2.2.0.25truefalse06042 - Disclosure - Accounts Receivable and Loans (Details 2)truefalseIn Millionsfalse1falsefalseUSDfalsefalse12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170SharesStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0PureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$2falsefalseUSDfalsefalse12/31/2009
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2009http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2009-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0SharesStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0USDUSD$2true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse3false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse6085000000060850[1]falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse6180000000061800falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
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-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
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12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_U_S_Card_Services_Member_2http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$4falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : U.S. Card Services [Member]
12/31/2009
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2009_U_S_Card_Services_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2009-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse6true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse7false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse5156500000051565[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2350700000023507[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
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-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
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falsefalse9false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse5falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : U.S. Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : Current [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_U_S_Card_Services_Member_Current_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCurrent [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_CurrentMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse10true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse11false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse5050800000050508falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse12false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1886400000018864falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse13false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse6falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : U.S. Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 30 To 59 Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_U_S_Card_Services_Member_Thirty_To_Fifty_Nine_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse30 To 59 Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_ThirtyToFiftyNineDaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse14true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse15false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse282000000282falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse16false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse104000000104falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse17false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse7falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : U.S. Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_U_S_Card_Services_Member_Sixty_To_Eighty_Nine_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_SixtyToEightyNineDaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse18true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse19false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse226000000226falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse20false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse5500000055falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse21false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse8falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : U.S. Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_U_S_Card_Services_Member_Current_To89_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseU.S. Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_USCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse90+ Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_CurrentTo89DaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse22true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse23false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse549000000549falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse24false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse132000000132falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse25false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse9falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_International_Card_Services_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$10falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
12/31/2009
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2009_International_Card_Services_Member_2http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2009-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse26true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse27false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse92550000009255falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse92410000009241falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse28false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse66730000006673[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse59440000005944falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse29false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse11falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : Current [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_International_Card_Services_Member_Current_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCurrent [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_CurrentMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse30true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse31false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse90440000009044falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse32false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse12falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 30 To 59 Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_International_Card_Services_Member_Thirty_To_Fifty_Nine_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse30 To 59 Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_ThirtyToFiftyNineDaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse33true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse34false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse6600000066falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse35false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse13falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_International_Card_Services_Member_Sixty_To_Eighty_Nine_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse60 To 89 Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_SixtyToEightyNineDaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse36true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse37false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse4800000048falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse38false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse14falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : International Card Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_International_Card_Services_Member_Current_To89_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseInternational Card Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_InternationalCardServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse90+ Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_CurrentTo89DaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse39true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse40false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse9700000097falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse41false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse6400000064[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse42false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse15falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : Global Commercial Services [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_Global_Commercial_Services_Member_2http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseGlobal Commercial Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_GlobalCommercialServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$16falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : Global Commercial Services [Member]
12/31/2009
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2009_Global_Commercial_Services_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2009-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseGlobal Commercial Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_GlobalCommercialServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse43true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse44false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3000000030falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2400000024falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse45false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1125900000011259[5],[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse98440000009844[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse46false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse17falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxis} : Global Commercial Services [Member]
{us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxis} : 90+ Days Past Due [Member]
12/31/2010
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2010_Global_Commercial_Services_Member_Current_To89_Days_Past_Due_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2010-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalseGlobal Commercial Services [Member]us-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_GlobalCommercialServicesMemberus-gaap_ReceivablesByBusinessSegmentOfEntityTypeAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalse90+ Days Past Due [Member]us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_CurrentTo89DaysPastDueMemberus-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivablesByBillingStatusTypeAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse47true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse48false0us-gaap_NotesReceivableGrossus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse9600000096[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryFor an unclassified balance sheet, an amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Company (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date(s). Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the note. The note also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among myriad other features and characteristics.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 10
-Subparagraph 3
-Article 9
falsefalse49false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://americanexpress.com/role/accountsreceivableandloansdetails21falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse18falsefalseUSDtruefalse{axp_ErrorCorrectionsAndPriorPeriodAdjustmentsPeriodAndAmountAxis} : Previously Reported Balance [Member]
12/31/2009
USD ($)
$BalanceAsOf_31Dec2009_Previously_Reported_Balance_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000004962instant2009-12-31T00:00:000001-01-01T00:00:00falsefalsePreviously Reported Balance [Member]axp_ErrorCorrectionsAndPriorPeriodAdjustmentsPeriodAndAmountAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiaxp_PreviouslyReportedBalanceMemberaxp_ErrorCorrectionsAndPriorPeriodAdjustmentsPeriodAndAmountAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse50true0axp_AgingOfCardmemberLoansAndReceivablesUtilizedForManagementPurposesAbstractaxpfalsenadurationAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAging of cardmember loans and receivables utilized for management purposes.falsefalse51false0us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCardus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1falsefalsefalse00[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3277200000032772[1]falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryReflects the gross carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements that typically charge comparatively higher rates of interest commensurate with higher credit risk, generate late payment and similar types of fees, and are usually unsecured.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Audit and Accounting Guide (AAG)
-Number AAG-DEP
-Chapter 8
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-IssueDate 2006-05-01
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a
-Article 9
Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Statement of Position (SOP)
-Number 01-6
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph e
Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 03
-Paragraph 7
-Subparagraph a, b
-Article 9
Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher OTS
-Name Federal Regulation (FR)
-Number Title 12
-Chapter V
-Section 563c.102
-Paragraph 8
-Subparagraph c(iii)
-Subsection I
falsefalse1Cardmember loan balance is net of unamortized net card fees of $134 million and $114 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.2Includes approximately $11.7 billion and $10.4 billion of cardmember receivables outside the United States as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.3As of December 31, 2010, includes approximately $34.7 billion of gross cardmember loans available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE. As of December 31, 2009 includes approximately $8.0 billion for an undivided, pro-rata interest in an unconsolidated VIE (historically referred to as 'seller's interest'). Refer to Note 7 for additional details.4Includes $7.7 billion and $7.8 billion of gross cardmember receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.5For cardmember receivables in International Card Services and Global Commercial Services, delinquency data is tracked based on days past billing status rather than days past due. A cardmember account is considered 90 days past billing if payment has not been received within 90 days of the cardmember's billing statement date. In addition, if the Company initiates collection procedures on an account prior to the account becoming 90 days past billing the associated cardmember receivable balance is considered as 90 days past billing. These amounts are shown above as 90+ Days Past Due for presentation purposes. Historically, data for periods prior to 90 days past billing are not available due to system constraints. Therefore, it has not been utilized for risk management purposes. The balances that are current - 89 days past due can be derived as difference between the Total and the 90+ Days Past Due balances6Includes $0.5 billion of gross cardmember receivables available to settle obligations of a consolidated VIE as of December 31, 2010 and 2009.250Accounts Receivable and Loans (Details 2) (USD $)MillionsUnKnownUnKnownUnKnownfalsetrue
