If you’re an SBI cardholder, you may have realized that while SBI cards offer excellent benefits, their annual fees can sometimes become a burden. For many users, the cost associated with holding a card outweighs the advantages. But did you know that there’s a way to make your SBI card Lifetime Free (LTF)? This means you can continue enjoying all the perks of your SBI card without having to worry about annual renewal fees or hidden charges. In this post, we’ll share a simple and effective method to convert any basic to mid-range SBI card into a Lifetime Free (LTF) card.
Read on to find out how you can easily make your SBI card LTF with minimal effort, and avoid paying those annoying annual fees!
What is an SBI Lifetime Free (LTF) Card?
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand what a Lifetime Free (LTF) card means.
A Lifetime Free (LTF) SBI card refers to a credit card that does not have any annual renewal fees. Typically, credit cards come with an annual fee, which can range from ₹499 to ₹2,999 or more depending on the type of card. These fees are charged for the benefits and services that the card offers. However, when a card is made Lifetime Free (LTF), the cardholder is exempt from paying these fees for the entire lifespan of the card.
SBI, being one of the largest banks in India, offers several types of credit cards, ranging from basic ones like the SBI Simply Save Card to premium options like the SBI Elite Card. While some of these cards come with a free annual fee for the first year, the renewal fee can sometimes be steep. This is where the possibility of making your card LTF comes in handy.
Why Would You Want Your SBI Card to Be LTF?
There are several reasons why you may want to make your SBI card Lifetime Free. Some of the most common reasons include:
- No Annual Fees: With an LTF card, you no longer have to pay the annual renewal fee, which can save you anywhere from ₹500 to ₹2,999 each year, depending on the card type.
- Avoiding Unnecessary Charges: Many users forget about the annual fee, and they end up paying it because they aren’t aware of how to waive it. An LTF card saves you from dealing with these extra charges.
- Continued Card Benefits: While the card becomes Lifetime Free, you still get to enjoy all the benefits that come with your card, such as cashback, reward points, and discounts.
- Improve Credit Score: Keeping your SBI card active without worrying about fees helps maintain a good credit utilization ratio, which can positively impact your credit score.
- Easier Card Management: When your card is Lifetime Free, you don’t need to keep track of renewal charges, and you avoid the risk of your card being deactivated due to non-payment of fees.
Pro Tips to Make Your SBI Card LTF
Now that you understand the benefits of a Lifetime Free card, let’s explore how you can achieve this. There are several methods you can try, but the following is one of the simplest and most effective approaches to get your card converted to LTF.
1. Use the SBI Card App to Raise a Closure Request
The first step in making your SBI card LTF is raising a card account closure request through the SBI Card App. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Open the SBI Card App:
- Launch the SBI Card app on your smartphone. If you don’t have the app installed, you can download it from the Google Play Store (for Android users) or the Apple App Store (for iOS users).
- Login to Your Account:
- Log in to your SBI Card account using your username and password.
- Navigate to “Services”:
- Once logged in, go to the ‘Services’ section of the app.
- Raise a Card Closure Request:
- Select the option to raise a card closure request. You may be asked to provide reasons for closure. At this stage, you will submit the request, but don’t worry—you’re not actually closing the card yet.
2. Wait for the Call from SBI Customer Service
Once your closure request is submitted, within a few hours, you’ll receive a call from an SBI representative. The representative will ask you why you’ve initiated the request to close your account.
This is the moment you can negotiate with them. Here’s what you should say:
- Politely mention that you’re not interested in closing your account, but you would like the card to be Lifetime Free (LTF).
- Alternatively, you can directly say, “If my card cannot be made LTF, I will proceed with the cancellation.”
In most cases, the customer service representative will offer to convert your card into a Lifetime Free card to prevent losing a customer.
3. Track the Service Request Status
After your conversation, the representative will initiate a request to make your card Lifetime Free. This process may take a few days, so you can track the progress of your request through the Service Request Tracking section in the SBI Card app.
You’ll see an ID (known as PCT ID), which allows you to track the status of your request. It may take up to a week for the request to be processed, but don’t worry—just be patient and check the app regularly for updates.
4. Confirmation and Enjoy Your LTF Card!
Once your request is successfully processed, you’ll receive confirmation that your card has been converted to Lifetime Free. You can continue using your card as usual, but now without any annual fee or other hidden charges.
Additional Tips and Tricks to Ensure Your SBI Card Becomes LTF
While the above method works in most cases, there are a few additional strategies that can increase your chances of getting your SBI card Lifetime Free:
1. Be Polite but Firm
When speaking to SBI customer service, it’s important to remain polite but firm in your request. Be calm and explain why you don’t want to continue paying annual fees. This will help make the conversation more pleasant and productive.
2. Be Ready to Cancel Your Card
Sometimes, if customer service feels that you are determined to cancel your card, they may be more inclined to offer you an LTF status. However, only mention cancellation if you’re truly ready to do it.
3. Have a Good Payment History
If you’ve been an SBI cardholder for a while and have a good payment history, you have a better chance of getting your card converted to LTF. Credit card issuers are more likely to waive fees for customers who have maintained a strong relationship with them.
4. Contact SBI via Call or Email if the App Method Doesn’t Work
If the app method doesn’t work or you aren’t comfortable using it, you can try calling the SBI customer care number or emailing them to request your card to be converted to LTF. Be clear in your communication and provide your reasons for wanting the card to be Lifetime Free.
Conclusion
Converting your SBI card into a Lifetime Free (LTF) card is a simple process that can save you money on annual renewal fees. By following the steps outlined above, you can negotiate with SBI customer service and make your card LTF without much hassle.
Remember to be patient, polite, and firm in your request. With a little persistence, you can enjoy the benefits of your SBI card without worrying about those renewal fees. So go ahead, try out this pro tip, and start saving on your card’s fees today!
