<DefinitionAndReference>
  <Element Id="axp_MarketingPromotionRewardsAndCardmemberServices">
    <definition>Marketing and promotion expense includes advertising costs. Cardmember rewards expense includes the costs of rewards programs (including Membership Rewards). Cardmember services expense includes protection plans and complimentary services provided to cardmembers.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SecuritiesPurchasedUnderAgreementsToResell">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDeposits100000OrMoreForeign">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberReceivablesNetWriteOffsDueToMethodologyChange">
    <definition>Represents net write-offs included in cardmember receivables during period as a result of a change in the methodology the entity uses to write of its cardmember receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GainLossOnFairValueHedgeIneffectivenessNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AsPreviouslyReportedAndRevisedBalancesConsolidatedBalanceSheetsTextBlock">
    <definition>Table presents certain balance sheet line items as previously reported and as revised to correct for certain missclassifications.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetUnrealizedSecuritiesGainsLossesTax">
    <definition>The tax effect from accumulated appreciation or loss in value of the total unsold securities at the end of an accounting period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DebtInstrumentMaturityDates">
    <definition>Date when the debt instrument is scheduled to be fully repaid, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter, etc.).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberSecuritizationSales">
    <definition>Represents the reserve impact of cardmember sales excluded from losses on securitizations, which is included within provisions for lossees in the Consolidates Statements of Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetUnrealizedPensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitCostsTax">
    <definition>The tax effect from the total of net (gain) loss, prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationAmortizableIntangibleAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromBusinessesAndInterestInAffiliates">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_SecuritizationIncomeNet">
    <definition>Non-credit provision components of the net gains or losses from securitization activities, excess spread related to securitized cardmember loans, changes in the fair value of the interest-only strip, and servicing income, net of related discounts or fees. Excess spread, which is recognized as earned, is the net cash flow from interest and fee collections allocated to the third-party investors' interests.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TotalRevenuesNetOfInterestExpense">
    <definition>Revenues from discount revenue, net card fees, travel commissions and fees, other commissions and fees, securitization income, net, other related income, and net interest income during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ChangeInUnrealizedGainLossOnFairValueHedgingInstruments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DebtInstrumentsLineItemsTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the Lending Trust's long-term debt outstanding with original maturities of one year or greater.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeAssetDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProfessionalServices">
    <definition>Comprised of technology related outsourcing costs, consulting costs for a variety of services, legal fees paid to outside attorneys, accountant fees and various other fees paid to third parties for services performed.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherReceivables">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_SecuritizationIncomeNetActivityTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the activity related to securitized loans reported in securitization income, net, prior to adoption of the new accounting standards.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_GuaranteeObligationsLineItemsTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the maximum amount of undiscounted future payments and the amount of related liability associated with the Company's guarantees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetUnrealizedDerivativesLossesTax">
    <definition>The tax effect from the total change, in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_RetainedSubordinatedSecurities">
    <definition>Represents subordinated interests in the securitized cardmember loans, including rated and unrated investments in tranches of the securitization (subordinated securities).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperationsTaxRateReconciliationTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the Company's effective income tax rate.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPosition12MonthsOrLongerAggregateLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_MarketingPromotionRewardsAndCardmemberServicesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing a detail of marketing, promotion, rewards and cardmember services.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionCostOfAcquiredEntityCashPaid">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesForeign">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_PercentageOfCompanysInvestmentSold">
    <definition>Represents the percentage ownership relating to the sale of the Company's investment in Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ImpactOfCashFlowAndNetInvestmentHedgesOnConsolidatedFinancialStatementsTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the impact of cash flow hedges and net investment hedges on the Consolidated Financial Statements.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ConvertibleSubordinatedDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThan12MonthsAggregateLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetIncomeAttributableToCommonShareholders">
    <definition>Represents net income attributable to common shareholders subsequent to preferred shares dividends, accretion, and recognition of remaining unaccreted dividends, earnings allocated to participating share awards and other items and loss from discontinued operations, net of tax.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FinancialInstrumentsLiabilitiesWhichCarryingValuesEqualOrApproximateFairValue">
    <definition>Financial liabilities for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include accrued interest, customer deposits (excluding certificates of deposit, which are described further below), Travelers Cheques outstanding, short-term borrowings, and certain other liabilities for which the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short-term in duration, variable rate in nature, or have no defined maturity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NoninterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesRecoveriesOfBadDebts">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberReceivablesLessReserves">
    <definition>Cardmember receivables represent 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). These receivables are recorded at the time a cardmember enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant. Cardmember receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for losses, and includes principal and any related accrued fees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NoninterestIncome">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing contractual maturities of investment securities, excluding equity securities and other securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberLoansLessReserves">
