American Express Credit 10-K 14 Mar 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Mar. 14, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	AMERICAN EXPRESS CREDIT CORPORATION
Entity Central Index Key	4,969
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
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, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenues
Discount revenue earned from purchased Card Member receivables and loans	$ 479	$ 502	$ 547
Interest income from affiliates and other	246	384	414
Finance revenue	30	43	46
Total revenues	755	929	1,007
Expenses
Provisions for losses	165	202	148
Interest expense	350	496	590
Interest expense to affiliates	10	6	7
Other, net	(22)	(93)	(88)
Total expenses	503	611	657
Pretax income	252	318	350
Income tax provision (benefit)	38	(35)	(96)
Net income	$ 214	$ 353	$ 446

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 214	$ 353	$ 446
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(369)	(309)	(486)
Other comprehensive loss	(369)	(309)	(486)
Comprehensive (loss) income	$ (155)	$ 44	$ (40)

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 173	$ 74
Card Member receivables held for sale	24	0
Card Member receivables, less reserves	17,493	14,413
Card Member loans, less reserves	431	398
Loans to affiliates and other	14,262	15,303
Due from affiliates	615	2,206
Other assets	287	446
Total assets	33,285	32,840
Liabilities
Short-term debt	2,120	769
Short-term debt to affiliates	5,439	4,334
Long-term debt	21,725	24,282
Total debt	29,284	29,385
Due to affiliates	1,727	888
Accrued interest and other liabilities	155	178
Total liabilities	31,166	30,451
Shareholder's Equity
Common stock, $.10 par value, authorized 3 million shares; issued and outstanding 1.5 million shares	0	0
Additional paid-in-capital	161	161
Retained earnings	3,114	3,015
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(1,156)	(787)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(1,156)	(787)
Total shareholder's equity	2,119	2,389
Total liabilities and shareholder's equity	$ 33,285	$ 32,840

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets
Card Member receivables, reserves	$ 114	$ 94
Card Member loans, reserves	$ 4	$ 3
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	$ 232	$ 92

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income	$ 214	$ 353	$ 446
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provisions for losses	165	202	148
Amortization of underwriting expense	30	24	20
Deferred taxes	8	(17)	9
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Interest, taxes and other amounts due to/from affiliates	(262)	44	(199)
Other operating assets and liabilities	458	(455)	(675)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	613	151	(251)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net (increase) decrease in Card Member receivables and loans, including held for sale	(3,592)	(251)	936
Net decrease (increase) in loans to affiliates and other	152	(4,746)	1,210
Net decrease in due from affiliates	2,605	662	6
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(835)	(4,335)	2,152
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net increase in short-term debt	1,351	569	179
Net increase (decrease) in short-term debt to affiliates	1,112	798	(524)
Issuance of long-term debt	6,522	7,509	3,549
Principal payments on long-term debt	(8,545)	(4,355)	(4,845)
Dividends paid	(115)	(342)	(441)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	325	4,179	(2,082)
Effect of foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents	(4)	(7)	(8)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	99	(12)	(189)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	74	86	275
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 173	$ 74	$ 86

Consolidated Statements of Cas7

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Non-cash investing activities
Transfer of Card Member receivables, during the fourth quarter of 2015, to Card Member receivables held for sale, net of reserves	$ 21	$ 0	$ 0

Consolidated Statements of Shar

Consolidated Statements of Shareholder's Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 3,168	$ 0	$ 161	$ 8	$ 2,999
Net income	446				446
Other comprehensive loss	(486)			(486)
Cash dividends paid	(441)				(441)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	2,687	0	161	(478)	3,004
Net income	353				353
Other comprehensive loss	(309)			(309)
Cash dividends paid	(342)				(342)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	2,389	0	161	(787)	3,015
Net income	214				214
Other comprehensive loss	(369)			(369)
Cash dividends paid	(115)				(115)
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 2,119	$ 0	$ 161	$ (1,156)	$ 3,114

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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). American Express charge cards and American Express credit cards are collectively referred to herein as the c ard. Credco is engaged in the busi ness of financing non-interest- ear n ing C ard Member receivables arising from the use of the American Express ® Green Card, the American Express ® Gold Card, Platinum Card ® , Corporate Card and other American Express ca rds issued in the United States and in certain cou ntries outside the United States . Credco also finances certain interest- ear n ing revolving loans generated by Card Member spending on Ameri can Express credit cards issued in non- U.S. markets, although interest-earning revolving loans are primarily 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 length 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 minimum 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 ot her American Express subsidiaries. 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 M ember 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 States of America (GAAP). S ignificant intercompa ny transactions are eliminated. Credco consolidates entities in which it holds a “ controlling financial interest .” For voting interest entities, Credco is considered to hold a controll ing financial interest when it is able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), Credco is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is determined to be the primary b eneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the party that has both: (1) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact that entity’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the V IE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The determination of whether an entity is a VIE is based on the amount and characteristics of the entity’s equity. Foreign Currency Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based upon exchange rates prevailing at the end of the reporting period . The resulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehen sive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholder’s equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hedge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of investments in foreign operations. Revenues and ex penses are translated at the average month-end exchange rates during the year. Gains and losses related to transactions in a currency other than the functional currency are reported net in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income, in interest expense or other expense s , depending on the nature of the activity. Net foreign currency transaction gains amounted to approximately $ 14 million, $ 87 million and $ 91 million in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respective ly. Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions Accounting estimates are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements. These estimates are based, in part, on manag ement’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 and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best jud gment of management, but actual results could differ. Discount Revenue Earned from Purchased Card Member Receivables and L oans Credco earns discount revenue from purchasing Card Member receivables and loans at a discount to par value. The discount is defe rred and recognized as revenue over the period that the receivables and loans are estimated 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. Interest income is accrued primarily using the average daily balance method on loans and is recognized based on the outstanding loan princip a l amount and interest rates specified in the agre ements until the out standing 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 outstan ding balance is paid or written off. Interest Expense Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to f und Card Member receivables and loans, general corporate purposes, and liquidity needs, and is recognized as incurred. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and am ounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, and other h ighly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less . Card Member Receivables Held For Sale During the fourth quarter of 2015, American Express determined it would sell certain of its Card Member loans and receivables related to its cobrand partnerships. One of those partnerships, Costco Wholesale Corporation (Costco) in the United States directly impacts Credco . As a result of the determination, Credco transferred Card Member receivables related to the Costco portfolio (the HFS portf olio) purchased from American Express Receivables Financing Corporation VIII LLC (RFC VIII) in the form of participation interest as Card Member receivables held for sale on its Consolidated Balance Sheets. This portfolio was transferred at the net carryin g amount, inclusive of the related reserves for losses, which approximates the lower of cost or fair value in the aggregate, and which will also be the measurement basis applied until consummation of the sales. On February 29, 2016, American Express announ ced that it had entered into an agreement to sell its Costco U.S. cobranded card portfolio to Citibank N.A. Other Significant Accounting Policies The following table identifies Credco’s other significant accounting policies, the Note and page where the No te can be found . Note Significant Accounting Policy Number Note Title Page Card Member Receivables and Loans Note 2 Card Member Receivables and Loans 42 Reserves for Losses – Card Member Receivables and Loans Note 3 Reserves for Losses 44 Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Note 6 Derivatives and Hedging Activities 48 Fair Value Measurements Note 7 Fair Values 51 Income Taxes Note 11 Income Taxes 58 Recently Issued Accounting Standards In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new accounting g uidance on revenue recognition. The guidance 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, supersedes most of the current revenue recognition requirements, and is effective January 1, 2018, with early adoption as of January 1, 2017, permitted. Credco does not intend to adopt the new standard early and continues to e valuate the impact this guidance, including the method of imp lementation, will have on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows, among other items . In January 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities. The standa rd, which is effective January 1, 2018, makes targeted changes to current GAAP, specifically to the classification and measurement of equity securities, and to certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. Credco is currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows, among other items . Classification of Various Items Certain reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications did not have a material impact on Credco's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Card Member Receivables and Loa

Card Member Receivables and Loans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Card Member Receivables and Loans [Abstract]
Card Member Receivables and Loans	Note 2 – Card Member Receivables and Loans American Express’ charge and lending payment card products result in the generation of Card Member receivables and Card Member loans, respectively. This Note is presented excluding amounts associated with the Card Member receivables HFS as of December 31, 2015 . Card Member Receivables Card Member receivables represent amounts due on American Express charge card products. For American Express, the Card Member receivables are reco rded 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 l imits are established to limit the maximum exposure for American Express. Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each month. Credco records these Card Member receivables at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its sub sidiaries that issue the card (card issuers). The net volume of Card Member receivables purchased during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was approximately $ 220 billion, $ 213 billion and $ 210 billion, respectively. 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 Member 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 VIII), a wholly owned subsidiary of TRS that receives undivided, pro rata interests in Card Member receivables tr ansferred to the American Express Issuance Trust (the Charge Trust ) , by TRS. The Charge Trust is a special purpose entity that is consolidated by TRS. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , CRC owned approximately $ 4.1 billion and $ 2.8 billion, respectively, of participation interests in Card Member receivables purchased without recourse from RFC VIII. Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consisted of: (Millions) 2015 2014 U.S. Card Services $ 4,096 $ 2,755 International Card Services (a) 2,175 1,316 Global Commercial Services 11,336 10,436 Card Member receivables (b) 17,607 14,507 Less: Reserve for losses 114 94 Card Member receivables, net (c) $ 17,493 $ 14,413 International is comprised of consumer and small business services. Net of deferr ed discount revenue totaling $ 22 million and $ 16 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 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 Expre ss 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 lending-on-charge feature 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 ti me 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 am ounts. The amounts that Card Members 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). The net volume of Car d Member loans purchased during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $ 4 billion each . Card Member loans are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, net of reserves for losses (refer to Note 3), and include principal, accrued interest and fees receivable. American Express’ policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, and establish reserves for interest that will not be collect ed. Card Member l oans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consisted of: (Millions) 2015 2014 International Card Services $ 435 $ 401 Less: Reserve for losses 4 3 Card Member loans, net (a) $ 431 $ 398 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 presen ts the aging of Card Member receivables and Card Member loans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 : 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2015 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services $ 4,066 $ 11 $ 7 $ 12 $ 4,096 International Card Services 2,148 10 5 12 2,175 Global Commercial Services (a) (b) (b) (b) 93 11,336 Card Member Loans: International Card Services $ 432 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 435 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2014 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services $ 2,729 $ 12 $ 5 $ 9 $ 2,755 International Card Services 1,296 8 4 8 1,316 Global Commercial Services (a) (b) (b) (b) 89 10,436 Card Member Loans: International Card Services $ 399 $ 1 $ ― $ 1 $ 401 For Card Member receivables in Global Commercial Services (GCS), 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 days past billing. The se amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes . 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 present the key credit quality indic ators as of or for the years ended December 31: 2015 2014 Net 30+ Days Past Net 30+ Days Past Write-off Due as a % Write-off Due as a % Rate (a) of Total Rate (a) of Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services 0.85 % 0.73 % 1.03 % 0.94 % International Card Services 1.54 1.24 1.88 1.52 Card Member Loans: International Card Services 1.02 % 0.69 % 0.89 % 0.50 % 2015 2014 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 Commercial Services 0.07 % 0.82 % 0.07 % 0.85 % R epresents the amount of Card Member receivables or Card Member loans owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a % of the average Card Member receivables or Card Member loans balances in each of the periods indicated. R epresents the amount of Card Me mber receivables owned by Credco that are written off, net of recov eries, expressed as a % 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 environm ental qualitative factors, management considers in its monthly evaluation process for reserves for losses.

