Does a CLI trigger an FR?
 

I have 3 AMEX credit cards (JetBlue, Blue, and SPG) and 1 charge (PRG). Oldest is JetBlue from 2005 and I got the PRG in December 2012. I've had the SPG card for about 3.5 years and I just sent a request for a CLI. I got the typical "we'll let you know in 7 days message." Today I received a letter in the mail saying the following:

Thank you for your recent request for a line of credit increase on your American Express Card Account.

We appreciate your interest and would like to process your application as son as possible. Before we can finish your application, we need to have you provide the following information.

It then asks for me to fill out an IRS 4506T form and at the bottom it says that if they don't hear from me within 30 days they will give no further consideration to my application.

Basically, is this an FR? If so, do I have to fill it out to keep myself in good standing with AMEX? I'd honestly rather not complete it even if it means I don't get my CLI, however, will this affect my status with AMEX in the future? I was planning on applying for a Platinum card in the near future. I wouldn't want this to affect my application for that, or the status of my existing accounts.

Why? All it does is allow American Express to verify your income.

I've read stories where people complete these tax statements for AMEX and end up getting some of their credit lines shaved, or sometimes cancelled altogether. I wouldn't want to risk that (even if I am telling the truth on the application). Why is it that they'd ask for this now and not when you first apply.

And, it'd be good to know if the fact that this request is coming up indicate that there's a red flag on my account. Would anybody know that?

Could not replying to this affect my chances of getting approved for a Platinum card?

The initial application process is automated. Your request for a Credit Line Increase is being handled by a person who needs more information. If you have accurately stated your income I cannot think of reason not to provide the form.

You've hit the Amex ceiling for credit limits they're willing to extend without a financial review. This is just how they operate, and is no reflection per se, on them suddenly viewing you as a higher "risk" because of the CLI request alone. It's most likely not a red flag on you; it's just a blanket policy. If someone abuses the CLI option with repeated requests for higher and higher limits in a short time span, this has been known to trigger a red flag and FR.

If you want higher limits on your Amex credit cards (not charge cards), you'll probably have to comply either now or later. What are your total limits across the 3 credit cards mentioned? The threshold has been quoted as $25k per card, or @ $35k across all credit cards. This is very much a YMMV threshold, though, depending on the individual's situation.

If you're not being threatened with closing your cards with non-compliance, than it's not an FR. I would cool it if you're not wanting to fill it out.

I wish asking for a CLI would lead to a F/R. I've been trying for years to get Amex to look at my tax returns as AGI on them is 500% higher than my individual income.

I keep asking and getting CLIs but no F/R

The direct approach with Amex works well. Simply call them up and ask for a CLI to $100k+ on one credit card "or the maximum limit I qualify for." They'll request 2+ years of tax returns via 4506-T and will grant it if you qualify.

It helps to have at least one existing card at that level with another bank, but some lender has to be the first, so it may as well be Amex.

Then it's on to a $200k+ limit on one card, which at least one member on here and/or FW has, as of a few years ago.

Last year I called and asked if I could submit tax returns and the CSR said there was not a process for consumers to initiate the request. I suppose I should try again.