Are You Overlooking This Valuable Credit Card Perk?

Perhaps you know about lesser-known credit card perks such as free rental car insurance. But did you know your credit card might come with a concierge service?

Like the cellphone insurance that comes with many credit cards, this benefit might be one you’re overlooking.

The credit card service, similar to the type of concierge service you’ll find at a high-end hotel, is available whenever and wherever you might need it. Most credit card concierges are accessible 24 hours a day by phone or email, says CreditCards.com.

The website explains:

“While a personal concierge sounds expensive and fancy, your credit card’s concierge is a free service … Unlike a hotel’s concierge, a credit card concierge isn’t limited to giving you information for a single location. You can use a credit card concierge while at home, traveling or in advance when planning a trip.”

So, what does a free credit card concierge service do for eligible cardholders? According to CreditCards.com, this perk can help you with the following:

• Recommend and make reservations at restaurants
• Book events, such as shows, concerts and sporting events
• Shop, such as for hard-to-find items
• Make appointments, such as when you can’t easily book one yourself because you need extra research or local knowledge
• Research, such as with information about a travel destination

Concierge services are available to cardholders of specific rewards credit cards issued by:

• American Express
• MasterCard
• Visa

Some credit card concierge services — like the service associated with Visa Signature — have dedicated websites. Others are accessible only by phone or email.

If you’re in the market for a new credit card, check out Money Talks News’ credit card search tool. It enables you to search for cards based on their category, rating or network.

Before you use a credit card concierge service, though, note that you will need your card number to confirm that you are eligible to use the service. Also, CreditCards.com advises calling 24 hours in advance of using the service.

Have you ever used a credit card’s concierge service? Tell us about your experience below or on Facebook.