American Express launches Flexible Payment Option to give SMEs instant control over cashflow and repayment flexibility.
American Express, a global financial services and card issuer company, has launched Flexible Payment Option (FPO), a feature designed to give new Business Platinum and Gold Cardmembers greater control over cashflow by providing an instant line of credit. The feature allows Cardmembers to manage their repayment schedules while maintaining up to 54 calendar days interest-free on eligible balances.
FPO is embedded directly into the Business Platinum and Gold Cards, enabling new Cardmembers to repay their statement balance in full or pay a portion over time, with interest applied only to balances carried forward. Cardmembers can manage payments through their online account or the American Express app, selecting to pay the total balance, the minimum due, or any amount in between. Interest will not be charged if the total balance is settled by the statement due date.
The introduction of FPO responds to cashflow priorities among UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). According to a 2025 survey conducted by Opinium on behalf of American Express, 31% of SME respondents identified cashflow management as a key focus, while 26% reported that repayment flexibility is highly important when considering business financing solutions.
American Express has highlighted that the feature addresses common challenges for SMEs, allowing businesses to access an instant line of credit without using personal savings or taking out separate loans. Alongside FPO, the Business Platinum and Gold Cards maintain no pre-set spending limit, providing dynamic spending power aligned with business needs.
Business Cardmembers can also earn Membership Rewards points on everyday purchases, redeemable for travel, experiences, and other business or personal expenses. The combination of flexible repayment, dynamic spending, and rewards is intended to help SMEs manage operational cashflow while maintaining access to additional financing options when required.
FPO is available exclusively to new Business Platinum and Gold Card applicants. Existing Cardmembers must submit a new application to access the feature. Interest only applies if Cardmembers carry balances beyond the payment due date, calculated from the date of charge until full repayment.
The launch reflects American Express’s continued focus on supporting small business financial flexibility, integrating repayment options directly into its Card products to reduce reliance on external financing and to streamline cashflow management for Cardmembers.