Reserves for Losses

Reserves for Losses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 loans and receivables, as of the balance s heet date. Management’ s evaluation process requires certain estimates and judgments. Reserves for losses are primarily based upon statistical and analytical models that analyze portfolio performance and reflect management’s judgment regarding the quantit ative components of the reserve. The models take into account several factors, including delinquency - based loss migration rates, loss emergence periods and average losses and recoveries over an appropriate historical period. Management considers whether to adjust the quantitative reserves for certain external and internal qualitative factors , which may increase or decrease the reserves for losses on Card Member receivables and loans . These external factors include employment, spend, sentiment, housing and c redit, and changes in the 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 receivable s and loans balances are written off when management considers amounts to be uncollectible , which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due. Card Member r eceivables and loans in bankruptcy or ow ed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification , and r ecoveries are recognized as they are collected . This Note is presented excluding amounts associated with the Card Member receivables HFS as of December 31, 2015. 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) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 94 $ 76 $ 83 Provisions 160 194 145 Other credits (a) 32 15 41 Net write-offs (b) (157) (166) (148) Other debits (c)(d) (15) (25) (45) Balance, December 31 $ 114 $ 94 $ 76 Primarily r eserve balances applicable to new groups of Card Member receivables purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiar ies and participation interests from affiliates . New groups of Card Member receivables purchased totaled $ 5.8 billion, $ 3.4 billion and $ 7.7 billion for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively . Net of recoveries of $ 100 million, $ 98 million and $ 110 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances applicable to participation interests in Card Member receivables sold to an affiliate and, for 2014, reserves applicable to Card Member receivables sold to the joint ventures that issue American Express cards in certain countries (American Express joint ventures ) following the termination of the agreements to purchase Card Member receivables in the third quarter o f 2014. Sales of these participation interests and Card Member receivables totaled $ 2.6 billion, $ 3.2 billion and $ 9.1 billion for t he years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. 2015 includes the impact of the transfer of r eserves 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 lo sses for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 3 $ 4 $ 5 Provisions 5 8 3 Net write-offs (a) (4) (4) (4) Other debits (b) ― (5) ― Balance, December 31 $ 4 $ 3 $ 4 Net of recoveries of $ 1 million, $ 4 million and $ 5 million for years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances applicable to sales of Card Member loans to the American Express joint ventures following the termination of the agreements to purchase Card Member loans in the third quarter of 2014. Card Member loans sold totaled nil and $ 183 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 : 2015 2014 Outstanding Year-End Stated Outstanding Year-End Stated (Millions, except percentages) Balance Rate on Debt Balance Rate on Debt Commercial paper $ 2,120 0.38 % $ 769 0.29 % Total $ 2,120 0.38 % $ 769 0.29 % Credco p aid interest on short-term debt obligations of $ 3.5 million, $ 0.3 million and $ 1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively . 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: 2015 2014 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 2016-2020 $ 16,469 2.16 % 1.28 % $ 16,260 2.26 % 1.22 % Floating Rate Senior Notes 2016-2020 5,300 0.98 ― 4,400 0.82 ― Borrowings under Bank Credit Facilities ― ― ― % 3,672 4.25 ― % Unamortized Underwriting Fees (44) (50) Total Long-Term Debt $ 21,725 1.87 % $ 24,282 2.3 % 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. R efer to Note 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 floating rates in effect as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 . Effective interest rates are only presented when swaps are in place to hedge the underlying debt. Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2015 were as follows : (Millions) 2016 $ 4,931 2017 4,900 2018 3,614 2019 4,150 2020 4,150 Total 21,745 Unamortized Underwriting Fees (44) Unamortized Discount and Premium (10) Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting 34 Total Long-Term Debt $ 21,725 As of December 31, 2015 , Credco maintain ed a bank line of credit of $ 3 bill ion compared to bank lines of credit of $ 6.7 billion as of December 31, 2014 . Of the total credit lines, $ 3.0 billion was undrawn as of both December 31, 2015 and 2014 . These undrawn amounts support commercial paper borrowin gs and contingent funding needs. Credco paid $ 25.8 million and $ 40.6 million in fees to maintain these lines for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2015 , Credco’s ratio of earnings to fixed charges was 1.70 . These committed facilities do not contain material adverse change clauses that would preclude borrowing under the credit facilities. Additionally, the facilities may not be terminated should there be a change in Credco’s credit ratings. Credco paid interest on long-term debt obligations and correspo nding interest rate swaps of $ 0.3 billion, $ 0.5 billion and $ 0.5 billion for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively.

Restrictions as to Dividends an

Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtedness	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 T he debt instruments issued by Credco impose the requirement that Credco maintain a minimum consolidated net worth of $ 50 million, which limit s the amount of dividends Credco could 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, 2015
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 rate s 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 value s resulting from movements in market prices. Credco’s market risk exposure s 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. Interest rate exposure within charge card and 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 e conomically 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 business volumes and mix, among other factors. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, Credco did not have any designated cash flow hedges. Foreign exchange risk is generated by funding foreign currency Card Member receivables and loans with U.S. dollars , foreign currency balan ce sheet exposures , foreign subsidiary equity and foreign currency earnings in entities outside the U nited 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, which can help mitigate Credco’s exposure to specific currencies. Expos ures from foreign subsidiary equity in Credco’s entities outside the U nited S tates are hedged through the use of foreign exchange forwards executed either by Credco or TRS. Derivative s may give rise to counterparty credit risk , which is the risk that a der ivative counterparty will default on, or otherwise be unable to perform pursuant to an uncollateralized derivative exposure. The risk is managed by considering the current exposure, which is the replacement cost of contracts on the measurement date, as wel l as estimating the maximum potential value of the contracts over the next 12 months, considering such factors as the volatility of the underlying or reference index. To mitigate derivative credit risk, counterparties are required to be pre-approved by Ame rican Express and rated as investment grade and c ounterparty 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 th e parties. To further mitigate bilateral counterparty credit risk, Credco exercises its rig hts 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 par ty in the net liability position posts collateral to its counterparty. All derivative contracts cleared through a central clearinghouse 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 any outstanding liability balances or post collateral upon the occurrence of a specified credit risk-related event. Based on the assessment of credit risk of Credco’s derivative counterparties as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Credco does not have derivative positions that warrant credit valuation adjustments. Credco’s derivative s are carried at fair value on the Consolidated 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 value of derivative s. The following table summarizes the total fair value, excluding interest accruals, of derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31: Accrued Interest and Other Assets Other Liabilities Fair Value Fair Value (Millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Interest rate contracts Fair value hedges $ 64 $ 90 $ 9 $ 4 Foreign exchange contracts Net investment hedges 30 186 13 ― Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 94 276 22 4 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 62 73 33 49 Total derivatives, gross 156 349 55 53 Less: Cash collateral netting (a) (53) (63) ― ― Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b) (33) (50) (33) (50) Total derivatives, net (c) $ 70 $ 236 $ 22 $ 3 Represents the offsetting of derivative instruments and the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) arising from derivative instrument(s) executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement . From time to time, Credco also receives non-cash collateral from counterparties in the form of security interests in U.S. Treasury securities, which reduces Credco’s risk exposure, but does not reduce the net exposur e on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Credco had such non-cash collateral, with a fair value of $ 40 million as of December 31 , 2014 , none of which was sold or repledged . Credco did not have any such non-cash collateral as of December 31, 2015. Additionally, Credco posted $ 128 million and $ 91 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, as initial margin on its centra lly cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not netted against the derivative balances. Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforcea ble master netting arrangement. Credco has no individually significant derivative counterparties and therefore, no significant risk exposure to any single derivative counterparty. The tot al net derivative assets and derivative li abilities are presented within Other assets and Accrued interest and other l iabilities on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. A majority of C redco ’s derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31 , 2015 and 2014 are subject to master netting agreements with its d erivative counterparties. As noted previously , Credco has no derivative amounts subject to enforceable master netting arrangements that are not offset on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Derivative Financial Instruments that Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivative s 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 hedg ed . 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 the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usuall y are m ade 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 deri vative 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. Credco uses interest rate swaps to economically convert certain fix ed-rate debt obligations to floating-rate obligations at the time of issuance. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Credco hedged $ 15.9 billion and $ 14.7 billion, respectively, of its fixed-rate debt to floating-rate debt using interest rate swaps. 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 attrib utable to the hedged risk. Any difference between the changes in the fair value of the derivative and the hedged item is referred to as hedge ineffectiveness and is reflected in earnings as a component of O ther expenses . Hedge ineffectiveness may be caused by differences between a debt instrument ’s interest coupon and the benchmark rate, primarily due to credit spreads at inception of the hedging relationship that are not reflected in the valuation of the interest rate swap. Furthermore, hedge ineffectivene ss may be caused by changes in the relationship between 3-month LIBOR and 1-month LIBOR , as well as between the overnight indexed swap (OIS) and 1 -month LIBOR , as spreads between these rates may impact the valuation of the interest rate swap without causin g an offsetting impact in the value of the hedged debt. If a fair value hedge is de-designated or no longer considered to be effective, changes in fair value of the derivative continue to be recorded through earnings but the hedged asset or liability is no longer adjusted for changes in fair value resulting from changes in interest rates . The existing basis adjustment of the hedged asset or liability is amortized or accreted as an adjustment to yield over the remaining life of that asset or liability. Th e following table summarizes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with Credco’s fair value hedges of its fixed-rate long-term debt for the years ended December 31: Gains (losses) recognized in income (Millions) Derivative contract Hedged item Net hedge Derivative Income Statement Amount Income Statement Amount ineffectiveness relationship Line Item 2015 2014 2013 Line Item 2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013 Interest rate contracts Other expenses $ (31) $ (93) $ (224) Other expenses $ 44 $ 101 $ 218 $ 13 $ 8 $ (6) Credco also recognized a net reduction in interest expense on long-term debt of $ 177 million, $ 187 million and $ 235 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , 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 net 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 instruments reduce exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on Credco’s investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. The effective portion of the gain on net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) as part of the cumulative translation adjustment was $ 235 million, $ 162 million and $ 15 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, with any ineffective portion recognized in Other expenses during the period of change. No ineffectiveness or other amounts associated with net investment hedges were reclassified from AOCI into income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges Credco has derivative s that act as economic hedges , but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions and non-U.S. dollar cash flow exposures from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contr acts, 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 v alue of the derivatives effectively offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses on the unde rlying balance sheet exposures. F rom time to time, Credco also may enter into interest rate swaps to specifically manage funding costs related to American Express’ proprietary card business. For derivative s that are not designated as hedges, changes in fair value are reported in current period earnings. The following table summarizes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the Cr edco’s derivatives not designated as hedges for the years ended December 31: Pretax gains (losses) Amount Description (Millions) Income Statement Line Item 2015 2014 2013 Foreign exchange contracts Other expenses $ (5) $ 133 $ 78 Total $ (5) $ 133 $ 78

