuance of notes in Canada under a medium-term note program. All notes issued under this program are fully guaranteed by Credco. Credco is considered the primary beneficiary of the entity and owns all of the outstanding voting interests and, therefore, consolidates the entity. Total assets as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 were $ 0.5 billion and $ 1.7 billion respectively . As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , nil and $ 1.7 billion, respectively, of assets were eliminated in consolidat ion. Total liabilities as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 were $ 0.5 billion and $ 1.7 billion respectively . As of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , nil and $ 1.3 billion, respectively, of liabil ities were eliminated in consolidation. The assets of the VIE are not used solely to settle the obligations of the VIE. The note holders of the VIE have recourse to Credco.

Transactions With Affiliates

Transactions With Affiliates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Transactions with Affiliates	Note 9 – Transactions with Affiliates As described below, Credco executes material transactions with its affiliates. The agreements between Credco and its affiliates provide that the parties intend that the transactions thereunder be conducted on an arm’s length basis. However, there can be no assurance that the terms of these arrangements are the same as would be negotiated between independent parties. In 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , Credco purchased Card Member receivables and loans without recourse from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries totaling approximately $ 262 billion, $ 225 billion and $ 227 billion, respectively. In 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , Credco sold Card Member receivab les and participating interests to affiliates totaling $ 9.4 billion, $ 5.7 billion and $ 2.6 billion, respectively. The discount revenue on purchased Card Member receivables and loans total ed $ 760 million, $ 471 million and $ 479 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The receivables agreements require TRS and its subsidiaries to perform servicing , clerical and other services necessary to bill and collect all Card Member receivables and loans owned by Credco. Since settlements under the agreements occur monthly, an amount due from, or payable to, such affiliates may arise at the end of each month. As of Dece mber 31, 2017 and 2016 , CRC owned approximately $ 4.1 billion and $ 4.0 billion, respectively, of participation interests purchased from RFC VIII. Transactions with affiliates as of or for the year s ended December 31, were as follows: (Millions, except percentages) 2017 2016 2015 Loans to affiliates and other $ 14,527 $ 10,659 $ 14,262 Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other 2.19 % 1.78 % 1.81 % Due from affiliates $ 189 $ 997 $ 615 Restricted cash with affiliates 100 ― ― Short-term debt to affiliates 5,997 4,559 5,439 Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates 1.04 % 0.49 % 0.19 % Maximum month-end level of short-term borrowings during the year $ 8,377 $ 5,091 $ 5,439 Long term debt to affiliates 270 ― ― Average interest rate on long-term debt to affiliates 0.23 % ― ― Maximum month-end level of long-term borrowings during the year $ 270 $ ― $ ― Due to affiliates 1,988 1,517 1,727 Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year 14,527 13,083 17,711 Interest income from affiliates and other 279 207 246 Interest expense to affiliates 58 24 10 Other, net expense $ 2 $ 1 $ 1 Credco’s loans to affiliates represent floating-rate interest-bearing intercompany borrowings by American Express Company, other wholly owned subsidiaries of TRS and the American Express joint ventures. Revenue earned from loans to affiliates and other is recorded as interest income from affiliates and other in the Consolidated Statements of Income. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no amount of loss reserves has been recorded and no loans are 30 days or more past due. The components of loans to a ffiliates and other as of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2017 2016 American Express Limited $ 3,847 $ ― American Express Services Europe Limited 2,747 2,484 Amex Bank of Canada 1,737 1,593 American Express Australia Limited 1,616 1,290 American Express International, Inc. 1,180 ― American Express Company 961 4,044 Amex Global Holdings C.V. 888 ― American Express Company (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. 812 765 American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. 325 291 Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A. 138 ― American Express International, Inc- Branch - Singapore 124 107 American Express International (NZ), Inc. 80 85 Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited 38 ― American Express Saudi Arabia (C) JSC 34 ― Total (a) $ 14,527 $ 10,659 As of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , approximately $ 5.0 billion and $ 3.3 billion, respectively, were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and loans transferred with recourse. Due from/to affiliates relate primarily to timing differences from the purchase of Card Member receivables, net of remittances from TRS, as well as from operating activities. As of December 31, 2017, due to affiliates primarily represents tax liability on acco unt of the Tax Act. Refer to Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the amount of interest-bearing restricted cash was $100 million and nil , respectively , which represents cash placed with Amex Bank of Canada re lating to the new collateralized loan arrangement for transfer of Card Member loans described above and has been included under “Other Assets” on the Consolidated Balance Sheet s . Components of short-term debt t o affiliates as of December 31 w ere as follow s: (Millions) 2017 2016 AE Exposure Management Limited. $ 4,548 $ 3,361 American Express Europe LLC 765 515 American Express Swiss Holdings GmbH 444 376 American Express Holdings Netherlands CV 192 192 Accertify Inc. 48 42 Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited ― 73 Total $ 5,997 $ 4,559 Short-term debt to affiliates consists primarily of master note agreements repayable on demand . Credco does not expect any changes to its short-term funding strategies with affiliates. Long-term debt to affiliate s represents an unsecured amount due to LB Luxembourg Two S.a.r.l am ounting to $ 270 million and nil as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, payable by December 2020. Service Fees to Affiliates Credco’s affiliates do not explicitly charge Credco a servicing fee for the servicing of receivables purchased. Instead Credco receives a lower discount rate on the receivables purchased than would be the case if servicing fees were charged. If a servicing fee had been charged by these affiliates from which C redco purchases receivables, fees to affiliates for servicing receivables would have been approximately $ 234 million , $ 253 million and $ 242 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Correspondingly, discount revenue would have increased by approximately the same amounts in these periods.

Changes in Accumulated Other Co

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Note 10 – Changes in Accumu lated Other Comprehensive Income AOC I is a balance sheet item in the Shareholder’s Equity section of Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. It 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 Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments for the three years end ed December 31 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation (Millions), net of tax Adjustments Balances as of December 31, 2014 $ (787) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (604) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 235 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (369) Balances as of December 31, 2015 (1,156) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (187) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 80 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (107) Balances as of December 31, 2016 (1,263) Net translation gain of investments in foreign operations (a) 439 Net losses related to hedges of investment in foreign operations (174) Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss 265 Balances as of December 31, 2017 $ (998) Includes $289 million of recognized tax benefit (refer to N ote 11) . The following table shows the tax impact for the three years ended December 31 for th e changes in Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments presented above : Tax (benefit) expense (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Foreign currency translation adjustments (a) $ (209) $ 49 $ ― Net investment hedges (103) 48 140 Total tax impact $ (312) $ 97 $ 140 Include $289 million of tax benefit recognized in the year ended December 31, 2017 (refer to Note 11). No amounts were reclassified out of AOC I into the Consolidated Statements of Income for the year s ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 .

