Credit Card Reviews

Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries

2006-08-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

Guest: dmband
Post subject: Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries
Posted: Fri Aug 25, 2006 10:57 pm

I am thinking about checking a bunch of car insurance companies to see if I can get a lower rate and I was wondering what effect all the credit checks they do will have on my credit score.

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Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries
Posted: Sat Aug 26, 2006 8:14 am

Per Equifax, these inquiries are treated similar to other informational inquiries and do not factor into your FICO score:

Quote:

What information is NOT used in calculating my FICO® score?

Certain types of inquiries such as promotional, account review, insurance, employment-related inquiries, or inquiries when you request your own credit report

- Harry

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries
Posted: Sat Aug 26, 2006 8:22 am

Maybe they shouldnt but I know that they can be noted as hard inquiries and interfere with getting credit....I dont think it is worth the effort to get a lot of insurance quotes....

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries
Posted: Sat Aug 26, 2006 8:29 am

You've seen them show up in the hard inquiry section of your report vs. the section of Account Review/"only seen by you" inquiries?

Not challenging your statement ... I simply have no experience in this area.

- Harry

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards and Auto Insurance Inquiries
Posted: Sat Aug 26, 2006 10:42 am

yes...I think it happens often....when I applied for my mortgage refi a few years back....I had to explain inquires on my report....2 of them were for shopping for insurance....my existing isurance carrier just runs a soft inquiry, though....The same happens for many of my existing credit accounts (credit cards run soft inquiries)...

Also, had a coworker get declined for a credit card because had just went insurance shopping...lots of hard inquiries.... I think others have had similar posts here also...

Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card

2006-07-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 5:41 pm

I heard amex allows you to do...how about citibank...?

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Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 8:38 pm

Yes, Citibank lets you do it. Amex even lets you do it online.
_________________
Polonius
"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jun 23, 2006 10:08 pm

thanks. I got some work to do then

Guest: micky
Post subject: Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 8:56 am

No citibank dose not allow reallocation of available credit line between personal and business cards. I have just asked for it and they rejected it.

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Moving Personal Credit to Business Credit Card
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:50 am

Well, I asked for it and had no problems. Did you personally guarantee your business card?
_________________
Polonius
"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit

2006-07-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

Guest: nefertiti66
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:28 am

My credit score is 751.
No current credit cards, school loan 24k and in good payment status for 3 years (federal loan) and one credit card i paid off 6 years ago 1100 that was left from college.
I want to get a credit card to establish good credit (paying off everymonth and only using 30% or less of the limit).
I applied for the citi dividend and was denied.
I was told that cap 1 does not report limits and will be negative on my report if i get one????
What card SHOULD i apply for ?
I have an excellent score but no current cards (the reason why citi said NO to me)

Please help!

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Guest: phantomega1
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:36 am

I would say go for AMEX or Discover. They have good name value, decent APRs, and from what I hear they will give you a decent limit. Bank Of America is really good about giving generous limits also, but they don't have the rewards that you can get from AMEX or Discover, and since you plan on paying off your card every month, you definately need a rewards card.

I would encourage AMEX. I just got approved for their Blue Cash card with a decent limit, even though I want it to be a little higher. Discover denied me two years ago, and I haven't decided if I want to give them my business and apply again.

Good Luck!
_________________
I can't commit. I don't even know if I like Pepsi or Coke.

Guest: dascxs
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 11:31 am

Amex always looks good. Blue or Costco TrueEarnings.

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 11:56 am

Another tack is to apply for an "easy credit', maintain it for 6 mo, and then go after the big guys. Gas Cards are notable. Target is another.

- H.

Guest: multiplierx
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 6:35 pm

My first advice is avoid most of the "easy credit". It's not needed and not worth having it show on your credit reports for the next decade.

BOA is a good choice. You could try Amex or Discover. The other possibility is a credit union. Many credit unions will let anyone apply. Most CU cards have good "prime" terms. I'm sure you could easily get a credit union card.

Your other possibilities are gas or store charge cards. It'd only take 1 of each to start good history. Just choose cards that you'll keep for many years.

Guest: fire3000
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 7:09 pm

BOA is a little more lenient than Citi. If they decline you, they will probably mail you an invitation for their 99/500 semi-secured card ($99 deposit for a credit limit of $500 and the deposit will be refunded in less than a year if payments are on time). Discover is even harder to get approved for than Citi. If you can join a local credit union that issues credit cards and open up a savings account there, you have a good chance of being approved.

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 10:06 pm

Quote:
My first advice is avoid most of the "easy credit".

I'm puzzled. I was the one who used the expression "easy credit", making it clear that I was noting accounts that are pretty accessible to lite credits (specifically suggesting gas cards and Target).

You go on to suggest a gas or store card as possibilities yourself.

Was it just an ambiguity in my wording?

btw, welcome to the group. I get the feeling my posts rub you the wrong way. If so, it's unfortunate.

- H.

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Credit Cards to Establish Good Credit
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:13 am

go with BofA, which i got as my first credit card as a senior in college. I had no credit history, not even student loans, since i didnt have to take out any for college. They started be off with a $900 limit. You shouldnt get rejected because i at that point didnt have a credit history aswell, but then again i had been banking with them for over 2 years

Good Student Credit Cards

2006-07-14T13:45:00.000-07:00

Guest: FaithNGrace
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Mon Jul 10, 2006 10:56 pm

Quick Question: Which of these student cards would be the most friendly to college students with no/limited credit history?

BOA Student Platinum Visa
AMEX Blue for Students
MBNA for Students
or
Discover Student Clear

It's better to spread the apps over several months, right?

Thanks a bunch!
_________________
FaithNGrace
slowly learning about the wonderful world of credit!

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Guest: davej
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 2:12 am

I guess BoA would be the easiest to get. And given the acquisition of MBNA we might see their student cards merge sometime soon. Discover may be a little tougher to get, but this may not be the case with student cards... AmEx for students is another good card, and AmEx is known for their generous credit limits. In fact, if you don't have a lot of recent inquiries you will most likely qualify for all of them.

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 2:33 am

Most student cards are designed for people with limited credit experience and therefore likely friendly so long as you meet stated income requirements, provided you have no negative credit information reported.