    <definition>Reflects the carrying amount of unpaid credit card loans issued to individuals under revolving credit arrangements, net of reserves for cardmember losses, unamortized net card fees and include interest receivable and fees, 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.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfAvailableForSaleSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestIncomeDepositsWithFinancialInstitutions">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Deposits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionAggregateLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TotalRevenuesNetOfInterestExpenseAfterProvisionsForLosses">
    <definition>Revenues from discount revenue, net card fees, travel commissions and fees, other commissions and fees, securitization, other related income, and net interest income offset by provisions for losses during the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DiscountRevenue">
    <definition>Represents revenue earned from fees charged to merchants with whom the Company has entered into a card acceptance agreement for processing cardmember transactions. The discount fee generally is deducted from the Company's payment reimbursing the merchant for cardmember purchases. Such amounts are reduced by contra-revenue such as payments to third-party card issuing partners, cash-back reward costs, and corporate incentive payments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_BalanceSheetImpactsDueToNewAccountingRequirementsTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the major balance sheet impacts, including adjustments associated with the adoption of new generally accepted accounting principles, for the consolidation of the Lending Trust.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProvisionForOtherLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsMaximumExposure">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberReceivablesReserves">
    <definition>Reserves for losses relating to cardmember receivables represent management's best estimate of the losses inherent in the Company's outstanding portfolio of receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedAllowanceForLoanLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateRangeStart">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesChargeCard">
    <definition>The sum of the periodic provision charged to operations, based on an assessment of the uncollectibility of the cardmember receivable portfolio, the offset to which is either added to or deducted from the allowance account for the purpose of reducing receivables to an amount that approximates their net realizable value (the amount expected to be collected).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThanTwelveMonthsFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestAndFeeIncomeLoansAndLeases">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesCardmemberLoansAdditionsPrincipal">
    <definition>Represents loss provisions for cardmember loans consisting of principal (resulting from authorized transactions), interest and fee reserves components.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_InterestExpenseLongTermDebtAndOther">
    <definition>Interest expense on the Company's long-term debt and on all other items not previously classified.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowancesAndReservesRecoveries">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TravelersChequesOutstanding">
    <definition>Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of unencashed travelers cheques issued by the Company, as its liability to holders of the cheques.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesChargeCardAdditionsOther">
    <definition>Represents adjustments to cardmember receivables resulting from unauthorized transactions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the impact of derivatives not designated as hedges on the Consolidated Statements of Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherAssetsUndividedProRataInterestInUnconsolidatedVariableInterestEntity">
    <definition>Represents the accrued interest receivable portion of the investors' interest in the total undivided, pro-rata interest in an unconsolidated variable interest entity as of December 31, 2009, which is included within other assets in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet, (historically referred to as "seller's interest").</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the components of comprehensive income, net of tax, including a reconciliation of net income, net unrealized securities gains (losses), net unrealized derivative gains (losses), foreign currency translation adjustments and net unrealized pension and other postretirement benefit costs.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetCardFees">
    <definition>Represents the charge card membership fees earned during the period. These fees are recognized as revenue over the covered card membership period (typically one year), net of provision for projected refunds for cancellation of card membership.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPeriodChange">
    <definition>This element represents the change of asset measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) which have taken place during the period.  Such change may be comprised of purchases, sales, issuances, or settlements of assets; and net transfers in to or out of this category within the fair value hierarchy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherRevenuesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing a detail of other revenues.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDefinedBenefitPlansAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGains">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesIssuedBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_LoanAndLeaseReceivablesImpairedTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing information regarding the Company's impaired loans and receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasis">
    <definition>Total financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis by GAAP's valuation hierarchy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_LongTermDebtWeightedAverageInterestRate">
    <definition>Reflects the calculation as of the balance-sheet date of the average interest rate weighted by the amount of long-term debt outstanding by type or by instrument at that time.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesChargeCardDeductionsPrincipal">
    <definition>Represents net write-offs consisting of principal (resulting from authorized transactions) and fee components, less recoveries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_SignificantChangeInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReasonablyPossibleEstimatedRangeNotPossible">
    <definition>A statement that a range of reasonably possible change cannot be made for a tax position taken for which it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefit will significantly increase or decrease within 12 months of the balance sheet date.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ChangeInUnrealizedGainLossOnHedgedItemInFairValueHedge">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAndEarnings">
