Desjardins Credit Cards: Navigating the Big October System Update

If you use Desjardins credit cards, there are some significant changes heading your way this autumn. To prevent technological obsolescence and ensure long-term performance, Desjardins is migrating to a modern IT system powered by the US tech giant Fiserv. While system migrations can often feel disruptive, this upgrade is designed to bring a wave of highly requested features to members.

Here is a comprehensive guide on what is changing, what is staying the same, and how you can prepare for the transition in October.

The Big Question: What Happens to Joint Account Holders?

Earlier this year, there was considerable concern when Desjardins suggested abolishing the status of “joint holders” (codétenteurs) on credit cards. After listening to member feedback and recognizing the imbalances this would cause, the institution has pivoted.

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• Current Joint Accounts: Nothing changes. If you are currently a joint holder, you will maintain your status and shared responsibility for the account balance. No action is required on your part.
• New Joint Accounts: Starting October 12, the option to open a new joint credit card account will be temporarily suspended as the migration begins. Desjardins is working to restore this functionality as soon as possible.
• Temporary Alternative: From mid-October, new users can open a card and add an “authorized user.” Note that authorized users have more limited management powers than joint holders.

Exciting New Features Coming to Your Wallet

The shift to the new system isn’t just about backend stability; it’s about enhancing the user experience. Several new functionalities will be rolled out gradually following the migration:

1. Instant Digital Wallet Integration

No more waiting for the mail! When activating a new card or replacing a lost/stolen one, you will soon be able to add your card to your digital wallet immediately, allowing you to make purchases before the physical plastic arrives.

2. Streamlined Online Disputes

Gone are the days of long phone queues. You will soon be able to contest transactions directly online via your account management portal.

3. Enhanced Bonidollars Experience

The reward system is getting a facelift. Users will benefit from:

• Real-time balance displays.
• The ability to apply Bonidollars to multiple purchases in a single transaction.

4. Better Transparency via AccèsD

Applying for a new card will be less mysterious. A new dashboard in AccèsD will provide detailed status updates, notifications for required actions, and immediate alerts if a credit bureau freeze is blocking your application.

Important Updates on Insurance and Statements

It is important to note that credit balance insurance contracts are being updated. The payable benefit will now be calculated based on the account balance the day before the eligible event, rather than the balance from the last statement. Additionally, outstanding amounts and their interest will now be included in the payable benefit.

Visually, you will also notice that account statements are being simplified for better readability, and Accord D financing will now be consolidated under the “Cards, loans and lines of credit” section in AccèsD.

How to Prepare for the Mid-October Maintenance

A maintenance window is scheduled for mid-October. While your Desjardins credit cards will continue to work for purchases, some management tools may be temporarily unavailable. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend completing the following tasks before mid-October:

• Requesting a credit limit increase.
• Updating your PIN.
• Redeeming your Bonidollars.

By modernizing its infrastructure, Desjardins aims to provide a more agile and digital-first experience for all its members across Canada.