Now that FCNB has closed -- and with it my only bankcard -- what do people recommend for a MasterCard or Visa? Here's my background: Chapter 7 discharged in April 2000. Have cleaned up my credit reports to the point where my FICO is around 688. Capital One, Providian, Household (loan, not credit card) and Citibank were among the creditors included in my BK. Who do people suggest I turn to now? Can I get an unsecured card, or should I still stick to secured? Thanks.
Try First Premier. They have some fees I'd rather not pay, but at least they're unsecured. http://www.firstpremier.com
ShyGuy, Nordstroms VISA. They have given cards to those with a BK and at least two years of good restablished credit since the debts were discharged. In case their policy has changed recently, give them a call first at 1 800 935 4210 and ask the CSR what their current policy is for issuing new cards. They are pretty helpful. KK
My previous Nordstrom Visa was discharged in my BK. I remember talking to a Nordstrom CSR during my credit-repair process because it was listed incorrectly on one of my credit reports. (The rep was upset because she said Nordstrom was reporting correctly and the credit bureau was messing up. She even ordered to call the CRA and complain.) Anyway, during the conversation, she told me that two years after discharge the Nordstrom approval process becomes entirely score-driven. She said Nordstrom would issue a card to someone whose previous Nordstrom debt was discharged -- even if that debt was never repaid. I always assumed she was talking about a store card, not the Nordstrom Visa. But maybe I'll have to look into it further.
Hello, I got the Nordstrom store card after being declined then PFB them to discuss the situation last Jan. It started out with a $200.00 limit then after three months rose to $1,500.00. Three months after that I converted it to a Visa with a $3000.00 limit, three months after that an increase to $8000.00. My score has never been above 640. My BK was discharged in 97. They are very helpful but you need to show a good track record in rebuilding. I use about 25% of my available credit and make weekly payments. BJ