Fair Values

Fair Values	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 – I nputs 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, 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2015 and 2014 , 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 valuation hierarchy as Level 2 (as described in the preceding paragraphs ), as of December 31 : (Millions) 2015 2014 Assets: Derivatives (a) $ 156 $ 349 Total assets 156 349 Liabilities: Derivatives (a) 55 53 Total liabilities $ 55 $ 53 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 Measur ement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at F air 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 esti mated by third-party valuation service s that use proprietary pricing models or by internal pric ing models, where the input s to those models are readily observable from actively quoted markets. T he 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 used by the third-party valuation service s at least annually. Credco’s derivative instruments are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 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 coupon rate, floating coupon rate (based on interbank rates consistent with the frequency and curre ncy of the interest cash flows) and tenor, as well as discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cas h 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 factors of the currency in which the cash flows are denominated. Credit valuation adjustments are necess ary when the ma rket parameters, such as a benchmark curve, used to value derivatives are not indicative of the credit quality of Credco or its counterparties. Credco considers the counterparty credit risk by applying an observable forecasted default rate to the current e xposure. Refer to Note 6 for additional fair value information. Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at Other Than Fair Value The following table dis closes 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, 2015 and 2014 . The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, 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. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2015 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value $ 18.4 $ 18.4 $ 0.2 (a) $ 18.2 $ ― Card Member receivables HFS (b) (b) ― (b) ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.4 0.4 ― ― 0.4 Loans to affiliates and other 14.3 14.3 ― 11.3 3.0 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 9.4 9.4 ― 9.4 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt $ 21.7 $ 21.8 $ ― $ 21.8 $ ― Reflects cash and due from banks. Reflects carrying value and the associated fair value of Card Member receivables HFS of $24 million, but does not include any fair value associated with the Card Member account relationships. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2014 (Billions) Value Total Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value $ 16.8 $ 16.8 $ 16.8 $ ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.4 0.4 ― 0.4 Loans to affiliates and other 15.3 15.2 12.3 2.9 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 6.0 6.0 6.0 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt $ 24.3 $ 24.5 $ 24.5 $ ― The fair values of these financial instruments are estimates based upon the market conditions and perceived risks as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, and require management judgment. These figure s 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 F or 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 the following valuation techniques to measure fair value: Financial Assets F or Which Car rying Values Equal O r Approximate Fair Value Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include cash and cash equivalents, Card Member receivables HFS, Card Member receivables , due from affiliates, accrued interest and certain other assets. For these assets, the carrying values approximate fa ir value because they are short term in duration , have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate. Financial Assets Carried A t O ther T han Fair Value Card Member lo ans 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 model. Due to the lack of a comparable whole loan sal es market for similar credit card 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 projected income (inclusive of future interes t payments), estimated pay-down rates, discount rates and relevant credit costs. Loans to affiliates and other Loans to affiliates and other a re 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 t hose rates for necessary ris ks. Financial Liabilities F or Which Carrying Values Equal O r 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, accrued interest and certain other liabilities for which the carrying values appr oximate fair value because they are short term in du ration, have no defined maturity or have a market-based interest rate. Financial Liabilities Carried A t O ther T han Fair Value Long-term de bt Long-term debt 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 observ ed 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 credit risk, Credco uses market interest rates a nd 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 long-term debt offered by Credco , and interes t 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 for impairment on a nonrecurring basis during the years ended D ecember 31, 2015 and 2014 .

Variable Interest Entity

Variable Interest Entity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Variable Interest Entity [Abstract]
Variable Interest Entity	No te 8 – Variable Interest Entity Credco has establ ished a VIE , American Express Canada Credit Corporation (AECCC), used primarily to l end f unds 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 outst anding voting interests and , therefore, consolidates the entity in accordance with accounting guidance governing consolidation of VIEs. Total assets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 were $ 1.7 billion and $ 2.1 billion, respectively, the majority of which were eliminated in consolidation . Total liabilities as of December 31, 2015 an d 2014 were $ 1.7 billion and $ 2 billion, respectively. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , $ 809 million and $ 969 million, respectively, of liabilities 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 rec ourse to Cr edco .

Transactions With Affiliates

Transactions With Affiliates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , Credco purchased Card Member receivables and loans without recourse from TRS and certain of its subsid iaries totaling approximately $ 227 billion, $ 221 billion and $ 223 billion, respectively. In 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , Credco sold Card Member receivables and participating int erests to affiliates totaling $ 2.6 billion, $ 2.8 billion and $ 9.1 billion, respectively. The discount revenue on purchased Card Member receivables and lo ans totaled $ 479 million, $ 502 million and $ 547 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The receivables ag reements require TRS and its subsidiaries to perform accounting, 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 e nd of each month. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , CRC owned approximately $ 4.1 billion and $ 2.8 billion, respectively, of participation interests purchased from RFC VIII . Other transactions wi th affiliates as of or for the years ended December 31, were as follows: (Millions, except percentages) 2015 2014 2013 Loans to affiliates and other $ 14,262 $ 15,303 $ 11,340 Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other 1.81 % 2.69 % 3.54 % Due from affiliates $ 615 $ 2,206 $ 3,380 Short-term debt to affiliates 5,439 4,334 3,583 Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates 0.19 % 0.15 % 0.16 % Maximum month-end level of borrowings during the year $ 5,439 $ 5,029 $ 6,673 Due to affiliates 1,727 888 1,323 Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year 17,711 18,695 13,507 Interest income from affiliates and other 246 384 414 Interest expense to affiliates 10 6 7 Other, net expense from affiliates $ 1 $ (3) $ (9) 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 i n the Consolidated Statements of Income. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , no amount of loss reserves ha s been recorded and no loan s are 30 days or more past du e. The c omponents of loans to affiliates and other as of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 American Express Company $ 6,923 $ 5,937 American Express Services Europe Limited 2,981 3,075 Amex Bank of Canada 1,770 2,581 American Express Australia Limited 1,193 2,693 American Express Co. (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. 778 495 American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. 337 382 American Express International, Inc. 110 100 American Express International (NZ) Inc. 95 ― Amex (Saudi Arabia) Limited 75 28 Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A. ― 12 Total (a) $ 14,262 $ 15,303 As of December 31, 2015 , approximately $ 3.6 billion of total loans to affiliates and other were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and Card Member loans transferred with recourse and the remaining $ 10.7 billion were uncollateralized loans primarily to affiliated banks, American Express Company and the American Express joint ventures. As of December 31, 2014 , approximately $ 5.2 billion of total loans to affiliates an d other were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and Card Member loans transferred with recourse and the remaining $ 10.1 billion were uncollateralized loans primarily to affiliated banks, American Express Company a nd the American Express joint ventures. Due from /to affiliates relate primarily to timing difference s from the purchase of Card Member receivables , net of remittances from TRS, as well as from operating activities. Components of short-term debt to affiliates a s of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 AE Exposure Management Ltd. $ 3,047 $ 2,851 American Express Europe LLC 1163 831 American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. 599 ― American Express Swiss Holdings 389 403 American Express Holdings (Netherlands) C.V. 190 188 American Express Funding Management (Europe) Limited 51 61 Total $ 5,439 $ 4,334 Short-term debt to affiliates consists primarily of master note agreements for which there is no stated term. Credco does not expect any changes to its short-term funding strategies with affiliates. Service Fees to Affiliates C redco’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 sold to Credco than would be the case if servicing fees were charged. If a servicing fe e had been charged by these affiliates from which Credco purchases receivables, fees to affiliates for servicing receivables would have been approximately $ 242 million , $ 212 million and $ 138 millio n for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , 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 (Loss) Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Income Disclosure [Abstract]
Comprehensive loss	Note 10 – Changes in Accumu lated Other Comprehensive Loss A ccumulated O ther C omprehensive Loss 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 A djustments for the three years end ed December 31 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation (Millions), net of tax (a) Adjustments Balances as of December 31, 2012 $ 8 Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (501) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 15 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (486) Balances as of December 31, 2013 (478) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (471) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 162 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (309) 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) The following table shows the tax impact for the three years ended December 31 for th e changes in each component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive L oss : Tax expense (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Foreign currency translation adjustments $ ― $ 30 $ ― Net investment hedges 140 96 9 Total tax impact $ 140 $ 126 $ 9 No amounts were reclassified out of A ccumulated O ther C omprehensive Loss into the Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended December 3 1 , 2015 .

