Credit Card Reconsideration Strategies When Calling In Fails

Credit Card Reconsideration Strategies

If you are serious about miles & points, then it is almost guaranteed at some point that you will be required to call credit card reconsideration. Sometimes calling in just doesn’t work, but there are other credit card reconsideration strategies and methods you can use to turn that denial into an approval.

Applying For Credit Cards

I feel it is important to note that applying for credit cards is a personal decision. Personally, I have accumulated millions of miles & points through credit card sign up bonuses and spending in bonus categories, but I urge everyone to exercise caution.

In order to apply for the top credit cards, a very good credit score (700 or above) is usually required. Additionally, it is counterproductive to get any rewards card if you carry debt, since they usually have higher than normal interest rates. To see some of the best offers currently available, click the link below.

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What Is Credit Card Reconsideration?

Credit card reconsideration is something that scares many people. Reconsideration is when you ask the bank to review your denied application or process an application that is pending.

When doing it over the phone, you are connected to a credit card analyst who may ask questions about your income and credit history. While credit card reconsideration via phone is the most common form, there are other alternative credit card reconsideration strategies and techniques you can use if calling in fails. Let’s take a look at those now. 

Credit Card Reconsideration Via Secure Message or Chat

Over the years I have had limited success getting applications reversed via Secure Message and/or chat. Almost all banks have a method to contact them via text (email, SM or chat) so it doesn’t hurt to try.

While banks have certainly tightened their approvals over the years I have had success getting approved via secure message with both Citi and Chase and others have had success with other banks. 

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What to Expect

If you do try to get credit card reconsideration via secure message, chat or email be prepared to receive a boiler plate canned response. Some times they will tell you to call in. My best results have come when I politely ask them to escalate this to a corporate manager since I have already called in. I then usually get a response stating that they have forwarded my message and that I will hear back within a day or two.

The people who initially receive these messages are usually not empowered to do anything about applications. What they can do is forward your information to someone who is. Usually that someone ends up being a supervisor or manager who has override authority and can approve your application. Remember to clearly lay out your case when writing and to use proper grammar. Also, don’t forget to be extremely polite.  Make them WANT to help you!

Credit Card Reconsideration Via Chat

Some banks such as American Express offer chat services on their websites. While it can’t hurt to try chat, if you have failed at the reconsideration call, then you probably won’t be reaching someone who has the authority to overturn your denial. With that said, it is worth a shot and is a possible way to avoid making the call in the first place. You can also sometimes get an escalation which will result in someone with authority calling you back. 

Credit Card Reconsideration Via U.S. Mail

Perhaps my favorite credit card reconsideration strategy is the most “old school” as well. Many people including myself have had success with sending a letter in to the bank in order to get reconsidered. The only thing that stands in your way is finding the address to send it to and it turns out that is quite easy.

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Finding Credit Card Reconsideration Mailing Address

When you receive the denial letter via U.S. mail, they will include an address to write to if you have any questions. This is the address that you send a very thoughtful and detailed letter to. I have helped people get approved with Citibank, Barclays, Bank of America & Capital One by sending letters.

The U.S. mail option is obviously the last chance you have of getting approved. Since they have already run your credit, it doesn’t hurt to send the letter. I highly recommend laying out your case in a detailed manner and explaining that you are not authorizing an additional credit pull. This will prevent them for checking again and hitting you with another hard inquiry.

Credit Card Reconsideration Strategies – Bottom Line

If you have applied for a credit card and been denied, there is no reason to give up until you have exhausted all of these credit card reconsideration strategies. Your credit score has already taken the hit, so you might as well do your best to get the card. While admittedly using these credit card reconsideration strategies was more effective in the past, they do still work. 

Sometimes showing a bank that you are willing to go through these methods is actually a good thing. If you layout your case in a detailed manner that makes sense, they may see you as an individual instead of as just another number sitting in front of them. Give it a try!

Disclosure: Miles to Memories has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Miles to Memories and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

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