As the end of the year approaches, a warning has been issued to consumers regarding points accumulated on credit cards, debit cards, and store loyalty cards. It has been noted that money points, miles, and reward points earned from purchases may be deleted at the end of the year depending on certain campaign conditions.
Consumer Confederation (TÜKONFED) Deputy Chairman İbrahim Güllü stated that consumers should review their card balances and point usage terms before the year ends. Güllü pointed out that the expiration periods for points accumulated on loyalty cards belonging to supermarkets, clothing retailers, fuel stations, and various other brands, as well as those from banks, can vary.
According to Güllü, some companies notify customers via SMS or email toward the end of the year that points not used by a certain date will be deleted. However, many consumers do not know how many points they have on their cards, whether these points will carry over to the new year, or what their expiration dates are.
POINT BALANCES SHOULD BE CHECKED
Consumers are advised to check all the credit and debit cards they use, as well as their store and brand loyalty cards. The amount of points, expiration dates, and rollover conditions can be learned through banks' mobile applications, customer services, or the announcements of the relevant businesses.
Stating that campaign conditions and the validity period of points should be examined, Güllü advised that points be used in a timely manner according to needs to avoid losing rights in cases where point deletions are legally notified in advance. He also emphasized that consumers should take screenshots of their point balances and keep SMS messages, emails, campaign announcements, and shopping receipts.
It was stated that consumers who believe their points have been deleted unlawfully can first make a written application to the bank or the relevant business. It was reminded that if the request is not met, an application can be made to the Consumer Arbitration Committee depending on the nature of the dispute.
TÜKONFED notes that loyalty systems influence consumer shopping preferences and that clear disclosure is therefore important. Güllü stated that the obligation to inform consumers before their earned points are deleted must be fulfilled and that acquired rights must be protected.
News Source: 12punto