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 11 – Income Taxes The Tax Act, enacted by the U.S. government on December 22, 2017, makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code which will require time to interpret. The SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118) in December, 2017, to provide guidance on accounting f or the effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 provides for a measurement period of up to one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete their assessment of and accounting for those effects of the Tax Act required under ASC 740 “ Implementation Guidance on Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes’’ to be report ed in the period of enactment. Under SAB 118, a company must first reflect the income tax effects of the Tax Act for which the acco unting is complete in the period of the date of enactment. To the extent the accounting for other income tax effects is incomplete, but for which a reasonable estimate can be determined, companies must record a provisional estimate to be included in their financial statements. For any income tax effect for which a reasonable estimate cannot be determined, an entity must continue to apply ASC 740 based on the provisions of the tax laws in effect immediately prior to the Tax Act being enacted until such time as a reasonable estimate can be determined. Credco has recorded a discrete net charge of $858 million in the period ended December 31, 2017 related to the Tax Act. For the reasons stated below, Credco requires additional time to complete its analysis of t he impacts of the Tax Act and therefore its accounting for the Tax Act is provisional. Impacts of the Deemed Repatriation: The Tax Act imposed a one-time transition tax on unrepatriated post-1986 acc umulated earnings and profits ( E& P ) of certain of our foreign subsidiaries. To calculate this tax, Credco must determine the cumulative amount of E&P, as well as the amount of foreig n taxes paid on such earnings. In addition, Credco made a decision to no longer assert that the accumulated post-1986 E&P of its non-U.S. subsidiaries that are subject to this one-time transition tax are intended to be permanen tly reinvested outside the United States . As a result Credco recorded a deferred tax liability for the state income and foreign withholding tax consequences of any future cash divid ends paid from such E&P. Credco has recorded reasonable estimates based on data available for both the deemed repatriation tax for 2017 of $737 million, and the deferred state income and foreign withholding taxes on potential future distributions of these earnings of $105 million. Until Credco fully complete s its analysis of both items, Credco’s accounting for these items is provisional. Remeasurement of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilitie s: Credco has recorded a deferred tax charge o f $16 million related to the remeasurement of its U.S. federal net deferred tax assets for 2017. This charge reflects the change in the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 21 percent , effective January 1, 2018, as well as other provisions of the Tax Act. Certain components of the remeasurement are reasonable estimates b ased on available information. Until Credco fully completes its analysis of all components, Credco’s accounting for the remeasurement of its net deferred tax asset s is provisional. Credco will complete its analysis of and finalize its accounting for these provisional estimates during the one-year measurement period as prescribed by SAB 118. The results of operations of Credco are included in the consolidated U.S. federal income tax return o f American Express. Under an agreement with American Express, provision for income taxes is recognized on a separate company basis. If benefits for net operating losses, future tax deductions and foreign tax credits cannot be recognized on a separate compa ny basis, such benefits are then recognized based upon a share, derived by formula, of those deductions and credits that are recognizable on an American Express consolidated reporting basis. The components of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ende d December 31 included in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Current income tax expense (benefit): U.S. federal (a) $ 785 $ (4) $ 15 U.S. state and local 15 (6) (4) Non-U.S. 24 11 20 Total current income tax expense 824 1 31 Deferred income tax expense (benefit) : U.S. federal (b) 58 10 (5) U.S. state and local 1 1 ― Non-U.S. (5) 3 12 Total deferred income tax expense 54 14 7 Total income tax expense $ 878 $ 15 $ 38 2017 includes a charge of $737 million related to the Tax Act deemed repatriation tax on certain non-U . S . earnings. 2017 includes charges related to the Tax Act of $16 million due to the remeasurement of certain federal net deferred tax assets to the lower federal tax rate of 21 percent and $105 million due to deferred state income and foreign withholding tax consequences of future cash distributions from non-U.S. subsidiaries. A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35 percent to Credco’s actual income tax rate for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2017 2016 2015 U.S. statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % (Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from: State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit (0.3) (0.5) ― Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings (a) (25.7) (25.1) (25.5) Tax Settlements (b) (1.1) (1.4) (0.4) U.S. Tax Act (c) 311.6 ― ― Other (d) (0.2) (0.9) 6.0 Actual tax rate 319.3 % 7.1 % 15.1 % Results for all years include recurring permanent tax benefits , in relation to the level of pretax income. Expenses in the United States are attracting a 35 percent statutory benefit whereas foreign earnings are taxed at lower rates and were indefinitely reinvested prior to the impacts of the Tax Act in 2017 (refer footnote (c)) . Credco’s effective tax rate reflects the favorable im pact of the tax benefit related to its ongoing funding activities outside of the United States. Relates to the resolution of tax matters in various jurisdictions. Relates to the $858 million charge for the impacts of the Tax Act. Results for 2016 and 2015 include the impact of prior year tax returns filed in the current year. The results for the year ended December 31, 2015 reflect out-of-period corrections that increased tax expense by $11 million and the effective tax rate by approximately 4.4 percent . T he corrections relate to tax calculations of foreign exchange gains/losses in one jurisdiction reflected in the 2014 results. None of the current or prior period financial statements were materially misstated from these corrections. Credco records a deferr ed 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 mea sured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. In particular, the 2017 balances were reduced to reflect the remeasurement of certain federal net deferred tax assets due to the enacted lower federal tax rate of 21 percent. The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are reflected in the following table: (Millions) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes $ 26 $ 23 State income taxes 5 9 Foreign exchange loss 7 ― Other ― 1 Gross deferred tax assets 38 33 Deferred tax liabilities: Investment in foreign subsidiaries (a) 105 ― Foreign exchange gain ― 8 Gross deferred tax liabilities 105 8 Net deferred tax assets $ (67) $ 25 Deferred state income and foreign withholding tax consequences of future cash distributions from non-U.S. subsidiaries. Credco is subject to the income tax laws of the United States, its states and municipalities and those of the foreign jurisdictions in which American Express operates. These tax laws are complex, and the manner in which they apply to the taxpayer’s facts is some times open to interpretation. Given these inherent complexities, Credco must make judgments in assessing the likelihood that a tax position will be sustained upon examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the tax position. A ta x 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 p urposes 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 the taxing authority given the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. Cre dco adjusts the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome. American Express is under continuous examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and tax authorities in other countrie s and states in which American Express has significant business operations. The tax years under examination and open for examination vary by jurisdiction. In February 2017, American Express received notification that all matters outstanding with the IRS fo r the tax years 1997-2007 were resolved. The resolution of such matter s did not impact Credco’s effective tax rate. American Express is currently under examination with the IRS for the tax years 2008 through 2014. The following table presents changes in u nrecognized tax benefits: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 308 $ 211 $ 364 Increases: Current year tax positions 8 79 2 Tax positions related to prior years ― 24 1 Decreases: Tax positions related to prior years (a) (289) (1) (152) Settlements with tax authorities ― (1) ― Lapse of statute of limitations (3) (4) (4) Balance, December 31 $ 24 $ 308 $ 211 Decrease due to the resolution with the IRS of an uncertain tax position in January 2017, which resulted in the recognition of $289 million in shareholders’ equity, specifically within AOCI. Included in the unrecognized tax benefits of $24 million, $308 million and $211 million for December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are approximately $19 million, $12 million and $14 million, respectively that if recognized, would favorably affect the effective tax rate in a future period. Credco believes it is reasonably possible that its unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next 12 months by as much as $3 million principally as a result of potential resolutions of prior years’ tax items with various taxing authorities. The prior years’ tax ite ms 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 $3 million of unrecognized tax benefits, approximately $2 million r elates to amounts that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate in a future period. Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision. For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, Cre dco recognized tax benefits of approximately $1 million, $2 million and $1 million, respectively, for in terest and penalties. Credco had approximately $5 million and $48 million accrued for the payment of interest and penalties as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The reduction in accrued interest in 2017 includes approximately $42 million related to the resolution of an uncertain tax position with the IRS in January 2017, which had no net impact on the income tax provision. Current tax es due to American Express or affiliates as of De cember 31, 2017 and 2016 were $786 million and $ 17 million, respectively. The amount due to American Express for 2017 includes a $729 million payable related to the deemed repatriation tax. Payments due by year (Millions) 2018 2019 - 2020 2021 - 2022 2023 and thereafter Total Deemed repatriation tax (a) $ - $ 122 $ 116 $ 491 $ 729 (a) Represents Credco’s estimated obligation under the Tax Act to pay the deemed repatriation tax to American Express on certain non-U . S . earnings over eight years, which has been calculated on a provisional basis. This amount does not reflect other related non-cash accruals. Net income taxes refunded to Credco during 2017 were approximately $308 million and net income taxes paid by Credco during 2016 were approximately $45 million.

