What are American Express cards?

American Express cards are credit, charge or prepaid cards supported by the American Express Company. The company has cards for individuals, small businesses and corporate businesses, according to American Express.

American Express credit cards allow users to keep a balance on the card, while a charge card requires full payment of any charges each month. Customers use prepaid cards only after loading money onto the account. Some cards offer reward points in exchange for regular use, and cardholders redeem them for trips, gift cards and dining. Some cards have cash back or affiliations with third parties, such as Costco and Delta, explains the American Express website.