Originally Posted by Happy
Why would you want to reopen the older account, esp you only go after the sign-up bonuses?
To combine the credit limits and/or keep the age provided by the older account. If neither of these is a factor, the older account can be left closed.
On the other note about "reference number" - I am not sure every card application gets one. My current experiences are there is none for UA and none for AA either. Dont remember how it was few months back.
I've only seen it on a decline letter or a request for more information/verification letter. It seems unnecessary for approvals since there is no further follow-up.