Advice on BAPP strategy

[as02]

Hi All – I took out the BAPP card in Oct last year, and am now nearing the £10k threshold. Once I hit 10k, I am deciding between (a) downgrading the card or (b) closing the card altogether and start my 2-year Amex clock (just closed my Gold card last month too). P2 has a Gold card which we can then use until there is a good SUB offer on Barclays or Virign.

I would really appreciate advice on –
1. What would you suggest is the better option?
2. I know a lot of people use the downgrade route, but are there any downsides to doing so?
3. When is the best time to check for a retention offer on BAPP? Right after hitting the £10k?

Thanks!

[NorthernLass]

The best option these days might just be to keep the card if you want to continue to earn the superior 241s, as there’s no guarantee now that you will be able to down/upgrade or be accepted next time you apply.
IME the best time to mention a retention bonus is shortly before the annual fee is due, though any discussion of cancelling the card can elicit a desirable response.

[LittleNick]

Whilst the evidence is anecdotal, there is a risk if you cancel the card outright, you could lose your BA companion voucher even if it’s in your BA account. It might be wise to downgrade rather than close?

[NorthernLass]

There is no verified evidence of this, though obviously it could change in the future. I’d be more concerned about not being accepted (plenty of evidence here!)

[can2]

Depends on your annual spend, but the earning rate is pretty sweet for BAPP, given the circumstances. Remember, unlike Virgin, you need miles to use the 241 voucher.

[zapato1060]

I would keep the BAPP and do an unethical check every year for a retention bonus. You are also able to get the Plat now or wait until a larger SUB is available. P2 can sign up now to BAPP or when an increase SUB arrives.

[Reney]

zapato1060 wrote:

I would keep the BAPP and do an unethical check every year for a retention bonus. You are also able to get the Plat now or wait until a larger SUB is available. P2 can sign up now to BAPP or when an increase SUB arrives.

The OP just closed their gold card last month not eligible for Plat card bonus.

[as02]

Thanks all! This is very very helpful.
I am not very fussed about keeping the card for its earning rate – as I could effectively get that on the Gold card too (accounting for the 5k milestone bonus).
My main concern is around the future implication of downgrading, in terms of being able to upgrade or getting approved again. But thanks for the advice on that – seems like starting safe would be a better option.

Assuming that downgrading is off the table. If I do cancel the card though, does that have any such implications too? I would assume cancelling the card is a pretty normal thing?