Originally Posted by
krazykanuck
I've actually been thinking this. My original plan was to keep the CSR to transfer to partners (since I downgraded my Ink+ to an Ink Cash), but I'm now thinking that if I can get a CSP pre-approval this summer, it would make more sense to take that, downgrade the CSR to an FU, and then upgrade the CSP to a CSR the following year (assuming 5/24 is still a hard and fast rule).
I mean I have Priority Pass with my Amex so the only differentiation of the CSR is 3x on travel/dining and primary rental car insurance. CSP has 2x and similar insurance. I'm not sure I can make up the $150 annual fee on a 1x additional multiplier when CSP is free the first year.
It means $15K spend in the bonus category as it is only 1% extra, to make up the $150 hole when CSP has 1st year AF waived.
I am always amazed by how successful Chase got people thinking the $300 travel credit is a great benefit, without thinking that the cardholders actually pay for such great benefit from their own pockets.
I guess making it really easy and automatic is the right trick to do it versus AMEX makes you jump thru hoops to get the airline credit which is only $200. Now AMEX even raises its fee to $550.... It seems AMEX has not learned anything from losing Costco.