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Note 11 – Income Taxes The results of operations of Credco are included in the consolidated U.S. federal income tax return of 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 company basis, such benefits are then recognized based upon a sha re, 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 ended December 31 included in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income w ere as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Current income tax expense (benefit): U.S. federal $ 15 $ (22) $ (122) U.S. state and local (4) (23) (5) Non-U.S. 20 22 21 Total current income tax expense (benefit) 31 (23) (106) Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: U.S. federal (5) ― ― Non-U.S. 12 (12) 10 Total deferred income tax expense (benefit) 7 (12) 10 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 38 $ (35) $ (96) 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: 2015 2014 2013 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) (0.6) Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings (a) (25.5) (38.4) (39.2) Tax Settlements (b) (0.4) (4.4) (22.9) All other (c) 6.0 (3.0) 0.3 Actual tax rate 15.1 % (11.1) % (27.4) % 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 are indefinitely reinvested. Credco’s effective tax rate reflects the favorable impact of the tax benefit related to its ongoing funding activitie s outside of the United States. The lower tax benefit in 2015 is due to an unfavorable change in the geographic mix of e arnings . The tax rate reflects favorable resolution of certain prior years’ tax items. The 2015 tax rate reflects the impact of 2014 tax returns filed in 2015 . The results for the year ended December 31, 2015 reflect out-of- per iod corrections that increased tax expense by $11 million. The 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 material ly misstated from these corrections. Credco records a deferred income tax (benefit) provision when there are differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting and for income tax return purposes. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years and are measured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established when management determines that it is more likely tha n not that all or some portion of the benefit of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Credco generated pre-tax net operating losses in jurisdictions outside the U nited States that totaled approximately nil and $ 43 million for December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The reduction is due to current year utilization of the net operating loss and adjustments arising from the 2014 tax return filed in 2015. The significant components of deferred tax assets and l iabilities as of December 31 are re flected in the following table: (Millions) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes $ 28 $ 27 State income taxes 11 12 Net operating losses ― 13 Other 2 ― Gross deferred tax assets 41 52 Deferred tax liabilities: Investment in foreign subsidiaries 1 4 Gross deferred tax liabilities 1 4 Net deferred tax assets $ 40 $ 48 Accumulated earnings of certain non-U.S. subsidiaries, which totaled approximately $ 4.8 billion as of December 31, 2015 , are intended to be permanently rein vested outside the U nited S tates. Credco does not provide for federal income taxes on foreign earnings intended to be permanently rein vested outside the U nited S tates . Accordingly, federal taxes, which would ha ve aggregated approximately $ 1.6 billion as of December 31, 2015 , have not been provided on those earnings. 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, an d the manner in which they apply to the taxpayer’s facts is sometimes 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 aut horities based on the technical merits of the tax position. A tax position is recognized only when, based on management’s judgment regarding the application of income tax laws, it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examina tion. The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes is based on management’s best judgment of the largest amount of benefit that is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement with the taxing authority given the facts, ci rcumstances and information available at the reporting date. Credco 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 Inte rnal Revenue Service (IRS) and tax authorities in other countries and states in which American Express has significant business operations. The tax years under examination and open for examination vary by jurisdiction. T he IRS has completed its field exami nation of American Expre ss’ federal tax returns for years through 200 7; however, refund claims for certain years continue to be reviewed by the IRS. In addition, American Express is currently under examination b y the IRS for the years 2008 through 2011 . The followi ng table presents changes in unrecognized tax benefits: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 364 $ 481 $ 757 Increases: Current year tax positions 2 2 19 Tax positions related to prior years 1 1 1 Decreases: Tax positions related to prior years (152) (113) (290) Settlements with tax authorities ― (7) ― Lapse of statute of limitations (4) ― (6) Balance, December 31 $ 211 $ 364 $ 481 Included in the unrecognized tax benefits of $ 211 million, $ 364 million and $ 481 million for December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , r espectively, are approximately $ 14 million, $ 16 million and $ 23 million, respectively that if recognized, would favorably affect the effecti ve tax rate in a future p eriod. Credco believes it is reasonably possible that its unrecognized tax benefits could decrease within the next 12 months by as much as $ 6 million principally as a result of potential resolutions of prior yea rs’ tax items with various taxing authorities . The prior years’ tax items include unrecognized tax benefits relating to the deductibility of certain expenses or losses and the attribution of taxable income to a particular jurisdiction or jurisdictions . Resolution of the prior years’ items that comprise thi s amount could have an impact on the effective tax rate and on net income, either favorably (principally as a result of settlements that are less than the liability for unrecognized tax benefits) or unf avorably (if such settlements exceed the liability for unrecognized tax benefits). Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision. During the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , Cr edco recognized tax benefits of approximatel y $ 1 million, $ 10 million and $ 7 million, respectively , related to interest and penalties. Credco has a pproximately $ 42 million and $ 21 million accrued for the payment of interest and penalties as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , r espectively. Current taxes due from/to affiliates included current federal and state taxes receivable from American Express of $ 44 million as of December 31, 2015 , and current federal and state taxes payable to American Express of $ 118 million as of December 31, 2014 . Net income taxes pai d by Credco during 2015 were $ 332 million and refunded to Credco during 2014 were $ 46 million.

Significant Credit Concentratio

Significant Credit Concentrations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 geographic regions. The following table details Credco’s maximum credit exposure by category , including the credit exposure associated with derivative financial instruments, as of December 31: (Billions) 2015 2014 On-balance sheet: Individuals (a) $ 7 $ 4 Financial institutions (b) 1 1 Loans to affiliates and other 14 15 Due from affiliates 1 2 All other (c) 10 11 Total on-balance sheet (d) $ 33 $ 33 Individuals primarily include Card Member receivables and loans, including the HFS portfolio . Financial institutions primarily include debt obligations of banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations. All other primarily includes Card Member receivables from other corporate institutions. Certain distinctions between categories require management judgment. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , Credco’s most significant concentration of credit risk was with individuals and corporate institutions, including Card Member receivables and loans. 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 potenti al 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 expos ure. The following table details Credco’s Card Member receivables and loans exp osure in the United States and outside the United States as of December 31: (Billions) 2015 2014 United States (a) $ 13 $ 12 Outside the United States 5 3 Total (b)(c) $ 18 $ 15 Includes Card Member receivables HFS as of December 31, 2015 . Represents Card Member loans to individuals as well as receivables from individuals and corporate institutions as discussed in footnotes (a) and ( c ) from the previous table. The remainder of Credco’s on-balance sheet exposure includes cash and cash equivalents, loans to affiliates and other , due from affi liates and other assets including the credit exposure associated with derivative financial instruments. The majority of thes e balances are outside the United States .

Geographic Regions

Geographic Regions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 following table presents Credco’s revenues and pretax income i n different geographic regions: (Millions) 2015 (a) 2014 (a) 2013 (a) Revenues United States $ 442 $ 524 $ 538 Outside the United States 313 405 469 Consolidated $ 755 $ 929 $ 1,007 Pretax income United States $ 111 $ 165 $ 191 Outside the United States 141 153 159 Consolidated $ 252 $ 318 $ 350 The data in the above table is, in part, based upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment.

Quarterly Financial Data

Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Data	Note 14 – Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows : (Millions) 2015 2014 Quarters ended 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 Revenues $ 180 $ 187 $ 193 $ 195 $ 210 $ 232 $ 246 $ 241 Pretax income 68 45 69 70 69 86 88 75 Net income $ 58 $ 39 $ 49 $ 68 $ 89 $ 87 $ 99 $ 78 Pretax income for the three months ended September 30, 2015 reflects out-of-period correction that decreased expenses by $20.1 million. The correction relates to incorrect mark-to-market valuation of spot trades reflected in June 30, 2015 results. None of the current or prior period financial statements were materially misstated as a result of this error .