    <definition>This element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or accumulated other comprehensive income, resulting in a change in net asset value.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_PreferredShareDividendsAndRelatedAccretion">
    <definition>The aggregate amount of preferred share dividends and related accretion on the preferred shares discount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanLeaseAndOtherLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_EarningsPerShareReconciliationTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table presenting a computation of basic and diluted EPS.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ScheduleOfAvailableForSaleSecuritiesByTypeTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing investment securities rollforward from cost to fair value, including gross unrealized gains and losses, by security type.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedNonperformingOver90DaysAccrualOfInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedTroubledDebtRestructuringAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherReceivablesLessReserves">
    <definition>Carrying amounts due as of the balance sheet date from parties or arising from transactions not otherwise specified in the taxonomy, net of reserves for losses, where applicable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RestrictedCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DerivativeAssetsLiabilitiesNetting">
    <definition>Derivative assets and liabilities for which master netting agreements exist and have been presented net on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDeposits100000OrMore">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableConsumerRevolvingCreditCard">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AccountsPayableAndOtherLiabilities">
    <definition>Accounts payable represents carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business.  Other liabilities represents carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of liabilities not otherwise specified in the taxonomy. Also serves as the sum of liabilities not individually reported in the financial statements, or not separately disclosed in notes.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdoptedTextBlock">
    <definition>For a new accounting pronouncement that has been issued and adopted, an entity's disclosure should (1) describe the new pronouncement, the date that adoption is required and the date that the entity plans to adopt, if earlier; (2) discuss the methods of adoption allowed by the pronouncement and the method utilized by the entity; (3) discuss the impact that adoption of the pronouncement had on the financial statements of the entity; (4) disclose the potential impact of other significant matters resulted from the adoption of the pronouncement (for example, technical violations of debt covenant agreements and planned or intended changes in business practices).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepositsSavingsDeposits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSecuritizationsOfCreditCards">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProvisionForLoanAndLeaseLosses">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeDerivativesQualifyingAsHedgesNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_LossesOnSecuritizations">
    <definition>Represents the loss on securitization the Company records, which is calculated as the difference between the proceeds from the sale and the book basis of the cardmember loans sold.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AccountsReceivableRollForwardTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing changes in the cardmember receivables reserve for losses for the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesCardmemberLoansAdditionsOther">
    <definition>Primarily represents adjustments to cardmember loans resulting from unauthorized transactions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionTwelveMonthsOrLongerFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_LoansAndReceivableImpairedAtCarryingValue">
    <definition>Reflects the adjusted carrying amount of loans and receivables for which it is probable, based on current facts and circumstances, that a creditor will not initially be able to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the agreement, or will not recover the previously reported carrying amount of the loan or receivable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLosses">
    <definition>The sum of the periodic provision charged to operations based on an assessment of the uncollectibility of loan and receivable portfolios, net of recoveries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_LoansAndLeasesReceivableDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>Reflects the aggregate carrying amount of all categories of cardmember loans held in portfolio, net of reserve for losses, as well as other loans, net.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_EffectOfFairValueHedgesOnResultsOfOperationsTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the impact of fair value hedges on the Consolidated Statements of Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TravelCommissionsAndFees">
    <definition>Commissions and fees earned by charging clients transaction or management fees for selling and arranging travel and travel management services. Client transaction fee revenue is recognized at the time the client books the travel arrangements. Travel management services revenue is recognized over the contractual term of the agreement. The Company's travel suppliers (for example, airlines, hotels, car rental companies) pay commissions and fees on tickets issued, sales and other services based on contractual agreements. Commissions and fees from travel suppliers are generally recognized at the time a ticket is purchased or over the term of the contract. Commissions and fees that are based on actual usage that is unknown at time of purchase (for example, hotel and car rentals), are recognized when cash is received.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_IncreaseDecreaseTravelersChequesOutstanding">
    <definition>Change in unencashed travelers cheques outstanding between reporting periods.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>Describes an entity's accounting policy for determining the fair value of its financial instruments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherLoansLessReserves">
    <definition>The amount of other loans not otherwise specified in the taxonomy, net of reserves for losses, where applicable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ShortTermInvestmentSecurities">
    <definition>Includes other highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less, not categorized above.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesAfterYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesCardmemberLoansDeductionsOther">
    <definition>Represents amounts including foreign currency translation adjustments and net write-offs related to unauthorized transactions.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_MaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing aggregate annual maturities on long-term debt obligations for the Lending Trust (based on final maturity dates).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NoninterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesForeign">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherCommissionsAndFeesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing a detail of other commissions and fees.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromLoansAndLeases">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_PreferredSharesDividendsAccretionInRecognitionOfRemainingUnaccretedDividends">
