No longer accepting applications again.
Update 9/25/22: There’s no longer the requirement of being an existing U.S. Bank customer in order to apply for the Altitude Reserve card. Though approval odds might be better for someone with a checking account. (ht uscreditcardguide) Updated below.
(This card is not accepting new applications as of November 30, 2020. Open to applications again)
U.S. Bank has officially just launched their new Altitude Reserve credit card. As is tradition, it’s time for our in depth review of this new premium credit card.
Contents
Quick Overview
- Sign up bonus of 50,000 points after $4,500 in spend within the first 90 days
- Annual fee of $400 for the primary cardholder. Authorized users can be added for
$75$0 each. - $325 in annual travel/dining credits. This is based on a card member year, rather than calendar year.
- Card earns at the following rates:
- 5x on prepaid hotel and car rentals booked through the Altitude Rewards Center
- 3x on mobile payments (including LoopPay/MST transactions)
- 3x on travel purchases made directly with airlines, hotels, car rental companies, taxis, limousines, passenger trains and cruise line companies
- 1x on all other purchases
- Priority Pass Select Membership
Application Information
Who is eligible for this card?
To be automatically approved you need:To be an existing U.S. Bank customer for at least 35 days 5 business daysMust be an existing U.S. Bank consumer customer
- You can get the above requirement waived by applying in branch (you still need to be a U.S. Bank customer, but business is fine and the 35 day waiting period is waived).
- This issue should be fixed in a future release
- You’re considered an existing eligible customer if you have any of the following:
- U.S. Bank Checking or Savings account
- Certificate of Deposit
- Mortgage
- Home Equity Loan
- Home Equity Line of Credit
- Auto/Boat/RV Loan
- Personal Loans and Lines
- Private Banking account
- Consumer Credit Card
You can view the best way to become eligible by clicking here. If you’re not recognized as an existing customer no hard pull will be done. There also seems to be some suggestion that the following helps:
- Income of $60,000+
- FICO score of 720+
What Credit Bureau Does U.S. Bank Pull For The Altitude Reserve?
This varies by the state you live in, you can view more information about this here.
What Credit Limit Will I Receive?
This varies from person to person. The minimum credit limit for this card is $5,000 (lower than the $10,000 limit required for other Visa Infinite cards).
Card Benefits
You’d expect significant card benefits for a card with a $400 annual fee. Let’s go into detail for each benefit this card offers.
$325 Annual Travel Credit
This card provides you with up to $325 in annual travel credits per card member year. Your account is credited whenever your card is used for purchases made directly (e.g not through a travel agent) from:
- Airlines
- Hotels
- Car rental companies
- Taxis
- Limousines
- Passenger trains
- Cruise lines
- They’ve now added dining, takeout, and food delivery as eligible categories as well
It doesn’t matter if you make the purchase with the primary or authorized user card it will still trigger the credit. Keep in mind the authorized user does not get their own $325 travel credit. The credits are applied automatically and you shouldn’t need to do anything for the credit to appear (as always it’s a good idea to keep an eye on this to ensure it does post automatically).
Priority Pass Select Membership
- Can enroll one card member in the program at a time.
- First four visits and four individual accompanying guest visits are waived each Priority Pass Select membership reward (per membership year)
- After the free visits have been used you will be charged $27 per person per visit
Global Entry or TSA Pre✔ Fee Credit
You can receive a statement credit of up to $100 when you use your card for the application fee on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. You’re able to receive this statement credit once every 4 years.
GroundLink Black Car Service
- 15% off the base rate for reservations booked and paid with using the Altitude Reserve
- One time $30 promotional credit towards a booking
Silvercar
Rent an Audi A4 with no lines or paperwork from airport locations in select cities and receive a discount of up to 30% on rentals of two days or more.
Elite Hotel Benefits At Relais & Châteaux
If you book through the Visa Infite concierge and stay two nights at qualifying Relais & Châteaux properties you’ll receive Club 5C status. Normally you need to stay an average of 18 nights annually to receive this status. It gives you the following benefits:
- Access to a special reservations line
- Welcome gifts & amenities
- Unique experiences/extras (e.g picnic lunch served by Little Nell at the top of Colorado’s Aspen Mountain)
An example of what you receive can be found on the website for the Wedgewood Hotel.
Metal Card
Card is made from metal.
Earning Rewards
50,000 Point Sign Up Bonus
This card has a sign up bonus of 50,000 points after $4,500 in spend within the first 90 days.
Ongoing Spend
- Card earns at the following rates:
- 3x on mobile payments (including LoopPay/MST transactions, see also this post)
- 3x on travel purchases made directly with airlines, hotels, car rental companies, taxis, limousines, passenger trains and cruise line companies
- 1x on all other purchases
Transferring FlexPerks Points
It’s possible to transfer FlexPerk points to Altitude points, but not vice versa. Keep in mind that FlexPerks have a maximum redemption value of 1.5¢.
Redeeming Rewards
Real-time Rewards 1.5¢ Per Point
Real-time rewards lets you redeem points for 1.5¢ per point, more details here.
Airfare, Hotels & Car Rental 1.5¢ Per Point
You can redeem points for airfare, hotels & car rental at a rate of 1.5¢ per point. Keep in mind that you need to use their booking system and that’s far from perfect. Usually it prices the same as elsewhere or by booking directly and you’ll still earn airline miles/credits.
Annual Fee 1.14¢ Per Point
Instead of paying the $400 annual fee in cash you can offset it by paying 35,000 in points for a value of 1.14¢ per point. Can also be used for authorized users.
Statement Credit 1¢ Per Point
You can redeem points for statement credit at a rate of 1¢ per point.
Our Verdict
This card is worth signing up for a lot of people:
- 50,000 point sign up bonus (worth $500 or ~$750 towards flights)
- $325 in travel credits
- $400 annual fee
I don’t think travel credits are worth the same amount as straight cash, but even at 80% of face value that’s $260. Worst case scenario you use 35,000 points to offset the annual fee leaving you with $150 worth of points and $325 ($260 ‘cash value’) in travel credit. By no means the best bonus ever, but well worth applying for. Obviously if you value the card benefits (and I think they are very weak) then the value proposition gets even better.
What’s really interesting for me and a lot of other people is the ability to get 3x points on mobile wallet purchases. This could be amazing for manufactured spending (and regular spending if you just use Visa gift cards purchased with this for your regular purchases) depending on what stores near you accept mobile payments. Even better for people with eligible Samsung Phones as the MST technology means it can be used on most swipe only payment terminals. We also took a look at the cheapest way to get Samsung Pay in this post.
I personally don’t think this card will be worth keeping after the first year for the majority of people, unless you can really make use of the 3x categories. Let me know if you agree/disagree in the comments below.
Follow-up note: US Bank has been aggressively shutting down accounts of those who buy Visa gift cards. Steer clear.
Tips/Things To Know
- If you apply and want to share data points, please do so here.
- Read these things everybody should know about U.S. Bank credit cards here.
- They are offering 500 points for enrolling in real time rewards.
- When you call in to activate your card tell them that you would also like to activate it for use in a mobile wallet.
F.A.Q’s
I’ll answer the more commonly asked questions here.
What are my options for getting a Samsung
It seems they are not accepting new applications
> .
(This card is not accepting new applications as of November 30, 2020. Open to applications again)
Starting December 15, 2025, they remove dining credits, limit 3x mobile earning to $5,000 spend each billing cycle, and reduce point travel redemption to 1c per point.
My annual fee hit on 2/26/2025 after one year. I stopped using the card mid-2024 and called and asked if there was any incentive if I switched my spending back to the card. The kind agent immediately offered the 10k points retention offer.
So I’ll spend $325 on travel/dining to get this year’s statement credit. And from what I’m reading below it may be possible to get a $325 statement credit again in 2026 if it’s reloaded on 1/23/2026, and then I can cancel the card if necessary when the next annual fee hits on 2/26/2026?
You can definitely double dip the travel credit. But if they’re going to give you another retention offer, it’ll be profitable to keep it open another year.
This card is no longer on the market. Please remove from the best credit card sign up bonuses page!
U.S. Bank Personal Credit Cards (no longer accepting new applications) ???
$750 for SUB less $75 on first year annual fee loss, plus $400 double dip travel credit. To me that equals $1,075 if only keep this card one year. Am I missing anything? This might be worth a 5/24 slot.
can you double dip on the $325 travel credit? i.e. once its a new cardmember year, spend on travel, get reimbursed, and then cancel the card and get the AF refunded?
Lounge access is now 8 visits, distributed as you want across any combination of individuals, instead of 4 for the primary card holder and 4 guests. This is important for me since I’ll be traveling w/ kids, so being able to bring more guests into the lounge has value.
From the fine print, I think one card holder can be enrolled, but I think you can enroll an authorized user instead if you want. At least that’s my read of the fine print.
If the PP is in my name, can I let my wife and 8 year old kid go in a lounge while I sit out, or do I have to be the one going in the lounge?
DO i need to be an US Bank customer to open any credit card with them?
I heard that for checking account, one need to have an existing relationship.
Not anymore as of 9/25/22 update at the top of this article.
Is this supposition correct? The “1x on all other purchases” is effectively 2.5% with travel RTR.
*ahhh* nvm. bad math. 1% x 1.5 RTR = 1.5%. lol. Not 1% + 1.5 RTR lol
Applied on 9/9/24 at 0/6 and 2/12 with a trans union of 760. Received denial letter in mail on 9/16/24. Gonna try calling the recon line in a couple days. Annoying as fuck to skip out on SUBs for the last 6 months for this to not pan out.
Interesting offer came in today after not having used the card for a few months:
“<First name>, earn up to 20% more points”
Earn up to 20% more points (up to 2,000 points) on purchases after you spend $100.
Enroll your U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card by August 31, 2024. Eligible purchases made from August 1 – September 30, 2024 will count toward this offer.
Terms: This offer is valid on purchases made August 1 – September 30, 2024 (promotion period) and you need to enroll by August 31, 2024. To be eligible for the offer, you need to spend a minimum of $100 in net purchases during the promotion period. Net purchases are purchases minus credits and returns. Once the minimum spend has been met, additional net purchases made during the promotion period will be awarded a bonus 0.2 points per dollar spent (up to 2,000 points). The additional points will be credited to your Account 2–3 billing cycles after the end of the promotion period. Your Account must remain open and be in good standing (not past due or overlimit) to qualify. This offer may not apply if your credit card has changed to a different type of card within the last 8 weeks before August 1, 2024, or changes before the additional points is applied. If you have any questions, call Cardmember Service at 844-357-2015.
When does prioritypass will expire?
Example: I got this card 3 months back and if I activate priority pass now in June 2024 and I downgrade this card to no annual fee card in Feb 2025, will i still get priority pass till May 2025?
Used the chat feature in the app and asked for a retention offer. Gave me 4k points Use the card all the time and is where 90% of my spend goes. No brainer.
Extremely quick 10,000 point retention offer. The whole call was 2:35. In addition I used real-time rewards for 1.5x redemption on a hotel offer, and then also received the $325 credit on the same purchase.
Why would you buy visa gift card at 3% when the fee is 6%?
They’re regularly on sale/fee-free, just gotta catch them at that time or buy in a high enough denomination where the fee is less than 3%.
Does anyone know how US Bank counts your x/12 status? Do you need to wait until the first day of the month after a year (month 13), or can you apply after the date of last inquiry?
Applied 4/9 around 9pm, got 7-10 review message. Around midnight, I received approval email. 20k limit. If it was approved through manual review, I am impressed.
How soon does the card arrives by mail ?? 2 days express ??
I got mine in 2 days.
how soon does points post , after statement close ? also when does AF post , last day of the month ?
I’ve got a few transactions now and points show pending but not in actual point balance, so I assume statement close. AF hasn’t posted yet so I don’t know exactly.
