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Kathy of Webster NY (07/01/08)
This office has been calling and sending letters to me and my family. Most recently they called my daughter's inlaws a 10 yr old boy. He was so concerned and was afraid I was injured or dead. These people are equal to terrorists.
I attempted to repay this aspire visa since 1999. I have used Consumer credit counseling and paid off all others, but you can never pay them off because the fees double daily. I won't pay them any more money and explained that clearly.
Nal of Bronx NY (06/29/08)
Sometime back in year 2002 (I believe), I had disputed a charge made to my account. Later, I was sent a letter saying that they had investigated and found it to be fraud and the case is closed. Now I am being sued and summons to appear in court. It's been so long and I threw out the letter so I have no proof. Please let me know how I can get out of this as I cannot afford to pay over $1,000 plus a day-off. Thanks.
Marlon of Detroit MI (06/24/08)
i used apire visa a couple a times totally about $150.00 and now their on my transuion report with charges of $1,400.00 when i call them they say they can't discuss my account with me because it's in collections, how do i get some to respond to them for me
Earline of Apo OTHER (06/23/08)
I also opened an account with Aspire Visa in 2005. I began paying the fees on the card immediately. I deployed shortly after opening the account and when I returned to the US I was shocked that although I had not made any purchases on the card, it had accrued enormous fees. I then contacted the company to make payment arrangements on the card and to close the account. After my final payment, I contacted Aspire by phone and reminded them that I wanted the account closed.
I then wrote them a letter, cut the card and enclosed it. I sent it registered, return receipt which was returned refused to sign. Again, this warranted another phone call and unwanted dialog on my part. I re-iterated to them that I wanted the account closed and nothing more to do with them. In less that 7 days I receive another card from Aspire with a different account number and I immediately shredded it. My re-occurring nightmare began. The same thing began on the new card and I refused to pay. They began to make h harassing phone calls, day and night, twenty or more calls every day and they would begin at the most unorthodox times; as early as 5 a.m. and as late as 11:00 p.m. and Sundays were not excluded. I would be screaming to the top of my lungs for the non-English speaking individuals to stop harassing me, to stop calling me on my cell phone and at work.
I would get headaches so bad and be in tears from getting so stressed out. I could not believe that in this day and age that anybody would stoop so low to rob, cheat, harass, belittle and degrade other human beings. I am deployed again and I just received notification that a summonses had been issued for me. Portfolio Recovery assumed the debt and is trying to make me pay. I missed the deadline to dispute, so they will most likely garnish my wages or put a lien on my federal taxes. I did speak on the phone with them and it was like I was reliving the whole nightmare again. They were unsympathetic and were trying to get enough information to garnish my wages.
The total amount now over a thousand dollars. The hearing is on the 30th of July, days away and I'm in Iraq and I risk the chance of a Capias being issued for my arrest for missing the court date. Again, I feel helpless, defenseless. Why should I have to pay this? Why do we let a company such as this get away with this? I will more than likely pay before the court date, but after seeing this website, will that be the end of my nightmare, or just the beginning?
Ruined credit, mental anguish, loss of trust in making financial decisions, embarrassment, loss of income, facing arrest and/or garnishment of wages and termination from job.
Ryan of New Hudson MI (06/05/08)
I opened an account with Aspire Visa in 2005. I used the card twice each purchase was $30.00 or less. First bill came paid it. I used it again, and waited for two months to get the bill and saw it was for almost $150.00 for a purchase of $30.00. I called to get the reason for this and find out why I didnt get a bill. They had no response. I told them to cancel the card and send me an Itemized bill of my purchases. Well, they never did.
Now I am being sued for over $600.00 plus attorney and court fees. I see on the consumer website there are several people in the same situation. It is unbelieveable to believe they can sue me for $600. for a purchase of only $30. Please help ASAP time is running out for my court date for this. Thank You
Sueing for over $600. will have to take a day off work.
Pamela of Hughesville MD (05/28/08)
This is in reference to My father who was diagnosed with alzheimer several years ago. At that time it was determined that he was beyond the beginning stage. According to the credit card company listed above, he opened an account with them on September 14, 2005. They are unable to tell me what the purchases were for, or even when they were made. They did indicate that their database would only go back to August of 2007. There is no record of any purchases as of their current database.
However, he is currently in a nursing home due to his medical condition. My initial attempt to explain the situation to them was unsuccessful. I was not aware of this situation until now. When I did talk to them (customer service agent) I was told that they could not talk to me because I am not on the card. I replied, I know. I'm not trying to be on this card and that the automatic bank debits that they are doing are not authorized be me and that my father is not able to authorize such a transaction. The conversation was not pleasant needless to say, and I informed the agent not to attempt any further payments to my father's accounts. I am his POA.
