Advertiser Disclosure
A blue checkmark icon
Fact Checked
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Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!

Got it
Special Offer:

Why You Should Ask for a Credit Card Retention Offer

If you're on the fence, it can be the difference-maker and a way to earn more rewards.

August 30, 2024

Small Kudos square logoAn upside down carrot icon
Credit card retention offer

Understanding the Basics of a Credit Card Retention Offer

A credit card retention offer is an incentive provided by credit card issuers to encourage cardholders to keep their accounts open and active. These offers are designed to prevent cardholders from closing their credit cards, as issuers invest significant resources in acquiring and retaining their customers.

Retention offers can include:

  • Waived or reduced annual fees
  • Bonus rewards points or miles
  • Statement credits
  • Other perks tailored to the individual cardholder

How to Requset a Credit Card Retention Offer

The best time to request a retention offer is when your card’s annual fee is due. This provides a natural starting point for the conversation with customer service. You can also ask for retention offers at other times, but limit your requests to 2-3 times per year.

Factors that may increase your chances of receiving a retention offer include:

  • Being a new cardholder (within the first year)
  • Frequently using the card
  • Having a long-standing, positive relationship with the issuer

Keep in mind that retention offers are not guaranteed and can vary based on the issuer’s policies.

More:

Watch our video about how to talk your way into a retention offer.

Put your cards to work.

Kudos is your ultimate financial companion, helping you effortlessly manage multiple credit cards, monitor your credit score, and maximize your rewards—all in one convenient platform.
Add to Chrome – It’s Free
An icon of a lightbulb
Kudos Tip

After your retention phone call, you'll typically receive an email confirming your decision to keep the card open. This email serves as valuable documentation of the retention offer you were promised. Make sure to save this email for your records, just in case there are any discrepancies or issues down the line. Having proof of the offer can be a lifesaver if the bonus points or statement credit don't post as expected.

More:

Evaluating Retention Offers

When presented with a retention offer, consider its value and whether it aligns with your needs. For example, if you're seeking a waived annual fee, but are offered bonus points instead, weigh the benefits of the offer against your reasons for wanting to close the card. Ultimately, the decision to accept a retention offer or close your credit card depends on your financial situation and priorities. By understanding how retention offers work and strategically requesting them, you can potentially secure valuable incentives that justify keeping your card open.

More:

There is nothing to lose with fishing for a retention offer. The worst that can happen is they say no. If you are keeping your cards you might as well try getting some extra points on your renewal date!

Final Thoughts

Asking for a retention offer is a smart move for savvy credit card users who want to maximize the value of their accounts. By taking a few minutes to call or chat with your issuer and inquire about available incentives, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars in annual fees, earn bonus rewards, or secure valuable statement credits. These offers can make a significant difference in offsetting the cost of keeping a card open, especially if you're on the fence about whether the benefits justify the expense. Remember, credit card issuers are eager to retain loyal customers, and they're often willing to provide extra perks to keep you satisfied. So, don't be shy about asking for a retention offer – it could be the key to unlocking even more value from your favorite credit cards.

Credit Card Rention Offers FAQs

What are credit card retention offers? 

Credit card retention offers are one-time incentives that issuers provide to encourage customers to keep their cards open and active. Offers can include bonus points, statement credits, or waivers or reductions of annual fees.

When can I ask for a retention offer?

While it's most common to ask when the annual fee is due, you can ask for offers at any time of the year. Some recommend asking two to three months before or after the annual fee is due but you can ask up to 30 days after your annual fee has been charged. We don't calling too often, but two or three times per year is reasonable.

What determines the offer?

The specific offer you receive depends on many factors, including:

  • Your credit score
  • Your total spend amount with the issuer, including on individual cards
  • The number and type of accounts you have
  • Your history with the issuer
  • The type of card you're asking for an offer on

What if I don't get an offer?

You might not be eligible for an offer, but you can still downgrade your card to one without an annual fee. Closing your card could lower your average credit age, which could also lower your credit score.

Supercharge Your Credit Cards

Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.