One-time 50,000 bonus Points will be awarded if you are approved for a new U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card and eligible Net Purchases totaling $4,500 or more are made to your Account within 90 days after Account opening. Points are earned on eligible Net Purchases. Please allow 1-2 billing cycles for your bonus Points to be credited to your Account. Existing or previous U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite cardmembers are not eligible if you have received a new account bonus for this product in the last five years. Use of the Card is subject to terms and conditions of the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Cardmember Agreement, which is provided at Account opening and may be amended from time to time. This offer may not be combined with any other bonus offer.
Posted https://www.doctorofcredit.com/u-s-bank-altitude-reserve-signup-bonus-is-now-churnable-after-5-years/
how soon do points post , after statement close ? also when does AF post , last day of the month ?
This is number one card in the list of best signup bonus, yet this page is severely outdated with wrong information. Is this website being abandoned?
In all fairness, this is the original landing page for the cards debut… There’s seperate pages when the cards are updated.
This is the page linked from the best credit card page…
Approved in FL. Hopefully this will allow me to participate in future bank bonuses?
Congrats on the approval! which credit report did they pull?
This card does carry primary auto collision damage waiver, 6 hour trip delay insurance (can pay tax portion of ticket) $500 per ticket, and the Visa Infinite logo (rental car status matching and more). Solid contender for a travel card. Although lounge access is severely lacking compared to AMEX Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserved, Cap1 VentureX.
So many requests to update this post. Thank you!
Got 1k points (not 10k) as retention offer with no spend. We do use card a lot though
1k sounds like a drop in the bucket. But at least you found value in using this card.
Thanks! It is worth it given our annual travel spend alone, Apple Cash 4.5x a plus.
For future reference, I think you’re supposed to HUCA to get a higher offer so I’ll try that next year.
I know this post is old, but did you mean to write “Apple Pay?” Or else what is the angle with Apple Cash and Altitude Reserve?
Yes sorry Apple Pay
Are we allowed to apply for a second altitude reserve just cause? There is no upgrade or downgrade path so I am wondering if we can straight out apply for a second one
I’ve had this card for 6.5 years, and honestly not sure why I keep it, except one day to begrudgingly pay for travel in their sketchy travel portal and redeem earned points. I really don’t understand why this is listed at the top of the best cards list. A few things are out of date in this article…
1) Priority Pass is 8 visits and then pay $35 (not 4 member + 4 guest, then $27)
2) Gogo Wifi benefit was removed at least two years ago, and was unable to even be used for the last year that it was “available”.
Also, GroundLink and Silvercar benefits are gone, and have never been able to redeem RealTime Rewards for more than 1 cpp.
I have successfully redeemed real-time rewards for 1.5x at hotels.
Hi, Do you know if I can use one of the 8 visits for my wife and one for me when we travel together or can it only be used for the PP card holder? thanks.
Just a heads up to check your rewards. I started receiving 1x on Apple Pay in January 2024. Not sure if this is a widespread glitch or just me.
Read you can remove and re-add your card back to Apple Pay to fix it.
Thanks for the heads up. Will give that a try.
Needed a card to pay the $45/day x 8 days parking fee at our sfo hotel. Got approved for this one to go with the leverage card i got in october and my longstanding cash+ and visa signature cards.
Instant approval!
17k limit
0/12 personal
lots of biz cards
Hoping the travel credits post and work out for our Italian vacay.
Its amazing how this card is on top of the list but it hasn’t changed one bit since it was first launched
It boggles my mind why its at the top of the list, unless they pay to put it there. But the card has changed. They have removed Gogo Wifi, Groundlink Black, and Silvercar. They have also decreased the Priority Pass benefit. So it has changed several times, with gutting of benefits. Been a cardmember since 2017, and only keep it until I can burn the few points I have remaining. I don’t find it worth the effective $75 annual fee at all.
How are 8 Priority Passes entries that are worth $27 each at their restaurants not worth $75?
Maybe
Ugh doesn’t use the restaurant side of PP. I don’t. Like any card, how a set of benefits works for the cardholder determines the worth of the annual fee.
I have PP on about 4 different cards. This one isn’t the most useful for me.
Approved instantly , 800+ score. No new cards in past 24 months. 20k limit. No prior relationship from Michigan
P2 auto-approved for 10k limit. No prior history with US Bank but they do bank in our state.
2/24
790+
Was offered 10,000 bonus points as a retention offer; no spend required.
Decided to keep it. 10k with RTR will work nicely.
Also, my annual fee posted on 11/06 BUT my statement date was 12/03 so if I cancel, the rep said I had less than 30 days to cancel.
Side note as well, according to the rep, my $325 *travel* credit will replenish on 12/11. Anyone else get their credits 36 days after their annual fee posted?
Application DP for today 11/22/23
Instant approval 20k limit
Transunion Hard Pull, State=Oregon
Don’t know exact credit score but in the 800s.
I had 3 new accounts between 11/19/22-11/21/22.
If those counted, I was at 1/6 and 5/12 on new accounts at time of app.
If those didn’t count, I was at 1/6 and 2/12 on new accounts at time of app.
I have prior relationship.
Checking w/ $50 in it, opened 4mo ago
Other CC very lightly used, opened 2+ yrs ago.
I wasn’t expecting instant approval and thought I would need to go thru manual review/recon.
Would a business checking account with US Bank help with approval or does it need to be a personal account?
Oops, somehow after having this card for 6+ months I NOW just realized that restaurants don’t earn 3x. Oops oh well.
My US Bank cash back offers disappeared a few days ago. Anyone else have this issue? On Chrome or Firefox with adblock turned off.
Mine have never disappeared, but they might as well have since there is never anything useful there.
Mine disappeared in May 2023 when I got a business credit card and it got automatically added to my personal online banking profile. My guess is that mine disappeared because business cards can’t use the cash back offers, and their system is probably not sophisticated enough to make those offers only apply to some cards but not others.
I’ve tried resolving this by chat but didn’t get anywhere. They directed me to call, which I haven’t gotten around to doing.
Does Airbnb count as travel for the 5x points?
Does Airbnb count towards travel purchases for the 5x points?
DP: Several days after my annual fee posted, on 09/20, I booked a $104.90 refundable United ticket to redeem 6,993 points at 1.5 cents using Real-Time Rewards. When I checked this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to see some of the $325 annual travel credit applied, even though I cancelled the ticket on 09/22.
09/20: +$104.90 “Real Time Rewards Credit”
09/22: -$104.90 “United Airlines”
09/25: +$104.90 “United Airlines” (refund)
09/26: +$104.90 “Annual Travel Dining Credit Up”
If you’re close to your anniversary date and have some points sitting, you may want to consider waiting until your fee posts / becoming eligible for another $325 in credits before you redeem them. By waiting, you can effectively use some of your annual credit without any additional spending.
Also keep in mind you can get a refundable ticket and just cancel once the credits post (although it may not matter, at least for the annual travel credit). If you’re looking for a cheaper redemption, I recommend using Google Flights and setting the origin to a cheap airport (google “cheap airports to fly from”) and the destination as anywhere to find the cheapest flights. You can then check directly with the airlines for the refundable ticket prices.
there was a prior DP that they will reverse the travel/dining credit if you cancel the card and get the AF refunded. This was from 2019 so maybe they don’t do it today. So I don’t know that it is safe to count on being able to double dip the annual dining/travel credit….maybe you will get it still since you didn’t try the whole credit.
This is from Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/CreditCards/comments/17hwew7/altitude_reserve_travelfood_credits_hit_before/
I’m contemplating double dipping.
Also, someone else said the travel credits replenish on the 23rd of the month, regardless of one’s annual fee notice. https://www.doctorofcredit.com/u-s-bank-altitude-reserve-review-50000-point-sign-bonus-750-towards-airfare-325-travel-credits/#comment-948498
Any update on this? Were you able to successfully double dip without a claw back?
No DP:
It took a week and a half for my SW flight to post so I ended calling and asked for a retention offer. They gave me 10,000 points. Used RTR and made it worth 15k so that with the $325 travel rewards nets me $75 profit.
Try that route first.
I’m not sure how to time it to get the travel credits renewed, then purchase a flight, it posts to the amount, then cancel. I’m not sure if it’s possible.
Since this card is not churnable, anybody try upgrading the Altitude Connect to the Altitude Reserve?
Just opened this card and I was disappointed to learn the Gogo Wifi benefit was discontinued. Please update this page to reflect that.
I’ve had this card since 2017 and Gogo was removed 2-3 years ago! And then for at least a year before they removed it, it would not even work as Gogo refused to honor it for some bogus reason. This card has turned to useless.
Applied last night, got the 7-10 days message, a few minutes later applied for Connect, also got 7-10 days message. Received real time inquiry alerts at 8:37 pm and again at 9:44 AM. Called the number on the application, they said they are in review you can call the underwriting department and see if there’s anything they are looking for. Called underwriting, they said it’s in process, always takes 2-3 days to process, decision hasn’t been made yet.
They seem to have approved me for Connect. Haven’t sent me any emails about the Reserve yet.
Called and the lady said said I’m at max exposure with them. Asked if they’d move credit lines from my other US Bank Cards – she said nope. I was going to use the Altitude Reserve as my daily spender, but I guess they’re not interested.
Does this have a cool off period? I had this card last year.
Anyone used this card to fund a Checking or Savings account to meet spend limit? I tried to use for Gesa credit union savings account and didn’t work out. When I called US bank, they mentioned its triggering Cash advance. Any pointers will be helpful. Thanks.
Tried Umpqua Checking account and it worked for $2K coded as Purchase
How are you able to fund a checking account with a credit card as a purchase?
Does the funding fail or it is processed as cash advance? In 2021, my funding was first processed as cash advance, then became purchase, did the US bank change their process? I am thinking of opening altitude reserve and will use it to fund checking account.
Opened the card around mid-March and received bonus. Today, got an email offer: Add an Authorized User, get a $20 statement credit. Thanks USB!
Since United allows paying through Apple Pay, would I get 6x (3x from Apple Pay, 3x from travel purchase) or only 3x?
No, only 3x
Is there any tracker to see 50,000 bonus points tracker in the app? Thanks.
Yes
Probably a good idea to have the link at the top of the page. I couldn’t find it immediately until i had to read through the page.
I bolded it now
Real-time rewards at 1.5x maybe changing on this card.
US Bank have removed all text about the feature from their benefits page.
If you have a stash of points, it probably wouldn’t be the worst idea to use them up on a Real Time Reward at 1.5x now in-case there is a devaluation coming.
I cashed mine out today, and can confirm they are still working at 1.5x as of now.
Was it ever mentioned? I looked on the wayback machine and don’t see it mentioned
Apparently it was mentioned in the benefits section when you’re logged-in, not on the main application page. I do remember seeing it, but couldn’t testify to exactly where on the site. It’s definitely not there now there.
They have recently enhanced this section, where they now show the number of points earned for each transaction, and this is when the change seems to have occurred.
I appreciate these comments, as my P2 will be signing up for this cc tomorrow. I am reading this thread specifically because I don’t see RTR 1.5x travel mentioned in the details of the signup page. Much relieved.
I haven’t used this level of PP membership before, in which you get a certain number of visits per year. Does this one exclude the restaurants? Still a bit salty on losing that from Venture X
Same question, I would love to know!
U.S. Bank checking & business accounts currently open for bonus as well as brokerage since out of footprint. Applied, seemed to pull EQ only (consistent. with DP’s in my state), got 7-10 day message, called 8009471444 and they put an expedite flag? on my application but said still will take 1-2 business days.
EDITED TO ADD: Forgot to check that I want to be notified re replies so please quote me if replying.
Now received approval email. Says will be here in 4 days.
GoGo wifi access no longer seems to be a benefit of this card
Applying for the Altitude Reserve card was unprofessional, to say the least. Apparently, I was denied after receiving the 7-10 days review message. So I called their underwriting services and was told that the verification dept “accidentally” declined my application instead of verifying details with me (as my Experian was on fraud alert). I am under review again after verification. If I never called, I would have just been declined.
Applied, got 7-10 days message, approved via email 2 hours later.
Credit score: 79x
No existing US Bank relationship, outside geographic area, 3/24
Can someone please explain like I’m 5, how that 4.5X for travel is arrived at with this card?