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 States of America (GAAP). S ignificant intercompa ny transactions are eliminated. Credco consolidates entities in which it holds a “ controlling financial interest .” For voting interest entities, Credco is considered to hold a controll ing financial interest when it is able to exercise control over the investees’ operating and financial decisions. For variable interest entities (VIEs), Credco is considered to hold a controlling financial interest when it is determined to be the primary b eneficiary. A primary beneficiary is the party that has both: (1) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact that entity’s economic performance, and (2) the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the V IE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. The determination of whether an entity is a VIE is based on the amount and characteristics of the entity’s equity.
Foreign Currency	Foreign Currency Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based upon exchange rates prevailing at the end of the reporting period . The resulting translation adjustments, along with any related qualifying hedge and tax effects, are included in accumulated other comprehen sive income (loss) (AOCI), a component of shareholder’s equity. Translation adjustments, including qualifying hedge and tax effects, are reclassified to earnings upon the sale or substantial liquidation of investments in foreign operations. Revenues and ex penses are translated at the average month-end exchange rates during the year. Gains and losses related to transactions in a currency other than the functional currency are reported net in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income, in interest expense or other expense s , depending on the nature of the activity.
Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions	Amounts Based on Estimates and Assumptions Accounting estimates are an integral part of the Consolidated Financial Statements. These estimates are based, in part, on manag ement’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 and income taxes. These accounting estimates reflect the best jud gment of management, but actual results could differ.
Revenues and Expenses	Discount Revenue Earned from Purchased Card Member Receivables and L oans Credco earns discount revenue from purchasing Card Member receivables and loans at a discount to par value. The discount is defe rred and recognized as revenue over the period that the receivables and loans are estimated 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. Interest income is accrued primarily using the average daily balance method on loans and is recognized based on the outstanding loan princip a l amount and interest rates specified in the agre ements until the out standing 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 outstan ding balance is paid or written off. Interest Expense Interest expense includes interest incurred primarily to f und 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 equivalents include cash and am ounts due from banks, interest-bearing bank balances, and other h ighly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less .
Accounts Receivable And Loans and Reserves For Cardmember Losses [Abstract]
Card Member And Other 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 reco rded 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 l imits are established to limit the maximum exposure for American Express. Charge Card Members generally must pay the full amount billed each month. Credco records these Card Member receivables at the time they are purchased from TRS and certain of its sub sidiaries 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 Expre ss 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 lending-on-charge feature 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 ti me 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 am ounts. The amounts that Card Members 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, accrued interest and fees receivable. American Express’ policy generally is to cease accruing interest on a Card Member loan at the time the account is written off, and establish reserves for interest that will not be collect ed.
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 loans and receivables, as of the balance s heet date. Management’ s evaluation process requires certain estimates and judgments. Reserves for losses are primarily based upon statistical and analytical models that analyze portfolio performance and reflect management’s judgment regarding the quantit ative components of the reserve. The models take into account several factors, including delinquency - based loss migration rates, loss emergence periods and average losses and recoveries over an appropriate historical period. Management considers whether to adjust the quantitative reserves for certain external and internal qualitative factors , which may increase or decrease the reserves for losses on Card Member receivables and loans . These external factors include employment, spend, sentiment, housing and c redit, and changes in the 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 receivable s and loans balances are written off when management considers amounts to be uncollectible , which is generally determined by the number of days past due and is typically no later than 180 days past due. Card Member r eceivables and loans in bankruptcy or ow ed by deceased individuals are generally written off upon notification , and r ecoveries are recognized as they are collected .
Derivatives And Hedging Activities Policy [Abstract]
Derivatives	Derivative Financial Instruments that Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivative s 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 hedg ed . 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 the fair value or cash flows of the hedged items. These assessments usuall y are m ade 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 deri vative 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. Credco uses interest rate swaps to economically convert certain fix ed-rate debt obligations to floating-rate obligations at the time of issuance. Net Investment Hedges A net investment hedge is used to hedge future changes in currency exposure of a net 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 instruments reduce exposure to changes in currency exchange rates on Credco’s investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries. The effective portion of the gain on net investment hedges, net of taxes, recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) as part of the cumulative translation adjustment was $ 235 million, $ 162 million and $ 15 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, with any ineffective portion recognized in Other expenses during the period of change. No ineffectiveness or other amounts associated with net investment hedges were reclassified from AOCI into income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . Derivatives Not Designated as Hedges Credco has derivative s that act as economic hedges , but are not designated as such for hedge accounting purposes. Foreign currency transactions and non-U.S. dollar cash flow exposures from time to time may be partially or fully economically hedged through foreign currency contr acts, 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 v alue of the derivatives effectively offset the related foreign exchange gains or losses on the unde rlying balance sheet exposures. F rom time to time, Credco also may enter into interest rate swaps to specifically manage funding costs related to American Express’ proprietary card business. For derivative s that are not designated as hedges, changes in fair value are reported in current period earnings.
Fair Values [Abstract]
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 – I nputs 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, 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2015 and 2014 , there were no significant transfers between levels . Valuation Techniques Used in the Fair Value Measur ement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Carried at F air 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 esti mated by third-party valuation service s that use proprietary pricing models or by internal pric ing models, where the input s to those models are readily observable from actively quoted markets. T he 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 used by the third-party valuation service s at least annually. Credco’s derivative instruments are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 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 coupon rate, floating coupon rate (based on interbank rates consistent with the frequency and curre ncy of the interest cash flows) and tenor, as well as discount rates consistent with the underlying economic factors of the currency in which the cas h 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 factors of the currency in which the cash flows are denominated. Credit valuation adjustments are necess ary when the ma rket parameters, such as a benchmark curve, used to value derivatives are not indicative of the credit quality of Credco or its counterparties. Credco considers the counterparty credit risk by applying an observable forecasted default rate to the current e xposure. Refer to Note 6 for additional fair value information.
Income Tax Policy [Abstract]
Income taxes	The results for the year ended December 31, 2015 reflect out-of- per iod corrections that increased tax expense by $11 million. The 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 material ly misstated from these corrections. Credco records a deferred income tax (benefit) provision when there are differences between assets and liabilities measured for financial reporting and for income tax return purposes. These temporary differences result in taxable or deductible amounts in future years and are measured using the tax rates and laws that will be in effect when such differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is established when management determines that it is more likely tha n not that all or some portion of the benefit of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
Income tax uncertainties	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, an d the manner in which they apply to the taxpayer’s facts is sometimes 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 aut horities based on the technical merits of the tax position. A tax position is recognized only when, based on management’s judgment regarding the application of income tax laws, it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained upon examina tion. The amount of benefit recognized for financial reporting purposes is based on management’s best judgment of the largest amount of benefit that is more likely than not to be realized on ultimate settlement with the taxing authority given the facts, ci rcumstances and information available at the reporting date. Credco adjusts the level of unrecognized tax benefits when there is new information available to assess the likelihood of the outcome. Interest and penalties relating to unrecognized tax benefits are reported in the income tax provision.

Card Member Receivables and L24

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Accounts Receivable And Loans Tables [Abstract]
Card Member receivables detail	Card Member receivables as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consisted of: (Millions) 2015 2014 U.S. Card Services $ 4,096 $ 2,755 International Card Services (a) 2,175 1,316 Global Commercial Services 11,336 10,436 Card Member receivables (b) 17,607 14,507 Less: Reserve for losses 114 94 Card Member receivables, net (c) $ 17,493 $ 14,413 International is comprised of consumer and small business services. Net of deferr ed discount revenue totaling $ 22 million and $ 16 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively . Card Member receivables modified in a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) program were immaterial.
Card Member loans detail	Card Member l oans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consisted of: (Millions) 2015 2014 International Card Services $ 435 $ 401 Less: Reserve for losses 4 3 Card Member loans, net (a) $ 431 $ 398 Card Member loans modified in a TDR program were immaterial .
Aging of Card Member loans and receivables	The following table presen ts the aging of Card Member receivables and Card Member loans as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 : 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2015 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services $ 4,066 $ 11 $ 7 $ 12 $ 4,096 International Card Services 2,148 10 5 12 2,175 Global Commercial Services (a) (b) (b) (b) 93 11,336 Card Member Loans: International Card Services $ 432 $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $ 435 30-59 60-89 Days Days 90+ Days 2014 (Millions) Current Past Due Past Due Past Due Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services $ 2,729 $ 12 $ 5 $ 9 $ 2,755 International Card Services 1,296 8 4 8 1,316 Global Commercial Services (a) (b) (b) (b) 89 10,436 Card Member Loans: International Card Services $ 399 $ 1 $ ― $ 1 $ 401 For Card Member receivables in Global Commercial Services (GCS), 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 days past billing. The se amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes . Delinquency data for periods other than 90 days past billing is not available due to system constraints. Therefore, such data has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current to 89 days past due can be derived as the difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances.
Credit quality indicators for loans and receivables	The following table s present the key credit quality indic ators as of or for the years ended December 31: 2015 2014 Net 30+ Days Past Net 30+ Days Past Write-off Due as a % Write-off Due as a % Rate (a) of Total Rate (a) of Total Card Member Receivables: U.S. Card Services 0.85 % 0.73 % 1.03 % 0.94 % International Card Services 1.54 1.24 1.88 1.52 Card Member Loans: International Card Services 1.02 % 0.69 % 0.89 % 0.50 % 2015 2014 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 Commercial Services 0.07 % 0.82 % 0.07 % 0.85 % R epresents the amount of Card Member receivables or Card Member loans owned by Credco that are written off, net of recoveries, expressed as a % of the average Card Member receivables or Card Member loans balances in each of the periods indicated. R epresents the amount of Card Me mber receivables owned by Credco that are written off, net of recov eries, expressed as a % 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, 2015
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) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 94 $ 76 $ 83 Provisions 160 194 145 Other credits (a) 32 15 41 Net write-offs (b) (157) (166) (148) Other debits (c)(d) (15) (25) (45) Balance, December 31 $ 114 $ 94 $ 76 Primarily r eserve balances applicable to new groups of Card Member receivables purchased from TRS and certain of its subsidiar ies and participation interests from affiliates . New groups of Card Member receivables purchased totaled $ 5.8 billion, $ 3.4 billion and $ 7.7 billion for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively . Net of recoveries of $ 100 million, $ 98 million and $ 110 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances applicable to participation interests in Card Member receivables sold to an affiliate and, for 2014, reserves applicable to Card Member receivables sold to the joint ventures that issue American Express cards in certain countries (American Express joint ventures ) following the termination of the agreements to purchase Card Member receivables in the third quarter o f 2014. Sales of these participation interests and Card Member receivables totaled $ 2.6 billion, $ 3.2 billion and $ 9.1 billion for t he years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. 2015 includes the impact of the transfer of r eserves 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 lo sses for the years ended December 31: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 3 $ 4 $ 5 Provisions 5 8 3 Net write-offs (a) (4) (4) (4) Other debits (b) ― (5) ― Balance, December 31 $ 4 $ 3 $ 4 Net of recoveries of $ 1 million, $ 4 million and $ 5 million for years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Primarily reserve balances applicable to sales of Card Member loans to the American Express joint ventures following the termination of the agreements to purchase Card Member loans in the third quarter of 2014. Card Member loans sold totaled nil and $ 183 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 : 2015 2014 Outstanding Year-End Stated Outstanding Year-End Stated (Millions, except percentages) Balance Rate on Debt Balance Rate on Debt Commercial paper $ 2,120 0.38 % $ 769 0.29 % Total $ 2,120 0.38 % $ 769 0.29 %
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: 2015 2014 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 2016-2020 $ 16,469 2.16 % 1.28 % $ 16,260 2.26 % 1.22 % Floating Rate Senior Notes 2016-2020 5,300 0.98 ― 4,400 0.82 ― Borrowings under Bank Credit Facilities ― ― ― % 3,672 4.25 ― % Unamortized Underwriting Fees (44) (50) Total Long-Term Debt $ 21,725 1.87 % $ 24,282 2.3 % 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. R efer to Note 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 floating rates in effect as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 . Effective interest 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 of long-term debt obligations (based on contractual maturity or anticipated redemption dates) as of December 31, 2015 were as follows : (Millions) 2016 $ 4,931 2017 4,900 2018 3,614 2019 4,150 2020 4,150 Total 21,745 Unamortized Underwriting Fees (44) Unamortized Discount and Premium (10) Impacts due to Fair Value Hedge Accounting 34 Total Long-Term Debt $ 21,725

