Sunday, December 2, 2012

Punchcard App No Longer Pays Out (As Well)

Recently, I noticed an update from Punchcard's Facebook page. They were now offering $50 Restaurant.com gift certificates for any punchcards completed between the video and the end of the year. Okay, I thought, but not really necessary.


But then I started reading the comments on that post. Apparently the cash rewards have been replaced entirely with Restaurant.com gift certificates as of November 22, 2012, and it doesn't look like anyone was notified. 


According to the Punchcard FAQ, "After November 22, 2012, you will earn restaurant vouchers as a reward for completing open or new cards. You will receive a voucher code via email at the email you provided."

To say that I am less than thrilled would be an understatement. I really loved being able to earn back a slight bit of cash that I spent on groceries. I bragged about the app to everyone I knew. I am trying to eat out LESS, not more, so restaurant vouchers are not inherently a good thing. I might be a little less upset if the vouchers were more specific to the stores, like I could get a Target gift certificate or something after I finished completing a punchcard. A quick review of the restaurants that accept restaurant.com gift certificates in my area shows that the selection is pretty limited, and most of them get middling reviews at best. 

Well, it was nice knowing you, Punchcard. I wish you had been more forthcoming about your changes. Please try to do better if you want to regain my loyalty.