A card choice should be driven, by among other things, how you expect to use it. If you expect to carry a balance, a lower rate card is preferable. If you expect to pay in full, then a strong rewards card is best.

As a student, I encourage you to push very hard to pay the card in full. Limited income and a natural urge toward impulse purchases can mean that you max the card out early on, leaving yourself at a disadvantage once you leave school. Further, ideally you should never carry a balance that is greater than 50% (preferably no more than 30%) if you want to receive future consideration for prime credit on limited history.

-- Discover: Of the cards you mention, has among the best interest rates (beating out some others by as much as 2%), but on the typical modest student purchase budget, is likely to pay less than half in rewards (considering high reward rates on other cards plus bonus rewards on grocery and gas purchases). That's compensated for by being a cash reward -- most others reward in merchandise cards -- and in offering a double reward rate if you redeem the Discover reward in the form of merchandise cards. The card has a strong reputation.

-- MBNA potentially offers the best available fixed rate. However, I'm somewhat leary of the card. They have a reputation for significantly increasing rates if you are late in making a payment (even one day) or have a recurrent record of running the balance above 50% of the credit limit. At one time, they were known to increase your rate if another creditor reported adverse information to the credit bureaus, however I believe they've ceased that practice. In short, is has a prime reputation among those who maintain a pristine credit record. However, those with lesser performance have a distaste for MBNA. This card isn't a reward card, which is a consideration if you don't intend to carry a balance. A "vanity" plus, is that they offer a "branded" card featuring the logos/mascots for a large number of universities.

-- BofA: Higher rate and not (I believe) a rewards card. Now merged with MBNA. (In fact, the MBNA website features both logos). This card has different and less attractive terms. I have a strong experience with BofA, however, I'd leave it for later consideration as a student card.

-- Amex Blue: I have little exposure to Amex. Clearly a prime "name plate". Higher purchase rate.

---- You don't mention Citibank. They feature competitive rewards and interest rates (not highest nor lowest). I mention them simply because our 17 year personal relationship has been the strongest of any with which we've been involved. They were the most accomodating when we fell into economic distress. I have very high regard for them.

I think over the next year you should cultivate a relationship with two card issuers -- looking to start of on the strongest footing with each prior to graduation. I personally might recommend seeking out Citibank first and then MBNA after 9 mo.

As you say, it's best to spread applications rather than make them all at once. It's hardly a hard call, though, and others might advise otherwise. I'd recommend Citi or Discover as your first app., following in 2 mo with a 2nd app and another 3 mo w/ a 3rd app. with other issuers if you're unsuccessful. I don't advise rushing this. I'd exclude MBNA from your search for a initial card. Once you obtain an iniitial card, in your shoes I might choose to hold back for 6 months, establish some track record by carry a very modest balance (less than $100) month to month, and then go for MBNA -- assuming that you're looking to rigidly adhere to credit terms and balance discipline (and why wouldn't you

Good luck!

- Harry

Guest: FaithNGrace
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 12:37 pm

Thanks so much for all of the info. I didn't mention Citi because I just recently got the mtvU Visa from them. I figured it would look better if I had another card from a different company. I think I can probably submit another application in about a month or two, I just wanted to figure out which one to try first. I think two cards will be more than sufficient to head back to school with. (At least, I hope so! ) I was leaning towards BOA because I've only heard good things about them. Good idea?

My friend got denied for the Citi mtvU card (couldn't verify student status) and she has decided she doesn't even want to bother with them again. I will pass along the info about the other cards so she can figure out which one she wants to try for. Right now she thinks she's going to try BOA or AMEX. Are they more likely to refuse her since she got denied by Citi?

Thanks again!
_________________
FaithNGrace
slowly learning about the wonderful world of credit!

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Tue Jul 11, 2006 3:18 pm

Sounds like you've got your head together on this. I might suggest you go for MBNA. If rejected, go for Discover.

- H.

Guest: FaithNGrace
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Thu Jul 13, 2006 1:08 am

Thanks I'm slowly learning how all of this stuff works. I knew there were credit scores and that too many inquiries could hurt your score, but I have learned so much more from this board! I didn't even know there were student cards before I visited this site! I'm getting anxious to apply for another card (not sure which one yet!), but I am waiting so my apps are at least 3 months apart.

As far as my friend goes, someone on another site said BOA would be the most forgiving with regards to the denied Citi app and somebody else said that AMEX really doesn't care about your history with other companies. The BOA thing sounds about right, given everything I've read about them, but the thing about AMEX sounds really out of character. I always heard that AMEX was especially picky about who they approved. Are they really that relaxed with the student cards?

Thanks again for all the advice... I appreciate it!
_________________
FaithNGrace
slowly learning about the wonderful world of credit!

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:15 am

i always tell people BofA student platinum visa, which was the very first card i ever got. As take the advice of the more seasoned posters. I cant remember my APR, but then again i always pay off full every month

Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Good Student Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 3:31 pm

FaithNGrace-

Just a quick note that you can comparison shop for student cards here:

http://www.cardratings.com/studentcreditcards.html

Good luck!
_________________
Regards,
Curtis Arnold
Board Monitor
http://www.CardRatings.com
20K+ Credit Card Reviews

Citi Platinum Select Credit Card

2006-07-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

Guest: creditcardman
Post subject: Citi Platinum Select Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 7:29 am

Hi Everyone

This is my first post. I would be applying for a citi credit card and after comparing various college cards i found out that this purticular card doesnt provide any rebates compared to the MTV one or the Dividend Select or the Drivers Edge. Why would anyone apply for such a card when others with rewards are available in the college category?

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Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Citi Platinum Select Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:11 am

couldnt tell you off the top of the head, but most people i know while i was in college either had the Chase rewards card which is what i have or they had the dividend select.

Guest: guessindigo
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Citi Platinum Select Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:50 am

[quote="creditcardman"]Hi Everyone

This is my first post. I would be applying for a citi credit card and after comparing various college cards i found out that this purticular card doesnt provide any rebates compared to the MTV one or the Dividend Select or the Drivers Edge. Why would anyone apply for such a card when others with rewards are available in the college category?[/quote]

Low rates, high credit lines. Rewards cards carry a higher apr

Guest: creditcardman
Post subject: Citi Platinum Select Credit Card
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 12:04 pm

I dont think that is the case with Citi College Cards. All the Citi College Cards carry an APR of 18.24%.

Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase

2006-07-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:19 am

ive read on many places, one which being this forum, that after 9 months of having an account open with BofA, they will automatically give you a CL increase. Well, i got the student card from them back in mid-sept and it is now mid-july and ive yet to get my automatic CL increase. Ive been on time with every payment paying in full every month except 1 and ive not gone over the CL, so is there an explanation for why ive yet to get my CL increase. Should i wait another month and see what happens or call them to find out

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Guest: fenster
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:33 am

You're misinformed, BofA never implements automatic CLIs, you've to ask for 'em.

Go online, look for the link "request a limit increase", it'll let you know right there and then if you get it. Ususally they'll do a soft inquiry for CLIs, but sometimes they ask your permission to do a hard inquiry before instating an increase.
_________________
beware of everything

Guest: guessindigo
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 11:49 am

Thats not entirely accurate fenster. There are some rare instances when bofa will auto increase your credit limit. However, your right, the general rule is that you need to call and ask for one, or use the CLI link on the website.

Guest: tonygoldston
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 12:06 pm

The 9 month rule for BOA is that you usually cannot ask for a CLI until you have an account that has been opened for 9 months.

Guest: hdporter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Bank of America Credit Card Nine Month Credit Increase
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 12:28 pm

We have 3 BoA accounts. Each limit has been increased twice. Each time it was on the basis of automatic reviews. Two limit requests have both been declined; both without hard pulls.

----------------------

My Gold a/c was opened 1/04 w/ auto CLI 12/04 and 9/05.
My Plat a/c was opened 4/04 w/ auto CLI 12/04 and 10/05.

My wife's Gold account was opened 1/04.

A CLI request 10/04 was delined.
No hard pull (likely no pull at all). Reasons cited were high utilization on her account, limited purchases, and no recent transactions.

She received an auto CLI 3/05.

A CLI was requested 10/05 and again declined.
She was told it hadn't been enough time since her last increase. There was no bureau report pulled.

Her limit was increase automatically 1/06.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We've kinda given up on BoA CLI requests and just wait. The experience of other's apparently varies.

Credit Card Limit on Balance Transfers

2006-06-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Guest: AJ
Post subject: Credit Card Limit on Balance Transfers
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 5:49 am

Why do banks offer balance transfers and claim that you can use up to your available limit ( of course leaving a little left on the card ) then they turn around and say that you are using too much of the limit they gave you? For example, if you have 9k, how close to the 9k should you get?

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Guest: mouse
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Credit Card Limit on Balance Transfers
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 7:08 am

Quote:
"AJ"
Why do banks offer balance transfers and claim that you can use up to your available limit ( of course leaving a little left on the card ) then they turn around and say that you are using too much of the limit they gave you? For example, if you have 9k, how close to the 9k should you get?

LEAVE $100--$500 UNUSED

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Credit Card Limit on Balance Transfers
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 7:56 am

I'd keep it under $8,000 at least--and preferably under $4400.

Banks seem to get nervous if you use more than 90% of your available credit. Banks are very happy if you use less than 50% of your available credit.

I understand some people do what mouse suggests and go for years without any adverse effects. Others, though, say that they do have adverse effects when over 90%. Still others recommend staying under 50% as a strategy--that keeps your credit scores high and encourages banks to offer you intro offers at 0% and more BT offers at good rates.

I know it's hard to keep below 50% when you have free money available. I have trouble doing that myself. What I do is stay under 90% at all times, and if the limit is small (for me, small is under $10K) stay under 50%. I have a few cards with limits of 40K+, so when I get an offer on those that I want to use I go for the 89% level!
_________________
Polonius
"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Guest: bullet875
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Card Limit on Balance Transfers
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 10:42 am

I spoke with a Chase underwriter yesterday and he suggests that you stay under 50%. Anything more than that ends to make the card companies a little nervous unless you have a lo9ng credit history.

Good Business Credit Cards

2006-06-17T10:39:00.000-07:00

Guest: BigDog
Post subject: Good Business Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Jun 09, 2006 1:46 am

Hi,

Looking for a Business Credit Card that gives out hight credit lines.
I need a Visa or Master Card - Not Amex - Amex no good over seas

I got a ADVANTA offer and it looks to good to be true,
15 months 0% and 5% Cash Back.
Does anyone have a ADVANTA that can tell me if they are good to deal with.

How long to find out if you are approved with ADVANTA.
Do they base your credit limit on your personal credit score (My score is in the hight 700's) or do they look at your business.
If not what other banks out there offer business cards.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Good Business Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Jun 09, 2006 9:55 am

The Advanta card is fine--when I applied for it in November, I got a call the same day and the card arrived quickly.

Problem is, the credit limit assigned to me was $2500, lower than any of my other cards. I called and asked for a higher limit, and that was denied because my account was too new to qualify for a credit limit increase.

The 5% is only on certain purchases, and it's limited to $25 per month. There are no problems with the card, but it's not very useful to me. You might get a better limit.
_________________
Polonius
"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Guest: BigDog
Post subject: Good Business Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Jun 09, 2006 10:32 am

Thanks for the heads up.
My lowest Credit Line is 9000 - Not looking for a 2 or 3 Grand Card.
If there giving you 0% and 5% back - I quess the lines would be low. Again I am quessing.

I hope someone else can share about Advanta or any other BUZ Card they have.

Guest: beyond platinum
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Good Business Credit Cards
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 9:57 am

Advanta gave me a $15000 limit to start with but they will go up to $50,000 and so far I like the card. One thing in particular I like is that I can do B/T's, purchases, cash advances, and convenience checks all at the same 7.99% rate minus fees.

Like polonius said, you are limited to the $25 per billing cycle so if you bought a $1000 computer, you would only get $25 instead of $50.
_________________
"Believe not everything, but only what is approved: the former is foolish, the latter the act of a sensible man." --Democritus

Guest: cameron
Post subject: Good Business Credit Cards
Posted: Sat Jun 17, 2006 11:09 am

I got one for $10000 CL, and I think there is a $50 BT fee.

Credit Cards for Bankrupt Customers

2006-05-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

Guest: ahnold300
Post subject: Credit Cards for Bankrupt Customers
Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 2:47 am

Hello All,
I filed Chapter 7 BK seven years ago. My FICO is now ~740, but I have been receiving pre-approved credit card offers from two same companies that discharged about $10k each.

