American Express Low Rate Credit Card Review (2026)

Rates and details verified 18 May 2026

Rates can change without notice. Last verified: 18 May 2026 (AEST). Please confirm details on the bank’s official page.

Purchase rate

10.99%

p.a. ongoing

Annual fee

$0

no annual fee

Interest-free

55 days

on purchases

About the Amex Low Rate Card

The American Express Low Rate Credit Card combines two features rarely found together: a genuinely low ongoing purchase rate (10.99% p.a.) and no annual fee. Most low-rate cards in Australia charge $49–$99/year in annual fees, making this card stand out for cost-conscious borrowers.

The main limitation is Amex acceptance. While most major supermarkets, petrol stations, and retailers accept American Express, smaller merchants may not. If you need a card accepted everywhere, consider the Heritage Bank Gold Low Rate (11.8% p.a., $0 fee, Visa/Mastercard network) as an alternative.

Key Rates and Features

FeatureDetail
Purchase rate10.99% p.a.
Annual fee$0
Interest-free daysUp to 55 days
Balance transferNot available
RewardsNo rewards program
NetworkAmerican Express

Rates as at 18 May 2026. Check American Express's website for the latest.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Lowest purchase rate of any $0 annual fee card on this page
  • ✓ No annual fee — zero fixed cost to hold
  • ✓ Up to 55 interest-free days
  • ✓ American Express fraud protection and customer support

Cons

  • ✗ Amex not accepted at all merchants (check before applying)
  • ✗ No balance transfer offer
  • ✗ No rewards program

How It Compares

  • Amex Low Rate: 10.99% p.a., $0 annual fee, no BT — lowest rate, no fee
  • Heritage Bank Gold: 11.8% p.a., $0 annual fee, 0% BT 12m — Visa, BT included
  • CommBank Low Rate: 10.99–15.99% p.a., $72/year — personalised rate, Visa
  • Bankwest Breeze: 12.99% p.a., $49/year — low rate + 24m BT

→ Compare all no annual fee cards · → Compare all low rate cards

FAQs

What is the Amex Low Rate purchase rate?

10.99% p.a. — one of the lowest purchase rates available on any credit card in Australia, let alone one with no annual fee.

Is there a balance transfer offer?

No — the Amex Low Rate card does not include a balance transfer offer. For a no-fee BT card, consider the Heritage Bank Gold Low Rate (0% for 12 months, 0% BT fee).

Does Amex work everywhere in Australia?

At most major retailers, supermarkets, and online stores — yes. Smaller venues and some hospitality businesses may not accept Amex. Check with your most-used merchants before applying.

Information verified 18 May 2026. Rates and fees subject to change. Confirm current terms on American Express's website before applying. This is not financial advice.