posted
Has anyone heard about a replacement for the current Guest Rewards credit card? I'm going to be doing quite a bit of travel in April and it would be nice to have a card that would give me the points for Amtrak.
Frank in sunny after a quick rainshower SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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posted
I spoke to a knowledgable person at Guest Rewards last week and was told there WILL be a replacement card. The offer should be sent out (mail or online?) by the time the existing one goes away. Whether it will be in time to help you I don't know. The current card earns points through the May statement from what I recall.
Posts: 561 | Registered: Jul 2003
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posted
I believe the current card earns points through May 1 the latest, but if your billing period closes in April before the end of the month, that closing date will be when it ends. You can check with MBNA, oops, I mean Bank of America, to find out your closing date.
I'm not sure if this is still the case, but when I phoned up Guest Rewards 6-8 weeks ago, I was told the new one will be available at the beginning of April.
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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posted
My closing date is generally around the 8th - 10th of the month on my existing MBNA/BOA Guest Rewards Card.
Just a little too early to help me with my hotel in Albuquerque when I step off the Southwest Chief 4/13.
Fortunately my airfare home the next day is already paid for and credited to my Guest Rewards Account.
April seemed so far away when they first announced that BOA and Amtrak were parting ways!
-------------------- David Pressley
Advocating for passenger trains since 1973!
Climbing toward 5,000 posts like the Southwest Chief ascending Raton Pass. Cautiously, not nearly as fast as in the old days, and hoping to avoid premature reroutes. Posts: 4203 | From: Western North Carolina | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
I got an email reply today from Guest Rewards. Says pretty much what you all have said. Points will be earned for "all purchases that are posted prior to the closing date of your May 2007 Bank of America statement". They say to check back after April 1,2007 for information on the new card.
Frank in cloudy SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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posted
So perhaps I will have to choose between using my Chase Starbucks Duetto Card and a new AGR card? No question as to which I'll go with (after all, how many frappacinos can you drink?)
-------------------- My new "default" station (EKH) has no baggage service or QuikTrak machine, but the parking is free! And the NY Central RR Museum is just across the tracks (but not open at Amtrak train times. . ..) Posts: 337 | From: Goshen, IN | Registered: Jun 2006
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posted
I know that Chase issues Mastercards. Not sure about VISA. They do this in much the same way that the current AGR card was issued by MBNA and then turned over to BOA.
Frank in cloudy SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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-------------------- My new "default" station (EKH) has no baggage service or QuikTrak machine, but the parking is free! And the NY Central RR Museum is just across the tracks (but not open at Amtrak train times. . ..) Posts: 337 | From: Goshen, IN | Registered: Jun 2006
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posted
I checked with Guest Rewards, and the person there said we keep getting points until our MAY closing date, not April. So I hope that is right, since the Guest Rewards still haven't come out with the new offer. The GR person said the new offer would be in the mail in the next couple of weeks; also confirmed the bank would be Chase.
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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posted
I just got my April 2007 Statement with a closing date of 04/02/07 and it says that "Recently, a mutual business decision ended our affiliation with your association." Sounds like no points. I guess I'll try contacting Guest Rewards.
I would not have continued to use the card if points are not going to be given as per Guest Rewards previous communication.
Frank in Sunny SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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posted
As soon as I heard about this, I put mine in the drawer (never again to see the light of day, I suspect). Still waiting for news of the new card. Maybe not having an AGR card will save me money since I won't be thinking of ways to rack up those points. LOL
-------------------- My new "default" station (EKH) has no baggage service or QuikTrak machine, but the parking is free! And the NY Central RR Museum is just across the tracks (but not open at Amtrak train times. . ..) Posts: 337 | From: Goshen, IN | Registered: Jun 2006
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posted
It appears that the major issuers are lining up with one national affiliation or the other. For example, Citibank no longer issues Visa; i understand BofA (MBNA successor) may no longer issue Master Card.
Unless you travel overseas where i understand it is "one or the other", it is largely meaningless which national affiliation your card carries.
Posts: 9976 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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posted
From all the accounts I've heard, there WILL be a replacement card. It also sounds to me like Amtrak is scrambling to make arrangements to get the replacement out as soon as the old card lapses. That being said, my statement date is the fifth of the month so I'm early in the cycle. I don't care much for any of the major CC companies- they all send me junk mail, and BOA/MBNA ignored repeated requests to stop sending me junk mail, access checks, et cetera with my statements, so tahellwithem. If you think you're going to get repeated business from me to your huge corporation by not caring about me, the (still hate overuse of the word 'consumer') paying customer, you have another thing coming. I have no reason to keep this card going except the credit limit, which I am confident the new card will match or increase. As for being caught up in some stupid power struggle of "our newly-consolidated bank doesn't want to keep your benefits credit card going because it doesn't make us enough profit" I tend to be pretty easily annoyed. Yes, you've gobbled up all your competition to rule your target market and "grow your business" (shudder) but that doesn't mean you care about your customers, and that attitude tends to turn people like me off in a hurry. Remember, there are only six major Class 1 railroads left. Wasn't there a station in every town along the line a while back? Didn't local freights happen? Now all that's left in my hometown (where I grew up, not listed here) is one rusty siding, a bunch of foundations where the recently-demolished buildings stood, and CSX and their garbage trains (MSW= municipal solid waste, scrap steel, and new cars/trucks) passing through without stopping. Unless there's a broken rail somewhere.
