Barclay's Credit Card - terrible rewards program

[Alsherr1007]

It feels like a scam - in order to redeem points, you have to keep purchasing with your credit card until you reach the minimum limit rather than redeem as you go. What a ripoff. This program forces you to keep buying or else be unable to use the reward points. Because of this, I am now using this card the least, and opting instead for the cards I have with better rewards programs that let you redeem points as statement credits as you earn them.

[NormaP858219]

Barclays suspended my card (an authorized user) just days after my husband died. Then they wouldn't let me redeem $23+ in rewards because the total wasn't at least $25. Even though there were some restaurant rewards available for under $25, I still needed $25 in rewards points to get the restaurant rewards offered at $22.99. Barclay's asked if I wanted to reapply for its card in my own name. That's a laugh!! It's a shame that AARP does business with them.

[AARPConsumerCare]

On behalf of AARP, I'd like to extend our sincere condolences on the loss of your husband, @NormaP858219. We're sorry to hear about your experience with Barclays. We are listening and would like the chance to help as soon as possible. Please visit https://help.aarp.org/s/article/contact-aarp to chat, text, or speak with a representative who can get you in touch with our Member Relations team for further assistance. - Diana G.

[GailL1]

@NormaP858219 

Suspending credit cards or outright cancelling them at the death of the primary holder is always done by any financial institution.  They would not have done this if the card had been a joint card rather than you being an authorized user.  If it was joint, they would have just given you a new card (different #) with you as the primary since there was no more “joint”.

The authorization for rewards is normally always in the hands of the primary card holder.   You have added problems in that there is a minimum of rewards that had not been met.  They asked if you wanted a card issued in your name based on your credit standing - if this was done, they may transfer the rewards on your husband’s card to your newly issued card.

So I am not sure why you think a new card issued to you under your own credit standing is “laughable”.  

[NormaP858219]

How about a phone call when they suspended my card so I wasn't embarrassed when a business refused to take it?  I expect a higher standard from any company that is associated with AARP. Give a little notice to older folks. Barclays was the only credit card company that treated me this way and it's laughable that I would want to deal with them in the future.

[GailL1]

@NormaP858219 

You or the executor of the estate is required to notify them of the death of [especially] the primary holder.  When that was done they immediately close the account.  

If this was not done, and they find out in some other way, it can create a problem with a situation like you described - 

[NormaP858219]

Sorry I neglected that. I was too busy grieving, making funeral arrangements and notifying relatives about a sudden death. Why couldn't Barclays make a phone call? I expect more of AARP and its associated businesses. That's the last I have to say about it.

[BobtheScott]

At least you got your card..