This article describes the unboxing, upgrade process, and hands-on experience with the IDFC First Bank Wealth Credit Card.
For a full review covering features and benefits, see the detailed review on CardExpert.
Upgrade process
I initially requested a limit enhancement and upgrade from the Select to the Wealth card via phone banking a few months ago. That request was handled over email and was declined. At the time I assumed the decline was because the account was less than a year old, so I dropped it—especially since the reward rate remained the same.
After a recent devaluation, I tried again. The card was now over a year old, so I submitted the request through the branch with support from the Wealth Relationship Manager and Branch Manager. Progress was slow: nothing happened at first, and only after persistent follow-up did the request move forward, taking nearly two months.
The initial limit enhancement was required because the Wealth product typically requires a minimum credit limit of ₹5 lakh. I did notice some Wealth cards issued with a ₹4 lakh limit, which was the maximum limit available on earlier Select cards.
After the limit enhancement the branch expected the upgrade to follow, but it stalled for two weeks. I escalated via social media support and received upgrade approval within three hours. The virtual card appeared within a day and the physical card arrived about a week later.
Overall, the bank’s communication around limit enhancements and upgrades is poor, even at the branch level. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen gaps with IDFC when new products launch. That said, social media support appears empowered and can resolve issues quickly when engaged.
Because of the time spent navigating the process, I’ve decided to keep using IDFC cards primarily for lounge access going forward.
Welcome Kit
The Wealth card arrives in a simple welcome kit. For a lifetime-free card, the packaging is modest, which is understandable.
A Dreamfolks lounge access card is typically sent separately a day or two after the credit card welcome kit and does not require activation. Below are photos of the kit and contents.
Final thoughts
When launching new products, IDFC would benefit from preparing and communicating internal processes before rollout. Employees being unaware of upgrade procedures months after a launch creates avoidable delays and frustration for customers.
On the positive side, getting a new IDFC credit card has become smoother as the bank has optimized the application flow. I hope they apply the same focus to streamline upgrades and internal communication.
If you’re new to IDFC, you can apply for a lifetime-free IDFC credit card via CardExpert.