They have gone to the account (which was since closed due to fraudulent activity)again to this time w/authorization from my mother. In a conference call w/customer service my mother stated that she told them to deal with me because I am handling all their business affairs. The agent indicated that she according to the tape, my mother, mispronounced my name, and told them to debit an account that she is not on.
Sandra of Saddle Brook NJ (05/07/08)
He has been harassassing me at my place of business and at my home. Told him I can make payments that I can mail in told me no can only be done over the phone. for a $300.00 credit card limit is now costing me 1,297. offered me a settlement of 50% in full told him I did not have that kind of money I am a single mother. He told my 11 year old daughter that he was my friend. Told him that I know what my rights are and he got VERY nasty and I hung up called me back 4 times didn't answer.
I called him 5/7 the follwing morning Said where can I mail a payment told me that the settlement offer doesn't exist anymore and I had to May 30 to do full pmt by phone. Asked for address told me can not be mailed in only over the phone asked for full company name and address and then he hung up on me. I am tired of being harassed by his firm and all the false charges. He refuses to give me an address or full company name. What should I do
If he continues to call me at work I will be fired
Debra of Elko NV (04/30/08)
I have been with aspire visa card for over 2 years now never missed a payment but now I am finding it is very difficult to deal with them .I just moved to a new address. Changed my address with them. So now I cant get my bills in time to pay my payments.You can not log on to their web site and you have to pay a certain amount on the phone plus get charged a fee which if I was late I could accept that but I cant even talk to a customer serivice rep. If I am lucky.When I am lucky no one understands you and you cant understand them which makes things very hard for me. I cant get anywhere.
What scares me the most is I want close this creddit card account but they say I cant. I am willing to pay what is due but how many more charges will they tac on to my account.Who knows and I should not be scared of these factors and frankly they do scare me because I will not know what will be coming my way in what 1 month 2 months or maybe a year later I think this just terrible. I do not know what to do or how to go about this matter of course because you cant talk to anyone who makes alick of sense .I only want out. I dont know if that will be possible.No one can help me
It worries me to death.I dont know how many charges they will tack on how much my payments are they cant get anything right I dont get paid to do their job and I seem to be left in the dark which makes me want to pull my hair but with them causing me stress I dont have to pull my hair out now do I.
Pam of Clovis CA (04/23/08)
After reading the reviews on Aspire Visa I just wanted to say that I have had no problems with my Aspire card.
Tanesha of Chicago, IL (04/16/08)
I settled my account with Aspire Visa back in either 2002 or 2003 and was told that my account with them would be considered Settled: Paid instead I'm being sued. The company that Aspire Visa sold my account to was Collect America who informed me they have no contact information with Aspire Visa and I needed to contact the law offices who are not pursuing a judgement against me.
The law office is Arthur B Adler & Associates who have sent this information to my job and have summons me to court to pay them $ 3.468.96. Since this was paid sooo long ago, I didn't keep accurate records. I now have to pay my former bank $5 per billing statement to find the check that is my proof of payment.
I've read so many cases of Aspire Visa ripping people off, I never thought that it would happen to me.
Pat of Oneonta NY (03/09/08)
An Indian sounding man came on the phone harassing me for a credit card bill that I do not owe. He also claimed I made a payment of $150.00 in 2006, which I never did, nor would I pay anything on something I did not owe. Originally when he called me, he claimed I took a card out in Washington state. I had in fact lived there for three months but had already been back in New York for six months when they claim the card was procured. I also told them that was impossible as I wasn't even there then. He indicated I was trash, that I was on social security and no good, and also gave me my last four digits of my social security number. It's clear that they are stealing identities; how, I do not know. Prior to 2000, I may have had a card with them; I don't remember due to brain surgery. I do know all my bills and any credit cards I would have had were paid by social security settlement and inheritance by my legal aide with Deleware County social services.
It's sad that unscrupulous companies are still allowed to practice business in the USA. I have a brain aneurism and high blood pressure with post stroke ,and the fact that he kept calling back and would say cruel and vicious things both about my self and my country, caused me to have to take more meds including nitro for chest pain. I should not have to be belittled by someone's refusal to look at the info in front of them, and my telling them it couldn't have been me or that they defrauded and used false info to create a bill.