3X on the Apple Pay + Points worth X1.5 if redeemed for travel.
Applied and got auto denied. Called the recon line and they said they’ll send it more manual review.
Credit score: 800+, 1/12, 2/24
First time U.S. bank member
Update: got an approval email after like 5 hours.
Approved less than a day after applying and getting a 7-10 day message. USB bank and CC holder.
Stats at time of application: 2/6, 2/12, 7/24
DP: Approved instantly, no relationship with US Bank. 6/24, 2/12, 1/6. Pulled TU.
DP: Another successful data point of a 10,000 point retention bonus just for using the card one time. Will apply on the next statement. AF had posted just a few days ago. I’ve only had the card for 1 year. In case anyone is curious, here’s what I said (don’t think it matters, but for those that get nervous about what to say):
“Yes, I just noticed that my annual fee posted a little while ago and I was contemplating canceling the card. Do you happen to have any retention offers?” CSR promptly checks and finds the 10,000 point offer. Super easy.
This is such a no brainer card to hang on to. Good luck all!
10,000 Altitude Reserve points is equivalent to $150 for travel purchases
Ryan is correct. Even worst case though you can cash out as cash for 1 cent per point, so $100 minimum. Given the $75 effective annual fee after very usable credits, this is a very easy card to keep.
Just wanted to follow up on this to note that I’ve now done this 3 years in a row with the exact same script and exact same results.
how soon do they ship it after being approved?
Approved 1/17 and card arrived 1/19. It was shipped by UPS Next Day Air Saver.
Denied based on new accounts in the last year, 6/12.
Are you able to see credit card number online after opening the account – it keeps erroring out for me when I try to get the number.
Also – cant seem to find where to enroll for Priority Pass on their website.
Altitude Reserve Retention Offer
Called a few days after AF posted and CSR offered 10K points without hesitation. Minimal spend the past year. This is my third year in a row getting the 10K points retention offer.
I recently applied and found out I was approved from pop up on mobile app. It immediately prompted me to add to ApplePay and I happily obliged, but it failed at the last step. No surprise because I haven’t gotten the card in mail and verified receipt… lmk if anyone has figured out how to get mobile wallet working before card in mail
is this card churnable or any lifetime language?
You can only get the bonus once
Thinking about trying the travel credit for a log cabin rental in Olympic National Park. Anyone able to use the travel credits and they work in the National Parks?
I still see “exclusive to US Bank customers” on the application page. Is there something documenting the change that can be cited to the recon line if needed?
Applied yesterday got the 7-10 days message, called the backdoor number (DECLINED). Talked to an agent, he said the system automatically declined me and pushed through a request for a manual review. No prior relationship with US Bank. Just got approved for a 5k limit.
Just applied – got the 7-10 message. Are one of these the backdoor number you used? I got off myfico, don’t know how up-to-date it is. US Bank: 800-947-1444, 800-685-7680
Yes the 800-947-1444 number
I too am considering applying for it. What’s your X/12 status?
how long after the manual review request did they approve your card? they said system auto denied and have now put in a request for manual review
I don’t know why this card doesn’t get more attention. I use this card for almost all non-category spend to get 4.5% on travel with no spend limits as long as the merchant accepts contactless payment. As more and more merchants accept contactless payment, I find myself using my BofA Premium Rewards less and less.
It’s so easy to redeem the points at a 50% bonus to get 4.5% using Real-Time Mobile Rewards… you just book a trip on a US airline, and you immediately get a text to redeem the points for a credit. Once the points are redeemed, you can change the trip or even cancel it as long as you booked a refundable fare.
Payments to US Bank credit cards are also still eligible to get 1% cash back using the Enzo debit card via PayPal, which essentially makes it 5.5% cash back.
PP on this card is free for first 4 times only, right? It’s not like it’s 4 times per year?
I wanted to apply for this card, but just first 4 times is not much of a deal unless I am missing something!
Edit: Looks like the benefit is free 4 visits per PP membership year. That’s good! I have been under the impression that it’s one time 4 visits!
From the USBank Page – “One Cardmember per Account may be enrolled as the member in the Priority Pass Select program, and their first four visits and four individual accompanying guest visits are waived each Priority Pass Select membership year (not Cardmember year).”
Made clearer
Thanks
Peter . I read the $2500 as the max amount of purchases for which you’d receive the 1% cashback and not $2500 as the max cash back amount. This makes it better.
Since many PayPal transactions no longer qualify for the 1% cash back, Enzo changed the cash back terms to make all qualifying purchases 1% cash back up to $2500 in cash back. I even get 1% cash back when using the debit card to pay my wife’s monthly car payment on the BMW website!
The current 1% cash back rules are mentioned on this page: https://help.joinenzo.com/hc/en-us/articles/5350985074324-How-does-cashback-work-
The Gogo® Inflight Wi-Fi benefit on your U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card will be discontinued on April 1, 2022. You may continue to qualify and enroll in the benefit through March 31, 2022 to receive your 12 complimentary inflight Wi-Fi passes, valid for 12 months from date of issuance. Each valid complimentary Inflight Wi-Fi pass is good for one (1) use through March 31, 2023.
US Bank’s anti-fraud department has a hair trigger. I don’t engage in MS. Every single charge was a bona fide purchase for my family’s personal use. They shut me down saying that I was engaging in fraudulent activity. They closed my checking account for the same reason. It was an insulting and offensive experience. The branch personnel are of no help.
What did you buy that might raise their concern?
Yep. I concur. I tried to make a legitimate purchase of some musical equipment at a music store and my card was declined twice. I had to call US Bank two different times to get them to take the hold off of my account. It was only a measly $380 and that’s all it took to count as possible fraud. I didn’t have time to try at the music store again, also for fear of being ridiculed for wasting the music store’s time. Two ten minute long conversations on the phone.
This certainly is surprising. It would be interesting to know what algorithms they use.
Ive used the card at lots of businesses for all kinds of amounts without any type of fraud alert for several years. Even did one Apple Pay retail purchase for $10k and they didnt blink an eye, and ended up giving me an unsolicited credit increase.
Was trying to see if I qualify for this bonus if I do have a U.S. Bank Altitude Connect c/c . I opened it last year and the bonus was posted on 01/22.
app went pending, 2 days later called the status line says declined, talked to a CSR and said the reason was to many new accounts. 10/24 – 4/12
If you downgrade the AR to a no annual fee card (like their platinum visa card, which has no sign on bonus) after a couple of months after having paid the annual fee:
1) Is it possible to upgrade to AR again in the future in couple of years, or is that door closed permanently?
2) Do they refund the annual fee (pro-rated)
3) Do they take back the $325 and the retention bonus in case you have already used them.
Anyone with experience having done this? With the VentureX card, the AR sees redundant now.
Have you heard of this or is it new ? If new, when did it go into effect ? Any suggestions as to how I can push USBank into posting 50,000 ? Thanks to all in advance!
That has been there for awhile. Went to the way back machine and it was there in early 2021. I highly doubt they have changed the page much since then besides the card image
I am traveling through Europe and used this card for multiple train (Swiss SBB) reservations and again many restaurants and food outlets .. none of them trigger the credit except a very limited few restaurants and one holiday inn (so I known it’s working fundamentally). Any advise on how to get the remaining transactions as credit ?
Data point – annual fee came due. Called and rep quickly offered me 10,000 point to keep open – no spend required. First anniversary, and other than meeting sign-up bonus spend, I only put about $500/month in mobile payments on the card.
sadly offered 1k points with like 5k spend on the card per month. banks are dumb
Wanted to add my data point (DP) as well. I called for retention for this card 27 days after the $400 AF hit my account. I was offered 10,000 points (plus the standard $325 dining/travel credits).
As of right now (double check TOS), the $400 annual fee counts to hit the $4,500 spend bonus, which is nice. Lots of CCs don’t let you do this. Called CS and they confirmed that as long as you hit net spend (net spend = spend – credits and refunds) of $4,500 you get this bonus. Was confirmed for me later when I stopped spending, factoring in the $400, and I got the email at the end of the billing cycle the month I qualified. Subject line: “You’ve achieved your Altitude Reserve enrollment bonus of 50,000 points”. In the email it said it could take up to 8 weeks to be credited but the 50,000 pts were in my account within a few days. Annual fee is charged the month of your new card, I think the same time every year.
Sign up for real time rewards. That’s the golden ticket with this card, lots of flexibility. Once you accrue enough points, any purchases above $10 you can redeem using your points via text. Just text “REDEEM” after you get the message prompt and a credit adjustment titled “Real-Time Rewards” will pop up on your statement for the exact price of your charge, in exchange for that amount of points. You can only redeem your latest charge so don’t wait. Points are worth more when you redeem them for travel expenses.
So far I’m pretty happy with customer service. The 3x mobile wallet is great. But I also have Apple Card and Fidelity Visa Cashback at 2%… so an extra 1% for $75 yearly fee? We shall see!
You can redeem points towards any purchase? I thought only certain travel expense is eligible.
Any DPs about how long it takes to report the card to the credit bureaus?
For me, it was around one week after first statement
DP: I opened a checking account and the cash+ two months ago and was just denied for the altitude reserve. Recon said I need ~6 months of payment history for the cash+ before they’re willing to consider me for another card. She said this is not a hard rule, but there’s no way she could approve me atm. I’m 5/24, 780+ fico, 100k+ Income.
Applied for reserve first and then connect 5 minutes apart on tuesday night. Reserve was approved immediately. Connect was approved next morning. Single hard pull
I applied to one shortly after the other, got the you’ll hear something in 7-10 days message for both.
I see the $325 travel credit is based on on card member year, and USB allows 30 days after annual fee posting to cancel and get refunded. Does anybody have experience getting that $325 travel credit for the second year, and then cancelling within the 30 days to only pay one annual fee?
Any update on this?
Has anyone been successful on getting the bonus multiple times for this card? If so how long have you waited? Not sure if there is something in the fine print that I missed. I had the card two years ago and got the bonus and closed it. Wanting to see if I can do it again.
Wasn’t churnable for me.
Was denied the bonus the second time. This was over two years ago. Called recently to inquire and CS mentioned that you’re now eligible because it’s a new card. Don’t know if the terms have changed or if she didn’t have all the details about past language and enforcement of the terms.
Had this card 2 years ago. Applied again 2 months ago and after approval was confirmed that I’ll get bonus after $4500 spending. Spend $4500 but the bonus not posted on statement. Called CS and was told that bonus not added to my card. Today received letter from US Bank that I’m not eligible for the bonus because I received the bonus already for same card before.
DP: Approved for 20K. Current USB checking account holder, and Altitude Connect holder. 5/24 at time of app.
This is promising, I am the same. How long ago did you open the connect?
Data Point:
I applied just now (2/3/2022).
I received the following message:
“We’re looking over your application and may ask you to provide additional info or documents. You’ll certainly hear from us by mail once we have a decision, usually in 7 to 10 business days.”
I currently have a credit card and checking account with US Bank. I have a six-figure income and am employed full-time. Last card I opened was 6 months ago, before that like 2 and a half years ago.
Update: About 30 minutes ago, I received an email with the subject “Get more from your new Altitude Reserve…”. Nice, so I guess I’m approved. Opened my account, they gave me a 25K credit limit. Nice!
I got the former message, “Thanks for applying. You’ll hear from us soon.
We’re looking over your application and may ask you to provide additional info or documents. You’ll certainly hear from us by mail once we have a decision, usually in 7 to 10 business days.”
Let’s hope I get the card.
Does Paypal key trigger the 3X?
Approved after about 5 hours (app went pending with the typical 7-10 day language). Received email indicating approval with $5k credit limit. Card already shows up in online banking. Have had $300 in personal savings account for about a year and 2 business credit cards for less than a year. Pulled Transunion, which was 807 per Credit Karma. 0/6 and 1/12 for new personal cards. 1/6 and 3/12 for inquiries.
US Bank declined me for this card. Very good credit score. Their reason: You have opened another card (with another issuer) 6 months back. We want to wait and see your payment history on that card before approving. Please apply back in 5-6 months time.
