What to answer when CR asks why you're requesting a CLI?

[elim]

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@Anonymous wrote:

Funny you bring this up.  I've asked for CL increases over the years and have never really been asked why.  I've have a Nordstrom card since 1989 and the CL was always fine.  Earlier this year I realized I've never gotten an increase and called to request one.  The rep was actually rude and asked why I was requesting one.  I responded that I had the card over 20 years and had never gotten one.  Her response, "that did not answer my question". Kind of amused at the time and responded that I planned to replace my wardrobe.  Approved, but she seemed irritated by my request.  As I think back, amused should not have been my thought at the time. 

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  lol, you have added to their bottom line for 25 years and the girl that has worked there for probably just a few of those years is irritated and "doing you a favor".

  that card would probably end up in the safe, under my will, to be found by my children in what i hope will be years from now.

  way to keep your cool. great post.

[Kostya1992]

Here is what I say:

"I'd like to make Bank X my primary line of credit because I like the rewards/customer service/etc, however I am crippled by my current limit and have to make multiple payments throughout the month in order to stay below my limit or have to use other credit cards"

[Anonymous]

Of course, it would be good to know why the CLI is wanted in the first place.   I would estimate that X% of people who say "Utilization" as the reason (to themselves, not to the CCC) really don't have a util issue that requires the CLI.   I think a lot of it is just "because it is (possibly) there"   The value of X is left to the reader...

[Firehorse]

I tell them the truth. Like I told the Barclay CA.

I am rebuilding and was wiped out during the recession. I am taking steps to build a good score to reach my goal of a mortgage in 2 years. Part of that process to prove my credit worthiness is to keep my UTIL low around 4%, a CLI gives me more room to stay on track. I tend to PIF and only float every once and a while.

The analyst at Barclay responded. Damn. You're making my job easy. I am completely comfortable with giving you a CLI.

BofA I said something completely different.

I've been a loyal customer for two years, you were my first card in helping me rebuild and I really appreciate that BofA did that for me. I would just like to feel like I've accomplished something here and be eligible for a Signature card.

She said she'd be right back. Approved and put in a PC request to CS for me.

[Anonymous]

"Just in case"

[SunriseEarth]

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@Anonymous wrote:

Gee, a lot of the same sanctimonious people who condemn those who don't just put "factual" info when applying for a card, seem to have no problem recommending making up stuff answers when applying for a CLI.  One more case of hypocrisy at the myFICO forum....

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Oh, elPatitoFeo...you know I love you more than my luggage!  .

But a valid point is made.   Ideally on the boards, we encourage people to make ethical credit choices (or, at the absolute least, discourage discussion of unethical ones).   And no, I wouldn't suggest someone outright lie just to get a CLI.   The LUV button or the phone system doesn't care why, fortunately; I'm also finding out that, more and more, the live people don't care all the time, either.   But if you are asked by a CSR why not give honest answers, like "I'm concerned about my credit utilitzation"?   Or you prefer using CCs with higher CLs?   Some have said they're considering making some sort of purchase (to what extent you're considering a purchase isn't asked, so I don't really see a problem with that as an answer).