Get Started

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

In this article

No items found.
Kudos, featured on:
200,000 members and counting
Advertiser Disclosure
A blue checkmark icon
Fact Checked
A black x icon

Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!

Got it
Special Offer:

Why You Should Ask for a Credit Card Retention Offer

If you're on the fence, it can be the difference-maker and a way to earn more rewards.

August 30, 2024

Small Kudos square logoAn upside down carrot icon

Understanding the Basics of a Credit Card Retention Offer

A credit card retention offer is an incentive provided by credit card issuers to encourage cardholders to keep their accounts open and active. These offers are designed to prevent cardholders from closing their credit cards, as issuers invest significant resources in acquiring and retaining their customers.

Retention offers can include:

  • Waived or reduced annual fees
  • Bonus rewards points or miles
  • Statement credits
  • Other perks tailored to the individual cardholder

How to Requset a Credit Card Retention Offer

The best time to request a retention offer is when your card’s annual fee is due. This provides a natural starting point for the conversation with customer service. You can also ask for retention offers at other times, but limit your requests to 2-3 times per year.

Factors that may increase your chances of receiving a retention offer include:

  • Being a new cardholder (within the first year)
  • Frequently using the card
  • Having a long-standing, positive relationship with the issuer

Keep in mind that retention offers are not guaranteed and can vary based on the issuer’s policies.

More:

Watch our video about how to talk your way into a retention offer.

Put your cards to work.

Kudos is your ultimate financial companion, helping you effortlessly manage multiple credit cards, monitor your credit score, and maximize your rewards—all in one convenient platform.
Add to Chrome – It’s Free
An icon of a lightbulb
Kudos Tip

After your retention phone call, you'll typically receive an email confirming your decision to keep the card open. This email serves as valuable documentation of the retention offer you were promised. Make sure to save this email for your records, just in case there are any discrepancies or issues down the line. Having proof of the offer can be a lifesaver if the bonus points or statement credit don't post as expected.

More:

Evaluating Retention Offers

When presented with a retention offer, consider its value and whether it aligns with your needs. For example, if you're seeking a waived annual fee, but are offered bonus points instead, weigh the benefits of the offer against your reasons for wanting to close the card. Ultimately, the decision to accept a retention offer or close your credit card depends on your financial situation and priorities. By understanding how retention offers work and strategically requesting them, you can potentially secure valuable incentives that justify keeping your card open.

More:

There is nothing to lose with fishing for a retention offer. The worst that can happen is they say no. If you are keeping your cards you might as well try getting some extra points on your renewal date!

Final Thoughts

Asking for a retention offer is a smart move for savvy credit card users who want to maximize the value of their accounts. By taking a few minutes to call or chat with your issuer and inquire about available incentives, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars in annual fees, earn bonus rewards, or secure valuable statement credits. These offers can make a significant difference in offsetting the cost of keeping a card open, especially if you're on the fence about whether the benefits justify the expense. Remember, credit card issuers are eager to retain loyal customers, and they're often willing to provide extra perks to keep you satisfied. So, don't be shy about asking for a retention offer – it could be the key to unlocking even more value from your favorite credit cards.

Credit Card Rention Offers FAQs

What are credit card retention offers? 

Credit card retention offers are one-time incentives that issuers provide to encourage customers to keep their cards open and active. Offers can include bonus points, statement credits, or waivers or reductions of annual fees.

When can I ask for a retention offer?

While it's most common to ask when the annual fee is due, you can ask for offers at any time of the year. Some recommend asking two to three months before or after the annual fee is due but you can ask up to 30 days after your annual fee has been charged. We don't calling too often, but two or three times per year is reasonable.

What determines the offer?

The specific offer you receive depends on many factors, including:

  • Your credit score
  • Your total spend amount with the issuer, including on individual cards
  • The number and type of accounts you have
  • Your history with the issuer
  • The type of card you're asking for an offer on

What if I don't get an offer?

You might not be eligible for an offer, but you can still downgrade your card to one without an annual fee. Closing your card could lower your average credit age, which could also lower your credit score.