Significant Credit Concentratio

Significant Credit Concentrations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Concentration Risk Disclosure [Abstract]
Significant Credit Concentrations	Note 12 – Significant Credit Concentrations Concentrations of credit risk exist when changes in economic, industry or geographic factors similarly affect groups of counterparties whose aggregate credit exposure is material in relation to Credco’s total credit exposure. Credco’s primary credit exposure, Card Member receivables and loans and loans to affiliates and other , is diversified among its affiliated companies with Card Members that operate in diverse industries, economic sectors and geograph ic regions. The following table details Credco’s maximum credit exposure of the on-balance sheet assets by category , as of December 31: (Billions) 2017 2016 On-balance sheet: Loans to affiliates and other $ 15 $ 11 Institutions (a) 13 11 Individuals (b) 7 7 Financial Services (c) 1 2 Due from affiliates - 1 Total on-balance sheet $ 36 $ 32 P rimarily reflects Card Member receivables from other corporate institutions , which are governed by institutional credit risk management . P rimarily reflects Card Member receivables and loans , which are governed by individual credit risk management. Represents banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , Credco’s most significant concen tration of credit risk was with Loans to affiliates and C orporate institutions, including Card Member receivables. Credco purchased Card Member receivables and loans from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries. TRS generally advances these amounts on an unsecured basis. However, TRS reviews each potential customer’s credit application and evaluates the applicant’s financial history and ability and willingness to repay. TRS also considers, on behalf of Credco, credit performance by customer tenure, industry and geographic location in managing credit exposure. The following table details Credco’s Card Mem ber receivables and loans exposure in the United States and outside the United States as of December 31: (Billions) 2017 2016 United States $ 15 $ 14 Outside the United States 6 5 Total $ 21 $ 19

Geographic Regions

Geographic Regions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Geographic Regions Disclosure [Abstract]
Geographic Regions	Note 13 – Geographic Regions Credco is principally engaged in the business of financing the Card Member receivables and loans of its affiliates. Management makes operating decisions and assesses performance based on an ongoing review of these financing activities , which constitute Credco’s only operating segment for financial reporting purposes. The follow ing table presents Credco’s revenues and pretax income i n different geographic regions based, in part, upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment : (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Revenues United States $ 779 $ 440 $ 442 Outside the United States 308 278 313 Consolidated $ 1,087 $ 718 $ 755 Pretax income United States $ 9 $ 16 $ 111 Outside the United States 266 196 141 Consolidated $ 275 $ 212 $ 252

Quarterly Financial Data

Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data	Note 14 – Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized as follows : (Millions) 2017 2016 Quarters ended 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 Revenues $ 296 $ 286 $ 253 $ 252 $ 179 $ 180 $ 179 $ 180 Pretax income 72 85 52 66 20 70 65 57 Net (loss) income (a) $ (791) $ 72 $ 57 $ 59 $ 29 $ 60 $ 57 $ 51 The fourth quarter of 2017 includes impact of the Tax Act (r efer to Note 11 ) .

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The Consolidated Financial Statements of Credco are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United Stat es of America (GAAP). Significant intercompany transactions are eliminated. Credco consolidate s entities in which it holds a controlling financial interest. For voting interest entities, Credco is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), t he determination of which is based on the amount and characteristics of the en tity’s equity, Credco is considered to hold a controll ing 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 activities that most significantly impact that VIE’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to a bsorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potent ially be significant to that VIE.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based upon excha nge rates prevailing at the end of th e reporting period; non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated at the historic exchange rate at the date of the transaction; r evenues and expenses are translated at the average month-end exchange rates during th e year . R esulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholder’s equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hed ge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of in vestments in foreign operations . Gains and losses related to transactions in a currency other than the functional currency are reported net in Other expenses, in Credco’s Co nsolidated Statements of Income .
Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions	Amount s 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 Card Member losses on receivables and loans, fair value measurement s and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best judgment of management, but actual results could differ.
Revenues and Expenses	Discount Revenue Earned from Purc hased Card Member Receivables and Loans Credco earns discount revenue from purchasing Card Member receivables and loans at a discount to par value. The discount is deferred and recognized as revenue over the period that the receivables and loans are estima ted to be outstanding or funded. Estimates are based on the historical average life of Card Member receivables and loans. Interest Income from Affiliates Interest income from affiliates is earned on interest-bearing loans made by Credco to affiliates. In terest income is accrued primarily using the average daily balance method on loans and is recognized based on the outstanding loan principal amount and interest rates specified in the agreements until the outstanding loan balance is paid. Finance Revenue Finance revenue is assessed using the average daily balance method for Card Member loans and is recognized based upon the loan principal amount outstanding in accordance with the terms of the applicable account agreement until the outstanding balance is p aid or written off. Interest Expense Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to fund Card Member receivables and loans, general corporate purposes and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash e quivalents include cash and amounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less .
Accounts Receivable And Loans and Reserves For Cardmember Losses [Abstract]
Card Member receivables and loans	Card Member Receivables Card Member receivables represent amounts due on American Express charge card products. For American Express, the Card Member receivables are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant. Each charge 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 established to limit the maximum exposure for American Express. Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each mo nth. Credco records these Card Member receivables at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries that issue the card (card issuers). Card Member receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 3). Card Member Loans Card Member loans represent revolving amounts due on American Express cards. For American Express lending card products, these Card Member loans are recorded at the time a Card Member enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant, as well as amounts due from charge Card Members who utilize the Pay Over Time feature s on their account and elect to revolve a portion of the outstanding balance by entering into a revolving payment arrangement with American Express. These loans 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 conditions. Card Members holding revolving loans are typically required to make monthly payments based on pre-established amounts and the amounts that Card M embers choose to revolve are subject to finance charges. Credco records these Card Member loans at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries that issue the card (card issuers). Card Member loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal and any related accrued interest and fees. American Express’ policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, a nd establish reserves for interest that will not be collected.
Reserves For Losses Policy [Abstract]
Reserves for losses	Reserves for losses relating to Card Member receivables and loans represent management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in Credco’s outstanding portfolio of receivables and loans, 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 quantitative 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 credit, and changes in the legal 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 unco llectible , 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 owed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification , and r ecov eries are recognized as they are collected .
Derivatives And Hedging Activities Policy [Abstract]
Derivatives Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities	Credco’s derivatives are carried at fair value on the Consoli dated Balance Sheets. The accounting for changes in fair value depends on the instruments’ intended use and the resulting hedge designation, if any, as discussed below. Credco formally assesses, at inception of the hedge accounting relationship and on a quarterly basis, whether derivatives designated as hedges are highly effective in offsetting th e fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usually are made through the application of a regression analysis method. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, Credco will discontinue the application of hedge accounting. To the extent the fair value hedge is effective, the gain or loss on the hedging instrument 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 de rivative and the changes in the hedged item is referred to as hedge ineffectiveness and is reported as a component of Other expenses. Credco 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. Credco has derivatives that act as economic hedges, but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contracts, primarily foreign exchange forwards. These hedges generally mature within one year. Foreign currency contracts involve the purchase and sale of designated currencies at an agreed upon rate for settlement on a specified date. The changes in the fair value of derivat ives 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 [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Credco 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, Credco discloses the fair value measurement at the beginning of the reporting period during which the transfer occurred.
Income Tax Policy [Abstract]
Income taxes	The Tax Act, enacted by the U.S. government on December 22, 2017, makes broad and complex changes to the U.S. tax code which will require time to interpret. The SEC issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118) in December, 2017, to provide guidance on accounting f or the effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 provides for a measurement period of up to one year from the Tax Act enactment date for companies to complete their assessment of and accounting for those effects of the Tax Act required under ASC 740 “ Implementation Guidance on Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes’’ to be report ed in the period of enactment. Under SAB 118, a company must first reflect the income tax effects of the Tax Act for which the acco unting is complete in the period of the date of enactment. To the extent the accounting for other income tax effects is incomplete, but for which a reasonable estimate can be determined, companies must record a provisional estimate to be included in their financial statements. For any income tax effect for which a reasonable estimate cannot be determined, an entity must continue to apply ASC 740 based on the provisions of the tax laws in effect immediately prior to the Tax Act being enacted until such time as a reasonable estimate can be determined. Credco records a deferr ed 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 mea sured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. In particular, the 2017 balances were reduced to reflect the remeasurement of certain federal net deferred tax assets due to the enacted lower federal tax rate of 21 percent. Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision.
Income tax uncertainties	The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting p urposes 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 the taxing authority given the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. Cre dco adjusts the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome.