Derivatives and Hedging Activ27

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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: Accrued Interest and Other Assets Other Liabilities Fair Value Fair Value (Millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Interest rate contracts Fair value hedges $ 64 $ 90 $ 9 $ 4 Foreign exchange contracts Net investment hedges 30 186 13 ― Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments 94 276 22 4 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts 62 73 33 49 Total derivatives, gross 156 349 55 53 Less: Cash collateral netting (a) (53) (63) ― ― Derivative asset and derivative liability netting (b) (33) (50) (33) (50) Total derivatives, net (c) $ 70 $ 236 $ 22 $ 3 Represents the offsetting of derivative instruments and the right to reclaim cash collateral (a receivable) or the obligation to return cash collateral (a payable) arising from derivative instrument(s) executed with the same counterparty under an enforceable master netting arrangement . From time to time, Credco also receives non-cash collateral from counterparties in the form of security interests in U.S. Treasury securities, which reduces Credco’s risk exposure, but does not reduce the net exposur e on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. Credco had such non-cash collateral, with a fair value of $ 40 million as of December 31 , 2014 , none of which was sold or repledged . Credco did not have any such non-cash collateral as of December 31, 2015. Additionally, Credco posted $ 128 million and $ 91 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, as initial margin on its centra lly cleared interest rate swaps; such amounts are recorded within Other assets on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets and are not netted against the derivative balances. Represents the amount of netting of derivative assets and derivative liabilities executed with the same counterparty under an enforcea ble master netting arrangement. Credco has no individually significant derivative counterparties and therefore, no significant risk exposure to any single derivative counterparty. The tot al net derivative assets and derivative li abilities are presented within Other assets and Accrued interest and other l iabilities on Credco’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Effect of fair value hedges on results of operations	Th e following table summarizes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with Credco’s fair value hedges of its fixed-rate long-term debt for the years ended December 31: Gains (losses) recognized in income (Millions) Derivative contract Hedged item Net hedge Derivative Income Statement Amount Income Statement Amount ineffectiveness relationship Line Item 2015 2014 2013 Line Item 2015 2014 2013 2015 2014 2013 Interest rate contracts Other expenses $ (31) $ (93) $ (224) Other expenses $ 44 $ 101 $ 218 $ 13 $ 8 $ (6)
Derivative instruments gain (loss) recognized in income	The following table summarizes the impact on the Consolidated Statements of Income associated with the Cr edco’s derivatives not designated as hedges for the years ended December 31: Pretax gains (losses) Amount Description (Millions) Income Statement Line Item 2015 2014 2013 Foreign exchange contracts Other expenses $ (5) $ 133 $ 78 Total $ (5) $ 133 $ 78

Fair Values (Tables)

Fair Values (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 valuation hierarchy as Level 2 (as described in the preceding paragraphs ), as of December 31 (Millions) 2015 2014 Assets: Derivatives (a) $ 156 $ 349 Total assets 156 349 Liabilities: Derivatives (a) 55 53 Total liabilities $ 55 $ 53 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 dis closes 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, 2015 and 2014 . Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2015 (Billions) Value Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value $ 18.4 $ 18.4 $ 0.2 (a) $ 18.2 $ ― Card Member receivables HFS (b) (b) ― (b) ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.4 0.4 ― ― 0.4 Loans to affiliates and other 14.3 14.3 ― 11.3 3.0 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 9.4 9.4 ― 9.4 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt $ 21.7 $ 21.8 $ ― $ 21.8 $ ― Reflects cash and due from banks. Reflects carrying value and the associated fair value of Card Member receivables HFS of $24 million, but does not include any fair value associated with the Card Member account relationships. Carrying Corresponding Fair Value Amount 2014 (Billions) Value Total Level 2 Level 3 Financial Assets: Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value $ 16.8 $ 16.8 $ 16.8 $ ― Financial assets carried at other than fair value Card Member loans, net 0.4 0.4 ― 0.4 Loans to affiliates and other 15.3 15.2 12.3 2.9 Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value 6.0 6.0 6.0 ― Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value Long-term debt $ 24.3 $ 24.5 $ 24.5 $ ―

Transactions With Affiliates (T

Transactions With Affiliates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party (Tables) [Abstract]
Certain transactions with affiliates	Other transactions wi th affiliates as of or for the years ended December 31, were as follows: (Millions, except percentages) 2015 2014 2013 Loans to affiliates and other $ 14,262 $ 15,303 $ 11,340 Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other 1.81 % 2.69 % 3.54 % Due from affiliates $ 615 $ 2,206 $ 3,380 Short-term debt to affiliates 5,439 4,334 3,583 Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates 0.19 % 0.15 % 0.16 % Maximum month-end level of borrowings during the year $ 5,439 $ 5,029 $ 6,673 Due to affiliates 1,727 888 1,323 Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year 17,711 18,695 13,507 Interest income from affiliates and other 246 384 414 Interest expense to affiliates 10 6 7 Other, net expense from affiliates $ 1 $ (3) $ (9)
Components of loans to affiliates	The c omponents of loans to affiliates and other as of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 American Express Company $ 6,923 $ 5,937 American Express Services Europe Limited 2,981 3,075 Amex Bank of Canada 1,770 2,581 American Express Australia Limited 1,193 2,693 American Express Co. (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. 778 495 American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. 337 382 American Express International, Inc. 110 100 American Express International (NZ) Inc. 95 ― Amex (Saudi Arabia) Limited 75 28 Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A. ― 12 Total (a) $ 14,262 $ 15,303 As of December 31, 2015 , approximately $ 3.6 billion of total loans to affiliates and other were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and Card Member loans transferred with recourse and the remaining $ 10.7 billion were uncollateralized loans primarily to affiliated banks, American Express Company and the American Express joint ventures. As of December 31, 2014 , approximately $ 5.2 billion of total loans to affiliates an d other were collateralized by the underlying Card Member receivables and Card Member loans transferred with recourse and the remaining $ 10.1 billion were uncollateralized loans primarily to affiliated banks, American Express Company a nd the American Express joint ventures.
Components of short-term debt to affiliates	Components of short-term debt to affiliates a s of December 31 were as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 AE Exposure Management Ltd. $ 3,047 $ 2,851 American Express Europe LLC 1163 831 American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. 599 ― American Express Swiss Holdings 389 403 American Express Holdings (Netherlands) C.V. 190 188 American Express Funding Management (Europe) Limited 51 61 Total $ 5,439 $ 4,334

Changes in Accumulated Other 30

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	Changes in Foreign Currency Translation A djustments for the three years end ed December 31 were as follows: Foreign Currency Translation (Millions), net of tax (a) Adjustments Balances as of December 31, 2012 $ 8 Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (501) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 15 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (486) Balances as of December 31, 2013 (478) Net translation loss of investments in foreign operations (471) Net gains related to hedges of investment in foreign operations 162 Net change in accumulated other comprehensive loss (309) 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) The following table shows the tax impact for the three years ended December 31 for th e changes in each component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive L oss : Tax expense (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Foreign currency translation adjustments $ ― $ 30 $ ― Net investment hedges 140 96 9 Total tax impact $ 140 $ 126 $ 9
Tax impact for the changes in each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	The following table shows the tax impact for the three years ended December 31 for th e changes in each component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive L oss : Tax expense (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Foreign currency translation adjustments $ ― $ 30 $ ― Net investment hedges 140 96 9 Total tax impact $ 140 $ 126 $ 9

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes (Tables) [Abstract]
Components of income tax expense	The components of income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31 included in Credco’s Consolidated Statements of Income w ere as follows: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Current income tax expense (benefit): U.S. federal $ 15 $ (22) $ (122) U.S. state and local (4) (23) (5) Non-U.S. 20 22 21 Total current income tax expense (benefit) 31 (23) (106) Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: U.S. federal (5) ― ― Non-U.S. 12 (12) 10 Total deferred income tax expense (benefit) 7 (12) 10 Total income tax expense (benefit) $ 38 $ (35) $ (96)
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: 2015 2014 2013 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) (0.6) Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings (a) (25.5) (38.4) (39.2) Tax Settlements (b) (0.4) (4.4) (22.9) All other (c) 6.0 (3.0) 0.3 Actual tax rate 15.1 % (11.1) % (27.4) % 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 are indefinitely reinvested. Credco’s effective tax rate reflects the favorable impact of the tax benefit related to its ongoing funding activitie s outside of the United States. The lower tax benefit in 2015 is due to an unfavorable change in the geographic mix of e arnings . The tax rate reflects favorable resolution of certain prior years’ tax items. The 2015 tax rate reflects the impact of 2014 tax returns filed in 2015 .
Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities	The significant components of deferred tax assets and l iabilities as of December 31 are re flected in the following table: (Millions) 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes $ 28 $ 27 State income taxes 11 12 Net operating losses ― 13 Other 2 ― Gross deferred tax assets 41 52 Deferred tax liabilities: Investment in foreign subsidiaries 1 4 Gross deferred tax liabilities 1 4 Net deferred tax assets $ 40 $ 48
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits	The followi ng table presents changes in unrecognized tax benefits: (Millions) 2015 2014 2013 Balance, January 1 $ 364 $ 481 $ 757 Increases: Current year tax positions 2 2 19 Tax positions related to prior years 1 1 1 Decreases: Tax positions related to prior years (152) (113) (290) Settlements with tax authorities ― (7) ― Lapse of statute of limitations (4) ― (6) Balance, December 31 $ 211 $ 364 $ 481

Significant Credit Concentrat32

Significant Credit Concentrations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Significant Credit Concentrations (Tables) [Abstract]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category	The following table details Credco’s maximum credit exposure by category , including the credit exposure associated with derivative financial instruments, as of December 31: (Billions) 2015 2014 On-balance sheet: Individuals (a) $ 7 $ 4 Financial institutions (b) 1 1 Loans to affiliates and other 14 15 Due from affiliates 1 2 All other (c) 10 11 Total on-balance sheet (d) $ 33 $ 33 Individuals primarily include Card Member receivables and loans, including the HFS portfolio . Financial institutions primarily include debt obligations of banks, broker-dealers, insurance companies and savings and loan associations. All other primarily includes Card Member receivables from other corporate institutions. Certain distinctions between categories require management judgment.
Card Member loans and receivables exposure	The following table details Credco’s Card Member receivables and loans exp osure in the United States and outside the United States as of December 31: (Billions) 2015 2014 United States (a) $ 13 $ 12 Outside the United States 5 3 Total (b)(c) $ 18 $ 15 Includes Card Member receivables HFS as of December 31, 2015 . Represents Card Member loans to individuals as well as receivables from individuals and corporate institutions as discussed in footnotes (a) and ( c ) from the previous table. The remainder of Credco’s on-balance sheet exposure includes cash and cash equivalents, loans to affiliates and other , due from affi liates and other assets including the credit exposure associated with derivative financial instruments. The majority of thes e balances are outside the United States .