Finally approved (after initial app went to pending) after probably around 5 or 6 applications over the years. Hit 3/12 new cards today (other stats are 2/6 and 14/24). I’m convinced based on other data points that x/12 is what matters most with this card (and 3 or 4 is the limit). No recon needed. Have had Cash plus for a few years and checking account since March 2021 with $20 sitting in it. May throw in an app for Connect card with same hard pull.
Also approved for Connect card after recon and reducing the credit limit on my Cash+ card (one of the reasons for initial denial was something to the effective of “already reached max credit with us.”)
Finally got approved for the altitude reserve. 0/6, 2/12 and ~12/24. Got denied for the Reserve in March despite having a checking account with them but I was 3/6 and lol/12 in March. Just got to 0/6, 2/12 beginning November and now the approval. Initially got the 7-10 pending message and I was expecting another denial, but got the approval email this morning with a 16k limit. Pretty shocked.
Just applied, had the requisite bank account and mortgage. Got a notice that they will give me a response in 7 to 10 days. Called the reconsideration line, they stated that now managers look at the applications by hand for approvals for these types of cards. What a horrible system. lol.
DP: called in for retention bonus and got 10k points just for keeping. Thanks US Bank!
Applied for Reserve and Connect on the same day. It looks like credit checks are combined, I only see one hard check on EX, California resident.
Got instant approval for Reserve and email approval Connect in a day.
DP:
1/6
2/12
5/24
I’ve a checking account with them for 12 months with minimum balance of 1.5k
The Priority Pass membership is every year you’re a cardholder, right? I’m seeing some sources claim the Priority Pass is only for the first year
My PP membership was not renewed this month. Called USB and was told it is only for the first year ..
for real? Good reason to cancel the card after 1st year
This is false. The PP membership is renewed at no cost every year.
Copying straight from their T&Cs (https://www.myvisacardportal.com/usbank/en_us/altitude/altitudereserve/offer-detail.html#priority_pass/A093778.html):
A renewal notice will be sent by Priority Pass Select to your email address on file approximately 30 days before the expiration of your initial membership. Provided the Priority Pass Select membership benefit is still being offered by U.S. Bank and the card under which you originally enrolled is still eligible, your membership will be automatically renewed for another year at no additional cost, unless you cancel your membership by calling Priority Pass Select
Pulled the trigger and finally applied for the Alt Reserve card yesterda (Friday morning). I also submitted an additional application for the US Bank Business Platinum card immediately after the Reserve app. I got the “we’ll let you know in 7-10 days..” response rather than an immediate decision. I still haven’t received an email with a decision. I did an online status check of the application(s) last night and got the following message:
“You don’t currently have any pending applications or new documents. If you think this is an error, please contact us at 877-625-5249.”
My TU score is 723, only 1 HP in last 12 months from a US Bank credit card app from December which was declined. My US Bank Gold Checking account has been open for 6 months and maintains a small balance.
TU: 723
HP inquiries: 1/12
Accounts: 2/12, 1/6
AAoA: 9months
Oldest Account: 1 yr 4 months
Anyone have experience with status saying no applications pending after submitting an application?
Finally got a letter from US Bank stating “…unable to consider your application…’No current account relationship with US Bank’…”
For whatever reason they missed the fact that I’ve had a Gold Checking account with them for the last 6 months. So I called the bank and the rep said they would go ahead and consider my application and that I’d receive a letter in 10-14 days. Wish me luck.
Thanks for sharing! Any follow-ups?
Does the 12 month language on PriorityPass/Gogo mean it can last after the card has been cancelled if you defer enrollment until you need the perks (assuming you only keep the card one year)?
Travel credits, and really anything, is worth what you’d pay for it. How much would you pay for $325 in travel credit? I’m guessing not $325. $320? $300? $250? It’s some amount less than $325.
“35,000 points to offset the annual fee” can be applied to first year annual fee; or it is only for second year?
“35,000 points to offset the annual fee” is doable for the first year annual fee, or only can be done in second year.
35000pts worth $525, why would you want to redeem it for $400?
I applied for Reserve and Connect on same day yesterday
Got instant approval for Reserve
Got email for approval of Connect as well in the morning
Got 16k on reserve and 15k on connect as revolving credit
DP:
1/6
3/12
3/24
I’ve a basic checking account with them since 18 months with minimum balance of 2k maintained ever since
As someone suggested, US BANK combined both my credit application into one inquiry as I applied on same day
What is the recon number for US BANK??
Auto-denied 6/15/21.
– Called recon 1st time, rep said I was denied for too many new accounts in the past 12 months, wouldn’t even entertain the idea of trying to overturn the decision.
– Called recon 2nd time, rep spoke with supervisor to try and overturn the denial, couldn’t do it.
– Called recon 3rd time, rep simply said she would submit it for manual review and I would hear back in 5-7 biz days.
– After 10 days (6/26/21), received email saying I was approved with a $5k limit. Checked my online banking and the card was already added to my account!
DPs:
– Pulled TU in Utah. 4 HP before applying, 3 out of 4 over a year old from mortgage apps. 4th HP was from BoA Biz CC on 5/31/21, so less than a month old.
– TU score around 750 or higher.
– 1/6, 4/12 (although the reps said that I was 3/12 even though Credit Karma shows all my new accounts currently reporting. Not sure why.)
– Checking acct with US Bank since 10/29/20 from $300 bonus. Have only kept $2 in there since getting the bonus. Did the same bonus in 2019 and had closed the account as soon as $300 posted.
Might just be a fluke, but I accidentally applied for both the Connect and Altitude Reserve on the same day (2 days ago). The Connect page timed out on the approval step so I thought it didn’t go through. So far, I’ve only received one notification for a hard pull so it appears they got combined for being on the same day.
Both got approved for >20k limit. I do have an open checking account with them with the minimum 2k balance (left open from bonus last year).
6mo – 1
24mo -2
1 biz card in there
I am planning to do this accident sometime in next month
i got instant approval for altitude , waiting for response on connect
Got email for approval of Connect as well in the morning .. Got 16k on reserve and 15k on connect as revolving credit .. I have not created access to credit reports so have not received any notification of credit enquiries
DP:
1/6
3/24
3/12
I’ve a basic checking account with them since 18 months with minimum balance of 2k maintained ever since
Just got approved after manual review. $5k limit though, really US Bank?
No checking account with them, but I do have two other credit cards with them. $80k income, 16 inquiries in past 24 months, 778 score
Good luck!
Better than the 2k limit on a 5k spending that I got with them for a previous CC. or a 500 limit at all.
I also just got approved for $5k limit after manual review. Had to call recon 3 times just to get the manual review put in, the first 2 calls told me that I was denied and they can’t overturn the decision. I don’t care about the limit, I’ll never max it out anyway, just wanted the card for the SUB, perks, and rewards rates.
My wife got the card and I am the authorized user. Am I still eligible for this offer if I apply for my own card now? The other question is, dinning is now considered a category for the credit, but it is not in the 3% reward category, so dinning will only earn 1%, right?
Do the $325 dining credits include delivery apps like DoorDash, GrubHub, UberEATS, etc?
Yes it does
Have a checking account with Usbank for 3 days, applied for this card and got pending, haven’t received any HP. Called in and was told relationship review is in process. ???
Is the Priority Pass Select Membership included after the first year? “As a U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® cardmember, you can access a worldwide network of airport VIP lounges with your complimentary 12 month Priority Pass™ Select Membership.”
Applied March 12, went pending, status line denied as of March 15. Called reconsideration and told 3 accounts under a year old was reason for decline and could not be approved.
Business or personal accounts? Probably personal, right?
Are the Gogo wifi vouchers usable on international routes? Because sometimes these vouchers are limited for domestic use only. Additionally, are they really useful… it seems Gogo is losing market.
3 people in my family had fraud on their altitude reserve card – spotify and staples (and we didn’t even use our altitude cards at the same stores). Check your cards!
I had fraud on my Altitude Reserve as well. Etsy on 1/22. USB flagged it and I got a replacement card.
It happened again on 2/7 at Spotify on the new card. USB did not flag it and I only noticed when I checked.
Fraud on the replacement card too that’s crazy!
Not Usbank card but Uber Visa card for a charge of $1.95 at coloadtest.com. Look like a data breach just happened
I had one for $9.90 from Spotify. Got the card replaced.
It looks like this card may be available again. There is a link on the website to $500 welcome bonus with $4500 spend and I was able to open the application. I need another month or so before I can apply, so I can’t verify that they are processing the applications. Any newer datapoints?
Yes, it’s available again
Any tips on how to get around the residency “Catch 22” for this card that DON’T include opening a different card first? They will not let you apply for Altitude unless you have an existing relationship with US Bank, but if you live in state without any physical branches, you application for a bank account is summarily rejected. A few CSR say the only way around this is to “open a credit card” with them, since they have no residency restrictions. However, that gets me back to the requirement to open an Altitude… Not particularly interested in pulling my credit for a card I don’t want got pull it again for the card I do want.
Went In branch (within a Vons) to apply today (along with a checking account), was told by banker that they aren’t allowed to process applications for the Reserve anymore.
I was told basically the same when I called my branch.
Applied for the card and was told I was denied because the checking account was less than 30 days old and needed more deposit history.
The rewards site is often not accessible, e.g. right now. Gotta say their website has a pretty shoddy interface.
Is there any issues or things to be aware of when transferring points to family? “Quickly transfer your Points to friends, family or anyone else with a U.S. Bank Altitude credit card.”
I unexpectedly was approved for the Go a month ago, so I tried for this last week. Was just approved. 20k limit, bringing my USBank total credit line to 40k, which seems inexplicable when they rejected my credit apps for two years in a row.
I can only echo your sentiment. I was banned by the USB for a few years but applied on a whim a few days ago. It went pending and I thought it was another rejection so I applied for another card in the meantime. Just received the approval email, what gives USB ? Now I got two sizable spending requirements on my hands and no travel or big expenses expected b/c of the virus. Never thought I would be bummed to get a credit card approval.
Instant Approval?
Is anyone having issues redeemed Altitude Reserve points via Real Time Rewards?
The first time I tried, the CSR agent told me that the $400 SW airlines charge exceeded the 30k points. I tried explain to them and their supervisor that the Altitude Reserve points were redeemed at 1.5 cents per point. Beyond frustrated, they just offered me 5k points and said they couldn’t help me.
Tried again and booked a $250 SW Airlines and no text message. Called again and the CSR agent said they would escalate and should get a response back in 14 days. Also offered me 1k points for my trouble.
This is beyond ridiculous.
Why don’t they just let us do it from the web/app like Amex or Chase pay yourselfback instead of waiting for the unreliable text
Some dumb middle manager thought it would be a good way to encourage breakage
Anyone tried using their card to see if ezpass counts towards the card? I really wanna get this but with me not traveling this year, I might not be able to use the credit.
EZ Pass doesn’t trigger the credit. I’m not even 100% sure it qualifies as 3x earnings.
The $325 credit is per cardmember year not calendar year so you’d have until next September to get the $325 travel credit.
I guess it is not a good idea to apply for this card now since I just got my U.S. Bank Cash+ card for one month?
are you comparing both the cards or saying it is just 1 month since last card application so it is not a good idea?
Has anyone experienced a Credit Card limit disqualification with US Bank lately? I applied for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve, but was declined for have too many new CCs in the last 12 months. I only have 4 new CCs in the last 12 months. Maybe it is only applicable to the is card?
I think 4 new cards in 12 mths, is way pushing the limits.
Personal cards?
Applied 3 Aug with credit score of 768 with 6/24 and reported income of $60,000 and was instantly approved. Email this morning saying card will be here with 10k credit in 4 days.
Prepped for this by opening checking account June 30.
I think they should look at ?/12 ?/6, could you provide these info? Thanks.