Question is - I like their offer and APR, but is it safe to re-do business with them? assuming they cannot re-load the previous debt - correct?

If I apply and they do not approve my "pre-approved" application because of history, then I have a hit against my score.

Opinions? thanks in advance, Ah

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Guest: JaneiR36
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Credit Cards for Bankrupt Customers
Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 10:29 am

I don't remember where I heard it, but apparently certain companies are more eager to do business with post-bk customers. They know you've been in trouble before and are likely to get into it again. Then they can milk you for late fees, high interest rates, etc. Having done a bk before it may not be so easy for you to do another one (I'm assuming) and so bk customers can actually be pretty good for some companies.

Other than the bk issue, there's a risk of being approved or denied regardless of who you're applying with. The hit to your credit score is from the hard inquiry, NOT from whether or not you're approved.

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Credit Cards for Bankrupt Customers
Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 10:56 am

If your FICO is around 740 now and your bankruptcy was 7 years ago, I doubt that bankruptcy would have any significant effect on a decision today about your credit worthiness. Obviously it isn't affecting your FICO score much, if at all, today.

Everybody's score diminishes a bit after a hard inquiry. It's usually 3-7 points on the FICO scores per hard inquiry (for the first dozen or so inquiries in the last six months). It's really nothing to worry about.

Guest: jlrdc909
Post subject: Credit Cards for Bankrupt Customers
Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 3:29 pm

I agree with JaneiR36. Most companies realize that going thru BK once most people wont go thru it again (or want to). I would read the fine print to make sure that they wont tack on a previous bad debt. Keep in mind that some companies keep a "black list" on past customers who have skipped out on debt.

BestBuy Credit Card

2006-05-15T14:32:00.000-07:00

Guest: gsr
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 12:47 am

Does anyone know which credit report is pulled when you apply for a bestbuy card (in california)? And if you apply in store, do they pull a credit report or instantly approve you?
_________________
5 Months of credit =

1.Bank of America Platinum Student
2.Citi Dividend Student
3.Citi Mtvu Student
4.Hsbc Cash Back Platinum Select
5.Paypal Platinum

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Guest: jlrdc909
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 6:37 am

There have been past posts regarding Best Buy. They pull a credit report on everyone, I have no clue which one they pull in California. But in this crazy world of credit cards, you might get approved for an AMEX with a $10000.00 limit and still be declined for a Best Buy card with a limit of $300.00

Guest: moniqueclaire
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 5:29 pm

Hi:
Best Buy is sponsored by HSBC(Household Bank). They pull on all 3
bureaus EX EQ and TU simulatneously.
I even remember that they did that when I request a CLI back in Mar 04
on a Household Gold MC. At least they gave me 1500.00 but reflected on all 3 bureaus.

Thanks and Have a good week
________________

Guest: WellManicuredMan
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 11:01 pm

I've never had a Best Buy card and don't ever want one. But how do people even make use of their card if they give really low limits. I thought people got them for buying computers, stereo equipment, big screen TVs, etc... not like shopping at Target where you can actually buy several things with a $500 limit (I don't have a Target card and don't want one either).

Guest: Ira
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 1:14 am

This works with all of the electronics stores. Their standards are a bit lower than most. If you go in to make a major purchase, choose your computer or TV first. Then let them offer you the store MasterCard or VISA. Unless you're a total deadbeat you'll get approved for at least $1,000.00 over and above the price of your purchase. Why? They want to make the sale. Also, Circuit City and a few other stores offer from 18 to 24 months interest free on major purchases.
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Guest: usmsci
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 1:39 pm

they do pull all 3 CB's. my avg credit score was about 650 or so and i got a Best Buy CC with a $2,000 CL and Circuit City Rewards Cards of a $1,500 CL. waiting for CLI time soon

Guest: gsr
Post subject: BestBuy Credit Card
Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 2:43 pm

cool, thanks for the info. If they are gonna pull all 3 i dont think it would be worth getting the card at all.
_________________
5 Months of credit =

1.Bank of America Platinum Student
2.Citi Dividend Student
3.Citi Mtvu Student
4.Hsbc Cash Back Platinum Select
5.Paypal Platinum

Diner's Club Card Reveiw

2006-05-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Guest: Board Monitor
Post subject: Diner's Club Card Reveiw
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 10:34 am

This message posted by e-mail request from one of the visitors to our site:

Trying to find info on Diners Club Card, but can't find anything on this site.
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Guest: rapjunkie
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Diner's Club Card Reveiw
Posted: Fri May 12, 2006 11:35 am

That's old school... does anyone still have one of those?

Guest: beyond platinum
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Diner's Club Card Reveiw
Posted: Sat May 13, 2006 12:46 am

Diners Club is managed by Citibank and carries the MasterCard logo, they have both the credit and charge version:

http://www.dinersclubus.com/dce_content/personalcards/cardcomparisonmatrix
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Guest: jlrdc909
Post subject: Diner's Club Card Reveiw
Posted: Mon May 15, 2006 3:25 pm

I respect the good ole DC as it was the first charge card out on the market, however with the $95.00 fee, I really dont think people are going in droves to sign up for DC anymore. The card had a lot more customers when the DC was the govt credit card, but then the feds switched to AMEX and now MC/Visa.
I have a friend who uses Diners faithfully and loves the card and customer service and doesnt mind paying the annual fee.
I think if you have had it once, you dont want to get rid of it, and if you never had you can live with or without it.

Beginning A Credit Card History

2006-03-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

Guest: WellManicuredMan
Post subject: Beginning A Credit Card History
Posted: Sat Mar 18, 2006 1:15 am

Hello, I'm new to the board but have been reading it and learning a lot in a short period of time.

Unfortunately, I started building my credit history late (I used a debit card for many years thinking I didn't have any need for a credit card as I had enough money in my checking account all the time).

I'm currently 26 and got my first credit card a year ago. I was actually rather surprised with what I was able to get with practically no credit history what-so-ever. I've had a Wells Fargo checking account for some time and decided to try getting their Cash Back Visa Card, mainly to build credit but also because its nice to get some cash back. To my surprise they approved my application with a $3000 CL. 6 months later I applied for a Citi Dividend Platinum Select card (because the cash back on the Wells Card was very bad) and was approved with an $1100 CL (I had to mail in proof of a utility bill with my name and address on it).