Nancy of Midland TX (03/06/08)
I make two equal payments each month but found out Aspire has a little known glitch: make a payment that hits on your cut off date, and it is applied directly to the balance and not to the payment for which it was intended. So you incur late charges, and the collection calls begin all for $26.00. When you call, you get the India Call center. This company is a sham. You can make all the payments you want, but they will find a way to tell you that it was made outside the limit. I also had a payment outstanding, and she said that did not matter--that I was behind, and when it came it would go towards the balance. This company needs to be shut down
They reported me as late to the credit bureau because of $26.00.
Jon of Ardsley NY (02/02/08)
Aspire Visa has being nothing short of a nightmare. I had a claim that someone stole my card number and charged at a FORD dealership in the amount of $1575.00. They asked me to file a claim. They have no phone number to reach them, and if you do get them on the lost CC phone, it is ONLY a 20-minute series of recorded messages. After months of waiting, they sent me a letter saying that the period of time for a claim of stolen cards and / or number is 60 days. This is absurd, since it took them 5 months to respond. Also, on any bill from them there is no phone number to reach them. I cut this card over a year ago.
I lost $1575.00 on this credit card.
Francien of Shaker Hts OH (01/31/08)
My father opened this account. I don't know when he was the primary card holder. When he passed I discovered that he had put my name on the card as well. I was not aware of this. When I took care of his business and sent the company a death certificate, they made me responsible for the bill. I have tried to convince these people at ASPIRE that I have or never had anything to do with this bill. I have never seen a card. Have never laid eyes on it, I never knew they existed. They have now sent me to a collection agency for $5,333.00. I do not know how I am going to pay this bill. Please help me. I have disputed this over and over.
I have suffered from poor breast health and heart conditions. I have lost a number of jobs because I cannot concentrate. I cannot get a new car to find a job.
Roxane of Elgin SC (01/28/08)
Was notified 6 years later that I had an Aspire Visa. I did not have a credit card from this company and I don't even know what one looks like. They say I owe them $491.84 and have sent me to collection but when I request information they removed it and we moved on. When we try to contact the card company to get the information that we excepted a credit card from them, they don't know anything and we get no information from them. So it goes on for months. Then we get a letter from another collections agency and then we deal with them. What do we do?
Latisha of Hazel Green AL (01/26/08)
I received this card around 2003-2004. I used it once and never went over the limit until I was placed in the hospital. While in the hospital they charged me all kinds of late fees and over limit fees and other fees. When I got out of the hospital, I called and explained the situation. They mailed me some paper work for the dr. to fill out. I mailed and faxed the paper work to them on several occasions way before the deadline. After the deadline I get a letter stating that my request to remove the fees were denied because they did not receive the paper work. Now this account is on my credit report which I closed in May '07 I believe, but they are still charging me a maintenance fee. I have tried to settle this debt for at least 40% of what they say I owe with fees and all; but this company keeps refusing to settle, and it is affecting my credit very badly. Can someone please tell me how to fix this as soon as possible? I am desperately trying to get this matter taken care of.
Aspire inaccurate information is affecting my credit report so that I can't get another credit, card and it has been really hard for me to establish credit.
Kiahisha of Statesville, NC (01/21/08)
I was harassed by the representatives at Aspire Visa. They called my job repeatedly even after I ask them several times not to. They called my employer three times after I verbally ask them not to call. They not only gave information to my husband, but verbally harassed him about the Aspire account that they said was opened in 2000.
One rep, who told me he was a manager, said he didn't care if I didn't pay my rent, child care or even eat, they just wanted their money. Even after I talked to a rep they would still call me up to 7 times the same day. My mom works for a collection agency and she stated that after a rep talks to you they can't call you in the same day.
Kiahisha of Statesville NC (01/21/08)
I was harassed by the representatives at Midland Funding, representing Aspire Visa. They called my job repeatedly even after I ask them several times not to call my place of employment. They not only gave information to my husband but verbally harassed him about the Aspire account that they said was opened in 2000. They would call my home 10 times a day and would even call back after I would hang up on them for being rude. One rep told me he was a manager said he didn't care if I didn't pay my rent , child care or even eat--we just want our money. He was screaming at the top of his lungs.
I don't even know if the credit card was mine. This has caused me to have severe high blood pressure. I was in my freshman year in college and had many offers for credit cards sent to me . I ask the rep to send me a copy of the statement to assure me that this in fact was one of the card I had opened. The rep stated that payments had been made on the account up until 2003. This card has been reported to the credit Bureau as a charge off. I was in college until 2004 and had several roommates. I have asked for copies of the Aspire credit card agreement and haven't received it yet. I had already asked for a copy of the records showing my signature at the time the card was opened. On Jan. 21st my mom called them, and they didn't verify any information--just gave her all the information on the account.