Geographic Regions (Tables)

Geographic Regions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Geographic Operations Tables [Abstract]
Revenue and pretax income in different geographic regions	The following table presents Credco’s revenues and pretax income i n different geographic regions: (Millions) 2015 (a) 2014 (a) 2013 (a) Revenues United States $ 442 $ 524 $ 538 Outside the United States 313 405 469 Consolidated $ 755 $ 929 $ 1,007 Pretax income United States $ 111 $ 165 $ 191 Outside the United States 141 153 159 Consolidated $ 252 $ 318 $ 350 The data in the above table is, in part, based upon internal allocations, which necessarily involve management’s judgment.

Quarterly Financial Data (Table

Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quartertly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly financial data	Quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 are summarized as follows : (Millions) 2015 2014 Quarters ended 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 12/31 9/30 6/30 3/31 Revenues $ 180 $ 187 $ 193 $ 195 $ 210 $ 232 $ 246 $ 241 Pretax income 68 45 69 70 69 86 88 75 Net income $ 58 $ 39 $ 49 $ 68 $ 89 $ 87 $ 99 $ 78

Summary of Significant Accoun35

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details Textuals) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Textuals [Abstract]
Line of credit facility financial covenants combined earnings and fixed charges to fixed charges ratio required	1.25
Net foreign currency transaction gains	$ 14	$ 87	$ 91
Original maturities of cash and cash equivalents	90 days or less

Card Member Receivables and L36

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	$ 17,607	$ 14,507
Less: Reserve for losses	114	94	$ 76	$ 83
Card Member receivables, net	17,493	14,413
U.S. Card Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	4,096	2,755
Global Commercial Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	11,336	10,436
International Card Services [Member]
Accounts Receivable [Abstract]
Card Member receivables	$ 2,175	$ 1,316

Card Member Receivables and L37

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Card Member loans
Less: Reserve for losses	$ 4	$ 3	$ 4	$ 5
Card Member loans, net	431	398
International Card Services [Member]
Card Member loans
Card Member loans	$ 435	$ 401

Card Member Receivables and L38

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
U.S. Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	$ 4,066	$ 2,729
Total aging	4,096	2,755
U.S. Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	11	12
U.S. Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	7	5
U.S. Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	12	9
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	2,148	1,296
Total aging	2,175	1,316
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	10	8
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	5	4
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	12	8
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Current	432	399
Total aging	435	401
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 30 to 59 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	1	1
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 60 to 89 Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	1	0
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	1	1
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Total aging	11,336	10,436
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member] | 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
Financing receivable recorded investment aging
Period past due	$ 93	$ 89

Card Member Receivables and L39

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details 3)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
U.S. Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Net Write-off Rate	0.85%	1.03%
30 Days Past Due as a % of Total	0.73%	0.94%
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Net Write-off Rate	1.54%	1.88%
30 Days Past Due as a % of Total	1.24%	1.52%
International Card Services [Member] | Card Member Loans [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Net Write-off Rate	1.02%	0.89%
30 Days Past Due as a % of Total	0.69%	0.50%
Global Commercial Services [Member] | Card Member Receivables [Member]
Credit Quality Indicator for Receivables and Loans
Net Loss Ratio as a % of Charge Volume	0.07%	0.07%
90 Days Past Billing as a % of Receivables	0.82%	0.85%

Card Member Receivables and L40

Card Member Receivables and Loans (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Net volume of Card Member receivables purchased	$ 220,000	$ 213,000	$ 210,000
Net volume of Card Member loans purchased	4,000	4,000	$ 4,000
Deferred discount revenue on Card Member Receivables	22	16
RFC VIII [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Participation Interests In Card Member Receivables Purchased	$ 4,100	$ 2,800

Reserves (Details)

Reserves (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Changes in the Card Member receivable reserve for losses
Balance, January 1	$ 94	$ 76	$ 83
Provisions	160	194	145
Other credits	32	15	41
Net write-offs	(157)	(166)	(148)
Other debits	(15)	(25)	(45)
Balance, December 31	$ 114	$ 94	$ 76

Reserves (Details 1)

Reserves (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Changes in the Card Member loans reserve for losses
Balance, January 1	$ 3	$ 4	$ 5
Provisions	5	8	3
Net write-offs	(4)	(4)	(4)
Other debits	0	(5)	0
Balance, December 31	$ 4	$ 3	$ 4

Reserves (Details Textuals)

Reserves (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reserves For Losses (Textuals) [Abstract]
Participation interest in Card Member receivables purchased, from affiliates	$ 5,800	$ 3,400	$ 7,700
Recoveries, Card Member receivables	100	98	110
Participation Interest Card Member Receivables Sold to Affiliates	2,600	3,200	9,100
Recoveries, Card Member loans	1	4	$ 5
Amount of card member loans sold	$ 0	$ 183

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Outstanding Balance	$ 2,120	$ 769
Short-term Debt [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	0.38%	0.29%
Commercial Paper [Member] | Short-term Debt [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Outstanding Balance	$ 2,120	$ 769
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	0.38%	0.29%

Debt (Details 1)

Debt (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 21,725	$ 24,282
Unamortized Underwriting Fees	$ (44)	$ (50)
Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	1.87%	2.30%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes Amount [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	2,016
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	2,020
Long-term Debt	$ 16,469	$ 16,260
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	2.16%	2.26%
Year End Effective Interest Rate With Swaps	1.28%	1.22%
Floating Rate Senior Notes Amount [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start	2,016
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End	2,020
Long-term Debt	$ 5,300	$ 4,400
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	0.98%	0.82%
Year End Effective Interest Rate With Swaps	0.00%	0.00%
Borrowings under Bank Credit Facilities [Member] | Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 0	$ 3,672
Year-End Stated Rate on Debt	0.00%	4.25%
Year End Effective Interest Rate With Swaps	0.00%	0.00%

Debt (Details 2)

Debt (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations
2,016	$ 4,931
2,017	4,900
2,018	3,614
2,019	4,150
2,020	4,150
Total	21,745
Unamortized Underwriting Fees	(44)	$ (50)
Unamortized discount and premium	(10)
Impacts due to fair value hedge accounting	34
Long-term debt	$ 21,725	$ 24,282

Debt (Details Textuals)

Debt (Details Textuals)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fees to maintain credit lines	$ 25,800,000	$ 40,600,000
Line of credit facility financial covenants combined earnings and fixed charges to fixed charges ratio required	1.25
Line of credit facility financial covenants combined earnings and fixed charges to fixed charges ratio actual	1.7
American Express Company [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total bank lines of credit of the company	$ 3,000,000,000	6,700,000,000
Unutilized total credit lines	3,000,000,000	3,000,000,000
Short-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Interest Paid	3,500,000	300,000	$ 1,000,000
Long-term Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Interest Paid	$ 300,000,000	$ 500,000,000	$ 500,000,000

Restrictions as to Dividends 48

Restrictions as to Dividends and Limitations on Indebtedness (Details Textuals) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Restrictions (Textuals) [Abstract]
Minimum consolidated net worth	$ 50
Line of credit facility financial covenants combined earnings and fixed charges to fixed charges ratio required	1.25

Derivatives and Hedging Activ49

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Assets [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	$ 156,000,000	$ 349,000,000
Cash collateral netting	(53,000,000)	(63,000,000)
Derivative asset and liability netting	(33,000,000)	(50,000,000)
Total derivatives assets,net	70,000,000	236,000,000
Other Assets [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	94,000,000	276,000,000
Other Assets [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative assets	62,000,000	73,000,000
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	64,000,000	90,000,000
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	30,000,000	186,000,000
Accrued Interest And Other Liabilities Member [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liability	55,000,000	53,000,000
Cash collateral netting	0	0
Derivative asset and liability netting	(33,000,000)	(50,000,000)
Total derivatives liabilities, net	22,000,000	3,000,000
Accrued Interest And Other Liabilities Member [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liability	22,000,000	4,000,000
Accrued Interest And Other Liabilities Member [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liability	33,000,000	49,000,000
Accrued Interest And Other Liabilities Member [Member] | Fair Value Hedging [Member] | Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liability	9,000,000	4,000,000
Accrued Interest And Other Liabilities Member [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Total fair value of derivative liability	$ 13,000,000	$ 0

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, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative contract	$ (31)	$ (93)	$ (224)
Hedged item	44	101	218
Net hedge ineffectiveness	$ 13	$ 8	$ (6)

Derivatives and Hedging Activ51

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details 2) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Pretax gains (losses)	$ (5)	$ 133	$ 78
Other Expense [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Pretax gains (losses)	$ (5)	$ 133	$ 78