Also, since I've had the Wells card for a year, they just instantly approved a CLI for me on the phone. I haven't had the Citi card for 6 months yet but will be doing the online CLI as soon as I hit 6 months as I need a LOT more credit on that sucker.

I've since gotten my free credit report from all 3 companies but I didn't want to pay to see my credit scores so I still don't know what they are (although I'm really dying to know).

My question is, how was I able to get the above cards so easily when I didn't have any prior credit history? On these boards I read about how people have to get gas cards, store cards, secured cards with annual fees, etc when they don't have any credit history.

Thanks for reading.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: beyond platinum
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Beginning A Credit Card History
Posted: Sat Mar 18, 2006 6:22 am

By your own admission, you have already answered your question. One suggestion I always give is that if you have a limited history or you’re going after your first credit card; try applying for credit with your bank or credit union first.

You had an existing account with Wells Fargo in good standing which makes getting a card from them painless. You want their business and they want your business. After having the Wells Fargo credit card for 6 months, you established a good payment history on your credit record which made getting a Citibank card even more effortless despite the low credit limit.

There are a lot of rewards cards out there so don’t feel limited by your choices.
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Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Beginning A Credit Card History
Posted: Sat Mar 18, 2006 11:43 am

Quote:
You had an existing account with Wells Fargo in good standing which makes getting a card from them painless.
Yeah--you'd think so, wouldn't you?

I was turned down for the Prime Rate Wells Fargo card in 11/03 and was NOT offered another card.

I've had three accounts with Wells Fargo for the past 13 years--two checking and one savings. All have always been in good standing. I'd never applied for credit with Wells before. My CREDIT PLUS score was 745 when I applied with no negatives on ANY of my credit reports except for one paid-off tax lien (which was put on, paid, and taken off within three months in 2002). I had about two dozen cards active at the time, all in good standing, utilization around 50%, but a fairly high total amount owed (about $150,000).

Two weeks after I was rejected for that card, Wells Fargo mailed me a check for about $2000.00. If I decided to cash it, I would have to pay 18.99% interest on the loan. I had never received any such check from Wells before, so I assume it was connected to my card application. I threw it away.

I have no idea why some computer at Wells thought I was desperate for $2,000 when I had over $10,000 in my three accounts with Wells at the time.

Banks bewilder me.

Requesting A Credit Card Limit Increase

2006-02-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

Guest: wouql
Post subject: Requesting A Credit Card Limit Increase
Posted: Sun Feb 26, 2006 8:28 pm

OK, I finally hit nine months of owning my BofA Platinum card. So I'm trying to request a CLI - but how do I do it? Did anyone do it online?

I sign into Online Banking, and click on the card. I assume there would be an option somewhere to click on (like the ones I see for "Pay this card" or "Inquire about a payment".)

I feel stupid - this should be easy. I'm sure I could call them, but there has to be a way to do this online.

Thanks in advance.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Requesting A Credit Card Limit Increase
Posted: Mon Feb 27, 2006 12:21 am

I was told that you get an automatic CL increase after the 9 months of having the account open and that it will show on your statement and online. I still have 4 months to go on mine.

Guest: beyond platinum
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Requesting A Credit Card Limit Increase
Posted: Mon Feb 27, 2006 1:05 am

It is under account activity in the bottom left hand corner under 'customer service'. If you are not automatically approved online, it will list a phone number for you to call so that you can ask a CSR and this may result in a hard inquiry

0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers

2006-02-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

Guest: directdude2001
Post subject: 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 10:46 am

Hi

I applied and was approved for a BOA CC which has an offer of 0% on BF until March 07. Is prossible for me to transfer a balance that my wife has on her BOA CC, (which her introductory rate is ending soon) to this new account I was approved for?

BTW, she has me as an AU on her BOA account...

TIA

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 12:19 pm

No--the balance transfer offers say you can't transfer from another BofA account. (I have no way to know exactly what the terms are of YOUR BT because I can't read them--but that's a restriction I always see in these offers. Don't you see it in your offer?) Sometimes you can transfer to your own bank account and then pay off your wife's card.
_________________
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"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Guest: directdude2001
Post subject: 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 2:02 pm

One more question, currently my wife has a balance of $3,200 on the BOA account which will go up to 13.99% next month.

If I were to BF 1,400 to my WAMU/Providian card (which I asked and was aprroved for an offer of 4.99% until Sept 06 on the BF).

I would pay off the balance on her BOA account first, meanwhile just paying the minimum on the Providian card.

Could someone help me to the math on this, and see if I would save money?

TIA

Guest: Ira
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Offers
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 2:09 pm

Too complicated. Simplify, simplify, simplify! Three part procedure:

1. Write a balance transfer check for $3,200.00 off the 0% account to yourself.

2. Deposit that check in your checking account.

3. Write a personal check to pay off the $3,200.00 balance.

Now all you have to do is pay the minimum until the 0% offer expires, and then pay off the balance. By that time you'll probably have discovered another 0% offer and you can do the same thing all over again, except this time youy'll owe less than $3,200.00

Taking Advantage of Cash Reward Credit Cards

2006-02-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

Guest: tucker12
Post subject: Taking Advantage of Cash Reward Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 4:39 pm

Hi!

I've been browsing this website for several months and have learned so much through this forum! I am hoping that with all of your combined experience, I will get some great advice.

I definatly want to start taking advantage of all that these cards have to offer. I understand that using these cards to their full potential requires great credit and discipline, as well as the ability to "PIF". That being said...

Right now I have the gold amex skymiles card. Yes, this has a fee but I am hoping that considering how much my miles add up (and the increased travel I will have in the next year), it is worth it. I figure it might be a better use of my miles to UPGRADE to first class (esp on long flights), as opposed to trying to cash the miles in for a free flight (I hear there are a limited number of free seats per flight). For those who use this card--is that the case for you? Or would I be better off putting all of my vacation/traval/flight stuff on blue cash? you can attach your skymiles # to any card, correct? Which means I can still earn miles by flying? so is there really any great benefit to having the skymiles amex card?