Card Member Receivables and L24

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts Receivable And Loans Tables [Abstract]
Card Member receivables detail	Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of: (Millions) 2017 2016 U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,557 $ 3,518 International Consumer and Network Services (a) 1,827 1,526 Global Commercial Services (b) 14,892 13,174 Card Member receivables (c) 20,276 18,218 Less: Reserve for losses 145 110 Card Member receivables, net (d) $ 20,131 $ 18,108 Comprised of International consumer card business. Comprised of Corporate and Small Business Services. Net of deferred discount revenue totaling $ 43 million and $ 27 million as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Card Member receivables modified in a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) program were immaterial.
Card Member loans detail	Card Member loans as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 consisted of: (Millions) 2017 2016 International Consumer and Network Services (a) $ 561 $ 476 Less: Reserve for losses 5 5 Card Member loans, net (b) $ 556 $ 471 Comprised of International consumer card business. Card Member loans modified in a TDR program were immaterial.
Aging of Card Member receivables and loans	The following table presents the aging of Card Member receivables and Card Member loans as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2017 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,531 $ 10 $ 6 $ 10 $ 3,557 International Consumer and Network Services 1,805 8 5 9 1,827 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 1,397 5 4 6 1,412 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) 112 13,480 Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services $ 557 $ 1 $ 1 $ 2 $ 561 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2016 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services $ 3,501 $ 9 $ 3 $ 5 $ 3,518 International Consumer and Network Services 1,506 6 4 10 1,526 Global Commercial Services Global Small Business Services 1,202 9 2 5 1,218 Global Corporate Payments (a) (b) (b) (b) 108 11,956 Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services $ 472 $ 1 $ 1 $ 2 $ 476 For Global Corporate Payments Card Member receivables in Global Commercial Services, 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 collection procedures are initiated on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing, the associated Card Member receivable balance is classified as 90 da ys past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. See also (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 receivables and loans	The following table s pre sent the key credit quality indicators as of or for the years ended December 31: 2017 2016 30+ Days 30+ Days Net Past Due Net Past Due Write-off as a % of Write-off as a % of Rate (a) Total Rate (a) Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Consumer Services 0.83 % 0.73 % 0.54 % 0.48 % International Consumer and Network Services 1.50 % 1.20 % 1.86 % 1.31 % Global Small Business Services 1.11 % 1.06 % 1.03 % 1.31 % Card Member Loans: International Consumer and Network Services 1.24 % 0.71 % 1.15 % 0.84 % 2017 2016 Net Loss 90+ Days Net Loss 90+ Days Ratio as a Past Ratio as a Past % of Billing % of Billing Charge as a % of Charge as a % of Volume (b) Receivables Volume (b) Receivables Card Member Receivables: Global Corporate Payments 0.08 % 0.83 % 0.06 % 0.90 % Represents the amount of Card Member receivables or Card Member loans owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a percentage of the average Card Member receivables or Card Member loans balances in each of the periods indicated. Represents the amount of Card Member receivables owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a percentage of the volume of Card Member receivables purchased by Credco in each of the periods indicated.

Reserves for Losses (Tables)

Reserves for Losses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Reserves For Losses Tables [Abstract]
Changes in the Card Member receivable reserve for losses	The following table presents changes in the Card Member receivables reserve for losses for the years ended December 31 : (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 110 $ 114 $ 94 Provisions 238 145 160 Other credits (a) 58 20 32 Net write-offs (b) (198) (146) (157) Other debits (c)(d) (63) (23) (15) Balance, December 31 $ 145 $ 110 $ 114 Primarily reserve balances applicable to new groups of Card Member receivables purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiaries and participation interests from affiliates. New groups of Card Member receivables purchased totaled $ 9.4 billion, $ 5.4 billion and $ 5.8 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Net of recoveries of $ 95 million, $ 91 million and $ 100 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances related to participation interests in Card Member receivables sold to an affiliate . P articipation interests in Card Member receivables sold t otaled $ 9.4 billion, $ 5.7 billion and $ 2.6 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. 2015 includes the impact of the transfer of reserves relating to the HFS portfolio, which was not significant.
Changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses	The following table presents changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 5 $ 4 $ 3 Provisions 6 6 5 Net write-offs (a) (6) (5) (4) Balance, December 31 $ 5 $ 5 $ 4 Net of recoveries of $ 1 million for each of the yea rs ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 .

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Tables [Abstract]
Short-term debt	Credco’s short-term debt outstanding (excluding short-term debt to affiliates), defined as borrowings with original contractual ma turity dates of less than one year, as of December 31 were as follows : 2017 2016 Outstanding Year-End Stated Outstanding Year-End Stated (Millions, except percentages) Balance Rate on Debt (a) Balance Rate on Debt (a) Commercial paper (b) $ 1,168 1.54 % $ 2,993 1.13 % Other short-term borrowings (c) 140 1.27 ― ― Total $ 1,308 1.51 % $ 2,993 1.13 % For floating-rate issuances, the stated interest rates are weighted based on the outstanding balances and rates in effect as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Average commercial paper outst anding was $1,076 million and $491 million in 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Represents interest-bearing overdrafts with banks .
Long-term debt	Credco’s long-term debt outstanding, defined as debt with original contractual maturity dates of one year or greater, as of December 31 was as follows: 2017 2016 Year-End Year-End Original Year-End Effective Year-End Effective Contractual Stated Interest Stated Interest (Millions, except Maturity Outstanding Rate Rate with Outstanding Rate Rate with percentages) Dates Balance (a) on Debt (b) Swaps (b)(c) Balance (a) on Debt (b) Swaps (b)(c) Fixed Rate Senior Notes 2018-2027 $ 19,652 2.24 % 2.27 % $ 16,201 1.98 % 1.44 % Floating Rate Senior Notes 2018-2022 4,550 2.09 ― 4,350 1.52 ― Unamortized Underwriting Fees (49) (39) Total Long-Term Debt $ 24,153 2.21 % $ 20,512 1.88 % The outstanding balances include (i) unamortized discount and premium, (ii) the impact of movements in exchange rates on foreign currency denominated debt and (iii) the impact of fair value hedge accounting on certain fixed-rate notes that have been swapped to floating rate through the use of interest rate swaps. Under fair value hedge accounting, the outstanding balances on these fixed-rate notes are adjusted to reflect the impact of changes in fair value due to changes in interest rates. Refer to No te 6 for more details on Credco’s treatment of fair value hedges. For floating-rate issuances, the stated and effective interest rates are weighted based on outstanding balances and rates in effect as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Effective interes t rates are only presented when swaps are in place to hedge the underlying debt.
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations	Aggregate annual maturities o n long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2017 were as follows: (Millions) 2018 $ 3,654 2019 7,150 2020 6,600 2021 2,939 2022 2,050 Thereafter 2,000 Total 24,393 Unamortized Underwriting Fees (49) Unamortized Discount and Premium (36) Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting (155) Total Long-Term Debt $ 24,153

