Posts Tagged ‘providian credit card’

The Providian Credit Card was once one of the leading credit cards in America. At one point, The Providian Financial Corporation employed more than 10,000 employees to support its growing customer base. This bank credit card provided what was known as one of the excellent credit card services. The types of cards offered by Providian were:

• Providian Visa Platinum Card, which catered mainly to American consumers wherein the cardholder is given full access to his FICO Credit scores.
• Providian Real Rewards, which provides a lot of reward programs for customers who use their credit cards for their purchases, as well as those who may payments on time.
• Providian Cash Rewards, which gives the cardholder rewards in the form of cash rebates.
• Premium Points Credit Account, a reward program wherein the cardholder earns a point for each dollar spent with the credit card.

WAMU Buys Providian Financial Corp

The Providian Financial Company however ran into problems and was later bought by Washington Mutual. Washington Mutual entered the credit card market through the acquisition of San Francisco-based Providian Financial in October 2005. At this point, Providian credit card payments were accepted by Washington Mutual.

Taken from the Washington Mutual website:

Card Services
Washington Mutual Card Services is a leading provider of credit cards to middle market consumers throughout the United States. By combining experience, analysis, technology and outstanding customer service, Washington Mutual seeks to build long-lasting relationships with its customers by providing products and services that meet their evolving financial needs. Credit cards are issued through Washington Mutual Bank.

Washington Mutual entered the credit card market through the acquisition of San Francisco-based Providian Financial in October 2005.

WaMu is Becoming CHASE

In Sept 2008, Washington Mutual filed for bankruptcy and was delisted from the stock exchange. All assets and most liabilities (including deposits, covered bonds, and other secured debt) of Washington Mutual Bank were then assumed by JPMorgan Chase. Now, when you visit the Washington Mutual website, the header states that “WaMu is becoming CHASE”.

What Happened to Providian Credit Cards?

When you visit the original Providian Website, you will now be redirected to Chase and this is explained by the turn of events stated above. Chase recognizes WaMu credit card holders. This means that you can access your Washington Mutual accounts online through this link. As stated in the page, you can do the ff:

• Sign up for Chase Online.
• Learn more about Chase Online — read our FAQs, watch the Chase Online credit card demo and more.
• Log on to Chase.com. You can use your WaMu User ID and Password to access your account information.
• Update your online profile with your current address, phone number(s) and e-mail address(es).
• Set up Account Alerts for your credit card account.
• Set up a deposit account to enroll in AutoPay or schedule an ePay.
• Save Chase.com as one of your online “Favorites.”

In order to have full understanding, you may visit the Chase FAQ page.