    <definition>The aggregate amount of preferred share dividends, related accretion and recognition of remaining unaccreted dividends on the preferred shares discount.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfCashFlowHedgeInstruments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TimeDepositsByMaturityTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing scheduled maturities of all certificates of deposit.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTaxPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfAvailableForSaleSecurities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesChargeCardAdditionsPrincipal">
    <definition>Represents loss provisions for cardmember receivables consisting of principal (resulting from authorized transactions) and fee reserve components.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasis">
    <definition>Total financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis by GAAP's valuation hierarchy.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfInterestRateFairValueHedgeDerivatives">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositsInBanks">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherNetExpenseTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing a detail of other, net expense.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_InterestOnlyStrip">
    <definition>Represents the present value of estimated future positive excess spread expected to be generated by the securitized loans over the the estimated remaining life of the loans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ServiceFees">
    <definition>Represents the servicing fee charged by the Company as a result of securitization activity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TransfersAndServicingOfFinancialAssetsPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToCallOptionsAndWarrants">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCumulativeChangesInNetGainLossFromCashFlowHedgesEffectNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepositLiabilitiesDisclosuresTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AllowanceForLoanAndLeaseLossesRollForwardTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing changes in the cardmember loans reserve for losses for the period.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDeposits100000OrMoreDomestic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_IncomeFromContinuingOperationsEarningsAllocatedToParticipatingShareAwardsAndOtherItems">
    <definition>Earnings allocated to participating share awards and other items, primarily in-substance dividends for non-controlling interests in certain consolidated subsidiaries.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShortTermBorrowings">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_MaturitiesOfCardmemberLoanSecuritizations">
    <definition>The cash outflow from the maturity of securitized debt. Securitization is the structured process whereby interests in loans and other receivables are packaged, underwritten, and sold in the form of asset-backed securities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionFairValueTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing information about the Company's investment securities with gross unrealized losses and the length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberLoansUndividedProRataInterestInUnconsolidatedVariableInterestEntity">
    <definition>Represents the principal and accrued interest receivable of the non-investor interest portion of the total undivided, pro-rata interest in an unconsolidated variable interest entity as of December 31, 2009, which is included within cardmember loans in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet, (historically referred to as "seller's interest").</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsNumberOfPositions">
    <definition>This item represents the number of securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsNumberOfPositionsLessThanTwelveMonths">
    <definition>This items represents the number of securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeposits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherNoninterestExpense">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndDueFromBanks">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForCardmemberLoansDeductionsWriteOffsPrincipal">
    <definition>Reflects the principal amount of loans that have been removed, or charged off, from both loan receivables and the reserve for credit losses, typically because they are considered to be not salvageable or have been purchased by unconsolidated collection entities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForLossesChargeCardDeductionsOther">
    <definition>Represents adjustments to cardmember receivables resulting from unauthorized transactions and foreign currency translation adjustments.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_GrossRealizedGainsAndLossesOnSalesOfInvestmentSecuritiesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table detailing gross realized gains and losses on the sales of investment securities, included in other non-interest revenues.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashAndCashEquivalents">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrentAndNoncurrent">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherReceivablesReserves">
    <definition>Reserves for losses relating to other receivables represent management's best estimate of the losses inherent in the Company's outstanding portfolio of other receivables.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionsNumberOfPositionsTwelveMonthsOrLonger">
    <definition>This items represents the number of securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or more.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestBearingDepositLiabilitiesDomestic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_NetDecreaseIncreaseInShortTermBorrowings">
    <definition>The net cash inflow (outflow) for borrowing having original maturities of twelve months or less.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AcceleratedPreferredDividendAccretion">
    <definition>Adjustment to retained earnings for the increase in carrying amount of redeemable preferred shares that is classified as temporary equity.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassifiedToEarningNet">
    <definition>The amount of net pretax gains (losses) on cash flow hedges expected to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next 12 months.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_FeesAndCommissionsOther">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberSecuritizationMaturities">
    <definition>Represents the reserve impact of cardmember maturities, excluded from Losses on Securitizations, which is included within provisions for losses in the Consolidated Statements of Income.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ExcessSpreadNet">
    <definition>Represents the net cash flow from interest and fee collections allocated to the investors' interests after deducting the interest paid on investor certificates, credit losses, contractual servicing fees, other expenses and the changes in the fair value of the interest-only strip.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInRestrictedCash">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DepositsOther">