Derivatives and Hedging Activ27

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivatives And Hedging Activities Tables [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 December 31: Other Assets Other Liabilities Fair Value Fair Value (Millions) 2017 2016 2017 2016 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Fair value hedges - Interest rate contracts (a) $ ― $ 22 $ ― $ 69 Net investment hedges - Foreign exchange contracts 54 151 38 1 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 54 173 38 70 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 9 128 57 28 Total derivatives, gross 63 301 95 98 Less: Cash collateral netting (b)(c) ― (2) ― (49) Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (d) (26) (27) (26) (27) Total derivatives, net $ 37 $ 272 $ 69 $ 22 E ffective January 2017, the Central Clearing Party (CCP) changed the legal characterization of variation margin payments for centrally cleared derivatives to be settlement payments, as opposed to collateral. As of December 31, 2017 , there was no unsettled derivative asset or liability with the CCP. Represents the offsetting of the fair value of bilateral interest rate contracts with the right to reclaim cash collateral or the obligation to return cash collateral. Credco he ld no non- cash collateral as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. To mitigate counterparty credit risk related to derivatives, Credco may accept non-cash collateral from its derivatives counterparties. Additionally, Credco posted $ 115 milli on and $ 144 million as of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, as initial margin on its centrally cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not net ted against the derivative balances. Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement.
Effect of fair value hedges on results of operations	The following table summarizes the gains (losses) recognized in Other expenses associated with Credco’s fair value hedges for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Interest rate derivative contracts $ (129) $ (102) $ (31) Hedged items 100 91 44 Net hedge ineffectiveness (losses) gains $ (29) $ (11) $ 13

Fair Values (Tables)

Fair Values (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Values (Tables) [Abstract]
Fair value assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis	The following table summarizes Credco’s financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, categorized by GAAP’s fair value hierarchy as Level 2 (as described in the preceding paragraphs), as of December 31 : (Millions) 2017 2016 Assets: Derivatives (a) $ 63 $ 301 Total assets 63 301 Liabilities: Derivatives (a) 95 98 Total liabilities $ 95 $ 98 Refer to Note 6 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 value for Credco’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are not required to be carried at fair value on a recurring basis, as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2017 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value (a) Cash and cash equivalents $ 0.2 $ 0.2 $ 0.2 $ ― $ ― Other financial assets 20.6 20.6 0.1 20.5 ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.6 0.6 ― ― 0.6 Loans to affiliates and other 14.5 14.4 ― 10.0 4.4 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 8.6 8.6 ― 8.6 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt 24.2 24.5 ― 24.5 ― Long-term debt with affiliates $ 0.3 $ 0.3 $ ― $ 0.3 $ ― Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2016 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value (a) Cash and cash equivalents $ 1.2 $ 1.2 $ 0.2 $ 1.0 $ ― Other financial assets 19.3 19.3 ― 19.3 ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.5 0.5 ― ― 0.5 Loans to affiliates and other 10.7 10.7 ― 7.9 2.8 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 9.1 9.1 ― 9.1 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt 20.5 20.7 ― 20.7 ― Long-term debt with affiliates $ ― $ ― $ ― $ ― $ ― Level 1 amounts reflect interest-bearing deposits and Level 2 amount primarily reflects time deposits , short-term investments and Card Member receivables.

Transactions With Affiliates (T

Transactions With Affiliates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Related Party (Tables) [Abstract]
Certain transactions with affiliates	Transactions with affiliates as of or for the year s ended December 31, were as follows: (Millions, except percentages) 2017 2016 2015 Loans to affiliates and other $ 14,527 $ 10,659 $ 14,262 Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other 2.19 % 1.78 % 1.81 % Due from affiliates $ 189 $ 997 $ 615 Restricted cash with affiliates 100 ― ― Short-term debt to affiliates 5,997 4,559 5,439 Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates 1.04 % 0.49 % 0.19 % Maximum month-end level of short-term borrowings during the year $ 8,377 $ 5,091 $ 5,439 Long term debt to affiliates 270 ― ― Average interest rate on long-term debt to affiliates 0.23 % ― ― Maximum month-end level of long-term borrowings during the year $ 270 $ ― $ ― Due to affiliates 1,988 1,517 1,727 Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year 14,527 13,083 17,711 Interest income from affiliates and other 279 207 246 Interest expense to affiliates 58 24 10 Other, net expense $ 2 $ 1 $ 1
Components of loans to affiliates	The components of loans to a ffiliates and other as of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2017 2016 American Express Limited $ 3,847 $ ― American Express Services Europe Limited 2,747 2,484 Amex Bank of Canada 1,737 1,593 American Express Australia Limited 1,616 1,290 American Express International, Inc. 1,180 ― American Express Company 961 4,044 Amex Global Holdings C.V. 888 ― American Express Company (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. 812 765 American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. 325 291 Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A. 138 ― American Express International, Inc- Branch - Singapore 124 107 American Express International (NZ), Inc. 80 85 Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited 38 ― American Express Saudi Arabia (C) JSC 34 ― Total (a) $ 14,527 $ 10,659 As of December 31 , 2017 and 2016 , approximately $ 5.0 billion and $ 3.3 billion, respectively, were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and loans transferred with recourse.
Components of short-term debt to affiliates	Components of short-term debt t o affiliates as of December 31 w ere as follow s: (Millions) 2017 2016 AE Exposure Management Limited. $ 4,548 $ 3,361 American Express Europe LLC 765 515 American Express Swiss Holdings GmbH 444 376 American Express Holdings Netherlands CV 192 192 Accertify Inc. 48 42 Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited ― 73 Total $ 5,997 $ 4,559

Changes in Accumulated Other 30

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	Changes in Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments for the three years end ed December 31 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation (Millions), net of tax Adjustments Balances as of December 31, 2014 $ (787) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (604) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 235 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (369) Balances as of December 31, 2015 (1,156) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (187) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 80 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (107) Balances as of December 31, 2016 (1,263) Net translation gain of investments in foreign operations (a) 439 Net losses related to hedges of investment in foreign operations (174) Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss 265 Balances as of December 31, 2017 $ (998) Includes $289 million of recognized tax benefit (refer to N ote 11) .
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Income - Tax Effect	The following table shows the tax impact for the three years ended December 31 for th e changes in Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments presented above : Tax (benefit) expense (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Foreign currency translation adjustments (a) $ (209) $ 49 $ ― Net investment hedges (103) 48 140 Total tax impact $ (312) $ 97 $ 140 Include $289 million of tax benefit recognized in the year ended December 31, 2017 (refer to Note 11).

