I know this is discussed elsewhere in Miles & Points, but I know many Amtrak folks don't keep up with the fast-moving discussion over there. Just a heads up for those interested in getting a nice bunch of AGR points.
https://applynowdc1.chase.com/FlexAp...1V3MA6XQ&pvid=
There's a hefty spending requirement (3,000 in first 3 months) but if you are willing to do a little paperwork / computerwork / hasslish signing up for stuff, there are ways of spending 3K and getting money back in AmEx gift cards for free. I've done the AmEx gift cards before and it worked well, the only hiccup was Chase temporarily suspended my account for suspicious activity
but when I called them it was quickly reinstated.
http://thepointsguy.com/2011/05/mr-p...it-card-spend/
http://www.dansdeals.com/archives/14267
If you've applied for a different Chase card in the recent past, and denied because of this, it sometimes helps to call and ask for reconsideration on your application. Some strategies are to ask for a lower credit limit on existing cards (like your AGR card), or a lower limit on your new card.
In case guys have problems here are some useful Chase contacts:
Chase: 800-432-3117 (Application status)
Chase: 888-270-2127 (Application reconsideration)
Chase: 877-781-3109 (Card combining & card type changes)
Chase: 888-245-0625 (Credit Analyst reconsideration)
Chase: 888-622-7547 (Chase Executive Office)
If you have a Chase checking account you can also ask a banker in a branch
to send in a reconsideration request form if you are rejected for a Chase credit card.