I didn’t want folks to get too excited, so decided to put the warning clearly in the title. So, it looks like you can still submit an application for Merrill+ Visa Signature, albeit only over the phone. There is a twist, of course. Even though the reps quote the bonus of 50K points after spending $3,000 in 3 months, most people have been recieving only 25K points. I don’t know what your chances will be at getting Bank of America to honor the original terms, so proceed with caution.
I saw this new development reported on Doctorofcredit blog, and they got their information from this Reddit thread. You can follow all the latest data points before deciding on whether to apply. DoC commenter Div posted this few hours ago: “I just called (866-751-1257)) and submitted an application over the phone. Rep said the bonus offer is 50k/3k currently. My application went to review, rep mentioned within 30 days they would inform me about my application decision.”
Of course, just because the rep said it, doesn’t mean it will actually happen. I think if you get enough documentation (name of the rep, time of phone call) and ask them to notate your account, you may have a good chance at BoA honoring 50K points offer. But let’s say you’ll only get 25K points in the end. Is the card still worth applying for? It just might be.
I did an overview of Merrill portal redemption process. Basically, if you buy a ticket that costs exactly $500, your 25K points bonus will cover it completely. But what if the ticket costs $600 or more? You can simply pay $100 difference with your credit card.
Merrill travel portal is superior to Flexperks in this regard because they don’t just put you in a higher redemption bracket (where 20,000 points=$400 ticket, 30,000=$600 ticket). So, if you are someone who regularly buys tickets that cost over $500 and are used to paying cash for those, this is a very attractive offer indeed.
That’s the only scenario where I would consider pulling the trigger. Otherwise, the juice is probably not worth the squeeze. Plus, remember, there are other lucrative offers you may end up foregoing as a result, since the bonus requires $3,000 in spending within 3 months (a significant commitment).
Readers, who is considering taking a chance on this deal?
Click here to view various credit cards and available sign-up bonuses
Author: Leana
Leana is the founder of Miles For Family. She enjoys beach vacations and visiting her family in Europe. Originally from Belarus, Leana resides in central Florida with her husband and two children.
Oooh, great news. Thanks. I was sad that I hadn’t applied for the Merril CC back in January as I was waiting until April to apply for it.
@Lisa M No worries! I’m just passing along information I got on DoC. I know some of my readers don’t follow that site or Reddit on a daily basis, hence this post.
I do believe the window is closing and there is also a good chance that folks will end up with 25K points. But sometimes you have to take a leap of faith with this sort of things. That’s who the write up is for. Good luck and please, report back on how things work out.