My mom paid all of my bills while I was in college and recalls paying 2 credit cards. All I want is for Aspire to send me the credit card application with my signature, and if it is valid I will be more than happy to pay the limit of $1000.00 that was used. My mom works for a collection agency, and she stated that after a rep talks to you, they can't call you in the same day. Also they can't use demeaning language against you. This company has done these things, including calling my employer. Please help me get resolution to this Aspire Visa nightmare.
Howard of Miami FL (01/20/08)
Aspire Visa Charged my account $100 yearly fee, which put my account over the limit. Between finance charges and late fees my account increases close to $90.00 each month. So unless I pay the fees, I'm throwing money away just to break even.
I'm disabled and on a fixed income. It has become a financial hardship to continue paying these fees.
Mike of Southfield MI (01/17/08)
Two days ago, I received a summons stating that I'm being sued for $820.67 plus interest, costs and attorney's fees. As I haven't dealt with Aspire in a few years, imagine my surprise when this summons was hand-delivered to me. What do I do now?
Mike of Southfield MI (01/17/08)
Two days ago, I received a summons stating that I'm being sued for $820.67, plus interest, costs, and attorney fees. I haven't dealt with Aspire for several years so imagine my surprise when this summons was hand-delivered to me. What do I do now?
Diane of Chicago IL (01/08/08)
I was not late, I was not over the limit, I didn't even use the card because the fees, and illegal transactions were applied to cause late fees, over charges, late payments, and negative reporting on my credit account and ultimately my credit report.
There is approx. $650.00 in illegal fees which are explained as, late fees, over the limit fees, illegal charges, and the company said they closed my account down. My account is current, I have made consistent payments, I have not missed payments, and have disputed every charge, and they keep reporting the charges on my account. I would like a refund of these charges, and I demand this reported to my credit report as well as my credit account.
Ted of Boston MA (01/02/08)
Applied and received $500 Visa card (as emergency credit card) and never used since I got it in 2005. I tried to use it today (01/02/2008) and was told it was declined. I called #800-348-8783 on back of card and explained I never used the card. The man stated they took over the card from another company, and I should have read the fine print that said I had a monthly fee of $10 and that I owed $245 + change and $50 late fees. He said they would wave late fees, but I would owe the $245.
They then updated my account so they could mail me statement--that I never received. I asked them to cancel the card. I spoke with CBT; they stated the card is not theirs, that they are just the conduit and get many calls about Aspire card with problems. They gave me another # 888-576-9792 ex 8657; this person stated the card had been deactivated since Nov. and that I don't have a monthly fee but owe $245. They will send statement showing why I owe them. Please help me fix this problem before it gets out of hand.
Jeffrey of Concord CA (12/26/07)
I had been working with a consumer credit agency to get out of debt. One of my creditors has been Aspire VISA. Recently my financial circumstances worsened, and I was not able to maintain my re-payment plan with my consumer credit agency. So Aspire VISA began calling me directly. They were extremely aggressive and offered little in the way of concessions to help me get out of debt with them. This is in contrast to my other creditors, who were very reasonable and accommodating. Aspire VISA's representatives proposed my making 3 monthly payments in the amount of $210.00 to supposedly bring my account current with them. After that time they said they would stop the late charges and drop the interest rate to zero for up to 6 months. The principal balance was and currently is approximately $4,000. The current interest rate is 27%. By the way, I started with a balance of $10,000, and have worked very hard to responsibly pay it off over the last several years.
I told the Aspire VISA representative the last several times we talked that I was not prepared to make any more payments unless they could drop the interest rate right away, and could guarantee that it would remain reasonable for the balance of the payments to completely pay off the balance once their 6 month program was over. They would not do that, and I said I was not ready to make payments on that basis. Imagine my surprise when I looked at my bank statments and found that they had auto-drafted two payments in the amount of $210.00 as if I had approved and agreed with their terms. I certainly did not. When I called to complain and demend that they replace the funds in my account, they claimed that I had approved the payments and that they were authorized to continue taking the funds. They said that they recorded all calls. When I asked them to produce the recording showing that I had supposedly approved the auto-drafted payments, they refused. How can they get away with this? I am certain they are in violation of civil laws in this practice, and likely criminal ones, as well. It did not take me long to search the Internet and find lots and lots of complaints against Aspire VISA. They stand out as a bad actor in the credit and banking industry, and somebody needs to put a stop to them. I would love to participate in that effort.
Because Aspire VISA took funds from my bank account, via ACH, wihtout my knowledge or authorization, I am unable to pay other bills and expenses that I have planned to pay. Also, I feel violated and no safe in using the banking system because they so far have gotten away with this. I have complained to my bank, Wells Fargo, but have not gotten resolution on this issue, yet.