Interesting that US Bank approved with 6/24 status. This would lead me to believe that they are more inquiry-sensitive than they are new-account sensitive. My very recent application for the Altitude Reserve is pending because I’d frozen my Experian. I’ve got 15 days to unfreeze and let them know. I may not bother because I went on a bit of an App-O-Rama that day. Asked Chase for a CLI (denied due to over 5/24 although they didn’t say it that way;) and applied for BofA Alaska Business. BofA reallllly doesn’t seem to like non-profit entities applying for their business cards I guess. I digress.
Anyway, with 2 very recent inquiries, I’m guessing if I unlocked Experian, they’d decline me… even though I’m 780, meet income reqs, and hold a savings account.
How safe is it to MS with this card or any of their business cards(would use my sole prop) if I have my mortgage with them?
Highly unsafe – abort! They’re particularly MS sensitive, and as a very general rule, you shouldn’t MS with banks you have other important relationships with.
How soon Global Entry charge will be reimbursed?
My application is under review. Have one credit card and one checking account. The credit card is about 6 month old and the checking account is 1-2 months. Is it likely that they are going to cancel my application because I do not have enough “relationship” with them?
Any update on your experience,
dan?
I think it’s worth noting that restaurants now seem to be covered by the $325 credit. I’m now getting credit for something as small as a burger at P.Terry’s!
Does a self direct brokerage account count as existing relationship?
Yes – I was just approved with only a self-directed brokerage account.
#usbank
Applied for the card and got approved for $5k limit next day after review. Second credit card with US Bank and pulled Experian CB (2 inquires in last 6 months).
Yes I have Active Flexperks Card but don’t use much
Applied for P2. App went pending, but it’s been 4 biz days and when I call the app status line and punch in her SSN it says it’s unable to find her application. Can get her to call but she’s not into calling (much to my chagrin!) but has this happened to anyone else? Also tried the online status checker that just gives a “technical error” message. They did do a HP with the app.
My Annual Fee just cleared my account yesterday.
I called last night wanting to cancel and asked about any retention offers.
They offered me an instant 10k points, no spend requirements. They said it should post by my next statement.
It was a no brainier to keep the card with the retention offer.
So is the idea to use up the 50000 points before the $400 fee hits?
Is there a way to add/approve this card to Samsung Pay other than with a phone call? I’m just worried that’s going to be a loooong phone call right now
Called today for retention. 5,000 points for any activity on the account in the next month.
Also was told that although my annual statement ended March 12th, “the annual travel credit does not reset until the 23rd of the month of your anniversary.”
The CSR stated this is a hard date, no matter when the statement cuts, saying travel credits always reset on the 23rd of the month. I made a travel purchase on 03-16 which was not able to be reimbursed by the travel credit which reset on the 23rd.
How fast do they send the card once you’re approved? Can you call to get it expedited?
Applied 3/18, got Pending (FICO over 800, 2/24, 2 USBank Flexperks cards already)
Tried calling status line 3/19 but got “can’t find your application” (still true)
3/20 logged in to usbank.com, noticed new card account w/$20K CL
I didn’t need to call in to expedite – card arrived today (3/24) in fancy box with velvety lining
I got it in less than 2 days. I live in CA
Oh wow just posted asking about the status line. So sounds like it’s just broken we’re 4 days in can’t find the app. No card yet either in online profile though so maybe either declined or just still pending.
Also what were your status (x/12, x/24, # of HPs in last 6,12,24 months)? Looks like we’re probably declined if no card in profile 4 biz days later.
Question: does the $400 fee + $325 credit count towards the Bonus spending requirement of $4500? Or do I have to spend $4500 in straight purchases ?
The fee doesn’t count. It never does for any sign up bonus for any card.
I believe the travel credit reimbursement doesn’t affect it, but I am only like 90% sure of that.
I was finally approved for this card on my third try yesterday. I can get it without paying the annual fee due to being in the military. Since my last attempt, I closed 3 cards I never used and slowed down my churning activity. At the time of application, 1/12 and 6/24, and the 1/12 was the U.S. Bank Cash+. Previous application was at 5/12 and 9/24.
Is this your first Altitude card? Most DPs say the SUB on this card cannot be churned.
This is my first one.
Just applied. Went pending because I’d frozen my Experian, so I have 15 days to unlock for consideration. I’m 2/12 — but one is an AU. Wonder if US Bank handles this the same way Chase does … denial but then you call for manual approval?
One of the best cards EVER because you almost get 4.5% on everything (digital pay mobile) and travel AND instant rewards make it very easy and very unique and you redeem for full 4.5% value. I am keeping this card. The bonus of 750 is very nice.
Most DPs indicate that the bonus on this card is not churnable (will not receive the SUB a 2nd time). Any other opinions?
Sorry if this has been addressed, can’t seem to find the answer, but if I made a 300 purchase and got the credit, am I out of luck for the additional 25 I could have gotten? It says on the website “Only one total credit amount of up to $325 per Cardmember year per Account”. FYI DP’s – Credit came on a Hotels.com purchase, but did not come on an earlier purchase of a Japan Rail pass via the service I used to purchase it (that purchase was well over 325).
Just updating in case, got the additional 25, guess JR Pass didn’t trigger. But SIngapore taxes and fees did.
Is this card okay to pay federal taxes with?
I’d think that’s fine.
Is this safe to buy Simon VGC to meet the SUB requirements on this card?
Also, any DP on whether GC purchases with specific airlines would get reimbursed as the $325 annual travel credit?
No to the first question.
Does anyone else have difficult redeeming the travel credit? I really dislike how strict they are with the credits. The restrictions of not going through third parties (booking, hotwire, etc) greatly decreases this benefit for me. Anyone else having this issue?
Data Point:
I was at 4/6 at application time a few days ago, so I thought I would not be approved for the Altitude due to US Bank usually being picky about not wanting new card apps in last 6 mo, but I was approved without issue. The Altitude must have much easier approval than their other cards.
I only have a very low balance free checking account which I don’t use & a Cash+ card which sees limited use.
Also, something I couldn’t find listed anywhere else including the US Bank website is that my new Altitude card is contactless. Is this new for the Altitude? I will use it with my phone anyways but was surprised not to see it mentioned anywhere.
Thank you for the DP. May I ask which cr was pulled?
It appears to be TransUnion.
Thanks, PT. In the same general area – was hoping it would be TU (a lot more recent inquires on EX and EQ). After doing a bit more reading on FT and Reddit, I took a chance and got lucky.
Have checking/savings for over a year, low balance. 0/6, 0/12. TU inquires 0/6, 1/12, 3/24.
Is this card still restricted to current US Bank customers?
Yep.
Thanks.
Only for automatic approval, or at all?
I was interested in the 5C benefit and clicking on the link for the Wedgewood Hotel above it takes you to a page with an error message. Looking around the internet about it I found this on a travel site:
The Relais & Chateaux Loyalty Program: Club 5C has stopped accepting new members. We have been told by an inside source that they will be announcing the launch of a new membership program soon. In the meantime, we may or may not be able to offer extra special benefits at Relais Châteaux hotels but feel free to contact our Luxury Travel Concierge and we will do our best to make your stay even better.
I reached out to the Wedgewood to ask about it.
I already have $18,000 of credit across 2 US bank cards. I think that is a lot. Should I close one card ($9,000 credit line) so I don’t get denied for having too much US Bank credit already?
Opened checking account in branch on 11/17 to take advantage of $400 promo – banker informed me I was pre-approved for the Alt. Reserve.
Called in on 12/2 and had her submit my application of the phone. Equifax was pulled on 12/3. Card was approved and I was notified on 12/4.
Any recent shutdown stories?
i accidentally bought a gift card at costco with the card and was not shut down (had other things on the receipt too)
So if I am a resident of NJ, there is no way to get this card I presume?
Same here. The only way seems to be applying for their other credit cards first
but it’s kinda stupid to waste two hps to get this card.
I’m not happy with USB on this card. I went to open a savings account to qualify for the Altitude Reserve card. They don’t have a branch within 50 miles of my area. They gave me a # to call to see if I still qualified. I called it. I was told to apply for another USB credit card first, then I can apply for the Altitude Reserve 5 days later. That’s TWO hits to my credit for one card. NO THANK YOU. In this day and age why are brick and mortar bank locations still an issue?
Datapoint – Applied for the Altitude Reserve yesterday and called reconsideration line today. The representative said this card is only for people who have a current relationship with US Bank. I might open a checking account then call back.
Recently denied for the 2nd time on this card.
I opened a U.S. Bank Cash+ card in May 2019. My initial application was denied, then I was approved upon reconsideration.
I applied for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve in July 2019. My initial application was denied and I did not try reconsideration because I received an upgrade offer for an Amex Hilton Honors Ascend to Aspire, and completing two large spend requirements simultaneously would be challenging for me.
I applied for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve again in August 2019, 50 days later. My initial application was denied, then I tried reconsideration. The CSR was optimistic that reconsideration would work because the initial reason for denial was too many inquiries (U.S. Bank pulls Equifax in DC), but all the recent inquiries were for a background investigation or U.S. Bank itself, not requests for credit with other companies. I have 7 on Equifax total, and the 5 most recent were of that sort. A manager reviewed my request for reconsideration and denied it. The stated reasons were too many new accounts (5/12, 9/24) and too much existing credit available. FWIW, I haven’t opened any other new accounts since the U.S. Bank Cash+ card and I use it every month for my cell phone bill.
I missed the 90 days spend requirement by 3 days, Its been 5 weeks and bonus not posted so far. does anyone have success getting the bonus from US bank if missed the 90 day period or any suggestion on this ?
Instant denied but an agent (800-947-1444) push it for manual review. Approved for 5k.
US bank kinda inquires sensitive and they’re value the relationship. Has cash+ for 2y and business cash for 1y plus a closed checking. They declined me earlier this year.
I’m at roughly 6/24 and 6/12, and I have had a US Bank checking account since last year, for a bonus, but this is my first US Bank credit card.
I applied on Saturday morning (8/10) and it went pending. I was nervous from past DPs but just got an approval email with a $16k credit line. I stated an income of $90k from full-time employment.
Have a large travel expense coming up and am glad to get this card!
DO any of USB Biz travel cards points combine or work in tandem with USB AR card travel points TIA
Preapproved for the card but Denied.
Equifax was pulled. Credit Score 778.
0/6, 5/12, 16/24.
Opened a checking account (https://www.doctorofcredit.com/u-s-bank-300-in-branch-checking-bonus/) account and was told by the banker to apply on the same day for the card.
I’m having trouble getting it activated on applepay, everytime it says “invalid card” even though all the information is correct. Anyone have a fix? I’ve called US Bank 5x for this.
When I called to activate I did have to under go a fraud verification but that already went through.
Sometimes it doesn’t link up correctly. You have to have the bank delete the card from the wallet and then re-add it.
Then ask them for some complimentary points for the hassle.
do you know if buying airfare (not GCs) directly with spirit,frontier,allegiant triggers the travel credit? thanks!
Declined because I’ve opened 4 cards in the last 12 months. No reconsideration because “upper management” have already made the decision. Time to close checking account…
App page screenshot: https://imgur.com/a/LxYgfrv
This helps for folks that already have PP through other cards and can get one for your friends/family. Makes this card worth keeping for me.
Also for people with more than two family members (depending on kids’ ages and each lounge’s policies). Each of the four visits also comes with one guest.
Good tip!
It can be any name and any address.
Ordered the Priority Pass card for my wife and let them send it to our temporary international address without any problem.
Thanks! Was able to do the same for my wife
Done
Gogo Wifi passes are no longer offered with this card if you want to remove that from this post.
After getting this card, I travelled internationally recently and used a lounge access for first time .. I dont think I will ever loose this card .. The lounge access was so amazing
Does it work for the Priority Pass Cap 1 Venture X card as well?
It doesn’t seem to work with Amex cards.
Note once you do this it cannot be undone. I tried to get my PP back in my name and neither us bank nor pp could help. Maybe it can be undone by transferring the PP to an au and then transferring it back to the main account holder, but I haven’t tried that yet.
Please share the steps if you were able to eventually transfer the PP membership to a your own name.
I plan to try later this month. I’ll report back on how it goes!
