Selling Tradelines / Piggybacking Part II: $1000+/hr, 20-40k/yr. Side Gig

[arebelspy]

I've used traveling mailbox for the last four years (aug 2015 - aug 2019) as my address on everything (banks, ccs, etc) with no issues.

They do send back mail, so AU cards are returned. Never had an issue with that.

[Padonak]

I've used traveling mailbox for the last four years (aug 2015 - aug 2019) as my address on everything (banks, ccs, etc) with no issues.

They do send back mail, so AU cards are returned. Never had an issue with that.

Thanks. I am considering three mail forwarding companies: Traveling Mailbox, Escapees and St Brandan's Isle. Do you know if Traveling Mailbox is less likely to get flagged by banks as a non-residential address? Why did you choose Traveling Mailbox vs its competitors?

[arebelspy]

I don't know anything about those other ones. I don't recognize those two names. There were a few other competitors, but I couldn't say why four years ago I chose that one over them.

I do like Traveling Mailbox. Really good customer service when you need anything.

[katsiki]

I've used traveling mailbox for the last four years (aug 2015 - aug 2019) as my address on everything (banks, ccs, etc) with no issues.

They do send back mail, so AU cards are returned. Never had an issue with that.

Thanks. I am considering three mail forwarding companies: Traveling Mailbox, Escapees and St Brandan's Isle. Do you know if Traveling Mailbox is less likely to get flagged by banks as a non-residential address? Why did you choose Traveling Mailbox vs its competitors?

@Padonak   I have no personal experience with any of these.  I have seen all 3 and probably others discussed on the forum here.  You might try a couple of searches.  It seems a good number of people use these services.

[CanuckExpat]

Do you put that traveling mailbox address as your home address with the banks? If so, have you ever had problems with the address not being residential? AFAIK many banks have databases of residential vs commercial/mail forwarding addresses. They can flag and even freeze or close accounts registered with mail forwarding addresses.

I've mainly used traveling mailbox as home address for about three years, there were a couple of instances it wouldn't work, as you referred to. In that case I used the traveling mailbox as mailing address and a physical address as home address. Won't derail thread too much further, but was discussed a bit more here: https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/post-fire/us-address-(renter)-during-extended-livingtraveling-overseas/msg2229942/#msg2229942

Will add this also means the traveling mailbox address shows up on my credit report. A couple times with mortgage applications this has led to some fun questions from underwriters, depending on how much due diligence they are doing

As ARS said, I like traveling mailbox. Good interface, good enough pricing. All works well. I haven't tested the others, I'm sure they are good too?

[Padonak]

Thank you for your detailed replies, I'll read the linked thread.

[Kem]

Discover has requested a callback (via email and mail, the number matches that on the back of my card) to discuss in detail the 2 tradeline I have added.  Has anyone else been asked for this, and if so what has been shared?

[arebelspy]

Discover has requested a callback (via email and mail, the number matches that on the back of my card) to discuss in detail the 2 tradeline I have added.  Has anyone else been asked for this, and if so what has been shared?

See this post, and the 3 replies after it: https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/share-your-badassity/selling-tradelines-piggybacking-part-ii-$1000hr-20-40kyr-side-gig/msg2423321/#msg2423321

[Padonak]

Discover has requested a callback (via email and mail, the number matches that on the back of my card) to discuss in detail the 2 tradeline I have added.  Has anyone else been asked for this, and if so what has been shared?

It happened to me a few times. They called to confirm that i added the AUs. A couple of times they requested supporting documents (drivers license and SSN card).

[Kem]

Awesome, thanks folks!

[geekette]

I don't sell tradelines, but I've followed along here occasionally.  I added a cousin to an old high limit account a few years ago to help with her credit score.  The card came to my house, as expected.

A couple weeks ago, my mother added me to her Chase Sapphire account.  We were renting a car, I was driving, and we wanted the extra insurance. 

Instead of sending the card to her house, it came to mine. 

If I were selling tradelines, this would make me very nervous.  Why would they send the card to me???