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Taxes (Tables) [Abstract]
Components of income tax expense	The components of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ende d December 31 included in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income were as follows: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Current income tax expense (benefit): U.S. federal (a) $ 785 $ (4) $ 15 U.S. state and local 15 (6) (4) Non-U.S. 24 11 20 Total current income tax expense 824 1 31 Deferred income tax expense (benefit) : U.S. federal (b) 58 10 (5) U.S. state and local 1 1 ― Non-U.S. (5) 3 12 Total deferred income tax expense 54 14 7 Total income tax expense $ 878 $ 15 $ 38 2017 includes a charge of $737 million related to the Tax Act deemed repatriation tax on certain non-U . S . earnings. 2017 includes charges related to the Tax Act of $16 million due to the remeasurement of certain federal net deferred tax assets to the lower federal tax rate of 21 percent and $105 million due to deferred state income and foreign withholding tax consequences of future cash distributions from non-U.S. subsidiaries.
Effective income tax rate	A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35 percent to Credco’s actual income tax rate for the years ended December 31 was as follows: 2017 2016 2015 U.S. statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % (Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from: State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit (0.3) (0.5) ― Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings (a) (25.7) (25.1) (25.5) Tax Settlements (b) (1.1) (1.4) (0.4) U.S. Tax Act (c) 311.6 ― ― Other (d) (0.2) (0.9) 6.0 Actual tax rate 319.3 % 7.1 % 15.1 % Results for all years include recurring permanent tax benefits , in relation to the level of pretax income. Expenses in the United States are attracting a 35 percent statutory benefit whereas foreign earnings are taxed at lower rates and were indefinitely reinvested prior to the impacts of the Tax Act in 2017 (refer footnote (c)) . Credco’s effective tax rate reflects the favorable im pact of the tax benefit related to its ongoing funding activities outside of the United States. Relates to the resolution of tax matters in various jurisdictions. Relates to the $858 million charge for the impacts of the Tax Act. Results for 2016 and 2015 include the impact of prior year tax returns filed in the current year.
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities	The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are reflected in the following table: (Millions) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes $ 26 $ 23 State income taxes 5 9 Foreign exchange loss 7 ― Other ― 1 Gross deferred tax assets 38 33 Deferred tax liabilities: Investment in foreign subsidiaries (a) 105 ― Foreign exchange gain ― 8 Gross deferred tax liabilities 105 8 Net deferred tax assets $ (67) $ 25 Deferred state income and foreign withholding tax consequences of future cash distributions from non-U.S. subsidiaries.
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits	The following table presents changes in u nrecognized tax benefits: (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Balance, January 1 $ 308 $ 211 $ 364 Increases: Current year tax positions 8 79 2 Tax positions related to prior years ― 24 1 Decreases: Tax positions related to prior years (a) (289) (1) (152) Settlements with tax authorities ― (1) ― Lapse of statute of limitations (3) (4) (4) Balance, December 31 $ 24 $ 308 $ 211 Decrease due to the resolution with the IRS of an uncertain tax position in January 2017, which resulted in the recognition of $289 million in shareholders’ equity, specifically within AOCI.
Deemed repatriation tax payments due by year	Payments due by year (Millions) 2018 2019 - 2020 2021 - 2022 2023 and thereafter Total Deemed repatriation tax (a) $ - $ 122 $ 116 $ 491 $ 729 (a) Represents Credco’s estimated obligation under the Tax Act to pay the deemed repatriation tax to American Express on certain non-U . S . earnings over eight years, which has been calculated on a provisional basis. This amount does not reflect other related non-cash accruals.

Significant Credit Concentrat32

Significant Credit Concentrations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Significant Credit Concentrations (Tables) [Abstract]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category	The following table details Credco’s maximum credit exposure of the on-balance sheet assets by category , as of December 31: (Billions) 2017 2016 On-balance sheet: Loans to affiliates and other $ 15 $ 11 Institutions (a) 13 11 Individuals (b) 7 7 Financial Services (c) 1 2 Due from affiliates - 1 Total on-balance sheet $ 36 $ 32 P rimarily reflects Card Member receivables from other corporate institutions , which are governed by institutional credit risk management . P rimarily reflects Card Member receivables and loans , which are governed by individual credit risk management. Represents banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations.
Card Member receivables and loans exposure	The following table details Credco’s Card Mem ber receivables and loans exposure in the United States and outside the United States as of December 31: (Billions) 2017 2016 United States $ 15 $ 14 Outside the United States 6 5 Total $ 21 $ 19

Geographic Regions (Tables)

Geographic Regions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Geographic Operations Tables [Abstract]
Revenue and pretax income in different geographic regions	The follow ing table presents Credco’s revenues and pretax income i n different geographic regions based, in part, upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment : (Millions) 2017 2016 2015 Revenues United States $ 779 $ 440 $ 442 Outside the United States 308 278 313 Consolidated $ 1,087 $ 718 $ 755 Pretax income United States $ 9 $ 16 $ 111 Outside the United States 266 196 141 Consolidated $ 275 $ 212 $ 252

Quarterly Financial Data (Table

Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quartertly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly financial data	Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 are summarized as follows : (Millions) 2017 2016 Quarters ended 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 Revenues $ 296 $ 286 $ 253 $ 252 $ 179 $ 180 $ 179 $ 180 Pretax income 72 85 52 66 20 70 65 57 Net (loss) income (a) $ (791) $ 72 $ 57 $ 59 $ 29 $ 60 $ 57 $ 51 The fourth quarter of 2017 includes impact of the Tax Act (r efer to Note 11 ) .

Summary of Significant Accoun35

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies ( Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Textuals [Abstract]
Ratio of combined earnings and fixed earnings to fixed charges required to maintain availability of credit line	1.25
Net foreign currency transaction gains	$ 21	$ 1	$ 14

Card Member Receivables and L36

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	$ 20,276	$ 18,218
Less: Reserve for losses	145	110	$ 114	$ 94
Card Member receivables, net	20,131	18,108
U.S. Consumer Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	3,557	3,518
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	14,892	13,174
International Consumer and Network Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	$ 1,827	$ 1,526

Card Member Receivables and L37

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Card Member loans
Less: Reserve for losses	$ 5	$ 5	$ 4	$ 3
Card Member loans, less reserves	556	471
International Consumer and Network Services [Member]
Card Member loans
Card Member loans	561	476
Less: Reserve for losses	5	5
Card Member loans, less reserves	$ 556	$ 471

Card Member Receivables and L38

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	$ 20,276	$ 18,218
U.S. Consumer Services [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	3,557	3,518
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Current	3,531	3,501
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	10	9
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	6	3
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	10	5
International Consumer and Network Services [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	1,827	1,526
Card Member loans total aging	561	476
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Current	1,805	1,506
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	8	6
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	5	4
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	9	10
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Current	557	472
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	1	1
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	1	1
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	2	2
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	14,892	13,174
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	13,480	11,956
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	112	108
Global Small Business Services [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Card Member receivables Total Aging	1,412	1,218
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Current	1,397	1,202
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	5	9
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	4	2
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Aging [Abstract]
Period past due	$ 6	$ 5

Card Member Receivables and L39

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 3)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0083	0.0054
U.S. Consumer Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0073	0.0048
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.015	0.0186
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.012	0.0131
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0124	0.0115
International Consumer and Network Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0071	0.0084
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Loss Ratio as a % of Charge Volume [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0008	0.0006
Global Corporate Payments [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90 days past billing as a percentage of receivables [Member}
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0083	0.009
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | Net Write-Off Rate [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0111	0.0103
Global Small Business Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 Days Past Due as a % of Total [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Credit Quality Indicators	0.0106	0.0131

Card Member Receivables and L40

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Deferred discount revenue on Card Member receivable	$ 43	$ 27

Reserves (Details)

Reserves (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Changes in the Card Member receivable reserve for losses
Balance, January 1	$ 110	$ 114	$ 94
Provisions	238	145	160
Other credits	58	20	32
Net write-offs	(198)	(146)	(157)
Other debits	(63)	(23)	(15)
Balance, December 31	$ 145	$ 110	$ 114