I called and US Bank said the PP can be issued in my name or my authorized user’s name but once it’s issued that’s it. They can’t change it or cancel it unless the card is closed.
I can’t believe I forgot to update this! You are right! I stumbled on this last month when my card got lost and I had to order a replacement, it let me put my name in & I was able to submit for a PP. It’s been registered and everything, haven’t gotten a chance to test it yet though!
Try to check it in the PP app, if it’s a valid account, the card will be there to use.
Yes. Check this DP https://www.doctorofcredit.com/u-s-bank-altitude-reserve-review-50000-point-sign-bonus-750-towards-airfare-325-travel-credits/#comment-1643394
Applied online today and got declined. Called in for manual review, was told too much new accounts in past 12 months and can’t reconsidered the application. 6/12, FICO 770, have a checking account opened 3months ago, is this new restriction of US bank?
It’s unknown exactly what the restriction is. Some people get approved with more accounts opened than 6/12, others get denied.
As with any bank, timing is everything. This is the time of year that everyone is spending lots of vacation money, heading into the summer. So conservative banks like US Bank are probably just more reticent to lend money – based on gaming rewards in peak season – unless there are very few hangups on the application. Since the Altitude Reserve is their top tier card, you need to be above 800 to get the kit glove treatment.
Otherwise, things like opening several new accounts within the last year is always going to be an issue. Even within two years, many new accounts is still an issue… mainly due to the residual inquiries.
I would check your inquiries on your Transunion report. Keep in mind that Transunion allows you to dispute inquiries – if you research how to do it.
If you’re able to clean some of that stuff up, you’re more likely to get approved. But, ultimately, you still should only have 1 or 2 accounts opened within the last year… with most banks; and especially with conservative banks.
Very helpful reply, though expecting anyone here to have opened only one or two new cards in the past 12 months is asking too much, unless the person is actively trying to get back under 5/24.
And you mean kid glove, not kit glove.
Great. Ugh. I’m right there at 6/12 when I was hoping to apply in June/July.
How long do the bonus points take to post after meeting min spend?
I just checked mine. I made the min spend as of Nov of last year, and the points were credited with the closing of Dec statement.
So there was a lag time of 1 statement period?
Has anyone had success getting this card to waive $75 of the annual fee when it is charged for the 2nd year of use?
Just opened 4 cards with annual fees upon renewal and trying to make plans for which to use that I plan to keep and which I plan to close in a year.
The other card I have with a large annual travel credit – CSR – I find it impossible to even get the annual fee reduced. Hopefully it is not as difficult with this one…
Thank you.
The annual fee is reduced by the $325 travel credit, naturally. Also, there are several data points of users getting 5k-10k points for just asking nicely. It helps to have an actual first world problem. Since US Bank’s website is about as clunky as they get, and their systems aren’t smoothly integrated, there will be plenty of opportunities to request compensation for when things go awry.
The Altitude Reserve representatives appear to be able to dole out 5k points for card-member issues, at any time. For me, it is a strong benefit, since 5k points is equivalent to $75 in travel spend. If you’re using the card regularly, you’re bound to run into US Bank’s quirky issues. Why not get paid for using their card as an elite traveler — while they try to get their stuff together?
So, if you know how to play the game, and are a loyal customer – actual traveler, that isn’t just trying to abuse rewards loopholes… there is ample opportunity to be treated well, with this card program… if you can stomach some of US Bank’s systemic inconveniences, along the way.
Can anyone advise whether this card treats Plastiq as a cash advance? I did a search and didn’t see any reports of that being the case, but this article suggests otherwise. Thanks.
https://help.plastiq.com/hc/en-us/articles/360005215254
I was able to lower my cash advance limit and test it on Plastiq and it still worked.
I take that back. Plastiq went through but I was charged a 4% “Cash equivalent fee”.
Was this for USB AR card or a Biz Card – I am curious how the MC Biz card codes.
TIA
Justin
This was for the Altitude Reserve.
Thanks
US Bank checking account opened end of February for the current bonus.
After about 7 days applied for the card, and approved mid March.
24.5k credit.
1/24, opened many bank accounts during the last 4 or so months.
FICO 802 – 815 area.
Per CreditWise, pulled from TransUnion once and Experian twice (I think they needed more info for verifying in between the 2 Experian pulls).
The checking account and cc are my first relationship with US Bank.
Just want to let you guys know, i applied yesterday (3/28/19) after being a US bank customer for 15 days and was approved the next day. Im at 8/24 with 770 score. The language has changed and you only need to be a US Bank customer for a minimum of 5 business days. This information can be seen on the landing page for the card
Applied in March/2019, in branch. I keep a fraud alert. Approved 2 days later.
At the time, 7/24 and 789 score. Card arrived by 2 day UPS shipment in fancy box.
I applied in branch as I didn’t want to wait 35 days, and am doing the US Bank Platinum Checking Bonus concurrently.
Notes:
1. There is a 1.5 point travel multiplier. This is ONLY available if you book your travel through either their website, or their telephone travel service.
2. You can get statement credits for points. These do not not receive the 1.5 point multiplier. I’m unclear if they have to be matched against specific purchases or can be made generally.
3. The travel credit of $325 must be applied towards an actual purchase on the card (rather than combined with point redemption), and that purchase must be made with the actual airline or hotel. Travel agents (Expedia, etc) do not qualify.
4. Should you choose to book travel through US Bank, and have insufficient points, you may only complete the purchase with more points (not a credit charge). Points are available for purchase at 3 cents per point, determined as a minimum purchase of 3000 points for $90. You can buy anything more than 3000 (ie, 3100), but it must be at least 3000.
I tried a test booking in their travel website. Every flight I selected, when I tried to continue, it would tell me it was no longer available. Within seconds of selecting it. Ridiculous. Further, they don’t have the airline I want. I’m unclear if the prices quoted include tax as I could never get that far in the process.
Running the numbers, if I found a satisfactory flight in their service that was less than my points, I could then probably use the remaining points as a statement credit. Buying points resulted in sky-high prices for the flight.
Phone conversations saw repeated confirmations that it takes 6-8 weeks to get the signup bonus points.
Unconvinced about mobile pay, as my test transaction through my phone and Google Pay, still pending, coded as “Chip Card Reader”.
Also, numerous references online to Google Pay charging 2.9% for credit card usage. (Never used mobile pay before)
You’re clearly doing it wrong. Sign up for Real-Time Rewards, in order to book travel anywhere in the US, (just about) and redeem your points via text – instantly.
Sign in, click on your credit card, click on rewards, click on redeem rewards and access benefits, click on card benefits, click on real-time rewards, and make sure you enter your mobile number and select categories.
Keep in mind that hotels must be booked in excess of $500. So, essentially, it’s an airline card, as the title suggests. Watch out for some of those other categories, as they don’t all redeem at 1.5 times value.
Then, call and ask for some points for having to jump through all of those hoops.
I sent email to US Bank, asking them about a hypothetical $750 airline ticket, bought direct from the airline, and a points balance of 50,000. Their first answer was boilerplate that didn’t address the points multiplier, so I asked a second time.
So you’re right that I could use Real-Time-Rewards, but I’d rather have the 1.5x multiplier.
Quote:
Thank you for contacting Cardmember Service via our website about your U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite(r) account ending in XXXX.
We apologize for any inconvenience or confusion this may have caused you. Real-Time Rewards are redeemed at the amount of the transaction. You would need 75,000 rewards points for a $750 redemption. Please note that you need to have the entire amount of rewards points currently available for a Real-Time Rewards redemption. Therefore, in your example, you would not receive the option for a Real-Time Rewards redemption if you did not have 75,000 rewards points at the time of the transaction.
That’s probably just a stock response from an agent that isn’t fully aware of how real-time rewards actually work, in practice. (i.e. doesn’t have the card themselves)
Otherwise, unless terms have changed in the last few days, I’ve redeemed real-time rewards at 1.5X value for travel, each and every time.
The calculation is .015 X points = max airfare purchase for redemption. So, if you have 50,000 points, you can redeem up to $750.00 in travel, as long as you’ve already setup your real-time rewards categories.
$750.01, however, with only 50,000 points — wouldn’t work.
The .010 X points redemption is for non-travel items, or for hotels or rental cars under their predetermined limits.
Retention DP: Annual fee for 2nd year posted on 3/20. Called in earlier today and was offered a promo APR for 6 months (never carried a balance). Politely declined and was offered 10K points with no spend requirement
Charged about ~2,500 to the card within the card-member year outside of the MSR.
Their systems are antiquated, but their customer service is top notch – when it comes to compensation. Once you use your $325 travel credit, the effective annual fee is reduced to $75. That 10k points becomes an excess credit, worth $150 in travel. In other words, they’re paying you to use their card. This card is a no brainer for that reason alone.
Not sure if being a US Bank Customer is still a requirement. My friend managed to get approved and he’s not a US Bank Customer. He didn’t get an instant approval, though. Was approved after 1-2 days.
So he has no other US Bank credit cards or bank accounts? Also he isn’t an authorized user on any of their credit cards or signer on any bank accounts?
He had nothing from US Bank at all. Altitude Reserve was his first ever US bank product. He’s not an Authorized User on anyone’s US bank cards/accounts.
Maybe he’s just very lucky. Idk.
Someone else also claimed to have received a second Altitude card, whilst maintaining a first.
One of the things about US Bank, is that, quite often, the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing. A lot of things may go over their head.
Unfortunately, this theory doesn’t reportedly work with GC’s.
Also, if they realize that you’re gaming, they will shut it all down. Not worth it to play superfluous games, just to see how daft they can be. The card benefits are plenty – when following the guidelines.
For those that have been approved, did you immediately get electronic card info (like acct #, exp date, CVV) so that the card can be used immediately online (as Amex gives you), or do you have to wait for the physical card to come in the mail?
I received an email with none of that info, and didn’t need it immediately so didn’t call to find out if I could get that info:
“Congratulations XX!
You are approved for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card.
Here are a few things to know about your new card:
• Your revolving line of credit is YY.
• Your card should arrive via U.S. Postal Service in approximately 6 days.
• If you requested a balance transfer, you will receive a letter in the mail with information regarding your request.
Thank you for being our customer!”
However, despite it saying “approximately 6 days”, a rep who had called me for some further info said the card is rushed to the customer, and I’d asked a cs rep before applying who had also said they rush this card and estimated it would take 2 – 3 days to arrive.
Yes, the card is sent overnight, inset within its own case.
AF posted on 2/1, submitted a $325 travel purchase on 2/5 – no credit offered, they said I needed to wait until 2/10. Made another purchase on 2/17, posted and credit posted on 2/25. Cancelled card 2/28, AF was reversed. On 3/5 they reversed the annual credit… so I guess they claw it back if you try to double dip. Gambled and lost as I’m stuck with $650 of GC’s I don’t particularly want.
this is really sad!! I was hoping to double dip..
interesting, there were historical data points of DD’ing the credit, but maybe they have battened down the hatches on that. Not sure if what they are doing is CARD act compliant though.
https://www.reddit.com/r/churning/comments/8nh7l4/_/dzwht5v/
to share application experience of mine and wife: lol/24, no bank account, no personal cards, hold a business card. Tried several times before but got rejected as expected. Several days ago, applied for some other cards, BOA, amex etc, and just wanted to give it a try in the same day. Got no instant decision message. Thought it was a no go so forgot about it. Surprisingly, received the cards today, both of us!
Been hoarding points on the Altitude card but now have a chance to use them.
Any idea if Altitude has the same $25 airline allowance as other FlexPerks cards?
As far as I know it doesn’t have.