[arebelspy]

I don't sell tradelines, but I've followed along here occasionally.  I added a cousin to an old high limit account a few years ago to help with her credit score.  The card came to my house, as expected.

A couple weeks ago, my mother added me to her Chase Sapphire account.  We were renting a car, I was driving, and we wanted the extra insurance. 

Instead of sending the card to her house, it came to mine. 

If I were selling tradelines, this would make me very nervous.  Why would they send the card to me???

That's really weird, and against their protocol.

I imagine your mom might be able to call and find out why.

In any case, it's not something I worry about in the slightest.  In a combined 20ish years between the 2 TL companies, they've never once had an AU make an unauthorized charge on a card they're authorized on.

In 3+ years since I first posted and many many (thousands?) of AU sales for Mustachians, no one has ever reported an issue with an AU making a charge on their CC.

It's just not something I'd worry about at all, personally. 

[erutio]

Has anyone figured out a work around for the AU limit on Barclay's cards?

[Padonak]

Has anyone figured out a work around for the AU limit on Barclay's cards?

I tried replacing the card and changing the product... didn't work. What's the limit btw? I think it was about 34 on the card I tried to replace.

[secondcor521]

I don't sell tradelines, but I've followed along here occasionally.  I added a cousin to an old high limit account a few years ago to help with her credit score.  The card came to my house, as expected.

A couple weeks ago, my mother added me to her Chase Sapphire account.  We were renting a car, I was driving, and we wanted the extra insurance. 

Instead of sending the card to her house, it came to mine. 

If I were selling tradelines, this would make me very nervous.  Why would they send the card to me???

That's really weird, and against their protocol.

I imagine your mom might be able to call and find out why.

In any case, it's not something I worry about in the slightest.  In a combined 20ish years between the 2 TL companies, they've never once had an AU make an unauthorized charge on a card they're authorized on.

In 3+ years since I first posted and many many (thousands?) of AU sales for Mustachians, no one has ever reported an issue with an AU making a charge on their CC.

It's just not something I'd worry about at all, personally.

I trust Chase not to send it to the AU address because in their online "add AU" process they explicitly say which address they'll send it to, and it's always my address, not the AU address.

I've added AUs to multiple cards across multiple issuers and never had one go to the AU address.  I did have one CSR once say they were going to ship it to the AU, but I asked her to send it to me instead, and it came to me.  I think she was an inexperienced CSR.

There are a couple of issuers, and Chase may be one of them, where if you specifically ask them to send the card to the AU, they will.  If it was a family member, that's probably what I would do.  It's what I'm guessing @geekette's Mom did in this case.

[geekette]

I don't sell tradelines, but I've followed along here occasionally.  I added a cousin to an old high limit account a few years ago to help with her credit score.  The card came to my house, as expected.

A couple weeks ago, my mother added me to her Chase Sapphire account.  We were renting a car, I was driving, and we wanted the extra insurance. 

Instead of sending the card to her house, it came to mine. 

If I were selling tradelines, this would make me very nervous.  Why would they send the card to me???

That's really weird, and against their protocol.

I imagine your mom might be able to call and find out why.

In any case, it's not something I worry about in the slightest.  In a combined 20ish years between the 2 TL companies, they've never once had an AU make an unauthorized charge on a card they're authorized on.

In 3+ years since I first posted and many many (thousands?) of AU sales for Mustachians, no one has ever reported an issue with an AU making a charge on their CC.

It's just not something I'd worry about at all, personally.

I trust Chase not to send it to the AU address because in their online "add AU" process they explicitly say which address they'll send it to, and it's always my address, not the AU address.

I've added AUs to multiple cards across multiple issuers and never had one go to the AU address.  I did have one CSR once say they were going to ship it to the AU, but I asked her to send it to me instead, and it came to me.  I think she was an inexperienced CSR.

There are a couple of issuers, and Chase may be one of them, where if you specifically ask them to send the card to the AU, they will.  If it was a family member, that's probably what I would do.  It's what I'm guessing @geekette's Mom did in this case.

