Why do I randomly get issued new credit cards?

[crazytalk]

I just got a new citibank card in the mail. The other one doesn't expire for at least a year. Why do they do this? Is it to change terms on me and force me to either accept the new terms or leave them?

Kohls credit cards don't expire, and I think I get at least one new one a year from them.

Any idea why?

[belovedbride07]

Last time DH got a new credit card, the letter that came with it didn't explain why, so he was getting ready to call to make sure something scammy wasn't going on. Then he noticed the glossy 1/3 sheet insert that usually tries to get you to sign up for other services explained that new cards were being issued because they had changed the logo.

That doesn't really answer your question. :-P Just thought I'd share our recent experience.

[rikki]

Does it have the same number? I've been issued new cards when there has a been a security breach at a location I had used the card.

[crazytalk]

thanks beloved, it might be something like that.

rikki, no, it's the same number, and the insert is all "rah rah you're gonna looove your card benefits!" when the benefits all look the same to me. I'll call them and ask at some point. I was just wondering if it was common knowledge (that I was missing) about why this seems to happen fairly often.

[polarbearfans]

The magnetic strips wear out... Some faster than others, but generally 3 years is what most companies use. Some stores will send you a new card if they look up your account for you... Victoria's Secret and Macy's are bad about sending a card whenever they look up the account. I never carry store cards in case of a lost wallet.... They don't seem to understand I know exactly where my cards are secured.

[Deleted]

I have this happen with cards I don't use a lot. I think companies use it to "remind" customers about their card. They are hoping you will get the card and the fancy brochure and it will remind you to use their card. Just a theory....