posted
When do points start showing up in your account from using the Amtrak credit card?
And, how do you redeem for free Amtrak travel? The redeem page on the webite is very confusing and there is little instruction. Specifically, what is the value you are to enter in the empty field? I do't get the rest of it either. Please enlighten a new Guest Rewards user.
Thanks
[This message has been edited by Room Service (edited 07-17-2003).]
posted
I received my credit card bill about two weeks ago and my guest rewards account was credited shortly threafter. For example, my July credit card bill is due August 1st, and my account was credited on July 6th. So it's not that much of a lag time. And the points are not awarded based on how much you actually pay on your credit card.
That's once your enrolled. Not sure on the lag time if you have recently enrolled in the guest rewards program or signed up for the Guest Rewards Credit Card.
Have always redeemed my points via phone with a live person by calling the guest rewards number. I only use the online redemption page to figure out the # of points needed for each type of redemption.
posted
I think the reason the points and the statement don't always agree (and why there is a lag time) is because the Guest Rewards people deliberately want to allow some time to pass before they reward you your actual points. This allows for any credits (returned items) to show up on your statement. Otherwise, Guest Rewards seems to go out of their way to give an accurate and timely recording of points.
Like jp1822, I use a live operator to settle my accounts with Guest Rewards. I just use the web to check my points. Incidentally, the statement they send you in the mail is generally way behind your actual point value.
The live operators help me work around the blackout periods and answer any questions I may have. They are very knowledgeable. They can be reached at (800) 307-5000, Mon.-Fri. 7-7 (Eastern Time, I think).
Tickets need to be redeemed about three weeks in advance. Aside from all the restrictions and delays, Guest Rewards has saved me a ton of money on train travel. It's a great program.
Posts: 324 | From: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA | Registered: Jan 2003
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posted
If your destination is within 2 zones (Emeryville-Atlanta) can you request travel that would involve 3 zones as long as you connect directly to the next train? Example: EMY-CHI, CHI-WASH DC, WASH DC-ATL. As opposed to, EMY-LAX, LAX-NOL,(having to stay overnight to catch the) NOL-ATL. Thank you.
Posts: 218 | Registered: Mar 2001
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posted
I doubt they would accept your request. I think you would have to pick one train or the other. I don't think the same day connection would carry any weight. I'd certainly call a rep and ask though.
Posts: 337 | Registered: Jun 2003
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posted
Turns out, I had TWO accounts. One that was issued for travel from LAX to CHI round trip. The second was created when I got the credit card. Service was very friendly and combined accounts with no problem. I had NO IDEA I had accumulated another 2,000 points to be added to the 2,700 I already had. Nice suprise. Boy it sure adds up fast. Only been a member 3 months. Thanks for the advise.
[This message has been edited by Room Service (edited 07-18-2003).]
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