Bari of San Diego CA (12/11/07)
I have never owned an Aspire Visa card. My credit is excellent, and I have no suspicious accounts on my credit report. However, representatives from Aspire Visa call my cell at least twice a day, every day. Usually it's just a recording asking me to call some other 800 number for card services. When I call, there is a message telling me that the service center is closed. The few times I have been called by a live person, they ask for someone I've never heard of. I've explained this, and asked them to stop calling, to which they agree. Early next morning though, I am awakened yet again by Aspire calling.
Pauline of Richmond VA (12/01/07)
I believe this is a scam. I received a privacy policy opt out form from Aspire and (Columbus Bank and Trust Company, Columbus, Georgia claiming to be the provider of my card) as though I am in business with them, but I have not done business with Aspire for years now. This notice asked me to give them my credit card number and to send it to Cardholder Privacy, P.O. Box 105096, Atlanta, GA 30348-5096. When I ended my business with them I asked them to close my account which I was lead to believe was indeed done.
My actions are proactive in order to prevent any fraudulent activity from this company. Since they have no phone number where I may contact them, I want to make sure that they have closed my account and that no further contact with me will ever occur.
Jim of Crowley TX (11/12/07)
I was issued an Aspire Visa card and used a $1000 credit line. I made several payments with no problem and then moved to different state. Filled out postal change of address card, but did not receive statement from Aspire Visa. Tried number and back of card, but did not reach a live person. Tried web site and it was under construction. They finally called me; I made payment over the phone and gave them new address. Eventually received a statement at new address, but not until late fees were added on. Also, found out the credit line was reduced to $800 while the balance due on the account was still over $800 and was being charged for this, too. The interest rate has increased dramatically, and several other fees seem to be popping up, too. This has affected my credit score.
I spoke with several customer service people, but each person showed no record of the previous call(s). It was at this point that I threatened legal action. A customer service supervisor credited three late fees ($105) back to the account. This took the account below the $800 credit line, so now there is at least one less fee (for now).
I found the corporate web site for Aspire Visa; they are called CompuCredit out of Atlanta, GA, http://www.compucredit.com/index.html. I think it is interesting that this company brags that in less than three years, they have grown from 4 employees and 15,000 Aspire Visa card holders to 160 employees and more than 800,000 Aspire Visa card holders. With the way they are treating their customers and how they are also charging them, it really is of no surprise.
James of Show Low AZ (11/11/07)
These people run my credit every month although I have not applied for credit with them and do not want credit from them. They are bringing my credit score down claiming that I have applied for credit. I want them to stop running credit inquiries on me and am concerned about this. They use different names but with the same address to do this inquiries.
Ann of Point Lookout NY (11/01/07)
First, I could never get a clear agreement of the terms with Aspire Visa. Secondly, bills were received with very little time until payment due date. There was no knowledge of changing interest rates. When I requested the account to be closed, wanting to pay off the balance, they continued to add high interest until the interest alone put the account over the limit. This caused an additional amount of almost $170 a month with no activity, making it impossible to pay this card off.
No one was helpful, and any attempts on my part were met with rudeness.
Lynda of Tampa FL (10/29/07)
I opened an account with Aspire Visa in 2005. I opted for an option that stated if I became ill or was laid off from my job that I would be protected (as far as my payments). I was laid off from my job in late 2005 and immediately called Aspire to find out what I would have to do in order to initiate my protection. They stated I was not covered. I requested that they send me a copy of my original application and they refused and hung up on me. This conversation took place many times. I then requested that they close the account.
They continued to bill me for maintenance fees. late payment fees, over the limit fees and periodic finance fees. I then received a letter in May 2006 stating that the account was bought by Jefferson Capital who I immediately called, told them that the amount was in dispute, and I would like to speak to work out a settlement. They said they could not help me; the only way to settle the amount is to extend me credit under Embrace Visa to pay the entire amount. Now I am being sued for 1500.00 by Midland Credit Corp. I have an attorney representing me in this case and they will not respond to our request to produce any documents
This has caused my credit to be destroyed and Ihave been denied credit to buy a car. I am racking up attorney's fees.
Walt of Saint Paul MN (10/29/07)
I can't view my Aspire Visa statement on their web site. If you need to see your bill they charge $15 fee for paper copy. They have a button for veiwing, but I was told they don't provide that information. I suggest they remove the button.
