When onboarding with ValPay, merchants are asked how they would like to process American Express (Amex) transactions.
There are two options:
American Express OptBlue
American Express Direct
Both options allow you to accept Amex cards, but they work differently. This guide explains the difference, why it matters, and what’s required for each option.
🔵 American Express OptBlue (Recommended for Most Merchants)
What is OptBlue?
OptBlue is American Express’s program that allows Amex transactions to be processed through ValPay’s payments platform.
With OptBlue:
ValPay (via Adyen) acts as the acquirer for Amex
Amex transactions are processed alongside other card brands
What this means for you
One payments setup for all card brands
Amex deposits are included with your other card deposits
Amex transactions appear in the same reporting and statements
No separate American Express agreement is required
Why most merchants choose OptBlue
Faster and simpler onboarding
Fewer systems and relationships to manage
Easier reconciliation and reporting
👉 OptBlue is the default and recommended option for most merchants.
🟢 American Express Direct
What is Amex Direct?
With American Express Direct, you have a separate, direct relationship with American Express.
American Express:
Acts as its own acquirer
Funds Amex transactions directly to you
Provides separate Amex reporting and statements
When is Amex Direct typically used?
As a general rule of thumb, American Express typically considers Direct relationships for merchants processing higher Amex volumes.
In many cases, merchants who process over $1 million annually in American Express volume alone are more commonly set up with American Express Direct.
ℹ️ Important: This is guidance only, not a requirement. American Express ultimately determines eligibility for Direct processing based on factors such as transaction volume, business model, and risk profile.
What this means for you
Amex deposits are separate from other card brands
Amex transactions do not appear in ValPay settlement reporting
You manage two payment relationships instead of one
🧾 What’s Required for American Express Direct
If you choose Amex Direct, you must already have:
An active American Express merchant account
An American Express Merchant ID (SE number)
Approval from American Express to process directly
This information is required during onboarding. Without it, Amex Direct cannot be enabled and may delay your application.
⚖️ OptBlue vs. Direct: Quick Comparison
Feature | OptBlue | American Express Direct |
Agreement | Included with ValPay | Separate Amex agreement |
Acquirer | ValPay / Adyen | American Express |
Funding | Combined with other cards | Separate Amex deposits |
Reporting | Unified | Separate Amex reporting |
Onboarding effort | Low | Higher |
Recommended for most merchants | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
🧭 Why This Choice Matters
Your selection affects:
How and when you receive Amex deposits
Where Amex transactions appear in reporting
How complex your payments setup is to manage
Unless you already have a business requirement or high Amex volume that supports a Direct relationship, OptBlue is usually the best and simplest option.
📌 During the ValPay Application
During your ValPay application, you’ll be asked whether:
You want to process Amex using OptBlue, or
You already have American Express Direct
If you select Direct, you’ll need to provide your Amex account details to avoid onboarding delays.
❓ Need Help Deciding?
If you’re unsure which option is right for your business, contact your ValPay partner or reach out to support@valpay.com for assistance.