When it Makes Sense to Call Your Credit Card Company

In today’s day and age, many people shy away from contacting their credit card company by phone. Instead, they assume that email and/or live chat is all they need to get their questions answered.

While there is nothing wrong with taking advantage of technology, there are times when a phone call is the best way to get in touch. Consider the following:

• To report fraudulent activity. If you come across suspicious activity on your credit card statement, you shouldn’t wait a minute to call your issuer to discuss the problem. Wasting time is a big mistake, as this may result in additional fraudulent purchases.
• To dispute a charge. Any charge that looks out of place is one that you should discuss with your credit card company. This may be related to fraudulent activity, but it doesn’t have to be. For example, a retailer could overcharge you or double bill you for a single purchase.
• To make a change to your account. There could come a time when you need to change some of the details associated with your account, such as your name, address, phone number or even credit limit. Rather than rely on online account management, call your credit card company to ensure that the process is completed in a timely and accurate manner.
• To ask for a better deal. Do you want a lower interest rate? How about a better rewards program? You’ll never know if you qualify for a better deal until you call your credit card company to discuss your situation.
• To discuss a fee. If you’re hit with any type of fee, such as one for making a late payment, you shouldn’t assume you have to pay it. Your credit card company may not agree to remove it, but it never hurts to ask. If you have a strong account history, a simple phone call may result in the removal of the fee and money back in your pocket.

These are some of the many times it makes sense to call your credit card company, but there are other situations in which you may want to pick up the phone.

When was the last time you contacted your credit card company by phone? What did you discuss?