Jennifer of Harrisburg, PA (10/24/07)
I opened a credit card with Aspire Visa a about a year and a half ago to rebuild my credit. It was during this time that I moved, changed my address via the required post card; however bills did not arrove until the Aspire card was over the limit. I was contacted and was told that if I agree to the minimum monthly payments each month this account would not accrue any more interest. What a lie! Not only is the account now accruing interest, I am being charged a $6.50 account maintenance fee every month. The card has no available balance nor does it have any available credit. I was told that as long as the account has a balance I would continue to be charged this fee even though in Aspire's eyes this is a closed account. What are my next steps? I have read some horror stories online about this company!
Debi of Piqua OH (10/23/07)
My Aspire Visa card was stolen in March. I reported it. Aspire Visa said they canceled the card but refuse to remove charges that placed me over credit limit. They continue charging over-limit and late fees. They call me at home and harass me, and this probably wrecked my credit
Mark Pinkston of Salem OR (10/07/07)
After reading some of the earlier entries, I thought I would add a dose of reality. Yes, Aspire Visa charges for online and phone payments, but they say so very clearly BEFORE you make the payment. That's why I write a check each month for free! And as for receiving the statement late, you CAN check your statement online for free if you don't get the paper one in time to make the payment. If you are waiting for a paper bill instead of keeping track of when your next payment is due yourself, then it is YOUR bad! My only complaint is the high interest rate, but then, I wouldn't have this card if I had the good credit to get a lower interest rate, would I?
My consequences are that I pay a high rate of interest becasue I had bad credit. But that isn't Aspire Visa's fault.
Latia of Colonial Heights VA (09/29/07)
I received an offer for Aspire Visa. They said I would have a credit limit of $300. But they didn't tell me about all the fees that give you a beginning balance of only $75. My account has always been up to date and I have always paid more than the minimum balance. They charge $15 for you to make a payment over the phone, so I began to make payments online. Then I began to notice that the balance online was always changing from day to day and never matched the statement they sent. So I called customer service and they quoted me a totally different balance!! When I told them about my online and paper statements, I was told that there was no way this was true and that I needed to pay what the rep said. So I said I would make the payment & I wanted to cancel the credit card. She said that I would have to pay the entire balance in order to do so. I asked if they had a payment plan, but she said no. But 2 weeks later I got a letter in the mail that said if I paid my bill on time for 6 months, there would be no finance or over-limit fees. so I called the number they gave me and thought I enrolled. But the next statement I received showed both finance & over-limit charges. I called & got nowhere with the reps, who, might I add, were not even in the US. I asked to speak to a supervisor, and was put on hold for 20 minutes. When the rep came back on the phone, she told me a supervisor would call me back. So I waited. & waited. & waited. Then the collection department called saying I was past due. I told them I was waiting to speak to a supervisor & they said I needed to make a payment & they had no record of me being in the pay assist program.
Virve of Brooklyn NY (09/29/07)
I wanted to inform people that Aspire Visa charges you every time you make a payment. I went online to pay off the bill and saw that there was a charge for $4.95 to use the service. When I called to complain about that, the customer service rep said he spoke with his manager and they'd waive the pay-by-telephone fee for me at that time. There's a telephone fee as well?? ---You can't pay your bill without incurring a charge!--- I told him repeatedly it is a ridiculous policy and he chuckled and said there was nothing he could do about it, but if I wanted to speak to a manager I could. I came here instead.
Regina of Loves Park, IL (09/27/07)
I opened an account in 2002 with Aspire Visa to build my credit and had a $500 credit limit. I only used it twice.
I was unable to continue to pay on time so I canceled the card but still sent in monthly payments. They racked up the fees - over the limit fees, annual fees (even tho the card was canceled) late fees and cancellation fees every month!
I called Aspire and told them I will pay the $500 that I owed, but not all the $1,200 worth of fees. They told me that since they did not close the account I am required to pay the fees.
Stacy Oneill of Ocala FL (06/28/07)
I got this card to build up my credit. It was the first credit card I'd ever had. From day one it has been nothing but a nightmare.
I made a few small purchases the first month, to see how it worked. My credit limit was $300 and I hadn't even spent half that. Three months went by without a statement. I had been making my payments online so I didn't think too much about it until I went online to make a payment and saw my balance at $468.
I called them right away and got the runaround. They would not give me a straight answer, and when I asked for a printed statement I was told it could take several weeks to send it out and could cost me $25.00!!!
Sgeraghty of San Francisco CA (06/15/07)
I lost my wallet and had to use the Aspire Credit Card I received in the mail. The day after using this credit card, I tried to check the account balance and cancel this card. However, there seems to be an error on my zip code information, although they had it correct when they sent me the card! Therefore, I can not access this card's account information or even speak to a representative from this company in order to cancel this card.
Fred of Lubbock, TX (06/07/07)
I'm being sued by Aspire for $3600 and I've never had a Aspire visa card. I don't think I've ever seen one.