Supercharge Your Credit Cards

Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.

Get Started

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

In this article

No items found.
Advertiser Disclosure
A blue checkmark icon
Fact Checked
A black x icon

Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!

Got it
Special Offer:

Why You Should Ask for a Credit Card Retention Offer

If you're on the fence, it can be the difference-maker and a way to earn more rewards.

August 30, 2024

Small Kudos square logoAn upside down carrot icon
Credit card retention offer

Understanding the Basics of a Credit Card Retention Offer

A credit card retention offer is an incentive provided by credit card issuers to encourage cardholders to keep their accounts open and active. These offers are designed to prevent cardholders from closing their credit cards, as issuers invest significant resources in acquiring and retaining their customers.

Retention offers can include:

  • Waived or reduced annual fees
  • Bonus rewards points or miles
  • Statement credits
  • Other perks tailored to the individual cardholder

How to Requset a Credit Card Retention Offer

The best time to request a retention offer is when your card’s annual fee is due. This provides a natural starting point for the conversation with customer service. You can also ask for retention offers at other times, but limit your requests to 2-3 times per year.

Factors that may increase your chances of receiving a retention offer include:

  • Being a new cardholder (within the first year)
  • Frequently using the card
  • Having a long-standing, positive relationship with the issuer

Keep in mind that retention offers are not guaranteed and can vary based on the issuer’s policies.

More:

Watch our video about how to talk your way into a retention offer.

An icon of a lightbulb
Kudos Tip

After your retention phone call, you'll typically receive an email confirming your decision to keep the card open. This email serves as valuable documentation of the retention offer you were promised. Make sure to save this email for your records, just in case there are any discrepancies or issues down the line. Having proof of the offer can be a lifesaver if the bonus points or statement credit don't post as expected.

More:

Evaluating Retention Offers

When presented with a retention offer, consider its value and whether it aligns with your needs. For example, if you're seeking a waived annual fee, but are offered bonus points instead, weigh the benefits of the offer against your reasons for wanting to close the card. Ultimately, the decision to accept a retention offer or close your credit card depends on your financial situation and priorities. By understanding how retention offers work and strategically requesting them, you can potentially secure valuable incentives that justify keeping your card open.

More:

There is nothing to lose with fishing for a retention offer. The worst that can happen is they say no. If you are keeping your cards you might as well try getting some extra points on your renewal date!

Final Thoughts

Asking for a retention offer is a smart move for savvy credit card users who want to maximize the value of their accounts. By taking a few minutes to call or chat with your issuer and inquire about available incentives, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars in annual fees, earn bonus rewards, or secure valuable statement credits. These offers can make a significant difference in offsetting the cost of keeping a card open, especially if you're on the fence about whether the benefits justify the expense. Remember, credit card issuers are eager to retain loyal customers, and they're often willing to provide extra perks to keep you satisfied. So, don't be shy about asking for a retention offer – it could be the key to unlocking even more value from your favorite credit cards.

Credit Card Rention Offers FAQs

What are credit card retention offers? 

Credit card retention offers are one-time incentives that issuers provide to encourage customers to keep their cards open and active. Offers can include bonus points, statement credits, or waivers or reductions of annual fees.

When can I ask for a retention offer?

While it's most common to ask when the annual fee is due, you can ask for offers at any time of the year. Some recommend asking two to three months before or after the annual fee is due but you can ask up to 30 days after your annual fee has been charged. We don't calling too often, but two or three times per year is reasonable.

What determines the offer?

The specific offer you receive depends on many factors, including:

  • Your credit score
  • Your total spend amount with the issuer, including on individual cards
  • The number and type of accounts you have
  • Your history with the issuer
  • The type of card you're asking for an offer on

What if I don't get an offer?

You might not be eligible for an offer, but you can still downgrade your card to one without an annual fee. Closing your card could lower your average credit age, which could also lower your credit score.

Supercharge Your Credit Cards

Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.

Get Started

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

In this article

No items found.
Kudos, featured on:
200,000 members and counting
Advertiser Disclosure
A blue checkmark icon
Fact Checked
A black x icon

Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!