Mom’s 84; I’m sure she called and you’re right, she probably asked them to send it to me. That makes me feel better.

[Kem]

Discover has requested a callback (via email and mail, the number matches that on the back of my card) to discuss in detail the 2 tradeline I have added.  Has anyone else been asked for this, and if so what has been shared?

See this post, and the 3 replies after it: https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/share-your-badassity/selling-tradelines-piggybacking-part-ii-$1000hr-20-40kyr-side-gig/msg2423321/#msg2423321

Thanks again - just off a LONG call with DC.  They wanted to verify the recent AU adds (May and July), confirm the SSN/Addresses, and requested reason behind the add

[salt cured]

Discover has requested a callback (via email and mail, the number matches that on the back of my card) to discuss in detail the 2 tradeline I have added.  Has anyone else been asked for this, and if so what has been shared?

See this post, and the 3 replies after it: https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/share-your-badassity/selling-tradelines-piggybacking-part-ii-$1000hr-20-40kyr-side-gig/msg2423321/#msg2423321

Thanks again - just off a LONG call with DC.  They wanted to verify the recent AU adds (May and July), confirm the SSN/Addresses, and requested reason behind the add

What reason did you provide?

[Kem]

What reason did you provide?

They are 2 individuals who helped me earn some side money and who may have need to access to my credit card for future purchasing requirements - and if so I will deliver the cards to them directly.

[merula]

What reason did you provide?

They are 2 individuals who helped me earn some side money and who may have need to access to my credit card for future purchasing requirements - and if so I will deliver the cards to them directly.

This is GOLD. Perfectly logical, true and on the up-and-up.

[Kem]

I'm glad you like it merula :)

[topshot]

For those of you with multiple Barclay cards, it is true you can't access them all from a single online account? I just got my first 2 from them and that is what the rep said though one is a business version.

[secondcor521]

For those of you with multiple Barclay cards, it is true you can't access them all from a single online account? I just got my first 2 from them and that is what the rep said though one is a business version.

I can access both of my Barclays cards from a single login, although in my case both are personal cards.

[katsiki]

For those of you with multiple Barclay cards, it is true you can't access them all from a single online account? I just got my first 2 from them and that is what the rep said though one is a business version.

I can access both of my Barclays cards from a single login, although in my case both are personal cards.

Same here.

[topshot]

Good. It may be because one is a business card then. With Chase you must link the business card first and then have them add the personal card so I'll try that once it arrives.

[goodlivin23]

Hi,
How often can you apply for a new Barclay card? I applied for one recently and got accepted (for $14K). I applied for another one a few days later and was denied. Thoughts?
Also, do you get any warnings before they shut down a card? I can't find anything written specifically on my agreement that states you cannot have multiple AUs (or that being a reason for them to shut down your card.

Thanks all!

[Monkey stache]

Is anyone having problems adding AUs to their USAA card? I need to add 2 AUs and USAA couldn't do it for me yesterday nor today. They claim it's the system but I'm wondering if it's a subtle "hey chill out with these AUs." They don't know when it will be working again.

[secondcor521]

Is anyone having problems adding AUs to their USAA card? I need to add 2 AUs and USAA couldn't do it for me yesterday nor today. They claim it's the system but I'm wondering if it's a subtle "hey chill out with these AUs." The don't know when it will be working again.

I had "system problems" twice when I tried to add a third AU to my USAA card.  USAA was unable to add the AU even after multiple attempts both times.  I think USAA is OK with 2 at a time but not 3 at a time, but nobody told the front line CSRs that.

If you have any AUs on your USAA card currently that you can remove, remove them and try again.  Otherwise I think your only option is to tell the AU company that you were unable to add.

[Monkey stache]

Thanks for the feedback. I already have 2 AUs and they want to add two more (all with the same company) so that must be what's causing the problem. I'm surprised the tradeline company isn't aware of this limitation.

