I called Providian today about rebate on my annual fee it's up. When I spoke with retention she told me I was pre-approved for a Providian Smart Chip Card for 2k cl. I accepted it and also got my annual fee rebated. I asked her how I qualified, she said I had not been late in the past 24 months with no over the limits. I then had my hubby call and he spoke with retention and he was also pre-approved for the Smart Card. So if any of you have a Providian Card that has been opened for 24 months with no lates or over the limits you could get the Smart Card also. I just love Providian.
Congrats! I bet that makes you feel good It's great to be rewarded for doing well at something. But, what's a smart chip card?
I don't even know what a Smart Card is. The card must be smarter than me. It's a Visa card. I know that much and it's another piece of credit for my profile.
Credit information is on a chip in the card and "talks" to a card reader... Supposedly higher security level...AMEX BLUE has had it for more than 18 months...
FROM AMEX BLUE... The Smart Card Reader The Smart Card Reader provides you with an added level of security when shopping online. It attaches to your PC, and works together with Blue's built-in Smart Chip and a PIN (Personal Identification Number). When you are ready to make a purchase, insert Blue into your reader and enter your PIN to unlock your American Express Online Wallet. Because you need your Card and your PIN, you're the only one who can unlock your American Express Online Wallet. It's another way to put Blue to work for you!
Well I could never be approved for a Blue Card. I just will take baby steps with Providians Smart Card. I am sure they will try to sell us the reader for another $100.00 in which they will raise the limit another $100.00 LOL..
Most of those smart card readers dont work with win2k either. It basically just types the visa # into the website for you i spose. Looks cool no less. First USA sells one too
Congrats, Misty!! I think I will give them a call in a day or so and inquire about what they can do for my account. I have had my card since 1996. I know it is an old tradeline, but I am seriously thinking about closing it. My annual fee is rebated each year too and my interest rate is 16.9%, but I don't have a grace period. That is unacceptable!! I could accept that when my card was new, but I believe I have proven myself to be a creditworthy customer. Many people on this board have had their card less time and have received a grace period. I actually like Providian too, but there is more to a credit card account than a high limit. Sorry, you made me assess my own account now. Thanks ;-)
They sure are proactive about credit limit increases, but when it comes to changing the account terms in your favor they need little reminders from time to time.
Shoot! I called the Special Service line and he didn't know how to do a conversion. So he checked with his supervisor and found out it "wasn't an option right now" so instead he told me to call 800-221-1653 which is the SmartCard waitlist :-(
George, I have both First USA and Fleet card smart cards and they both sent me the card reader free of charge. I didn't find any use with card reader and it is supposed tone you don't hav to fill out anything if you purchase on the web. I didn't come anythig across to use with the reader. My brother had a Blue card with the reader and he didn't find any use with his smart card reader. By the way it is nice-looking card.
