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Discover Balance/Usage Question

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Anonymous
Not applicable

Discover Balance/Usage Question

I got approved for Discover IT last month with 10k CL.  I plan to use it to pay for part of a vehicle purchase from a private seller.  I plan to pay about $2800 through Venmo and cut her a check for the rest.  I had a few questions though.

 

First, should I call Discover and let them know about the upcoming large charge? Was concerned that because it is a new account and I'm using an online money transfer service it may seem suspicious.

 

I've been wondering also about how much of the balance to let report and for how long.  My plan was to pay off about a grand before my next statement cuts, on 6/4.  Doing so would ensure I stay under 10% util.  Then pay off the remaining $1800 the next month. I get a cost of living stipend from work in June and my wife is due for her bonus around that time as well (though as with anything, nothing is guaranteed.)  Should I carry the balance for 3 months or so though to increase the chance for a CLI? I've read about the relationship between carrying balances with Discover and receiving a CLI at 3 mos.  

 

I understand that I shouldn't base my actions on what the CC company "likes" but, since its 0% for 14 months and I'm doing it for my own potential benefit, I feel comfortable carrying the balance if it will possibly help.  I also would hate to receive a CLD due such a large purchase which is why I'm wondering if I should call.  I've heard of other companies doing that, but haven't seen much about Discover doing so.  Any help would be much appreciated all.  Thanks!

Message 1 of 6
5 REPLIES 5
Gmood1
Super Contributor

Re: Discover Balance/Usage Question

You may want to check and see what your cash advance limit is. Discover's cash advances limits are the weakest of any lender I'm with, compared to the CL.
Venmo is considered a cash advance with most, if not all CC lenders.
For example, my $24k Discover only has a $2800 cash advance limit.
Message 2 of 6
Anonymous
Not applicable

Re: Discover Balance/Usage Question

Right. Mine is 2500. I’ve used it before and it has codes as a purchase so hopefully that will be the case this time as well.
Message 3 of 6
Anonymous
Not applicable

Re: Discover Balance/Usage Question

Or more accurately, it coded as “generic business service”
Message 4 of 6
Gmood1
Super Contributor

Re: Discover Balance/Usage Question

Good deal! Well as long as you have a plan in order to pay it down. I don't see where it should be an issue.
That's what credit is for! Use it like you stole it! 😁
Message 5 of 6
Anonymous
Not applicable

Re: Discover Balance/Usage Question

Calling ahead for a large amount may be wise, just to prevent them from refusing it. 

As for paying it off, I'd take the whole 14 months with free interest!  There's no big hurry to pay it back  so soon, unless utilization is a concern in the near future. Such as apping for more cards etc. It's far better to earn interest on that Money in savings, then just pay it off in 13 months.

Message 6 of 6
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