Last week, I wrote about how you can use retention bonuses as an effective way to get a statement credit or some valuable points when your annual fee hits. More often than now, online credit card applications result in an instant approval. However, what do you do when you’re not instantly approved? You see the dreaded ‘application pending’ message after applying. In this case, you need to call the bank and need to talk to a rep in order to get a decision on your application. Your application may simply be pending or it may be denied. What you’ll need to do is pick up the phone and ask the bank about reconsidering their initial decision on your application. It’s commonly known as the credit card reconsideration call.
What are the sequential steps needed in order to ensure that you eventually get a decision in your favor? Let’s start with the basics, followed by a template that I’ve often used successfully to get pending applications approved.
Application Screenshots
Even before you hit the submit button, please make sure you take screenshots. This helps you show proof in case the bank refuses to give you the bonus.
Keeping Personal Information Ready
Before you make the call, please ensure that you have all your personal information (Name, Address, SSN, Income) ready and handy. This will help you quickly answer any questions that the rep may have about your application.
Knowing your Card Benefits well
Even before you call, you’ll need to have benefits of the card you’re applying for right in front of you. This will help you make your case when asked about your interest in the card. Saying that you want the card just for the bonus is a bad strategy and doesn’t signal long-term intent on your part.
Being Honest
This is probably the most important factor in your credit card reconsideration call. You need to be honest and forthright with the information that you provide. Do not fudge any details like income or any other personal information.
World of Hyatt Credit Card
Most recently, I applied for the World of Hyatt Credit Card by Chase after I dropped under 5/24. Currently, you can earn a total of 50,000 World of Hyatt points after you’re approved and meet the minimum spend. The bonus is broken down into two parts.
You’ll earn 25,000 points after you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months. If you spend a total of $6,000 in a first 6 months, you’ll earn an additional 25,000 points, a sign-up bonus totaling 50,000 World of Hyatt points. As mentioned earlier, this card is now subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule.
Reconsideration Call Script
Doctor of Credit has a pretty comprehensive list of reconsideration call phone numbers for most of the major banks. After my application for the World of Hyatt Credit card went pending, I picked up the phone and called Chase. Here’s how the conversation went:
Me: I just applied for the World of Hyatt credit card. I got a message that my application didn’t get an instant online approval and that more details are needed. I’m calling in to see if I could provide you with the information you need in order to get approved for the card.
Rep: Sure, I can help you. Please help me with your full name, date of birth and address in order to verify your identity.
Me: Details ….
Rep: I see that you’re a Chase customer. Thanks for your business. So what interests you in the World of Hyatt credit card?
Me: I recently stayed at a couple of Hyatt properties. I thoroughly enjoyed my stays, particularly at the Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. Given my positive experience, I thought it would be prudent to get a co-branded card so that I can earn Hyatt points for everyday spend. I love some of the card benefits, particularly the spend bonus categories (restaurants, fitness clubs) and the annual free night.
Rep: Yes, this continues to be one our most popular credit cards. Could you please help me with your social security number.
Me: XXX-XX-XXXX
Rep: Thanks for providing me with that information. I’m happy to inform you that you’ve been approved for the World of Hyatt credit card, with a credit line of $x. You should receive the card in the mail in the next 7-10 days.
The Pundit’s Mantra
You may have to script your call differently if you’re outrightly denied during your online application. Given how long I’ve been playing the miles and points game, I’ve been fortunate to have never been denied. However, there have been multiple instances where my application has gone pending. In these cases, I’ve always been helped by having an organized approach to making the credit card reconsideration call.
I’ve always made it a point to avoid any mention about a sign-up bonus during a reconsideration call. This strategy has always served me well in getting a 100% success rate of getting approvals during these calls.
Which was the most recent reconsideration call that you made? How did it pan out? Let us know in the comments section.
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