I've asked them to send me something, with my name, that shows that I had one and they can't or won't.
So what do I do now?
Walter of Saint Paul, MN (05/10/07)
I continually receive their statements after the due date and then get charged for late fees.
Mary of Metairie, LA (05/01/07)
I went to this company to try to improve my credit rating after Katrina wiped me out. I have been unable to see a statement nor do they mail me a bill so I have to pay online each time listing my acct. and social. Just when I think that I have paid it off I have another balance.
I can't get a statement to view the activity. My credit was perfect until I lost my home and my job and had to start over by claiming bankruptcy.
Alexander of Staten Island NY (04/09/07)
Just recently I received a summons in the mail that I'm being sued for the amount of $1,445.00. Now I've dealt with aspire for awhile, was on time with payments , then lost my job due to an accident, was out of work for 2 years. I tried my hardest to make them understand my situation but all they wanted was money. So I paid what I could and when I could, but that wasn't enough for them. That’s when the threatening calls started, all of a sudden the monthly statements were on time and not late. So like I said I paid when I could. But I stopped payment in 2005 when they couldn't answer my question about fees I was getting charged for, every time I called It was a running around game and nobody had answers for me.
Megan of Kent OH (04/05/07)
My mom passed away 1-5-07 and I called to cancel her credit card. I sent in all the necessary documents- such as her death certificate and everyday since then the continually call atleast 2 times a day asking for her. I tell them everytime that she has passed and the still continue to ask for her. One time they even said I know she passed, but the bill hasnt been paid in 3 months Well, if they know then why do they still ask for her, and how can she pay it if she is gone? It is stressful when someone continues to call and ask for your deceased mother everyday.
Anita of Blacklick OH (03/23/07)
I applied for a Aspire Visa Credit Card in 2005 and recieved a credit limit of $300.00. After receiving the credit card I only had a available credit line of less than $160.00. Within one year even though I only spent less than $160.00 on the card they are attempting to file a lawsuit for more than $1300.00 plus attorney fees and Court Costs.
John of Alton MO (03/19/07)
I got an Aspire Visa when I was 18 I am 23 now & I have been summoned to court on 3-22-07. The original amount was $250.00 credit line, now they are suing for almost $3000.00. I had asked the Aspire Card Company to turn the card off repeatedly to no avail, they just kept adding up over & late fees, until they reached the level I guess they were happy with. Please help all of us across the country to help us against these unethical card companies.
Scott of Fort Hood, TX (03/17/07)
I was offered a Visa credit card with a $300 limit, my first credit after I had filed for bankruptcy in 2002. I used it a few times and made my payments on time.
But, then I stopped receiving statements. I asked them for my balance and they said $450. I found out that they charged me for a $179 activation fee and a $39 start up fee. Where the heck did those charges come from? Those weren't on the disclosure that I had read.
Bonnie of Oneonta AL (03/16/07)
Apsire raised my interest rate from 18% to 28%--putting me over the limit due to interest. They then began charging me $70.00 a month in over the limit fees. I called to complain and was told that the contract says they can raise the interest rate whenever they want to. If I paid the overage, they would refund the over the limit fees. I paid the overage--no refund, they simply raised my limit to $3000.00.
I have had this card now 7 years. I have not used it since the first year, yet I owe $2800.00. They told me my interest rate (it is now over 30%) cannot be lowered due to my shaky payment history but I haven't missed or been late on any payments in years--and my credit report reflects this!! This card is unconscionable!
Ann of Navarre FL (03/12/07)
I have an Aspire Visa Card and was not aware of all the rates and charges that they gave me with this card. I was under the impression that I would have all of these fees the first year of opening this account and not every year that you have the account. They are going to charge me 150.00 every year for having this card. In addition they repeatedly enrolled me in third party membership programs without my knowledge or consent and then billed me renewal fees, sometimes double billing in a single month.
Every year, they have this humongous annual fee, plus a monthly maintenance fee, and the finance charges are outrageous. I have balance of over $2,000.00 and 75% of that balance is ASPIRE finance charge of SOME kind, and their third-party companies.
Dale of Ardmore OK (03/06/07)
My wife was contacted by phone and was offered a Aspire card with a three hundred dollar credit line. This was to help my wife start her own credit. Upon receiving the card she made two purchases and at the next billing cycle she was over her limit. They didn’t' tell her that there was an annual fee of $179.00 or that they was a $39.00 setup fee.
Now the bill is over $1500.00 dollars and there is no stopping it except to pay in full. It has destroyed her credit.
