Retention Stuff – TYP, CSP, AA Plat & Delta Amex

I have four credit cards that are coming up for renewal.  I noticed the charges on my online accounts.  Then, I had to decide what to do next.  Frankly, one should never  just pay a renewal fee even if you are certain that you will renew.  It’s always best to phone the credit card company and “explore your options.”   Sometimes it will get you some extra points or dollars credited to your statement, and sometimes it won’t, but it never hurts to try.  But, we all know that, right?

Citibank AAdvantage Platinum Visa  Signature  – Renewal Fee $95

I already have a few American Airline cards and thus have no strong need for this card.  I called Citibank.  I was offered a $95 statement credit (thus tantamount to a fee waiver), with a spend requirement of $1,000 in three months.  I was also offered 2x miles up to 1,000 miles per month for each month I spend $1,000 for 16 months.

Decision: Accepted

Citi Thank You Premier MasterCard –  Renewal Fee $125

Though I know a lot of people who love the Thank You cards (especially the now-discontinued card that earned 5X for many purchases) I could never get past the silliness of points called Thank You.  Others value these points especially for travel-related purchases.  Faced with a $125 fee, I wasn’t sure what to do.   I phoned Citibank and was offered a $125 statement credit (thus tantamount to a fee waiver) after a spend of $3,000 in three months.

Decision: Accepted.

Delta Platinum Amex – Renewal Fee $195

I am currently a Delta Platinum Medallion but have not been collecting miles this year.  Instead, I’ve been burning them, with the sad understanding that, come next March, I will be status-less.  There is just little reason for me to pay this fee.  I phoned American Express and did not receive an offer.

Decision: I will cancel the card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred MasterCard – Renewal Fee $95

I like the CSP card a lot.  It has many benefits, but I have a second CSP. Thus, there is little reason for me to pay a renewal fee on this one.  I phoned Chase and did not receive any retention offer.

Decision: I will cancel the card.