As my birthday approaches (exactly one month from now, actually), my mailbox seems to be plagued with many "Happy Birthday! Enjoy a gift from (insert name of large store with high interest credit card here)!"
I have a credit card for probably every store you can think of, because I am a woman and sometimes, my window shopping leads to impulse buying of matching coats and hats and shoes that I simply must have. Now, I know this behavior will only cause me stress later on, but I don't tend to exhibit said behavior unless I am strapped for immediate cash. Or, around a holiday, such as this impending one.
So far this week, I've been hit by Gap and Victoria's Secret, and I expect a few others to send me a coupon for being born in the near future.
Here is my complaint: I have a balance on those cards. I pay on time every month. I actively use the card every year, at least a few times. However, when my birthday rolls around, instead of being really nice and rewarding me for being a loyal customer and just giving me a damn coupon or free keychain, I get an envelope with a smiling model on it that houses a small credit card sized piece of paper (how convenient) that says,
"Happy Birthday! Come into (insert name of large store with high interest credit card here) and present this coupon as our gift to you for $10 off your next (insert name of large store with high interest credit card here) card purchase when you spend $50 or more!"
Let me get this straight. I can only use your "gift" if I (a) charge it and add to my already looming balance, AND (b) spend more than I normally would on one item? How is this supposed to make me feel warm and fuzzy inside? Ideally, I should be able to use that $10 no matter what form of payment I use to buy a $20 hat if I want. Or, $10 socks. Shouldn't I?
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