Derivatives and Hedging Activ52

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivatives And Hedging Activities Textuals [Abstract]
Net reduction in interest expense	$ 177	$ 187	$ 235
Net pretax losses on derivatives reclassified from AOCI into earnings	0
Derivative [Line Items]
Margin on interest rate swap not netted	128	91
Interest Expense [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount reclassified from AOCI into income	0	0	0
Other Expense [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Net hedge ineffectiveness	0
Fair Value Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	15,900	14,700
Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Effection portion of gain (loss) on hedges	235	162	15
Ineffectiveness reclassified from AOCI into income	0	0	$ 0
Credit Valuation Adjustment [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	0	0
Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of long-term debt	0	0
None Sold or Repledged [Member]
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Securities received as collateral	0	40
Individually Significant Counterparties [Member]
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]
Total derivatives assets,net	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value (Details)

Fair Value (Details) - Level 2 [Member] - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets [Abstract]
Derivatives	$ 156	$ 349
Total assets	156	349
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivatives	55	53
Total liabilities	$ 55	$ 53

Fair Value (Details 1)

Fair Value (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	$ 431	$ 398
Loans to affiliates and other	14,262	15,303	$ 11,340
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	21,725	24,282
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	18,400	16,800
Financial Assets Textuals [Abstract]
Card Member receivables HFS	24
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	9,400	6,000
Level 2 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	18,200	16,800
Financial Assets Textuals [Abstract]
Card Member receivables HFS	24
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	0	0
Loans to affiliates and other	11,300	12,300
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	9,400	6,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	21,800	24,500
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	0	0
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	400	400
Loans to affiliates and other	3,000	2,900
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	0	0
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	0	0
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	18,400	16,800
Financial Assets Textuals [Abstract]
Card Member receivables HFS	24
Financial assets carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Card Member loans, less reserves	400	400
Loans to affiliates and other	14,300	15,200
Financial Liabilities:
Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	9,400	6,000
Financial liabilities carried at other than fair value [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	21,800	$ 24,500
Level 1 [Member]
Financial Assets:
Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value	$ 200

Fair Value (Details Textuals)

Fair Value (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 0	$ 0

Variable Interest Entity (Detai

Variable Interest Entity (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 33,285	$ 32,840
Total liabilities	31,166	30,451
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] | American Express Canada Credit Corporation Member [Member]
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Total assets	1,700	2,100
Total liabilities	1,700	2,000
Liabilities eliminated in consolidation	$ 809	$ 969

Transactions with Affiliates (D

Transactions with Affiliates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Parties Details [Abstract]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 14,262	$ 15,303	$ 11,340
Average interest rate on loans to affiliates and other	1.81%	2.69%	3.54%
Due from affiliates	$ 615	$ 2,206	$ 3,380
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,439	$ 4,334	$ 3,583
Average interest rate on short-term debt to affiliates	0.19%	0.15%	0.16%
Maximum month-end level of borrowings during the year	$ 5,439	$ 5,029	$ 6,673
Due to affiliates	1,727	888	1,323
Maximum month-end level of loans to affiliates during the year	17,711	18,695	13,507
Interest income from affiliates and other	246	384	414
Interest expense to affiliates	10	6	7
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Other, net	(22)	(93)	(88)
Related Party [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Other, net	$ 1	$ (3)	$ (9)

Transactions with Affiliates 58

Transactions with Affiliates (Details 1) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 14,262,000,000	$ 15,303,000,000	$ 11,340,000,000
American Express Services Europe Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	2,981,000,000	3,075,000,000
Amex Bank of Canada [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	1,770,000,000	2,581,000,000
American Express Australia Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	1,193,000,000	2,693,000,000
American Express Company [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	6,923,000,000	5,937,000,000
American Express Co. (Mexico) S.A. de C.V. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	778,000,000	495,000,000
American Express Bank (Mexico) S.A. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	337,000,000	382,000,000
American Express International, Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	110,000,000	100,000,000
American Express International (NZ) Inc.
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	95,000,000	0
Amex (Saudi Arabia) Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	75,000,000	28,000,000
Alpha Card S.C.R.L./C.V.B.A. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 0	$ 12,000,000

Transactions with Affiliates 59

Transactions with Affiliates (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 5,439	$ 4,334	$ 3,583
AE Exposure Management Ltd. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	3,047	2,851
American Express Europe LLC [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	1,163	831
American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	599	0
American Express Swiss Holdings [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	389	403
American Express Holdings (Netherlands) C.V. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	190	188
American Express Funding Management (Europe) Limited [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Short-term debt to affiliates	$ 51	$ 61

Transactions with Affiliates 60

Transactions with Affiliates (Details Textuals) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Parties Textuals [Abstract]
Card Member receivables and loans purchased without recourse from an affiliate	$ 227,000,000,000	$ 221,000,000,000	$ 223,000,000,000
Participation Interest Card Member Receivables Sold to Affiliates	2,600,000,000	2,800,000,000	9,100,000,000
Discount Revenue Earned From Purchased Cardmember Receivables And Loans	479,000,000	502,000,000	547,000,000
Uncharged Servicing Fees to Affiliates	242,000,000	212,000,000	138,000,000
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	14,262,000,000	15,303,000,000	$ 11,340,000,000
Reserves for Losses [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	0	0
RFC VIII [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Participation interests in Card Member receivables purchased without recourse	4,100,000,000	2,800,000,000
30 Days or More Past Due [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	3,600,000,000	5,200,000,000
Uncollateralized [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Loans to affiliates and other	$ 10,700,000,000	$ 10,100,000,000

Changes In Accumulated Other 61

Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Changes in other comprehensive income
Balance, January 1	$ (787)
Balance, December 31	(1,156)	$ (787)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Member]
Changes in other comprehensive income
Balance, January 1	(787)	(478)	$ 8
Net translation gains (losses) of investment in foreign operations	(604)	(471)	(501)
Net gains (losses) related to hedges of investment in foreign operations	235	162	15
Net change in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	(369)	(309)	(486)
Balance, December 31	$ (1,156)	$ (787)	$ (478)

Changes In Accumulated Other 62

Changes In Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustment	$ 0	$ 30	$ 0
Net investment hedges	140	96	9
Total tax impact	$ 140	$ 126	$ 9

Changes in Accumulated Other 63

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Details Textuals) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
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, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal	$ 15	$ (22)	$ (122)
U.S. state and local	(4)	(23)	(5)
Non-U.S.	20	22	21
Total current income tax expense (benefit)	31	(23)	(106)
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
U.S. federal	(5)	0	0
Non-U.S.	12	(12)	10
Total deferred income tax expense (benefit)	7	(12)	10
Total income tax expense (benefit)	$ 38	$ (35)	$ (96)

Income Taxes (Details 1)

Income Taxes (Details 1)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
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	0.00%	(0.30%)	(0.60%)
Non-U.S. subsidiaries earnings	(25.50%)	(38.40%)	(39.20%)
Tax Settlements	(0.40%)	(4.40%)	(22.90%)
All other	6.00%	(3.00%)	0.30%
Actual tax rate	15.10%	(11.10%)	(27.40%)

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves not yet deducted for tax purposes	$ 28	$ 27
State income taxes	11	12
Net operating losses	0	13
Other	2	0
Gross deferred tax assets	41	52
Deferred tax liabilities:
Investment in foreign subsidiaries	1	4
Gross deferred tax liabilities	1	4
Net deferred tax assets	$ 40	$ 48

Income Taxes (Details 3)

Income Taxes (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance, January 1	$ 364	$ 481	$ 757
Increases:
Current year tax positions	2	2	19
Tax positions related to prior years	1	1	1
Decreases:
Tax positions related to prior years	(152)	(113)	(290)
Settlements with tax authorities	0	(7)	0
Lapse of statute of limitations	(4)	0	(6)
Balance, December 31	$ 211	$ 364	$ 481

Income Tax (Details Textuals)

Income Tax (Details Textuals) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes (Textuals) [Abstract]
U.S. statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Accumulated earnings intended to be permanently reinvested outside the U.S.	$ 4,800,000,000
Aggregate of federal taxes	1,600,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits	211,000,000	$ 364,000,000	$ 481,000,000	$ 757,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that affect effective tax rate	14,000,000	16,000,000	23,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits as a result of potential resolutions of prior years' tax	6,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest expense	1,000,000	10,000,000	$ 7,000,000
Unrecognized tax benefits income tax penalties and interest accrued	42,000,000	21,000,000
Current federal taxes payable/receivable	44,000,000	118,000,000
Income tax paid/refund net	332,000,000	46,000,000
Operating Loss Carry forwards	0	$ 43,000,000
Out of period tax adjustment	$ 11,000,000
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	2,011

Significant Credit Concentrat69

Significant Credit Concentrations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	$ 33	$ 33
Individuals [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	7	4
Financial Institutions [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	1	1
Loans to affiliates and other
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	14	15
Due from Affiliates [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	1	2
Other Concentration [Member]
Maximum Credit Exposure by Category
On-balance sheet	$ 10	$ 11

Significant Credit Concentrat70

Significant Credit Concentrations (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet, total	$ 18	$ 15
United States [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet, total	13	12
Outside the United States [Member]
Card Member receivables and loans exposure
On-balance sheet, total	$ 5	$ 3

Geographic Regions (Details)

Geographic Regions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 180	$ 187	$ 193	$ 195	$ 210	$ 232	$ 246	$ 241	$ 755	$ 929	$ 1,007
Pretax income	$ 68	$ 45	$ 69	$ 70	$ 69	$ 86	$ 88	$ 75	252	318	350
United States [Member]
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues									442	524	538
Pretax income									111	165	191
Outside the United States [Member]
Segment Revenues And Pretax Income Loss By Geographic Location [Line Items]
Revenues									313	405	469
Pretax income									$ 141	$ 153	$ 159

Quarterly Financial Data (Detai

Quarterly Financial Data (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure of quarterly financial data
Revenues	$ 180	$ 187	$ 193	$ 195	$ 210	$ 232	$ 246	$ 241	$ 755	$ 929	$ 1,007
Pretax income	68	45	69	70	69	86	88	75	252	318	350
Net income	$ 58	$ 39	$ 49	$ 68	$ 89	$ 87	$ 99	$ 78	$ 214	$ 353	$ 446

Quarterly Financial Data (Textu

Quarterly Financial Data (Textuals) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Disclosure Of Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Out of period spot valuation adjustment	$ 20.1