Posts: 391 | From: Schenectady | Registered: Jan 2002
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posted
I just checked my AGR account and the points from my April Statement have been posted inspite of the lack of any AGR logo or ID on the statement and the message attached. I still plan to cancel the card as soon as the new one is available.
In my experience travelling overseas Visa and MasterCard (AKA Access) are just about equally accepted. This might not be true in all parts of the world but it appears to be in Europe and the UK.
Off to Fort Lauderdale to start another transatlantic cruise on Friday. Ports include Cork, Dublin, Falmouth, Le Havre and Southampton.
Frank in dark but still warm SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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posted
Have a great time in Falmouth. It's a wonderful little town. Been 17 years since I was there, but I'd still love to go back.
-------------------- --------Eric H. Bowen
Stop by my website: Streamliner Schedules - Historic timetables of the great trains of the past! Posts: 413 | From: Houston, Texas | Registered: Mar 2006
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posted
Sorry to learn of your bad experiences with "my" company, Mr. 207.
They struck me as well as it appears they did not process a $1000 payment (MBNA predecessor account) I made March 30. I stopped that check ($12 fee; my local bank doesn't rip off) and replaced it. Fortunately today, I have a report they credited it to my account.
Now what if I were the "average Joe' out there who does NOT review his financial accounts daily. I'm afraid I know enough people out there who don't even look at any financial statement they receive. But somehow, I don't think those folk are here at the forum.
If I were one of such, how many arrearage charges would have been lurking in my future - and the phone tag contests to try and get them waived and my "good name' otherwise restored?
Oh and the earlier reference to "my' company? Disclaimer; author holds position in BAC.
Posts: 9976 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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posted
I just received an email from Guest Rewards. Now they are saying they will not have the new credit card until summer. This is irritating, as it means there will definitely be a lull time of no points for purchases on it. And who knows if it will really be ready in summer, or what they mean by summer? I have upcoming trips and really wanted to charge hotel bills etc on my credit card for points.
I am thinking of getting another card in the interim, until the new Guest Rewards one is ready. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to try? Are there ones that give cash back, at no charge?
Thanks
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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posted
Here's the text that will be coming out with your AGR point statements:
"Amtrak Guest Rewards is working hard with our new credit card partner to solidify the details of a new, improved credit card opportunity for our valued members. Watch for an email in the next few weeks with more information on how you can benefit by pre-registering for the card. The new card will be available this summer–we will keep you updated as details develop."
As for the semi-flaming earlier, I only report what happens to me, since everything else is worthless hearsay. That being said, I hope I didn't offend anyone, but how many times do I have to request (at six-month intervals) to stop receiving junk mail with my statements? Despite checking every single little hidden box to opt out of mild harassment, they're second only to Bicycling Magazine in my book. Bottom line, stop doing this, it annoys people. Not caring about customers beyond whether or not you get their money also annoys people. In a forum devoted to people moaning about how they don't get perfect customer service from Amtrak, I'd like to temper it with a comparison.
Posts: 391 | From: Schenectady | Registered: Jan 2002
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We're on the same ship as last year--the Celebrity Constellation. It's another "repositioning" cruise so a great deal. It's 12 nights and we got a Concierge Class balcony for well under $100 a day each. The Martini Bar and BINGO will make up for that savings, however!
Frank in Sunny SBA
Posts: 2160 | From: Santa Barbara, CA, USA | Registered: Oct 2003
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quote:Originally posted by sojourner: I am thinking of getting another card in the interim, until the new Guest Rewards one is ready. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to try? Are there ones that give cash back, at no charge?
Try the Continental Airlines Mastercard. 15,000 free Continental OnePass (frequent flyer) points after your first purchase. One additional point for each dollar you spend.
Continental OnePass points can also be converted into Amtrak Guest Rewards points, provided you convert 5000 at a time. One Continental point equals one Amtrak point. Whether this "partnership" arrangement will disappear in the near future is anyone's guess.
posted
Thanks for the info. I checked re the Continental Airlines MC (which is also with Chase) and it sounds great EXCEPT that there is an $85 annual fee. Do you pay that too, or is that some new thing? I've never paid a fee for a credit card in my life and am unlikely to start now, esp if I expect to switch over to another card midyear. OTOH, the 15000 pt bonus is convertible, and good. . . .