ALSO,

I was thinking that the best next step might be to get the chase and citi cash back cards as well as the amex blue cash. Since the first 2 limit the cashback to $300, and it takes spending over $6,000 b4 the blue cash kickes in, what is the best way to use these cards? do you first try to max out the citi, then switch to chase (or vice-versa) THEN go to amex? or do you START with the amex?

Basically, I am thinking of limiting my delta card for vacation expenses only, and then focusing my attention (gas, groceries, bills, food, clothing purchases, etc) on the cash back cards (keeping one other non-reward low interest card set aside for emergency use only). does this sound like a good plan? I am planning on putting the cash I hope to get back, into my high yield savings account.

Any ideas how to best go about this would be appreciated
Sorry about the long post, by the way.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Taking Advantage of Cash Reward Credit Cards
Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 9:59 am

Greetings and welcome to the board! Sounds like a reasonable plan. What is the fee for the Gold AmEx Card?
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Curtis Arnold
Board Monitor
http://www.cardratings.com
(501) 663-0314

How Often Should You Apply For Credit Cards?

2006-02-25T09:26:00.000-08:00

Guest: Signature
Post subject: How Often Should You Apply For Credit Cards?
Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 10:14 am

I was approved for a Chase Rewards Plus card in January. I want to get a Citibank Dividend card too, how long do I need to wait before applying?

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: rapjunkie
Post subject: How Often Should You Apply For Credit Cards?
Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 10:49 am

It's really a question of how well established your credit already is, and how many other recent inquiries you've had. If your credit is several years old, and you haven't applied for anything except that Chase card in the past while, you'd stand good chances of being approved. If the Chase card was your first card, and you haven't applied for anything else yet, the chnces are a bit slimmer, but there's still a pretty good shot. Either way, it'll just be one more inquiry, which won't do anything very significant no matter what, so it wouldn't really hurt you to apply.

Guest: Signature
Post subject: How Often Should You Apply For Credit Cards?
Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 12:19 pm

Thanks, I just applied and was approved.

Pre-Approved Chase Credit Card Offer

2006-02-25T09:18:00.000-08:00

Guest: FashionEBoutique
Post subject: Pre-Approved Chase Credit Card Offer
Posted: Mon Feb 13, 2006 5:36 pm

I was sent an offer that says "You are Pre-Approved for a Visa Platinum Card". This offer says I will have a 3.99% fixed APR.

My question is how is Chase about honoring their pre-approved offers? I tried to accept the offer online, as it said that I could at a certain website. I entered my offer code and invite number, but then it said they were not able to process my information online and I needed to call them. I have no problem doing so at all, but I was wondering if this means something bad or if the site may just not be accepting info online. I know that they will have to review my credit again and my Trans Union FICO score is close to if not 700.

I am extremely happy about receiving this offer because I am just now establishing my credit history and have just over a year of history. I have nothing bad on any reports but I am just a bit weary.

I heard something somewhere that if you are sent a pre-approved offer and nothing has changed on your credit history since they pulled a soft inquiry and sent the offer they must issue you the credit card. Has anyone else heard this.

Thanks in Advance!

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: rapjunkie
Post subject: Pre-Approved Chase Credit Card Offer
Posted: Mon Feb 13, 2006 5:51 pm

There's no requirement that they issue you the card, but the fact that you received the invitation to apply indicates that you fit the minimum requirements they were looking for when they ordered the list of prospective applicants from the credit bureaus (that's how they get the names and addresses for mailings).

Thus, assuming that your credit report looks as good as or better than it did when they made the soft inquiry, you should be in good shape. I would assume that your attempt to accept the offer online only failed because of system errors on their end, and you would probably successful if you called (based on the credit score/history information you stated).

Guest: mjhoes
Post subject: Pre-Approved Chase Credit Card Offer
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 4:27 pm

For months I had been getting about two preapproved offers per week for a Chase Platinum. It was becoming a running joke with my roommate, so finally I decided to apply for one. Naturally, I was rejected.

This truly irritated me. My FICO on the CRA they used is about 720. I have around $45K in credit (including a $18.6K MBNA Plat and a $13.2K Amex Blue) and well under 10% utilization.

But the icing was that I have continued to receive the same "preapproved" offers from Chase ...

Credit Card Cash Access Line

2006-02-25T09:09:00.000-08:00

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 6:33 pm

Ok, I just received my new CC in the mail that I recently got approved for, however, I was wondering what is cash access line, because it says on my form that I have $160, however Im unclear what it is. Also, the card came with a check that says "use the check attached below to access your available credit". Do I have to use this check or can I just shred it. Thanks

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: mouse
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 6:45 pm

DavidPalmer wrote:
Ok, I just received my new CC in the mail that I recently got approved for, however, I was wondering what is cash access line, because it says on my form that I have $160, however Im unclear what it is. Also, the card came with a check that says "use the check attached below to access your available credit". Do I have to use this check or can I just shred it. Thanks

CASH ADVANCE you get that from a BANK or ATM

Usually an additional fee is involved (up to 4%)

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 7:07 pm

so can I ignore it or do I have to use that check. Could you please go into more detail, because the paper I got in the mail doesn't explain what it is.

Guest: mouse
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 7:48 pm

DavidPalmer wrote:
so can I ignore it or do I have to use that check. Could you please go into more detail, because the paper I got in the mail doesn't explain what it is.

CASH ADVANCES are usually not required to have a credit card

I wouldn't do one unless you could get one for NO FEE and an APR of 0.00%

Guest: DavidPalmer
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 8:06 pm

COULD YOU TELL ME WHAT A CASH ADVANCE IS?

so by not doing a cash advance it will not hurt me in anyway. Im just wondering what the $160 does.

Guest: iceman
Post subject: Credit Card Cash Access Line
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 8:40 pm

DavidPalmer wrote:
COULD YOU TELL ME WHAT A CASH ADVANCE IS?

so by not doing a cash advance it will not hurt me in anyway. Im just wondering what the $160 does.

David

You just received your chase card, I just received my chase visa card today also. You cash access line, is for cash advances. Your credit limit or credit line is $800 and you can get a cash advance from that $800 of $160.00. Now you do not need to use this, but it's there just in case you are short of cash. But, you also have to wait until chase send you your pin number. This is the only way you can take a cash advance from a ATM machine. Again you do not need to use this if you do not want to. Be carefully with the cash advance because you have to read your cardmember agreement that came with your card. This will let you know what % your cash advance will be. It should be page 6 on your cardmember agreement. On my agreement it is 3% for my cash advance. You are access this percentage the moment you take the cash advance.

