CLI's with Backdoor Numbers

[MsKmm00]

Just expressing frustration and wondering (as a previous poster wrote), "are people just blowing smoke?"   I have called the "backdoor" number for Orchard Bank and Capital One.  Per the account reps at these numbers, there is no reason to contact them because they have the same offers as front line reps. The systems advises them of any offers (if any) available. They do not have the power or ability to review accounts manually and offer CLI's.  Why do board members promote the use of "backdoor" numbers when in reality they are useless?

[Anonymous]

In Jan. before I even knew there were backdoor numbers I called Orchard about cli's, my apr, and my annual fee. My response was there was nothing they could do for me at this time. Funny thing is 2 weeks later Feb. I found out about backdoor numbers and I called. As a result I have cut my af in half,my apr lower and I got a cli. That was my experience with Orchard.

 I also called my Capital One back door number but I never called their customer service line so I can't speak on that.  

[Anonymous]

I have definitely, definitely used both of those back door numbers you describe to my advantage with CLIs. This was after being denied by the front lines by both Orchard and Capital One.

The back door numbers do work, though it seems like it depends on the CSR you get.

[MsKmm00]

I am glad you two have encountered different experiences.  I did received CLI's (with a fee) from Orchard.  Both times the reps asked why I was transferred to them because the front line reps have the same offers ... they do not do anything differently.  Capital One advised nothing available and the same line ... they have the exact same offers as front line reps. 

I am not disputing that people are receiving CLI's, APR reductions, etc..., however if the front line is empowered to do the same, why push calling the back door?

Message Edited by MsKmm00 on 02-28-2008 04:14 PM

Message Edited by MsKmm00 on 02-28-2008 04:16 PM

[bamagirl1]

you dont have to call, some of us here have had success so it was posted to help others hopefully get satisfaction..alot of times if you call the number on the back of the card you get some one in India. when you call the backdoor # you usually get someone you can understand..

they may not always can give you what you want, but hey it's worth a shot. they have never worked for me but that doesn't mean i'm not going to keep on trying..

good luck!

[Anonymous]

Every time I tried to get a CLI through Capital One at the front door I was shot down. They always said there was nothing they can do. The same day I found the back door number and was instantly approved. I really don't think they get the same offers, or, maybe the front door people are not allowed to deviate from the script like with HSBC.

Anyone else have thoughts on this?

[MsKmm00]

I am not trying to be negative by any means.  If people are using them to get a native English speaker ... cool.  My point is, there seems to be the misconception that they can do more for you. I have called two to three times per month since December and have received the same response: we can't do any more for you (including a manual review) than the front line reps. Both lines have the same abilities.

Message Edited by MsKmm00 on 02-28-2008 04:28 PM

[MsKmm00]

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@Anonymous wrote:
Every time I tried to get a CLI through Capital One at the front door I was shot down. They always said there was nothing they can do. The same day I found the back door number and was instantly approved. I really don't think they get the same offers, or, maybe the front door people are not allowed to deviate from the script like with HSBC.

Anyone else have thoughts on this?

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Capital One is who prompted my post today. Just got off the phone with a rep. Asked her to look at my 3-year history (no late pays, have pif'd a few times, no Over Limits, pay more than mimimum. etc ...). She stated everything is handled by marketing department. They load the offers available (if any). Asked can I speak to someone or request to have my account reviewed by them. She advised they don't take calls, don't know when or how they review, etc ... She agreed the status of my account should enable to have a CLI, however there was absolutely NOTHING she could do.

[LuvsRetro]

Mind if I ask which number you used? 

[Anonymous]

I ONLY call the back door numbers on any cc I have. I disagree. The frontline csr's don't have the authority that the CSR specialists have. Besides, I get so much good info from the CSR specialists that the frontline reps just do not have access to.

Example, and true story: I called and spoke to a Cap1 frontline csr(using the number on the back of my cc) last year, asking for a cli. Declined. I called back using the backdoor number that I learned of a few days later. Visited with the CSR for 10 minutes, and they gave me $500 cli on 2 of my Cap1 cards.