I cannot decide--I may get the Chase MC cash back deal, which has no fee, at least for now, until the other one is offered. And if there is a fee for that one, I don't know that I'll want that offer either . . . I hope there is no fee!
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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We extend our appreciation to you as a loyal credit card customer in the AGR MC credit card program and offer our congratulations as you will be receiving an automatic upgrade to the BOA (R) WorldPoints (R) credit card program. This upgrade requires no involvement on your part.
Your new WorldPoints MC credit card may arrive within 3-4 weeks and your account number will remain the same.
As of April 1, 2007, you start earning points under the BOA Worldpoints rewards program. Along with no annual fee, for your new program:
(bullet) Enables you to view your rewards at www.bankofamerica.com/worldpoints (bullet) Permits you to redeem your rewards for MC gift cards, which can be used on a variety of purchases (everywhere this gift card is accepted). (bullet) Allows you to also redeem your rewards on travel, gift card purchases for Amtrak tickets, on brand-name merchandise (i. e., Pottery Barn (R), Sony (R), Gap (R)), or at delicious restaurants (i. e. Ruth's Chris (R), TGI Friday's (R)). Or, you can redeem your rewards for cash - starting at $25 (3,250 points) up to $500 (65,000 points). (bullet) Will not affect the use of your current credit card. (bullet) Gives you points on your April 2007 statement. (bullet) Awards one point for each $1 of new net retail purchases.
And, with your current AGR MC credit card, you can still: (bullet) Earn Guest Rewards until the closing date of your May 2007 statement. (After that time, any use of this credit card will no longer earn Guest Rewards.) (bullet) Redeem your points online at www.amtrakguestrewards.com or call 1-800-307-5000. Your points remain available to you, subject to AGR program rules. (bullet) Use your BOA MC credit card where accepted as this account will remain available.
Remember, you'll be seeing double! As an AGR and new WorldPoints rewards customer, you will receive points in both programs through the closing date of your May 2007 statement.
Be assured we are committed to providing you the exceptional credit card service you expect and deserve. In addition, we have an extensive array of financial products for you to consider. To learn more, please contact us at 1-800-421-2110.
Thank you for your continued support,
Sincerely, (/S/) Deborah A. Reeves VP, BOA
Posts: 391 | From: Schenectady | Registered: Jan 2002
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1) Does it make sense to pay $85 for 15,000 points? This might actually be a heluva sweet deal. I could go from Albuquerque to Montreal, round trip in coach for 15,000 points or one way to Chicago in a roommettte. (One could always cancel the card within the first year and not renew.)
and
2) What sort of point redemption for a gift certificate are we looking at from Bank of America's replacement card?
Oh, this is such a nuisance. I am so disappointed with BofA for pulling this stunt.
Chuck
-------------------- Please visit "Chucksville" at http://www.chucksville.com and sign my guestbook! Posts: 324 | From: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA | Registered: Jan 2003
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posted
The thing is, while the Continental Airlines card is $85, the Amtrak card with Chase, when it is offered, might be free. And it would definitely be less hassle, one wouldn't have to keep contacting them to transfer points (in 5000 amounts) to Amtrak. Also, maybe there will be a good signup bonus too . . .
Anyway, I would never keep the Bank of America card after they pulled this stunt, as you say. For me it's a choice of getting the cash-back Chase card, no bonus but it's free, and waiting until the Amtrak card comes out, or getting the Continental Airlines card for $85 and be able to convert my purchases as Amtrak points, plus the bonus. But you're right, I'll only keep it one year and then change to the Amtrak card, which hopefully will be offered then.
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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posted
man this sounds like a good deal. $85.00 and get 15,000 points? I think I am going to get that continental airlines card right away. Any strings attached to this? Or hidden fees?
Posts: 416 | From: St. Albans, Vermont | Registered: Feb 2003
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posted
I just got an email from Amtrak. Preregistering now for the Amtrak Guest Rewards card with Chase will get 5000 points, and the card will have no annual fee, but the card will not be available till fall.
Montana Jim, I know of no additional strings. However, if you get it, when the info comes in the mail, read the fine print and see if there are any strings you can spot. I don't know how long it takes to get the points, for example. When I signed up for the Nextel bonus, the points were spread out in batches, I recall.
Posts: 2642 | From: upstate New York | Registered: Mar 2004
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posted
I got the same e-mail today. There was a lot of fine print at the bottom, which I will study further when time permits.
Posts: 2649 | From: California's Monterey Peninsula | Registered: Dec 2000
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quote:Originally posted by Mr. Toy: I got the same e-mail today. There was a lot of fine print at the bottom, which I will study further when time permits.