US Bank is *insane* to deal with. They are the ONLY bank to turn my wife down for credit in the last 2 years. They are also the ONLY bank to turn me down for credit in the last 2 years. And we are 775FICO & 800FICO with 3/24 & 2/24. I do not see how anyone EVER gets approved. Total waste of time. Their customer service is the worst. My wife requested a manual review on a business credit card. After 2 weeks of giving her the run-around, they declined her once and for all…for failing to provide documents…that they never even ASKED her to send. She had asked them for a 2k limit. And they declined her for not sending years of monthly accounts payable and accounts receivable data. She just runs a small home-based business. She’s not a corporation seeking a 1mil line of credit. They are out of their BLEEPING minds. We have written them off. Wouldn’t matter if they had a million dollar bonus for $1.00 spend. Not interested. Not ever. US Bank needs to just go out of business. The world would be a better place WITHOUT them. Just save yourself the hassle and look elsewhere.
I got the Altitude card after I had run out of other cards to apply for. Was LOL/24 and was approved with no problem. Also got their business card w/o issue, but I have a real business (corporation).
Maybe it’s just me, but I think anyone under 5/24 should be applying for Chase cards until that fills up.
Did you have a US Bank Account?
Yes – I opened a checking account for a bonus, waited the 30 days or so and applied for the card.
Any data points for buying VGC at drugstore causes issue?
I occasionally buy a $500 VGC at the grocery store with my other groceries – maybe one or two a month for the past year and a half. No problems so far. I don’t even carry the card since I only use it on Samsung Pay for the 3x points.
Based on my experience with my three years of USB Altitude Reserve ownership, you’d have to be hammering this card with MS’ing at high levels to draw attention. If you’re able to come up with a valid reason for the gift card purchases, you’re fine. I buy from Raise.com app using Google Pay often and have never had an issue.
With that said, your one-time $500 VGC with other purchases at the drug store should go under the radar. If you make this a routine, you’re leaving yourself open to RAT investigation. I would venture to say they will have more of an issue with you doing this for a SUB… only one AF paid, less than a year with them, all factors they will weigh if your account is flagged.
Can you anyone please confirm if they were able to get the signup bonus twice for this card after cancelling then reaplying later like after 10 months or so??
it says in the term you cant churn. ” bonus is not available to Cardmembers who currently have, or had, a U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite account”
I finished the spending within the first spending cycle, got the 50k points, but I also see another 5k points marked ‘Customer Service Adjustment’. Any idea what it is?
Looks like time as a customer was reduced from 35 days to 5 days? I think post should be updated.
*The U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card is offered to U.S. Bank customers who have an eligible U.S. Bank account relationship open and active a minimum of 5 business days prior to submitting an application.
Updated, thanks
Any DP if this card is churnable? Now it’s ~6 months after cancellation for many people.
Any new reports of shutdowns? Got it and probably just use the mobile 3x category so wondering if that might cause any issue.
So, I suppose it works to directly book a refundable fare fare or direct hotel out in the future in order to get the $325 credit, and then cancel it later for a refund?
Do they waive annual fees for active duty military?
I did not have luck getting them to waive cc AF’s. They will waive a checking account monthly fee for military by placing you into a military customer segment.
Yes they do, both for the active duty member AND the spouse’s separate account (source: myself and my spouse, along with SEVERAL other military DPs on Reddit).
I dont know if this clause is new or not for churning but this is in the T&C now regarding the 50,000 bonus
50,000 bonus Points:
One-time 50,000 bonus Points will be awarded when you are approved for a new U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card and eligible Net Purchases totaling $4,500 or more are made to your Account within 90 days after Account opening. Points are earned on eligible Net Purchases. “Net Purchases” are purchases minus credits and returns. Please allow 6–8 weeks for your bonus Points to be credited to your Account. You are eligible to receive one-time bonus Points for each new U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite account type. Existing and previous U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite accounts are not eligible for bonus Points for a similar account type. One-time bonus Points do not apply toward account upgrades. Use of the Card is subject to terms and conditions of the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Cardmember Agreement, which is provided at Account opening and may be amended from time to time. This offer may not be combined with any other bonus offer.
Renewal just came up for this card anyone able to use the travel credits again
Have anyone tried to product change this card?
Retention DP: 10,000 Points with no Spent Requirement (Of course keep the account open). No-brainer to keep since effective AF is $75.
Can you give some color on your request? Did you ask for offers, simply threaten to close account, compare the competition? Did you call a specific number or just go through regular customer service? Thanks very much!!!
also, did you call for the offer before your AF hit, or after? Many thanks!!
Something to keep in mind since February you can set up RTR (Real Time Rewards) for travel purchases or anything that would normally get you 1.5¢pp in value and you make a direct purchase with a airline, hotel, car rental directly and less than 5 minutes later you get a text how many points you have and how many points it takes to redeem and you earn the 3x points for travel on that purchase while also getting the 1.5 in value. No longer needed to use the TERRIBLE portal
Thought I’d give a DP for anyone looking into getting this now, almost a year later.
I was prequalified for the card, though I think it just said that it was suggested for me when I went through the checker.
Income: I think I put $20k – I’m a student, but put down my job rather than that for my employment status.
FICO: 768 TU, 733 EX, 749 EQ. They pulled TU.
?/24: 11/24 (4 in last 6 months).
CL: $5.5k (I’ve already got about $7.5k with USB).
Went through the application, got the “we’ll let you know” message. Called the application line a few days later, denied. Got a letter a few days after that saying they couldn’t verify information (I had moved recently). I called in, they cleared it up, and it was approved that day. It was probably about ten days from application to approval because of that.
I was just denied and reason given over the phone was “too many new accounts in the past 6 months.” I’m at 5 in the past 6 months, so I wonder if 4 is okay but 5 is not, or maybe there have a more sophisticated formula. I’m at 14/24 and 11/12 with an 800+ credit score.
When does the travel credit post? My $325+ eligible charge posted but I don’t see a corresponding travel credit.
A couple days after the charge posts.
Anyone know if the $400 AF counts towards the $4,500 MSR?
It never does, on any card.
What’s up with US Bank and their application status phone hotline? I was pre-qualified for the Reserve so I applied, went pending, then 3 days later I called this morning and it said unfortunately I couldn’t be approved, then it transferred me to someone and they said it was under review, then they transferred me to another dept that asked if I was the one who had applied for the card, I said yes, then they said they were sending it to underwriting for final approval?
Similar thing. They just wanted confirmation I was the one who applied for the card and then passed me onto underwriting. I was approved on the status line a few hours later and it showed up in my US Bank account a couple days later.
Same here.
This happened to me as well recently.
Anyone with a US Bank account should check their pre-qualified offers. Altitude showed for me for the first time this month. Opened my checking account end of June, got the bonus and since then I’ve barely done anything in the account. Put my app in through the pre-qualified page, 30K income, verification called me next day over an adress issue and my card was approved by underwriting a couple hours later with a 7.5K limit. HP TU where I had 4 inquiries. 8/24, no other US Bank cards or relationship.
Report a DP. Applied 1/15/18, got instant approval with 18k credit limit. The hard pull was on TU. There were 3 hard pulls on TU before that. New account 4/6 lol/12….
I used this card bonus to book a great hotel and rental car in Ireland as part of my practically free Ireland vacation. Thanks DOC.
One important thing to add under “redeeming points” is that you need to cover the entire travel booking with points. Small exception for flights, where they let you buy the additional tickets with cash if you pay with points for the first ticket.
In the end you are left with spare chunks of points until you earn enough to be able to redeem.
Oh, US Bank! Applied 11/11, went to pending, called automated system, said denied, spoke to underwriting, eventually approved.
From what I have read the annual fee posts on the first statement – I called them and they informed me my first statement closes on 11/24 – so I am assuming my annual fee will be on that statement – payment due 12/22. My plan is to use the bonus points towards the annual fee, but if I don’t get the spend and points on that first statement, how do I use the points towards the fee without incurring interest by not paying off the fee by 12/22? Not sure how can I make this work if the annual fee posts on the first statement and I don’t have the points on that statement.
For those who have the card – when did you annual fee post?
How soon did the bonus points post to your account after meeting spend?
You have exactly 90 days from the date you open the account to use points to pay the annual fee. I mistakenly thought it was 90 days from the date the fee posts, however just now I was informed my 90 day window to redeem 35,000 points for the annual fee expired yesterday and they did not offer to make an exception.
I suppose “directly” means reserving hotel through expedia or similar doesnt count for the $325?
from US Bank: Purchases made with a travel agency are not eligible for the travel credit. Hotels.com and Expedia are classifed as a travel agency, so purchases with those merchants will not be eligible for the travel credit.
I asked about purchases made from there own portal, but they didn’t answer that one. I imagine the answer is the same.
Could not find info on the following anywhere.
1. Are there any benefits for adding a user at all?
2. Paying annual fee with points covers authorized users, confirmed? When do you add the user before or after paying the 400 fee?
3. How exactly do you apply points to the fee? I do not see that option anywhere.
4. Do the post the bonus points with the transaction that fulfills min spend or with the statement close?
Thank you all.
Responding to my own question with info from a popup on the benefits website:
“Redeem points to offset the cost of your Annual Fee and any annual fees for additional cards on your U.S. Bank Altitude account.
This award will take the form of a statement credit to offset the Annual Fee ($400) and any additional card annual fees ($75 per card) billed to your account. Please allow up to 7 business days for the credit to post to your account. The credit will reflect on your next available statement from the time the redemption is processed. All redemption terms and conditions apply. This award is available for 90 days following your anniversary date.”
Still unclear why would one get additional user cards, they do not get credits for anything.
$25 Southwest gc just triggered credit for me.
I got an email saying I was pre-qualified for this card. I have been searching here and reddit, but can’t seem to find many datapoints on the $325 travel credit. It says we need to purchase directly, has anyone purchased say $325 American Airlines gift card and did this work for the travel credit? I see we are supposed to be careful and avoid regular gift cards such as visa gift cards as this could get you banned but unsure about airline gift cards.
did you try GC, did it work?
I’ve got a question about using 35,000 points to offset the annual fee. How does this work timing-wise? It sounds like the annual fee posts at the end of the first statement, but it may be 90 days before you meet the bonus requirements to get all those points. Does this only work for people who meet the bonus within the first statement?
Thanks!
5/1 – Applied
5/26 – $400 AF
6/16 – met minimum spend, applied 35k towards the AF
6/26 – $400 credit for AF
How soon did the points post after meeting minimum spend?
Decided to take a chance on applying and see what happened. Last month when I opened my checking & savings, they offered a Cash+ w/ a $4500 limit or a Club Carlson card with a $2000 limit, so I wasn’t too optimistic.
Apparently US Bank and I have gotten closer in the past month, because they approved me today with a $28.7K limit! Here are some DPs:
TU: 748 (04) – 760 (08)
INQs: This was #11 I think (although 2 others were US Bank, and the rest were older)
New accounts: 1 CC, 1 RLOC (6 months), +4 CC, 1 auto lease (1 year)
Current Util: ~9% of $130.5K visible CL
Highest CL: $29.1K
Process was pretty painless – app’d in branch, had approval 4-5 hours later. Branch manager “booked” it this a.m., so it should show up online today or tomorrow and the card should be en route soon.
DP:
21/24.
Card 4 was a US Bank Cash+, about 13 months prior today, before starting churning, got it for the benefits. Only relationship with them. Had about 6k annual organic gym (5% category) and some mobile phone (5% category) spend last year, and that’s basically it on the card.
Last apps were 5 new CC in March, none since. During March/April I got 2 total targeted pre-approved Cash+ $100 /$1000 spend mailers, so felt pretty good odds I’d get approved for the card, but was still a little anxious and almost just went with mailer. (Ultimately decided not to use the mailers.)
Applied yesterday, instant approval for this card. Was rather worried with all the general “it’s hard to get approved at USB / they may cancel all your account” and didn’t want to lose my 5% gym card – but was smooth sailing.
Have about 250k+ credit limit across all lines – one of my concerns was the high existing total limit – I deliberately went ahead and waiting 6 weeks after last app, since I have a large ms to get through on one card still. Anyways, they extended me another 27-29k (can’t remember off top of my head, but wanted to throw the DP out there before I forgot).
DP:
Applied 7/18/17 IN BRANCH.