Reserves (Details 1)

Reserves (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses [Line Items]
Balance, January 1	$ 5	$ 4	$ 3
Provisions	6	6	5
Net Write-Offs	(6)	(5)	(4)
Balance, December 31	$ 5	$ 5	$ 4

Reserves (Details Textuals)

Reserves (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reserves For Losses (Textuals) [Abstract]
Participation interests in Card Member receivables purchased from affiliates	$ 9,400	$ 5,400	$ 5,800
Allowance for Card Member Receivables, Recoveries of Bad Debts	95	91	100
Allowance for Card Member Loans, Recoveries of Bad Debts	1	1	1
Participation Interest in Card Member Receivables Sold to Affiliates	$ 9,400	$ 5,700	$ 2,600

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Short Term Debt Line Items
Outstanding Balance	$ 1,308	$ 2,993
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	1.51%	1.13%
Commercial Paper [Member] | Short Term Debt [Member]
Short Term Debt Line Items
Outstanding Balance	$ 1,168	$ 2,993
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	1.54%	1.13%
Other Short Term Borrowings [Member] | Short Term Debt [Member]
Short Term Debt Line Items
Outstanding Balance	$ 140	$ 0
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	1.27%	0.00%

Debt (Details 1)

Debt (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Long-term Debt	$ 24,153	$ 20,512
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	1.51%	1.13%
Unamortized Underwriting Fees	$ (49)	$ (39)
Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	2.21%	1.88%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes Amount [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	2,018
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	2,027
Total Long-term Debt	$ 19,652	$ 16,201
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	2.24%	1.98%
Year End Effective Interest Rate With Swaps	2.27%	1.44%
Floating Rate Senior Notes Amount [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	2,018
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	2,022
Total Long-term Debt	$ 4,550	$ 4,350
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	2.09%	1.52%
Year End Effective Interest Rate With Swaps	0.00%	0.00%

Debt (Details 2)

Debt (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Long Term Debt By Maturity Abstract
2,018	$ 3,654
2,019	7,150
2,020	6,600
2,021	2,939
2,022	2,050
Thereafter	2,000
Total	24,393
Unamortized Underwriting Fees	(49)	$ (39)
Unamortized Discount and Premium	(36)
Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting	(155)
Total Long-term Debt	$ 24,153	$ 20,512

Debt ( Details Textuals)

Debt ( Details Textuals) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fees to maintain credit lines	$ 6	$ 2.2
Ratio of combined earnings and fixed earnings to fixed charges required to maintain availability of credit line	1.25
Line of credit facility financial covenants combined earnings and fixed charges to fixed charges ratio actual	1.5
Average Commercial Paper Outstanding	$ 1,076	491
Total Interest Paid on short and long term debt	500	300	$ 300
Long Term Debt [Member] | ParentCompanyMember
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total bank lines of credit of the company	3,500	3,000
Unutilized total credit lines	$ 3,500	$ 3,000

Restrictions as to Dividends 48

Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtness (Details Textual) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
RestrictionsTextuals[Abstract]
Minimum consolidated net worth	$ 50
Ratio of combined earnings and fixed earnings to fixed charges required to maintain availability of credit line	1.25

Derivatives and Hedging Activ49

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Cash collateral netting, Liabilities	$ 0	$ (49)
Cash collateral netting, Assets	0	(2)
Other Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting	(26)	(27)
Total derivatives assets, net	37	272
Other Assets [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	54	173
Other Assets [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	9	128
Other Assets [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	0	22
Other Assets [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	54	151
Other Liabilities [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative asset and derivative liability netting	(26)	(27)
Total derivatives liabilities, net	69	22
Other Liabilities [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	38	70
Other Liabilities [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	57	28
Other Liabilities [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	0	69
Other Liabilities [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liabilities	$ 38	$ 1

Derivatives and Hedging Activ50

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details 1) - Other Expense [Member] - Interest Rate Contract [Member] - Fair Value Hedging [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Interest rate derivative contract	$ (129)	$ (102)	$ (31)
Hedged item	100	91	44
Net hedge ineffectiveness (losses) gains	$ (29)	$ (11)	$ 13

Derivatives and Hedging Activ51

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives And Hedging Activities Textuals [Abstract]
Net reduction in interest expense on long term debt	$ 53	$ 126	$ 177
Derivative [Line Items]
Ineffectiveness reclassified from AOCI into income	0	0	0
Margin on interest rate swap not netted	115	144
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	16,200	14,800
Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Effective portion of gain (loss) on hedges	(174)	80	235
Other expense [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain in Changes of Fair Value of Derivatives not designated as hedges	$ 21	$ 1	$ 14

Fair Value (Details)

Fair Value (Details) - Level 2 [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets [Abstract]
Derivatives	$ 63	$ 301
Total assets	63	301
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivatives	95	98
Total liabilities	$ 95	$ 98

Fair Value (Details 1)

Fair Value (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	$ 556	$ 471
Loans to affiliates and other	14,527	10,659	$ 14,262
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	24,153	20,512
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	270	0	$ 0
Carrying Value [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents	200	1,200
Other financial assets	20,600	19,300
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	600	500
Loans to affiliates and other	14,500	10,700
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	8,600	9,100
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	24,200	20,500
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	300	0
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents	200	1,200
Other financial assets	20,600	19,300
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	600	500
Loans to affiliates and other	14,400	10,700
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	8,600	9,100
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	24,500	20,700
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	300	0
Level 1 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents	200	200
Other financial assets	100	0
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	0	0
Loans to affiliates and other	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 [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	0	0
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	0	0
Level 2 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents	0	1,000
Other financial assets	20,500	19,300
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	0	0
Loans to affiliates and other	10,000	7,900
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	8,600	9,100
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	24,500	20,700
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	300	0
Level 3 [Member]
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Other financial assets	0	0
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	600	500
Loans to affiliates and other	4,400	2,800
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	0	0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Total Long-term Debt	0	0
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value (Details Textuals)

Fair Value (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets measured at fair value for impairment	$ 0	$ 0

Variable Interest Entity (Detai

Variable Interest Entity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 35,889	$ 31,936
Total liabilities	34,018	29,727
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] | American Express Canada Credit Corporation Member [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets	500	1,700
Total liabilities	500	1,700
Liabilities eliminated in consolidation	0	1,300
Assets eliminated in consolidation	$ 0	$ 1,700

Transactions with Affiliates (D

Transactions with Affiliates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Parties Details [Abstract]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 14,527	$ 10,659	$ 14,262
Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other	2.19%	1.78%	1.81%
Due from affiliates	$ 189	$ 997	$ 615
Restricted cash with affiliates	100	0	0
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,997	$ 4,559	$ 5,439
Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates	1.04%	0.49%	0.19%
Maximum month-end level of short-term borrowings during the year	$ 8,377	$ 5,091	$ 5,439
Long-term debt with affiliates	$ 270	$ 0	$ 0
Average interest rate long-term debt to affiliates	0.23%	0.00%	0.00%
Maximum month-end level of long-term borrowings during the year	$ 270	$ 0	$ 0
Due to affiliates	1,988	1,517	1,727
Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year	14,527	13,083	17,711
Interest income from affiliates and other	279	207	246
Interest expense to affiliates	58	24	10
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Other, net	15	14	(22)
Related Party [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Other, net	$ 2	$ 1	$ 1