I received both the email from Amtrak AND the letter from BOA congratulating me for the upgraded Mastercard I will be receiving in 3-4 weeks......oh, and by the way you won't be earning any more Amtrak Points......but then we already knew that. I will stop using their card. I don't know if it's worth the hassle to try to close it or not.
-------------------- David Pressley
Advocating for passenger trains since 1973!
Climbing toward 5,000 posts like the Southwest Chief ascending Raton Pass. Cautiously, not nearly as fast as in the old days, and hoping to avoid premature reroutes. Posts: 4203 | From: Western North Carolina | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
And I wonder if then you will also get another AGR point/dollar when the conductor collects the ticket? That's what happens now, right? Basically 4 points for every Amtrak $ spent.
Posts: 326 | From: San Antonio Texas USA | Registered: Dec 2003
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posted
Here is the summary Amtrak has/will be sent to its current cardholders:
_______________________________________________
We are pleased to announce that Amtrak Guest Rewards has selected Chase as the new issuing Bank. The new card will be available later this year. As a current card holder, you will receive updates as more information becomes available. We appreciate your patience, and look forward to bringing you the new and improved, Amtrak Guest Rewards credit card from Chase.
Please call us at 800.307.5000 Monday - Friday from 8 am - 8 pm EST if you have further questions or concerns regarding your Amtrak Guest Rewards account.
Not sure what "later this year" means, however the Amtrak Guest Rewards website still states that they will post additional info on their website in APRIL.
Posts: 1082 | From: Los Angeles, CA. USA | Registered: Aug 2003
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posted
Here we are! This arrived in my e-mail today.
Dear (AMTK 207),
The new Amtrak Guest Rewards® World MasterCard® from Chase is coming — pre-register and qualify to earn an easy 5,000 bonus points!1 Be one of the first to take advantage of the new card's great benefits. A registration code is required. Please use registration code (should I give this out?)
for the card today and qualify to earn 5,000 bonus points.1
The new card will give you opportunities to earn Amtrak Guest Rewards points on your purchases, plus the exceptional service you deserve. Card benefits include:
No annual fee
5,000 bonus points upon activation within 30 days1
2 points per $1 spent on Amtrak purchases2
1 point per $1 spent everywhere else2
Low intro APR
As always, you can redeem your Amtrak Guest Rewards points for free Amtrak® travel, gift certificates at leading retailers and restaurants, airline miles and more.
Look for future credit card updates and special offers from Amtrak Guest Rewards coming soon. The new Amtrak Guest Rewards World MasterCard® from Chase will be available this fall, and it's definitely worth the wait.
Best regards, \s\ David Lim Chief Marketing Officer
1 The new card will be available this fall, at which time you will receive an email inviting you to apply for the credit card. You will receive a total of 5,000 points with this Bonus Offer. 2,500 bonus points will post to your Chase credit card account and appear on your Chase statement and an additional 2,500 bonus points will post directly to your Amtrak Guest Rewards account and appear on your Amtrak Guest Rewards statement. Amtrak is wholly liable for the 2,500 bonus points posted directly to your Amtrak Guest Rewards account. Please allow 6-8 weeks after your first purchase for bonus points to post to both your Chase credit card and Amtrak Guest Rewards accounts. First purchase includes purchases, balance transfers, and any checks that are used to access your Chase credit card account. To qualify for this Bonus Offer, your Chase credit card account must be open and not in default at the time of fulfillment. This Bonus Offer is valid only for first-time cardmembers with new Chase credit card accounts. Only one Bonus Offer awarded per Chase credit card account. Existing cardmembers/accounts are not eligible for the Bonus Offer.
2 You will earn 2 points for each $1 of net purchases made through Amtrak. You will earn 1 point for each $1 of all other net purchases. You do not earn points on balance transfers, cash advances, cash-like charges such as travelers checks, foreign currency, and money orders, any checks that are used to access your account, overdraft advances, interest, unauthorized or fraudulent charges, or fees of any kind, including fees for products that protect or insure the balances of your account. There is no maximum number of points that you can accumulate in the program. See Rewards Program Rules and Regulations, which will be mailed after your account is established.
Subject to credit approval. Amtrak Guest Rewards credit card is issued by Chase Bank USA, N.A. and may be serviced by its affiliates.
Here we go! Time to not use a credit card for three months. Notelvis, I recommend you close credit card accounts less frequently than one per every six months. Otherwise, you may throw up flags on your credit report designed to show up if someone is making drastic changes to their credit profile too quickly, also known as deadbeat dads. As long as the CCs have no fees, the banks issuing them are going to eat the costs until you close. For example, my first CC is still good, though I haven't used it (and they keep sending me renewal cards) since I signed up for the AGR card in November 2004.
Posts: 391 | From: Schenectady | Registered: Jan 2002
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