The joys of using credit cards abroad. Shortly before my daughter went to South Africa for the college semester, I ordered another copy of my credit card with my daughter’s name on it so she could use it there. While it didn’t always work, despite my call to the issuing bank, it was a largely workable system. But then, I received an email from the bank in mid-March.
“We’re introducing new features for managing Authorized Users on your account. If you have Authorized Users, they’ll be issued replacement cards with a card number different from the number on your card. These cards will be sent to your address on file and should arrive by May 12, 2025, as long as your account is not closed.”
That’s a pain. I called them, told them my daughter is away and having difficulty receiving mail there. The representative said they could send her the card to South Africa via the shipping entity DHL. Okay, problem solved.
In early May, her card arrived at MY address. The problem is not solved. She has the account number, but using her card in person may be limited.
Newark
The other problem is that she’s supposed to fly back on United to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWK) in mid-June. Have you heard about the issues?
Is there a workaround? From here: “United Airlines — the largest carrier at Newark [which she flew going out, and is scheduled to return on] — is alerting customers through its app and website about ‘Newark flexibility.’
“You can reschedule your trip, and they will waive change fees and fare differences, but your new flight must be a United flight departing between two days prior to and two days after your original travel date.
“Tickets must be in the same cabin and between the same cities as originally booked, or LaGuardia Airport in Queens and Philadelphia International Airport in Philadelphia.”
Ultimately, the solution will be to fly to the DC area – only a couple of dollars to change it – and figure out how to get her home on the train.
Last we 