Transactions with Affiliates 57

Transactions with Affiliates (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 14,527	$ 10,659	$ 14,262
American Express Company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	961	4,044
American Express Services Europe Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	2,747	2,484
Amex Bank Of Canada [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	1,737	1,593
American Express Australia Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	1,616	1,290
American Express Company (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	812	765
American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	325	291
American Express International, Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	1,180	0
American Express Saudi Arabia (C) JSC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	34	0
Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	138	0
American Express International (NZ), Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	80	85
American Express Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	3,847	0
Amex Global Holdings CV [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	888	0
Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	38	0
American Express International, Inc. - Branch - Singapore [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 124	$ 107

Transactions with Affiliates 58

Transactions with Affiliates (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,997	$ 4,559	$ 5,439
AE Exposure Management Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	4,548	3,361
American Express Swiss Holdings Gmbh [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	444	376
American Express Europe LLC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	765	515
American Express Holdings Netherlands CV [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	192	192
Amex Funding Management (Europe) Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	0	73
Accertify Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 48	$ 42

Transactions with Affiliates 59

Transactions with Affiliates (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Parties Textuals [Abstract]
Card Member receivables and loans purchased without recourse from TRS	$ 262,000	$ 225,000	$ 227,000
Participation Interest And Card Member Receivables Sold To Affiliates	9,400	5,700	2,600
Discount Revenue Earned From Purchased Cardmember Receivables And Loans	760	471	479
Uncharged Servicing Fees to Affiliates	234	253	242
Restricted Cash with Affiliates	100	0	0
Long Term Debt with Affiliates	270	0	0
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	14,527	10,659	$ 14,262
Participation interests in Card Member receivables purchased without recourse	4,100	4,000
30 Days or More Past Due [Member] | Reserves for Losses [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	0	0
Collateralized [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 5,000	$ 3,300

Changes In Accumulated Other 60

Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Changes in other comprehensive income
Balances as of start of period	$ (1,263)
Net translation gain (loss) of investments in foreign operations	(209)	$ 49	$ 0
Balances as of end of period	(998)	(1,263)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Changes in other comprehensive income
Balances as of start of period	(1,263)	(1,156)	(787)
Net translation gain (loss) of investments in foreign operations	439	(187)	(604)
Net (losses) gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations	(174)	80	235
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	265	(107)	(369)
Balances as of end of period	$ (998)	$ (1,263)	$ (1,156)

Changes in Accumulated Other 61

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other comprehensive loss
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax	$ (209)	$ 49	$ 0
Net investment hedges	(103)	48	140
Total tax impact	(312)	$ 97	$ 140
Tax Benefits	$ 289

Changes in Accumulated Other 62

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Income (Textuals) [Abstract]
Amount of gain loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to income	$ 0	$ 0

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current Income Tax Expense Benefit Continuing Operations [Abstract]
U.S. federal	$ 785	$ (4)	$ 15
U.S. state and local	15	(6)	(4)
Non-U.S.	24	11	20
Total current income tax expense	824	1	31
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	58	10	(5)
U.S. state and local	1	1	0
Non-U.S.	(5)	3	12
Total deferred income tax expense	54	14	7
Total income tax expense	$ 878	$ 15	$ 38

Income Taxes (Details 1)

Income Taxes (Details 1)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Effective tax rate reconciliation
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
(Decrease) increase in taxes resulting from:
State and local income taxes, net of federal benefit	(0.30%)	(0.50%)	0.00%
Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings	(25.70%)	(25.10%)	(25.50%)
Tax Settlements	(1.10%)	(1.40%)	(0.40%)
Other	(0.20%)	(0.90%)	6.00%
U.S. Tax Act	311.60%	0.00%	0.00%
Actual tax rate	319.30%	7.10%	15.10%

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes	$ 26	$ 23
State income taxes	5	9
Foreign exchange loss	7	0
Other	0	1
Gross deferred tax assets	38	33
Deferred tax liabilities:
Investment in foreign subsidiaries	105	0
Foreign exchange gain	0	8
Gross deferred tax liabilities	105	8
Net deferred tax assets	$ (67)	$ 25

Income Taxes (Details 3)

Income Taxes (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance, January 1	$ 308	$ 211	$ 364
Increases:
Current year tax positions	8	79	2
Tax positions related to prior years	0	24	1
Decreases:
Tax positions related to prior years	(289)	(1)	(152)
Settlements with tax authorities	0	(1)	0
Lapse of statute of limitations	(3)	(4)	(4)
Balance, December 31	$ 24	$ 308	$ 211

Income Taxes (Details 4)

Income Taxes (Details 4) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
Deemed Repatriation Tax Payments Due By Year [Line Items]
2,018	$ 0
2019-2020	122
2021-2022	116
2023 and Thereafter	491
Total	$ 729

Income Taxes (Details Textuals)

Income Taxes (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits change as a result of potential resolutions of prior years' tax	$ 3
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Out of period tax adjustment			$ 11
Accumulated earnings intended to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S.		$ 4,900
Unrecognized tax benefits	$ 24	308	211	$ 364
Unrecognized tax benefits that effect effective tax rate	19	12	14
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest expense	1	2	$ 1
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest accrued	5	48
Current federal taxes payable/receivable	786	17
Income tax paid/refund net	(308)	45
Tax benefit recognized in subsequent period		289
Out of period tax rate adjustment			4.40%
Tax positions related to prior years	(289)	$ (1)	$ (152)
U.S. Tax Act Discrete Net Charge	858
U.S. Tax Act Deemed Repatriation of Taxes	737
U.S. Tax Act Deferred Tax on distribution of foreign subs earnings	105
U.S. Tax Act Remeasurement Of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	16
Deemed Repatriation Tax Payments Due By Year Total	$ 729
Tax Year 2018 [Member]
Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items]
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate	21.00%
Twelve Month [Member]
Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits that effect effective tax rate	$ 2
Resolution Of Uncertain Tax Positions [Member]
Income Taxes (Textuals) [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest accrued	$ 42
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Earliest Year [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Open tax years by major tax jurisdiction	2,008
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Latest Year [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Open tax years by major tax jurisdiction	2,014

Significant Credit Concentrat69

Significant Credit Concentrations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	$ 36	$ 32
Individuals [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	7	7
Financial Services [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	1	2
Loans to affiliates and other
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	15	11
Due from Affiliates [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	0	1
Institutions [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	$ 13	$ 11

Significant Credit Concentrat70

Significant Credit Concentrations (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet	$ 36	$ 32
Individuals [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet	7	7
Card Members Member Loans And Receivables [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet	21	19
United States [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet	15	14
Outside the United States [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet	$ 6	$ 5

Geographic Regions (Details)

Geographic Regions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Revenues and Pretax Income (Loss) by Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 296	$ 286	$ 253	$ 252	$ 179	$ 180	$ 179	$ 180	$ 1,087	$ 718	$ 755
Pretax income	$ 72	$ 85	$ 52	$ 66	$ 20	$ 70	$ 65	$ 57	275	212	252
United States [Member]
Segment Revenues and Pretax Income (Loss) by Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues									779	440	442
Pretax income									9	16	111
Outside the United States [Member]
Segment Revenues and Pretax Income (Loss) by Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues									308	278	313
Pretax income									$ 266	$ 196	$ 141

Quarterly Financial Data (Detai

Quarterly Financial Data (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Disclosure of quarterly financial data
Revenues	$ 296	$ 286	$ 253	$ 252	$ 179	$ 180	$ 179	$ 180	$ 1,087	$ 718	$ 755
Pretax income	72	85	52	66	20	70	65	57	275	212	252
Net (loss) income	$ (791)	$ 72	$ 57	$ 59	$ 29	$ 60	$ 57	$ 51	$ (603)	$ 197	$ 214