Best Combo of Cash Reward Credit Cards

2006-02-25T09:03:00.000-08:00

Guest: Signature
Post subject: Best Combo of Cash Reward Credit Cards
Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2006 8:16 am

What is the best combination of cash back cards that everyone has found ? I'm currently using a Chase Rewards Plus card and will switch to Citi's Dividend card once I max out on the Chase.

I'm curious what works for others.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: rainyday
Post subject: Best Combo of Cash Reward Credit Cards
Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2006 10:46 am

Citi Dividend 5% gas/groceries/drugstore and Penfed 1.25% cash back on everything else.
_________________
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Guest: newyearsday1985
Post subject: Best Combo of Cash Reward Credit Cards
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 4:13 am

Citi Dividend, Citi AT&T universal, Chase cash plus rewards for 5% on gas and groceries.

Citi MTVU for 5% in points for restaurants, bookstores, cinemas.

Gap and Old Navy for 5% in points for gap, gap kids, old navy.

Discover Classic for whatever is giving me 5% (was restaurants, then online shopping, now health and wellness).

AMEX for 1% at costco.

Housholdbank Gold for 2% on other purchases.
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Getting A Credit Card After College

2006-02-25T08:55:00.000-08:00

Guest: justicejiang
Post subject: Getting A Credit Card After College
Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 2:34 pm

I WANT TO GET A CREDIT CARD BUT MOST OF THEM MAKE ME PAY ANNUAL FEE, WHICH I DONT WANT TO DO! WHEN I WAS 18 YRS OLD, I DID THE STUPID COLLEGE KID THING AND MAXED OUT A CARD AT THAT TIME. SO I WORKED ALL SUMMER TO PAY IT BACK, BUT I WAS DELINQUENT. SO NOW ITS IN MY CREDIT REPORT. I APPLIED TO VARIOUS CREDIT CARD COMPANIES AND I ALWAYS GET REJECTED, MY SCORE IS AROUND 620. I'M TIRED OF GETTING REJECTED, IF I SAY I MAKE $100,000 I'M SURE THEY WILL GIVE ME A CREDIT CARD. BUT I MAKE AROUND $50K NOW AND I'M ALSO IN SCHOOL. PLEASE HELP! I KEEP GETTING REJECTED, TELL ME ABOUT WAYS TO FINALLY GET MYSELF A CARD!
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Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Getting A Credit Card After College
Posted: Tue Feb 21, 2006 8:59 am

justicejiang,

Greetings and welcome to the board! Have you tried applying for a issuer like Orchard?
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Guest: justicejiang
Post subject: Getting A Credit Card After College
Posted: Thu Feb 23, 2006 5:03 pm

never heard of orchard
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Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Getting A Credit Card After College
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 9:39 am

More info. here:

http://www.cardratings.com/poorinfohome.html

Also, check our consumer reviews section:

http://www.cardratings.com/cardreviewfr.html
_________________
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Curtis Arnold
Board Monitor
http://www.cardratings.com
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Five Credit Card Financial Resolutions

2006-02-25T08:48:00.000-08:00

Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Five Credit Card Financial Resolutions
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 9:08 am

Great story on CNN yesterday containing 5 tips to start the New Year off of the right foot...financially speaking:

http://money.cnn.com/2006/01/02/pf/saving/willis_tips/index.htm

I am proud to say that http://www.cardratings.com is referenced in the article.
_________________
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Curtis Arnold
Board Monitor
http://www.cardratings.com
(501) 663-0314

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: Ira
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Five Credit Card Financial Resolutions
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 3:00 pm

Interesting article, but it ignores the real power of reward cards and puts too much creedence in what I consider the feeble Bank of America program which is only good for lunch money. If I spend $35.55 on groceries, why would I use the BofA program and receive $0.45 deposited in a savings account, rather than use one of the cards which offer a 5% rebate and receive $1.78 in rebate money. I wrote a detailed response to her pointing this out, but apparently CNN published a bad email address for her and my note didn't go through.
_________________
Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Five Credit Card Financial Resolutions
Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2006 8:31 pm

Only good for lunch money? I don't spend $250 on lunch, but that's what I'll be getting from the BofA promo.

The key to the offer is the 100% match for the first 90 days. After that, I agree it's not a good program. But that 100%? Much better than a rewards program for the first three months IF you play it right.

I don't disagree with what you said, Ira--it's NOT a good deal for most. But we both look for loopholes and advantages, and this promo has a nice one for the first three months. I've used it by constructing a little macro that pays my cable TV bill in $1.01 increments, over and over again, causing BofA to put 99 cents in my account for each payment. On my $115 cable/internet bill, I'll make over $100 by paying that way--far better than any rewards method of paying. Kind of fun to watch the macro at work too!

It's all in reading the fine print and playing the game...

Chase Credit Card Offers

2006-02-25T08:35:00.000-08:00

Guest: ALex
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 9:44 am

> 0% on Balance Transfers through the June 2007 statement closing date for Chase Visa Signature> GO TO Fixed rate of 8.9 % after Promo Rate expires..

> One detail that is different than any previous offer that I have received from Chase, is that on this offer there is a 3% , $10.00 minimum and a Cap of $75.00 Balance transfer fee , on the previous offers that I have received, part of the promotion stated that if you do a balance transfer when you apply for the offer that the fee would be waived... I called Chase at the telephone Number listed on the offer and The account manager that I spoke with said that Chase has made a Business decision in regards to the 0% offers, that due to the cost to them of borrowing the money that there will be a transaction fee accessed.... I can understand that and I have no problems paying the fee........ One question that I forgot to ask the representitive was , is there only one fee accessed for multiple Balance transfers for this offer or is there a Fee accessed for each one

I also received an Offer from American Express Blue for a Rate for Life 3.9% for Balance transfers.. I discarded the offer, so I do not know that the Go To rate was, But I think that it was a Variable around 8.65%

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 11:10 am

Quote:
is there only one fee accessed for multiple Balance transfers for this offer or is there a Fee accessed for each one

It is usually a fee for EACH transfer so pays to make 1 large transfer.