Got it
Special Offer:

Why You Should Ask for a Credit Card Retention Offer

If you're on the fence, it can be the difference-maker and a way to earn more rewards.

August 30, 2024

Small Kudos square logoAn upside down carrot icon

Understanding the Basics of a Credit Card Retention Offer

A credit card retention offer is an incentive provided by credit card issuers to encourage cardholders to keep their accounts open and active. These offers are designed to prevent cardholders from closing their credit cards, as issuers invest significant resources in acquiring and retaining their customers.

Retention offers can include:

  • Waived or reduced annual fees
  • Bonus rewards points or miles
  • Statement credits
  • Other perks tailored to the individual cardholder

How to Requset a Credit Card Retention Offer

The best time to request a retention offer is when your card’s annual fee is due. This provides a natural starting point for the conversation with customer service. You can also ask for retention offers at other times, but limit your requests to 2-3 times per year.

Factors that may increase your chances of receiving a retention offer include:

  • Being a new cardholder (within the first year)
  • Frequently using the card
  • Having a long-standing, positive relationship with the issuer

Keep in mind that retention offers are not guaranteed and can vary based on the issuer’s policies.

More:

Watch our video about how to talk your way into a retention offer.

An icon of a lightbulb
Kudos Tip

After your retention phone call, you'll typically receive an email confirming your decision to keep the card open. This email serves as valuable documentation of the retention offer you were promised. Make sure to save this email for your records, just in case there are any discrepancies or issues down the line. Having proof of the offer can be a lifesaver if the bonus points or statement credit don't post as expected.

More:

Put your cards to work.

Kudos is your ultimate financial companion, helping you effortlessly manage multiple credit cards, monitor your credit score, and maximize your rewards—all in one convenient platform.
Add to Chrome – It’s Free

Evaluating Retention Offers

When presented with a retention offer, consider its value and whether it aligns with your needs. For example, if you're seeking a waived annual fee, but are offered bonus points instead, weigh the benefits of the offer against your reasons for wanting to close the card. Ultimately, the decision to accept a retention offer or close your credit card depends on your financial situation and priorities. By understanding how retention offers work and strategically requesting them, you can potentially secure valuable incentives that justify keeping your card open.

More:

There is nothing to lose with fishing for a retention offer. The worst that can happen is they say no. If you are keeping your cards you might as well try getting some extra points on your renewal date!

Final Thoughts

Asking for a retention offer is a smart move for savvy credit card users who want to maximize the value of their accounts. By taking a few minutes to call or chat with your issuer and inquire about available incentives, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars in annual fees, earn bonus rewards, or secure valuable statement credits. These offers can make a significant difference in offsetting the cost of keeping a card open, especially if you're on the fence about whether the benefits justify the expense. Remember, credit card issuers are eager to retain loyal customers, and they're often willing to provide extra perks to keep you satisfied. So, don't be shy about asking for a retention offer – it could be the key to unlocking even more value from your favorite credit cards.

Credit Card Rention Offers FAQs

What are credit card retention offers? 

Credit card retention offers are one-time incentives that issuers provide to encourage customers to keep their cards open and active. Offers can include bonus points, statement credits, or waivers or reductions of annual fees.

When can I ask for a retention offer?

While it's most common to ask when the annual fee is due, you can ask for offers at any time of the year. Some recommend asking two to three months before or after the annual fee is due but you can ask up to 30 days after your annual fee has been charged. We don't calling too often, but two or three times per year is reasonable.

What determines the offer?

The specific offer you receive depends on many factors, including:

  • Your credit score
  • Your total spend amount with the issuer, including on individual cards
  • The number and type of accounts you have
  • Your history with the issuer
  • The type of card you're asking for an offer on

What if I don't get an offer?

You might not be eligible for an offer, but you can still downgrade your card to one without an annual fee. Closing your card could lower your average credit age, which could also lower your credit score.

Supercharge Your Credit Cards

Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.

Get Started

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

In this article

No items found.
No items found.