    <definition>Represents other types of deposits not previously classified.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesRatioOfFairValueToAmortizedCostTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the gross unrealized losses due to temporary impairments by ratio of fair value to amortized cost.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesPolicyTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ContractualMaturitiesTimeDeposits100000OrMoreTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table summarizing the outstanding amounts of certificates of deposit in denominations of $100,000 or more.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DepositsByComponentAlternativeTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table categorizing customer deposits as interest-bearing or non-interest-bearing deposits, as well as by U.S. or Non-U.S.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_TotalUndividedProRataInterestInUnconsolidatedVariableInterestEntity">
    <definition>Represents the total amount of an undivided, pro-rata interest (principal and accrued interest receivable) in an unconsolidated variable interest entity as of December 31, 2009, in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet, (historically referred to as "seller's interest").</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DepositsByTypeTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents table aggregated by deposit type offered by the Company.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDeposits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentsTax">
    <definition>The tax effect from accumulated adjustment, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains (losses).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDefinedBenefitPensionAndOtherPostretirementPlansNetOfTax">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberReceivablesAndOtherReceivablesTextBlock">
    <definition>Represents the disclosure relating to cardmember receivables and other receivables. Cardmember receivables represent 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). These receivables are recorded at the time a cardmember enters into a point-of-sale transaction with a merchant. Cardmember receivable balances are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets net of reserves for losses, and includes principal and any related accrued fees. Other receivables represent carrying amounts due as of the balance sheet date from parties or arising from transactions not otherwise specified in the taxonomy, net of reserves for losses, where applicable.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_OtherLoansReserves">
    <definition>Reserves for losses relating to other loans represent management's best estimate of the losses inherent in the Company's outstanding portfolio of other loans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_OtherIncomeAndOtherExpenseDisclosureTextBlock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_ProvisionsForCardmemberLoansDeductionsWriteOffsInterestAndFees">
    <definition>Reflects the interest and fees amount of loans that have been removed, or charged off, from both loan receivables and the reserve for credit losses, typically because they are considered to be not salvageable or have been purchased by unconsolidated collection entities.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantChangeInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossibleEstimatedRangeOfChange">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AssetSecuritizationsTextBlock">
    <definition>This element may be used to capture disclosure of cardmember receivables and loans transferred to a trust whereby the trust then issues securities to third-party investors, and these securities are collateralized by the transferred assets.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsAndFederalFundsSold">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeEffectivePortionNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestAndDividendIncomeOperating">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationAmortizationAndAccretionNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_DeferredTaxesAcquisitionCostsAndOther">
    <definition>Includes the change in deferred tax assets and liabilities primarily pertaining to continuing operations, mark to market adjustments on available for sale securities, and foreign exchange gains or losses; cost of acquisitions; and other.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGains">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateRangeEnd">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGainLossNet">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationOtherMiscellaenousNetAssets">
    <definition>Assets acquired, other than goodwill and intangible assets, (less associated liabilities) in the business combination.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_CardmemberLoansReserves">
    <definition>Reserves for losses relating to cardmember loans represent management's best estimate of the losses inherent in the Company's outstanding portfolio of loans.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsCurrentCarryingValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FinancialInstrumentsAssetsWhichCarryingValuesEqualOrApproximateFairValue">
    <definition>Financial assets for which carrying values equal or approximate fair value include cash and cash equivalents, cardmember receivables, accrued interest, and certain other assets. For these assets, the carrying values approximate fair value because they are short-term in duration or variable rate in nature.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NotesReceivableGross">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDeposits">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AsPreviouslyReportedAndRevisedBalancesConsolidatedCashFlowsTextBlock">
    <definition>Table presents certain cash flow statement line items as previously reported and as revised to correct for certain missclassifications.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_LoansAndLeasesReceivableImpairedNonperformingNonaccrualOfInterest">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock">
    <definition>This element represents the disclosure related to assets and liabilities, including financial instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="axp_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesCorporateDebtObligationsTemporaryLiquidityGuaranteeProgram">
    <definition>Represents amounts of corporate debt obligations, on a cost basis, issued under the Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program that are guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotDesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpenseShortTermBorrowings">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_NoninterestIncomeOtherOperatingIncome">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesYearOne">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_TimeDepositMaturitiesYearFive">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
  <Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
    <definition>No authoritative reference available.</definition>
    <reference>No authoritative reference available.</reference>
  </Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>