Guest: Polonius
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 11:33 am

I wouldn't be so quick to ignore a 3.9% for life offer from AmEx. It usually doesn't make such offers. The offers I get have no fee but are usually are at its standard rates for purchases. I've got nice credit limits from AmExp, but no way to use them really.

With prime at 7.5%, even 3.9% is a steal. I'd put it in a 4.8% savings account. You can always pay it back if you can get a better deal from AmEx.
_________________
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"Neither a borrower, nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend"

Guest: shooter
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 5:14 pm

Polonius wrote:

With prime at 7.5%, even 3.9% is a steal. I'd put it in a 4.8% savings account. You can always pay it back if you can get a better deal from AmEx.

Who's paying 4.8% right now? I must have missed that one.

Guest: maddybeagle
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Fri Feb 24, 2006 7:09 pm

Quote:
Who's paying 4.8% right now? I must have missed that one.

try HSBC

Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Chase Credit Card Offers
Posted: Sat Feb 25, 2006 9:43 am

ALex wrote:
> 0% on Balance Transfers through the June 2007 statement closing date for Chase Visa Signature> GO TO Fixed rate of 8.9 % after Promo Rate expires..

> One detail that is different than any previous offer that I have received from Chase, is that on this offer there is a 3% , $10.00 minimum and a Cap of $75.00 Balance transfer fee , on the previous offers that I have received, part of the promotion stated that if you do a balance transfer when you apply for the offer that the fee would be waived... I called Chase at the telephone Number listed on the offer and The account manager that I spoke with said that Chase has made a Business decision in regards to the 0% offers, that due to the cost to them of borrowing the money that there will be a transaction fee accessed.... I can understand that and I have no problems paying the fee........ One question that I forgot to ask the representitive was , is there only one fee accessed for multiple Balance transfers for this offer or is there a Fee accessed for each one

I also received an Offer from American Express Blue for a Rate for Life 3.9% for Balance transfers.. I discarded the offer, so I do not know that the Go To rate was, But I think that it was a Variable around 8.65%

Interesting...I have heard that Chase is eliminating the cap on their balance transfer offers. Don't know which cards this affects, though.
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Best Rated Credit Card

2006-02-04T14:20:00.000-08:00

Guest: MJ5084
Post subject: Best Rated Credit Card
Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2006 1:57 pm

I'm in the market for a new credit card but since the market is so flooded with competitive rewards programs, APR's, etc. everything seems to look the same.

Does anyone know of know of any different or unique credit card/payment products that may catch my eye? I noticed an ad for the chase blink card the other day and that was sort of what I was looking for but I was curious if there's anything else out there along the same lines.

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Guest: beyond platinum
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Best Rated Credit Card
Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2006 1:09 am

I firmly agree with you about the credit card market however it is difficult to suggest a card that is different or unique to you. I can however suggest two cards that may suit your taste; the Quantum card and the MBNA worldpoints Paypass MasterCard.

https://wwwa.applyonlinenow.com/USCCapp/Ctl/entry?sc=LNYR

https://wwwa.applyonlinenow.com/USCCapp/Ctl/entry?sc=LKUQ&mc=A000001V0B

Discover Home Improvement Credit Card

2006-02-04T14:28:00.000-08:00

Guest: tonygoldston
Post subject: Discover Home Improvement Credit Card
Posted: Sun Jan 29, 2006 11:02 pm

Hey, I know the HI card isn't on the website anymore. But I just saw an ad in a magazine for it.

5% back on purchases at home improvement stores

call 800-326-8415
invitation # FAAN
offer expires 3/15/06

tony

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: Board Monitor
Board Monitor/ Administrator
Post subject: Discover Home Improvement Credit Card
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 9:31 am

Interesting. Thanks for posting. Anyone have this card?
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Best Airline Rewards Credit Card

2006-02-04T14:24:00.000-08:00

Guest: quiznut1
Post subject: Best Airline Rewards Credit Card
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 10:48 am

I know, I know...we've all come across this subject, but I believe this one tops the list.

The Chase Rewards Plus Mastercard. This card has no annual fee, and just like the Citi Dividend Platinum Select and Chase Cash Plus Rewards, you earn 5% cash back (5 points per dollar) on gas station, grocery store, and drug store purchases, and 1% cash back (1 point per dollar) on everything else. The thing is, because this card earns points for every dollar purchased, the points can be used for more than just cash, specifically airline tickets.

With this card, you can earn a free domestic ticket to the lower 48 states at 25,000 points, which is the equivalent of $5,000 in gas station, grocery store, and drug store purchases ($5,000 x 5 points per dollar = 25,000 points). Every airline card I have seen earns a firm 1 mile per $1 in purchases, and has an annual fee. This card doesn't. Even if an airline card earned 2 miles per dollar (double miles promotions), it still wouldn't come close because you'd likely have to spend between $11,000 - $12,500 (to earn between 22,000 - 25,000 miles needed to earn a free trip) to earn a free ticket.

Click this ad for their current promotion (Expires January 31, 2006):
Chase Rewards Plus Mastercard

The only card that comes the closest to this one is the Citi Diamond Rewards Mastercard. This card has airline rewards at 25,000 points, and you can use this card to earn 5 points per dollar on gas station, grocery store, and drug store purchases, but the 5 points per dollar promotion is only for the first 12 months. Then everything you purchase will revert back to 1 point per dollar on everything.

CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

Guest: mouse
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Best Airline Rewards Credit Card
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 12:52 pm

I have AMEX DELTA

I have CHASE UNITED VISA

I had BofA USAIR VISA (closed because they are selling out to JUNIPER)

I don't have any mileage cards that are "RUN" by the credit card company

My miles go to the airline run program

Credit card "RUN" mileage programs have ISSUES (many times)

Guest: mouse
SENIOR MEMBER (Member for 2 yrs.+)
Post subject: Best Airline Rewards Credit Card
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 12:55 pm

BUT...having some "REWARD" is better than non at all (even if it is credit card run)

Some people actually have ZERO REWARDS and spend many $1,000's and get nothing for their trouble

Guest: JaneiR36
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Best Airline Rewards Credit Card
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2006 5:17 pm

Compared to the 5% or larger cashback cards, most other rewards programs are best for any sign-on bonuses or promotional BT offers