How to Get Approved: Credit Scores, 5/24, and Application Strategy (2026)
Getting approved for both cards requires understanding Chase's 5/24 rule, the credit score requirements, and the optimal application order. Here is the complete strategy.
Credit Score Requirements
Amex Gold
Amex is more lenient, especially for existing customers. Focuses on Amex payment history and income.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Chase is stricter overall. Requires good credit history with low utilization and stable income.
The 5/24 Rule: Why It Matters
Chase will automatically deny your application if you have opened 5 or more new credit card accounts in the past 24 months.
This applies to cards from ALL banks, not just Chase. If you opened 2 Chase cards, 2 Amex cards, and 1 Capital One card in the past 24 months, you are at 5/24 and Chase will deny you. Amex has no equivalent rule.
How to Check Your 5/24 Status
- 1 Pull your free credit report from annualcreditreport.com
- 2 Count every new credit card account opened in the past 24 months
- 3 Include cards from all banks (Amex, Citi, Capital One, store cards)
- 4 Most business cards from Chase count; business cards from Amex and others usually do not
- 5 If your count is 4 or fewer, you are under 5/24 and can apply for CSP
Application Order Strategy
| Your Situation | Recommended Order |
|---|---|
| Under 5/24, want both cards | CSP first (while you can), then Amex Gold 3+ months later |
| Over 5/24, want both cards | Amex Gold now (no 5/24 restriction), wait until under 5/24 for CSP |
| Only want one card, under 5/24 | Either card; choose based on your spending profile |
| Only want one card, over 5/24 | Amex Gold (your only option until 5/24 count drops) |
Charge Card vs Credit Card: Key Differences
| Feature | Amex Gold (Charge) | CSP (Credit) |
|---|---|---|
| Spending limit | No preset limit | Fixed credit limit |
| Monthly payment | Pay in full required | Minimum payment option |
| Interest charges | None (no revolving) | APR on carried balances |
| Credit utilization reporting | No limit reported (varies) | Reports limit and balance |
| Downgrade options | None | Freedom Flex/Unlimited |
| Late payment penalty | Restricted access | Late fee + penalty APR |
Amex Lifetime Language
Amex restricts welcome bonuses to once per lifetime per card product. If you have ever held the Amex Gold (even years ago, even if you cancelled), you may not qualify for the welcome bonus when applying again. Check the terms on your application page for “lifetime language” disclaimers. Chase has a similar restriction: you cannot receive the CSP bonus if you received any Sapphire bonus in the past 48 months.
Approval FAQ
What credit score do I need for the Amex Gold?▾
What is the Chase 5/24 rule?▾
Is the Amex Gold a credit card or charge card?▾
Updated 11 April 2026