Original creditor

Sued by American Express National Bank? Don't ignore it.

The original creditor. Ownership isn't the weak point here, the arbitration clause usually is.

Build my AnswerSee the whole process

Most courts give you 14 to 30 days to respond. If you do nothing, they win automatically.

Who is American Express National Bank?

American Express sues on its own accounts rather than selling them, so the chain-of-ownership argument that works against debt buyers does not apply. Their cardmember agreements have historically contained a binding arbitration provision.

They are the original lender, so focus elsewhere

Because they issued the account themselves, arguing about who owns it usually goes nowhere. The stronger route is normally the arbitration clause in your agreement, plus holding them to proof of the exact amount.

What tends to matter in these cases

  • Check your cardmember agreement for the arbitration clause. This is often the strongest move available.
  • Arbitration is expensive for the company, which changes the economics of a small case.
  • Raise arbitration early. Litigating first can waive the right.
  • Still make them prove the balance and produce a complete accounting.

What to do right now

  1. 1

    Find your deadline

    It counts from the day you were served, not the date on the paperwork. Write it on a calendar today.

  2. 2

    File an Answer

    This is the document that stops them winning by default and forces them to prove their case.

  3. 3

    Check your arbitration clause

    American Express National Bank agreements have historically included one. Compelling arbitration is often what ends these cases.

Build my AnswerSee the arbitration course

Sued by someone else?

Midland Credit Management, Inc.Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLCLVNV Funding LLCCavalry SPV I, LLCJefferson Capital Systems, LLCDiscover Bank

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