We've been working on getting out of debt, and rarely use the credit cards. We had a few things on one for Christmas, including Meg's sewing machine that was $20 less if we put it on the card. We put the sewing machine on just for that reason, even though we had the cash on us.
We don't carry a balance on the card, so no interest. We thought that was responsible use of the card. We paid our bill and forgot about it.
Well, Hubby had a purchase that hadn't been delivered so he decided to check with the credit card to see if the item had been charged. Uh-oh, big balance that shouldn't have been there. Apparently they had not gotten our payment and charged us a late fee $39 and interest. He explained that we paid and gave them the date sent. They said to call back on Monday to see if it came and if there was anything they could do then.
Well, Hubby called back yesterday. The automated voice said they had received our payment. However when he tried to talk to a live person they accused him of fraud. My husband has sinus problems and has lately been called ma'am because of his voice. The lady on the phone was actually yelling at him, that it is a federal offense to impersonate someone and try to use their credit card. Saying, "I can make a quick call and the feds will be at your house in minutes." She said "I'm turning you over to the fraud department right now." He said, "Please!"
ERRR. Well they asked if he was at home and could they call him back. Well that took care of the problem and they apologized. However, when they sent him back to the billing department they were also rude about the late fee. They said he needed to mail it 10-12 days before the due date. But the due date is only 19 days after the end of the billing date and we sent it just a few days after receiving the bill. There is also the option of calling in the payment, or using the Internet but there is a fee for that.
They did refund the $39 late fee but not the interest. When the bill comes we are canceling the card. There is no reason for a man (or anyone) to be treated like that.
A friend of mine is listening to some finance advice and has learned that some credit card companies are purposely delaying sending statements and opening received payments so they can charge late fees and interest to make more money.
I guess there is no responsible use of credit cards. A lesson learned at least for me. I don't know what Hubby will do, he only mentioned canceling this card. We'll see what he says when he thinks on it more.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Not Happy with the Credit Card Company
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2 comments:
I recently heard that cancelling your credit card will lower your credit score. Also, the post date of a mailed bill is proof enough for payment. If it's lost/delayed in the mail, it's not your fault.
We found that praying together before calling on such situations (we've had too many of the like!) helps so much. God will give you the words to speak to the right person at the right time!
I hope all goes well, and it's worked out well for you soon!!
Many blessing! Mrs.C.
This Valentine’s day Consumers Union is working to “kiss credit card rip offs goodbye”! Unfair rate hikes, outrageous fees, hidden interest charges… it’s time for Congress to take action to protect consumers and not big credit card companies. Go to www.creditcardreform.org to take action and learn more. When you send a “Valentine”, we’ll hand deliver postcards to your representatives asking them to pass real reforms for you.
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