A few years ago I decided to build some credit with a Discover secured card. And when I researched Discover, I learned about why their acceptance was lower (higher merchant transaction fees) and their overseas acceptance was comparatively lower, and that they didn't have a single brick-and-mortar branch, and so with masochistic glee, I signed up!
Discover's credit card was a great idea, I feel. The cashback rewards I can earn at restaurants are great. The acceptance hasn't really been a barrier to spending, but unfortunately I cling to my Visa-based debit, "just in case" there are merchants who can't accept Discover -- what else would I do?
The lack of branches? No big deal, considering anything important can be done through their app or website. Which are very polished, attractive and functional. They don't even 2FA me from my Chromebook.
Their customer service is amazing. I mean, call in the middle of the night to a fluent English speaker who tells you where they're located?! They are so polite and patient! Best ever experience, really. In fact, my credit union's reps are really good too. It's a small blessing.
I did not need to open a Discover Checking account, and I can't remember why I did it, but I did. The Discover Bank debit card is different than their credit cards, and therefore acceptance may be even lower. I still get cashback rewards on it.
My finances are uncomplicated. I don't much enjoy dealing separately with two banks. I don't really need to. Except my credit union has no credit card to offer me, and Discover has no Visa to offer me. So I get along. We'll see how the Capital One thing goes.
Discover's credit card was a great idea, I feel. The cashback rewards I can earn at restaurants are great. The acceptance hasn't really been a barrier to spending, but unfortunately I cling to my Visa-based debit, "just in case" there are merchants who can't accept Discover -- what else would I do?
The lack of branches? No big deal, considering anything important can be done through their app or website. Which are very polished, attractive and functional. They don't even 2FA me from my Chromebook.
Their customer service is amazing. I mean, call in the middle of the night to a fluent English speaker who tells you where they're located?! They are so polite and patient! Best ever experience, really. In fact, my credit union's reps are really good too. It's a small blessing.
I did not need to open a Discover Checking account, and I can't remember why I did it, but I did. The Discover Bank debit card is different than their credit cards, and therefore acceptance may be even lower. I still get cashback rewards on it.
My finances are uncomplicated. I don't much enjoy dealing separately with two banks. I don't really need to. Except my credit union has no credit card to offer me, and Discover has no Visa to offer me. So I get along. We'll see how the Capital One thing goes.
Obligatory "Capital 1" related xkcd: https://m.xkcd.com/2206/