[katsiki]

Hi,
How often can you apply for a new Barclay card? I applied for one recently and got accepted (for $14K). I applied for another one a few days later and was denied. Thoughts?
Also, do you get any warnings before they shut down a card? I can't find anything written specifically on my agreement that states you cannot have multiple AUs (or that being a reason for them to shut down your card.

Thanks all!

I have not opened a new one in a few years.  However, in my experience, they are more picky than other issuers.  I would suggest waiting a few months between cards with them (at a minimum).

[MasterStache]

Thanks for the feedback. I already have 2 AUs and they want to add two more (all with the same company) so that must be what's causing the problem. I'm surprised the tradeline company isn't aware of this limitation.

Not sure which company you are using but I am always limited to 2 AUs for USAA. I prefer to keep it that way as it' a really old high limit card so it's very profitable. Also adding AUs with USAA is a PITA!

[wienerdog]

Why does the new company send rules out about prompt replies but they don't show the same courtesy when it comes to payment?  I bet if I would never say anything I would never get paid.  I don't think I have got a payment yet without me pestering them.  Orders from March and June.

[frugalnacho]

I have only had a single $50 sale in the last year with the new company.  Did this completely dry up for anyone else? Will I have more luck if I switch over to the old company?

[arebelspy]

I have only had a single $50 sale in the last year with the new company.  Did this completely dry up for anyone else? Will I have more luck if I switch over to the old company?

Yeah, old company is seeing more sales (and no payout lag), but their card restrictions are higher (30k minimum limits, 5 years old).

If your cards fit, I tend to recommend people go there. If your cards don't, better to use new company and get occasional sales than a riskier company, IMO, but YMMV.

[Kem]

From the new company regarding payout date:  10 weeks after the closing date

[frugalnacho]

I have only had a single $50 sale in the last year with the new company.  Did this completely dry up for anyone else? Will I have more luck if I switch over to the old company?

Yeah, old company is seeing more sales (and no payout lag), but their card restrictions are higher (30k minimum limits, 5 years old).

If your cards fit, I tend to recommend people go there. If your cards don't, better to use new company and get occasional sales than a riskier company, IMO, but YMMV.

I don't have any cards that qualify for that.  Did too many mustachians flood the market?  Or is there something else going on causing a drought? Or am I just on the unlucky end of the sales spectrum? Or did I get black balled or something? I was late to the game, but I feel like I sold a decent amount in 2018 right up until about august, and since then I had just a single $50 sale on one card in early 2019. 

[chuckster]

For sure, my older, larger CC accounts which you would think would be more attractive (5+ yrs old, high limits) rarely sell if at all.

The newer accounts that barely seem worth getting AU status on (1-2 yrs old, low limits) at least sell occasionally.

[FrugalZony]

I haven't had any sales this year either, which is ok.
I only have a couple cards that qualify and they do have a limited number of spots.
I rather get one occasionally and stay under the radar, then using up my spots quickly and raising red flags.

[Padonak]

Can a BBVA credit card be used for tradelines with any of the companies?

[flashflooder]

Why does the new company send rules out about prompt replies but they don't show the same courtesy when it comes to payment?  I bet if I would never say anything I would never get paid.  I don't think I have got a payment yet without me pestering them.  Orders from March and June.

To be fair, I've found the side of the house that sends out these emails (and handles all the admin stuff) to be very responsive.  It's just the payment side that lags.  It would be nice if they could just automate it.

[Car Jack]

Can a BBVA credit card be used for tradelines with any of the companies?

I have one with the old company.  It was one that I shotgunned when they were looking for new, low limit cards for 2 month, $25 slots.  I think both companies change what they'll take on an almost daily basis.  It's worth shooting them the specs on the card (age and limit).  I get 2 AUs on that card every period.

[frugalnacho]

I have only had a single $50 sale in the last year with the new company.  Did this completely dry up for anyone else? Will I have more luck if I switch over to the old company?

Yeah, old company is seeing more sales (and no payout lag), but their card restrictions are higher (30k minimum limits, 5 years old).

