Strategy to obtain US Amex

I'm not an authority, this is a question as much as an answer

It looks like a FICO score is generated after 6 months according to a quick google fu. I know that our circumstances are perhaps more unique than most, but at what stage should we become concerned that our ITIN just isn't ever going to be linked to our report?

One of the things on your credit report is your address. Maza will always put their own address on the ITIN application, so I'm not sure how these will get linked together.

EDIT: unrelated update - HSBC Premier gives 3x points at colesworth.
The address on my itin was ein express . I believe the itin is linked to your credit file with your first app using it .
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Thanks i might try another GT Amex and see how I go.
In terms of cards at the moment is there a particular card that seems to be recommended as next step card
I have the Green but will review options - unsure if to go for another charge or credit card option
Go for a free MR card like everyday so you can use it it warehouse points and keep it forever and build up your average card account age .
 
The address on my itin was ein express . I believe the itin is linked to your credit file with your first app using it .
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Go for a free MR card like everyday so you can use it it warehouse points and keep it forever and build up your average card account age .
Smart idea
 
The address on my itin was ein express . I believe the itin is linked to your credit file with your first app using it .
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Go for a free MR card like everyday so you can use it it warehouse points and keep it forever and build up your average card account age .
How long after first GT should one wait? Is it worth waiting the 12 or so weeks until ITIN arrives then apply with that so it gets associated with my Amex account/adress?
 
The address on my itin was ein express . I believe the itin is linked to your credit file with your first app using it .
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Yes but here is the problem,

1) We need to use the ITIN before we can link it to our credit report
2) we can't use the ITIN until we get it linked to the credit report

I'm sure the problem isn't as complicated as I think it is, because a lot of people (not just here) use ITIN to apply for cards. But for like HSBC and US GT, there has to be a way for them to get linked (because they evidently are, we generate AMEX fico scores) but it just isn't clear to me how that is happening at the moment.
 
Yes but here is the problem,

1) We need to use the ITIN before we can link it to our credit report
2) we can't use the ITIN until we get it linked to the credit report

I'm sure the problem isn't as complicated as I think it is, because a lot of people (not just here) use ITIN to apply for cards. But for like HSBC and US GT, there has to be a way for them to get linked (because they evidently are, we generate AMEX fico scores) but it just isn't clear to me how that is happening at the moment.
How long after first GT should one wait? Is it worth waiting the 12 or so weeks until ITIN arrives then apply with that so it gets associated with my Amex account/adress?
Yes. You can do that .
Post automatically merged:

Yes but here is the problem,

1) We need to use the ITIN before we can link it to our credit report
2) we can't use the ITIN until we get it linked to the credit report

I'm sure the problem isn't as complicated as I think it is, because a lot of people (not just here) use ITIN to apply for cards. But for like HSBC and US GT, there has to be a way for them to get linked (because they evidently are, we generate AMEX fico scores) but it just isn't clear to me how that is happening at the moment.
I believe I had called hsbc to request itin be linked
 
Hi All, with the interest of of obtaining/opening US CC in mind for future, What do you wish you would do to prepare yourself if you have 24 hours in US?
 
Hi All, with the interest of of obtaining/opening US CC in mind for future, What do you wish you would do to prepare yourself if you have 24 hours in US?
I know there are some banks that will let you open checking accounts in person with ITIN, but honestly I'm a bit chicken.

There is literally a wells fargo about 2 blocks away from my US address. I always wonder if they would just realise that I couldn't possibly be living there because it isn't actually a residence. That would only make things more awkward!
 
I know there are some banks that will let you open checking accounts in person with ITIN, but honestly I'm a bit chicken.

There is literally a wells fargo about 2 blocks away from my US address. I always wonder if they would just realise that I couldn't possibly be living there because it isn't actually a residence. That would only make things more awkward!

A lot of them will open a checking account for you as a tourist. BoA has been known to be tourist friendly. Citi was quite good to me. For Chase, they might need a proof of address. If they refuse, it means they are ignorant or can't be bothered with non residents. Move to another bank or branch and you will find someone who is willing to do it for you.

You might be surprised how easy things are when you are there in person. I walked into the Citi branch in 2014 to open a checking account as a tourist and later asked about their credit card via email. The banker helped me but the application for a secured card was declined. Two years later I walked into another branch and said I wanted a credit card and the application was successful (non secured card) lol. No ITIN or SSN back then and applied as a tourist (They called it global client). I was like how could it be so easy?. That was when I decided to do GT for the first time a few weeks later.

If I want something, I will keep trying until I get it lol Thankfully it was not too difficult to get these US cards.
 
Just following up paying government bills where they don’t accept AMEX and using a third party merchant.
SNIIP is 3%
Pay rewards don’t accept
Are there any other alternatives that offer lower rates?
 
I apologise if this is not obvious but am I typing that into the search bar at the top right
When I do that it always takes me to a link and I get an error as before
Yes, my post was from June when that method was working. Not so now it seems. We are all in the same boat, unfortunately.
 
I have 2 bank account in USA held for almost 30 yrs how hard would it be for me to get a US credit card where should I start Im a bit confused but all the previous posts. would not mind a business card.I dont have any of these

Step 1: Determine your eligibility​

  • You may apply for an EIN online if your principal business is located in the United States or U.S. Territories.
  • The person applying online must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, EIN).
 
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I have one card via GT and am in process of applying for more.
If you have US bank acoounts with a long history it doesnt sound like it will be too difficult especially if have a SSN or ITIN
If you have a AU AMEX it should be fairly straightforward to get first one via GT

I know its long but I cannot stress how important it is to have a read of the whole thread
Invest a weekend, there is so much info from some amazing people who have put a lot of time to explain whats going on - reading what has worked and what hasn't can save you lots of headache
First page is still very valid
 
I know its long but I cannot stress how important it is to have a read of the whole thread
Invest a weekend, there is so much info from some amazing people who have put a lot of time to explain whats going on - reading what has worked and what hasn't can save you lots of headache
First page is still very valid
Good points. :)

Would you mind repeating this, say weekly, for those who seek instant gratification. ;)
 
I don't, but I'm not surprised It doesn't categorise properly through E-Toll (via NSW Goverment)

Might have better luck with Linkt?
Linkt charges 2.15% for Amex vs E-Toll at 1.54%... add in 1% spread/cc for US Amex and I'm not sure it's worthwhile...
 
Did you have your first Chase Card shipped to Aus? I was approved for CSP on 20DEC however I called a day later and it was already on its way to myUS address however has not appeared in my suite yet. Subsequent calls have resulted in Fraud department wanting to call my US number which is textnow so calls not going through. I have just set up Google Voice with a Tello number but that number will not be on my credit report yet but I'm going to see if that number will work for verification. The clock is ticking for MS requirement to be met so need the card soon but others on this forum have indicated that its quite difficult to have the first card sent to Aus.
Hi Mate, I wonder did you eventully shipped our 1st chase card to Aus? How did you go through verification process in the end, did chase allow you to use a new mobile for call back. I just got approved for 1st card, and trying to get it shipped to Aus. Thank you.
 

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