CreditKarma says US Bank pulled my TU, which had 5 HP’s in the last 17 months. TU FICO was 753 at the time. Have had a checking account with them since 2009, along with a College Visa (1k limit) and the Cash+. The banker/teller who applied for me asked a lot of questions/small talk, but I played along.
I was approved immediately with 29k limit!
Now just to not fuck it up…
Thought I’d throw out some data points. Lyft rides have been crediting as travel. Additionally, a bar tab at a hotel restaurant/bar where I was not staying credited as travel.
Annual fee has not posted after having the card over a week.
US Bank was EXTREMELY helpful with some problems I was having with a particular transaction. I haven’t experienced better customer service.
Anybody know how soon the annual fee posts(on statement close?) and how many days you have to get the annual fee refunded from the day the fee posts??
The annual fee posts at the statement close.
annual fee on the first statement?
Yes
Instantly approved today with $18,700 credit line. I only have the Club Carlson cc…..that I never use.
They only gave me 5K with $175k income!
Has anyone with a CSR/Amex Plat and/or Altitude Reserve signed up for more than one priority pass membership? What happens if you do? Thanks.
I signed up for both Plat and CSR PP memberships. Plat offers the option for a digital card (CSR doesn’t and it’s handy if you forget your card) and CSR offers unlimited guests (Plat limits guests). So it’s worthwhile to have both. You just have to label the cards so you know which is which. 🙂 I probably won’t activate the Altitude membership.
Just a data point, I was approved by with an income of 30K. (Although I was instantly denied, calling did the trick.
And thanks for the great website!
Has anyone been able to check their point earning on this card?
My balance says zero, so they obviously post after the statement close.
I poked around on the website and can’t find a way to see the points earned? Will we have to wait for a statement?
I shop at Walmart a lot (I live in Bentonville, AR) so I’m specifically interested to see if my Walmart Pay transactions are earning 3X.
**Reward point balance is zero. I have had transactions post.
waiting for your dp. I also shop at Walmart a lot.
My statement has posted and I can confirm that Walmart Pay does NOT earn bonus points. Apparently it is not considered an eligible mobile wallet payment. Very disappointing and I will not be keeping the card. Without Walmart Pay or any MS, this card is not a keeper.
Thanks. Cannot agree more.
One more question, do you know if the $325 travel credit goes towards the $4500 requirement?
I don’t have any banking relationship with US Bank..does this mean I’m not eligible to apply?
You need to have a bank account or credit card or some other relationship, as explained in the post. If you don’t, you can open a checking or savings account and apply 35 days later.
Correct
Can you book Air Tahiti flights through their portal? PPT-BOB
Need DPs on whether US Bank will allow you to keep $325 credit on cancelled refundable flights.
That allows you to get max $325 value from credit and make the card a no brainer year one. Basically a $475 cash bonus (use 35k points for AF, pocket the $325 bonus, cash out remaining 15000 points)
It works on Prestige and CSR and Arrival+, so I assume it will here too. Especially if you cancel the flight after the statement in which you made the flight purchase, I don’t see them clawing back. But we shall see.
Jags and/or Jack – Success with that?
Schmekel – Did you have success with that?
Do the travel credits work for Uber/Lyft?
US Banker on Reddit said they don’t know yet about that. I guess people will try and we’ll find out soon.
Are the credits supposed to be in real time like the CSR or at statement time like the Prestige?
USB rep said it depends on the MCC and she then proceeded to check Uber and Lyft and told me they would count.
That’s why I think travel credit is as good as cash since I would be paying for the rides anyways
@Chuck – I’ve received credits for Lyft on the card. They’ve been posting within 2-3 days of the purchase posting.
excellent DP, thanks!
The one and only selling point on this sub-par cc is the x3 mobile which will be a mute point very shortly. Other banks are not going to sit still and will have offerings are there own or amendments to their existing rewards cc’s. I would not waste my time with a bank who is well known to nerf products fairly quickly.
I give it 6 month tops before another major issuer like chase, amex, Citi comes in with their own offering and steal away US banks thunder from down under.
Will fidelity visa card owner be counted as us bank customer?
Not 100% sure, sorry. ANybody know?
It is offered by Elan, while a usbank company it is not considered a us bank card.
Just ordered a Samsung gear s3 for this card.
Hey Bill,
Some people have reported the credit line as minimal as $1000 in reddit.
That was just one DP right?
Last year when I was applying for Visa Flexperks. I was approved for 4500. Called in to see if I can get bumped to 5k for VS. And I was told VS starts from 1k from around mid summer last year. Doubt VI will be the same but my Altitude was approved for 5k with a high balance and a recently closed medical collection. So… I doubt anybody can get worse than that…
Redeeming toward annual fee is all inclusive. If you have tons of authorized users starting 2nd year, it will cover them as well. Though Altitude’s authorized users get no benefits what so ever…
You mean that you can offset the AU cards with points at the same rate? Or paying with 35,000 points covers all AU?
35000 points covers all AU. That’s what I remember some blogs have mentioned… Failed to find official reference within 5 min though…
I think it’s worth mentioning “bulk fare” and “basic economy” through U.S. bank portal. Also, even though Altitude Reserve has travel protection, there is subtle difference in the insurance among high end cards. Assume you have a two-segment flight. Also, the first one is delayed and you are not able to make it for the second segment. If you choose to rent a car or call a cab because of the the work tomorrow, you will not get reimbursed with the CS(R) but will do with Citi Prestige. I’m not sure Altitude Reserve has which type of insurance.
I think before usbank cuts the benefit, this card is a good card, a 75 annual fee card can’t be better than this. The only thing I am worrying about is their services, I really don’t think they can be compared with Chase or AMEX, even same service,.
P.s. I just tried to apply cd and checking account, both failed, no idea why, give up this card
I don’t really think it as of a $75 AF card because travel credits =! cash
even 100 annual fees card is better than others, all high level credit card holders must travel a lot, otherwise you are not targeted or you don’t need it, so the credit it worth! I even can fully use Ritz card’s credit fully.
I think the only problem is that, when they cut the benefit, I do think no later than this year, it is easy for the MSers like me to ms 10000 per mouth.
Why don’t you consider travel credit the same as cash?
Uber/lyft should be considered correct? If I’m not getting credited for those rides, I’m paying full price for them then
You can still get Uber/Lyft at a discount, even buying Uber GC from Amazon is a 8% discount when you account for 3x jetblue points and a 5% card.
I’d have to imagine for a lot of people, travel credits are basically equal to cash. Presumably people are holding this card in part because of its 4.5% returns on travel, and put travel expenses on the card right? Yes, sure there are a lot of ways to acquire discounted gift cards for travel, but there are time costs associated with those and, importantly, not all travel can be paid that way.
If someone is going to have $325 in travel expenses otherwise billed to their credit card as travel, then this credit is basically cash, especially since they’re still getting 4.5% back on it. I realize that might not be everyone, but it’s going to be true of basically every frequent traveler.
I think we will have to agree to disagree. In any case if somebody wanted to sell you $325 in travel credit, would you pay $325 in cash for it? I think the answer to that question is no. If you agree that it is no, then we’re just squabbling over the discount that should be prescribed.
Will, with all due respect (and I do mean it), your logic here is somewhat flawed … let’s take it to the next level. Would you pay $325 cash for $325 credit of any type? Let’s say you get straight statement credit for that amount? I would say “No”. Why would you pay cash, just to get that money back with no profit?
Following your logic you would not value a straight statement credit with no strings attached at a face value, would you?
I do see your point for sure, but would probably vote for the definition mentioned above “if you would have spent this money otherwise anyway for whatever reason (luck of time, luck of dedication, not willing to make an effort, not knowing a better way…), then it is like cash to you.”
Not arguing, but would be interested to hear if you would value a straight statement credit at a face value.
Very grateful for all your time, effort and amazing blog!!!
All the best to everybody at DoC. Happy New Year!!!
I wouldn’t pay $325 for a $325 statement credit, you’re right. But I might pay $324.90 for example. The thing is it’s so easy to get discounted travel, valuing travel credits as cash is absurd. Like I said, I’m happy to agree to disagree but I think a lot of readers like to justify travel credits = cash as it helps justify their decisions.
Old point, but I tend to value travel credit as cash due to the ability to book a refundable ticket and cancel it right away while keeping the statement credit. I do this with my Chase credit, but not sure if U.S. Bank’s system is more sophisticated and would take back the credit, etc. Ultimately, I eventually use the credit, but I like it upfront and this allows me to not have to wait.
In such a case do you think it’s still less valuable than cash?
I personally don’t think that’s ethical if you’re talking about getting a cash refund, if you’re talking about get an airline credit then yes it’s still less valuable. E
Jukian Banks – Did you have success with this?
Did you have success with this?
I would like to know as well l, but it seems like an easy no risk ~lo risk trial ( booking a refundable ticket 60-90 days out in the ballpark of $325 and a week before statement close so it post ( not sure how long credit takes to post – new card.
Perfect timing our TU CR get so few HP so it’s nice to spread HP – lost a 5/24 but for $750 worth it on top of the biz and personal bank account bonuses.
Just to clarify, Altitude Points can be redeemed at 1.5 cpp for airfare, hotel and car rental (not just airfare), right?
+1 this question.
Personally, with airfare handled by award redemptions, Citi Prestige annual credit, discounts from Ritz Carlton Visa Infinite, incidentals covered by Ritz Carlton and Amex Platinum, and the opportunity to use purchase airfare with other flexible points programs (UR and MR), I’m feeling well covered re airfare and air travel incidentals. It’s the other travel costs – hotels, cars, trains, sightseeing tours – that are still bit harder to cover with points. 1.5cpp would be great for hotels etc.
Exactly!
The card link says:
==
Rich Point Value
50,000 points can be redeemed for $750 in airfare, hotel stays or car rentals.
==
Not sure how it works in practice. If all redemptions are handled through their online portal then it’s that much more attractive.
Updated, thought it was just airfare but seems you’re right. I get hotels at a 20%+ discount most of the time though so airfare only real attractive option for me.
Unless you get reimbursed for hotel stays 😉
Thanks Will!
I do get reimbursed, but I get that 20% off rate even when I get reimbursed for the full price. I pass the discount onto my employer though
As a heavy Samsung Pay user, I will keep this card indefinitely so long as the travel credits are easily usable and redemptions at 1.5 cpp are worthwhile.
So, the cheapest way to get Samsung Pay/NFC is around $200…the extra 1x earnt with this card above an ordinary 2% card would mean I’d need to spend $20,000 through Samsung Pay to break even. Given the shutdowns for GC, I think I’ll just harvest the bonus and move on.
After redeeming the annual travel credit of $325, there’s only $1,667 left in Samsung Pay spend, redeemed at 4.5%, to recoup the remaining $75 of annual fees.
Samsung Pay alone is a pretty good incentive to keep, since it reportedly works everywhere. Heck, I’m switching from Apple to Samsung for this. That, and no one could hardly hear me on the XS. Shoot, audio had better be tip top for a thousand dollar phone.
Unboxing the new Galaxy today. Muhuahha!
All this really depends on how sensitive US Bank will be to MS on the mobile wallet category. The prediction is still that they will nerf it 1-3 years down the line, as USB is known to do. But if people can get away with repeated $500 transactions at drugstores/supermarkets/gas stations, then the value proposition is very high for MSers. USB is definitely not for $10k/day volume, but what about $5k/month? $5k MS at 3x a month would be $2700 for travel a year, making this card a real keeper. Even at levels of $2.5k a month, it’s well worth it at $1k profit.
bob. you dont need to bother wondering how sensitive USB is to MSing. the answer is yes. you just need to be DL about it if you want to MS low volume with them. anything more will get too much attn. USB is a slaughter house. think about them closing buxx. closing all accounts based on recent inquiries and closing all accounts based on MO deposits. MS on their CC is no different.
Did they close all accounts based on MO deposits to a USB checking account?
Cause I’ve done a ton of that…am I boned?
You’re overstating the profit at 5k month volume, you need to compare to putting it on a straight 2% (or even 2.5% or 3% these days) cards. I agree it might be a keeper for some though that can make use of that category.