If your cards fit, I tend to recommend people go there. If your cards don't, better to use new company and get occasional sales than a riskier company, IMO, but YMMV.

I don't have any cards that qualify for that.  Did too many mustachians flood the market?  Or is there something else going on causing a drought? Or am I just on the unlucky end of the sales spectrum? Or did I get black balled or something? I was late to the game, but I feel like I sold a decent amount in 2018 right up until about august, and since then I had just a single $50 sale on one card in early 2019.

Ha 2 days later and I just got a sale.  Maybe they read the thread.

[N]

I just got a request to add an AU. Capitol One is asking me for the persons phone number, which the tradeline company didnt supply. Do I just use mine?

[chuckster]

I just got a request to add an AU. Capitol One is asking me for the persons phone number, which the tradeline company didnt supply. Do I just use mine?

No, make one up. Would be helpful if it is in the right area code as their address.

[arebelspy]

I always use my number when I have to give a phone number (as with Capital One).

There's no need for it (it doesn't report to the credit bureaus, so it's not helpful for having the TL report), so I'd rather have my number on there, for security purposes and if they call it, I want to be the one answering.

[MasterStache]

I always use my number when I have to give a phone number (as with Capital One).

There's no need for it (it doesn't report to the credit bureaus, so it's not helpful for having the TL report), so I'd rather have my number on there, for security purposes and if they call it, I want to be the one answering.

+1

Got 2 AU adds today for Capital One. Since it's my spouse's card, I just use her old phone number.

[ncexpress]

I'm new here and I know this thread has been going on for 3 years about these two tradeline companies that pay card holders, but has anyone sold directly to buyers? If so, what's been your experience?

[secondcor521]

I'm new here and I know this thread has been going on for 3 years about these two tradeline companies that pay card holders, but has anyone sold directly to buyers? If so, what's been your experience?

Yes.  Twice.  Both times to members on this board.

You can charge more, because the tradeline company is not taking a cut.

You take on the risk of evaluating the person to see if you're comfortable with adding them as an AU.  You have to manage the timing of the adding and deleting.  You have to communicate terms of the agreement with them, and possibly negotiate or explain the process.  You have to decide how to answer their questions about whether it works, and any other questions they may have.  You have to work out a payment method and you have to ask them for personal information such as name, address, DOB, SSN.  They may not like doing that.

If you're simultaneously selling lines to individuals directly and through a tradeline company, you have to coordinate blocking out a spot with the tradeline company so you can add your private sale; the timing of this may make you lose sales with the tradeline company.  The tradeline company could be bothered by what you're doing, because they could view it as increasing the risk of card shutdowns that you may blame them for, or they may just not like the hassle of blocking slots.

My experience was that the tradeline companies were professional and courteous.  While I didn't explain exactly what I was doing, they weren't born yesterday so I'm sure they knew.  It doesn't seem to have bothered them.

The individuals I worked with were both good and it went smoothly both times.  Both situations worked out somewhat differently and were somewhat better or worse in various respects.  Out of respect for them, since they may still be members and may still be reading this thread, I probably won't comment more specifically than that.

I would probably do it again if the opportunity arose, but probably only to someone I at least sort of know.  I probably wouldn't add a random person without some sort of connection (like this board, or a friend) or via the tradeline company.

[DavidAnnArbor]

Does anyone know what the tax implications are of winning a settlement from Discover for card closure?

Is this settlement considered taxable income?  Is the portion that the lawyer receives from the settlement also taxed? 

Does anyone know if this settlement is considered business income (Schedule C) because it's the result of actions related to the tradeline sales?

[anonymouscow]

I tried to search the thread and can't seem to find the info although I know it's probably in there...

Does anyone know for Barclays what kind of error message you receive when you hit the max lifetime AUs allowed?

It looks like I have had 33 AUs, trying to add #34 and I am getting an error. I sent a message through the message center, they replied saying I have to call. I still have AUs on the card, but don't really want to call and draw attention to the fact I have had so many AUs.

Thanks!