Dont know if this will help anyone, but I have had my hooters mastercard for over a year now. Ran up about 800 on 1K limit. Have been paying on it every month, never missing a payment. I used the autopay to make sure that none of my payments were ever late. If I had any extra, then I would make an additional payment that month.
My balance is currently 460, about half of what it was 6 months ago. I check my account today and they gave me a 200+ CLI. I know 200 is nothing compared to other cards but its nice to see when I didnt even ask for it. Plus, I havent used the card in over 8 months.
I guess they dont look at other cards you carry. Unlike Amex, they are only concerned with your history with them, since right now I am at 85% util on my revolving credit and show 2 unpaid mortages (one has been paid off but not reported as being paid off).
The Hooters mastercard is provided through Merrick Bank, which I have another card with them. They gave me a CLI on that card about 6 mos ago.
FICO equifax 638
FICO experian 609
FICO TU 643
as you can see my scores are nothing to get excited about.
I guess the point here is that if you consistently make on-time payments, then CLIs will happen.
Peace
