I recently downgraded my Chase Sapphire Preferred Visa to a Chase Sapphire Visa. The Chase agent I spoke to explained to me that I would be receiving a new “non-metal” card in the mail with the same number as the Preferred card, so I could continue using the Preferred card until the new card arrived.
(are you still with me?)
The agent then offered to send an envelope so I could send back the “metal” Sapphire Preferred card. I said that wasn’t necessary ( I usually save my old cards). She went on a little more about this (a bit too much, in my opinion), and then we cordially ended our conversation.
Well, yesterday I received the new card. It does look just like the prior card, sans the metal and the word Preferred. In the package was an envelope – with postage pre-paid – to return the card. There is a special slot in the envelope to place the card.
The instructions on the envelope state:
Please return your card(s) to Chase for secure disposal, following the instructions below:
1) Insert your outdated or expired card(s) in the open slots below.
2) Detach this perforated portion from the envelope.
3) Seal the envelope and place in any mail box.
This is most peculiar. No other credit card company in my experience has ever sent a return envelope for a canceled or expired credit card. Why so much care?
So what is it? Is it an eco-concern because these cards are hard to destroy? Is it dangerous to try to cut these cards? Do they pose disposal threats like batteries or used syringes? Or do these cards have some value, legitimately or otherwise, on the street? Maybe it really is Kryptonite, Superman? I have no idea – but I’m truly perplexed.
A New York frequent flyer who elegantly combines her passions for worldwide travel, running a gazillion marathons all over the globe and staying fit ... without sacrificing her fancy for good wine and food.
I recently added my husband to my Chase Sapphire MC, and when he received his card there was the same return envelope. A puzzle to me, too.
I recently downgraded my card too. Holding on to the old ones though. Finding a creative way to destroy them myself sounded like too much fun!
We could not destroy an old CSP card. The credit card shredder did nothing, nor did scissors. Did not try tin snippers.
so it is Kryponite!
I thought it was because they are hard to destroy as well. I needed to get rid of my Sapphire card while traveling and could NOT destroy it. I tried scissors. I tried bending it over and over–nothing. I even tried to burn some numbers off!! Hah! Eventually I gave up and threw it in the trash all in one piece… hoping it would be ok since the card was cancelled.
Yeah I think it’s the fact that you can’t truly destroy it (or at least not easily). I remember seeing a post of someone taking a blowtorch to theirs – to no avail!