Question
I may be switching to another card, since my FirstUSA Plat Signature VISA (not an airline/hotel card) doesn't seem to worth as much. FirstUSA keeps sending me those 'free checks' with every monthly statement, AND additional mailings including nothing but more checks.
I realize those checks are the worst scam for consumers, but FirstUSA appears more interested in getting me to pay outrageous rates than offering benefits. Does anyone have FirstUSA cards, is this a common experience? Is there anything redeeming about them? Leaning towards SPG AMEX or something else.
Answer
All banks do this to some extent - try to get you to use the higher profit margin features of your card, as most people see the checks and don't even read the fine print. First USA in my experience tends to be pretty bad, always trying to sell you something when you call for customer service and selling your name and phone # to marketing companies that sell you crap.
Just be sure to rip up or shred the checks when you toss them so a con artist doesn't find them in your trash and write a bunch of big checks on your account.
Answer
Better yet, just call First USA (now part of Chase) and ask to opt out of receiving the "convenience" checks. They'll remove you from their list and you'll stop getting the checks within a couple of months.
Answer
There was a discussion in this forum a while ago. To make a long story short, some issuers will stop sending them if you ask; others won't. If they do agree to stop them, they may take their sweet time.
During the first few months of the year, issuers send out lots of them to hook people who are in over their heads because of Christmas bills or tax bills.
If you are interested in the security issues, here's a google search result:
http://snipurl.com/djim
Answer
I called up, and they'll stop sending me checks. ^
Answer
My husband and I both asked to opt out of these. They said they would honor our request, but months later, we're still receiving them.