Facts about the Rotary International Credit Card Program
S ince the program was launched in September of 2000, tens of thousands of Rotarians and their spouses have applied for the Rotary International credit card. Currently available in Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Latvia, the Philippines, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the card builds public awareness of Rotary while allowing bill paying activity to raise money for The Rotary Foundation. To date, The Rotary Foundation has received US$8.1 million from the program including $3.1 million to support polio eradication.
The following questions and answers will be helpful to Rotarians wishing to know more about the credit card program.
What are the benefits to Rotary International and The Rotary Foundation when members acquire and use the card?
Every time Rotarians use the card, a portion of the purchase amount will benefit The Rotary Foundation. In the United States, a royalty of 0.25 percent is paid on all purchases made with the cards. Outside of the United States, the royalty percentage fluctuates from 0.05 percent to 0.35 percent, and in some countries with annual fees up to 50 percent of the annual fee is also paid to The Rotary Foundation.
Does Rotary benefit from each new card account?
The cards must be activated and used on a continual basis to benefit The Rotary Foundation. RI management works to insure the most competitive rates and services and constantly reviews card programs. Points and mileage programs are available in certain markets. Members choosing these programs must understand that Rotary receives a lower royalty percentage because of the cost of these programs.
How can I learn more about or apply for the Rotary credit card?
If you are located in a country with a program, contact your local Rotary International office, district governor, Rotary Regional Foundation coordinator, or Robert Mintz for application information.
When will my country have a program and can I contact a local bank to start a program?
The credit card expansion strategy is to launch programs in countries with large member populations, favorable banking laws, and strong member support. For programs to be successfu,l a large percentage of members must acquire the card and use it frequently. Before a program can be launched, a bid process is required to select an issuing bank. RI staff must also review local laws, taxation, currency, and data protection issues. Only the general secretary is empowered by the RI Board to expand the program. To avoid conflict of interest issues, we prefer that members not contact local banks. To express interest for a program in your country, please contact Robert Mintz.
How can Rotarians opt out of solicitation campaigns for the Rotary credit card?
Rotarians not wishing to be contacted should fax or email their name, address, and telephone number to Robert Mintz at (fax) 847-866-6297; or email robert.mintz@rotary.org.
For information about U.S. rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the Rotary credit card from Bank of America, click on apply online and refer to the disclosures accompanying the online credit application. This credit card program is issued and administered by FIA Card Services, N.A.