Gale of Palm Harbor FL (02/27/07)
Aspire Visa mislead us with charges not disclosed in the enrollment process. They also did not mail a statement. Fees kept snowballing. Was told by phone if $90 would be paid immediately, would not be anything derogatory reported on my credit. They have lowered my credit so much that I am now not able to purchase a home. I am now put on hold and then disconnected, so I am not able to speak to anyone at Aspire.
Gertrude of Sterling Heights MI (02/27/07)
I paid my bills on time through my daughter’s bank account, but one day my daughter tried to pay the bill with her check as she has always done and she was told she could not. I spoke to Aspire and they told me that she needs my approval which I gave her. After that day I was sent no bills, so I called in and still I was sent no bill and now months and months has passed and I’m told my bill is over $1000.00. My credit limited was not over $500.00. My credit is being damage because of this.
Tim of Senoia GA (02/09/07)
Called to pay off credit card and close the account. They post dated the payment and as a result I was charged extra finance charges and they refused to remove the charges. They blamed it on the system.
Javashia of St. Helena Island, SC (01/25/07)
I originally open this account with Providian (Aspire bought out). I didn't know about all of the hidden charges that would occur with having this card.
I cancelled the card but was making regular payments. After awhile they stopped sending me statements and are now threating me with a lawsuit.
Andrea of Atlanta GA (01/08/07)
I have an Aspire Visa Card and was not aware of all the rates and charges that they give you with this card. Since I am trying to rebuild my credit, I was under the impression that you would have all of these fees the first year of opening this account and not every year that you have the account. They are going to charge me 150.00 every year for having this card.
Pershan of Bronx, NY (01/04/07)
This was my first credit card since I filed bankruptcy. I was charged over $170 of activation fees, plus they charged my card $100 that they told me was a yearly renewal fee! When I asked why nobody told me about it, they said I was supposed to know and they can't reverse it. I had wanted to close the account but my bill kept increasing although I rarley used it.
Gregg of Baton Rouge LA (11/27/06)
I accepted the Aspire card because I'd had some past credit problems, but what a mistake! I've had my account for almost a year, and after never being late with a payment, I missed one by only three days. As a result, my interest rate was immediately increased to a staggering 35.99%!!
Talking with them gets me nowhere.
Jean of Elkhart, IN (11/11/06)
I accepted an Aspire Visa Credit card several years ago. I have made many charges and pay monthly buy having Aspire take the payment out of my checking account so I am never late.
My complaint is they keep raising the finace charge without my knowledge. When I called them to lower it they said because I only pay the minimum amount there is nothing they can do. The finace fee is now over 33%. That is highway robbery.
Geovanny of Morrisville, NC (09/27/06)
I got an offer for an Aspire Visa card to assist me in improving my credit. I have regretted it from day 1. I received the card in 2004 and I am still fighting w/ them on a monthly basis.
We do not receive statements on a regular basis. It seems that IF statements come, they don't come in time to make a payment. If I call customer service to ask for my payment due date, the answer is that my payment is due "on or about" the 22nd.
They have no grace period, so if you are ONE day late they immediately report you as being late to the credit bureaus - not that you will ever know when your due date is. If you make a payment after your due date, it automatically goes to your next billing statement so it looks like you never made a payment that month.
I have called multiple times to try and correct the problem w/ receiving statements and they tell me to contact my postal carrier. We do not have a problem receiving any of our other mail. And we seem to get their late notices in the mail promptly.
Jimmy of Durham, NC (09/21/06)
I opened a credit card account with Aspire Visa. My credit limit was $300 - $179 for the annual fee, $6.50 a month for account management only left $114 of ACTUAL CREDIT. Then I had to send $20 to activate the account!
My September payment was late so I sent a money gram for $120, that they refused to post to my account. MoneyGram called Card Services and confirmed the money transfer, confirming the reference number. Card Services admitted that they received the money transfer, yet after two weeks they have not posted the money to my account.
When I talk to card services they tell me that the money transfer has not been received and its under investigation. Money Gram says the payment was there 10 minutes after it hit the wire.
Salem of Cypress, TX (09/12/06)
I received pre-approved credit card from (Aspire Visa) with zero percent interest for one year. After paying my first bill online, my 2nd statement not only listed a charge of $15 for the online payment but also showed an interest rate of 27.74%.
I spoke with a customer service rep who offered no help but simply stated it was company policy to charge for online payments and that the interest rate would not be changed. Although I knew I did not give approval for the current terms and interest rate, I asked the representative to supply some sort of proof. He indicated that he could not and would not do this for me.
Darryl of Sparks, NV (09/11/06)
Initially got the credit card with a $250 credit line. Of the so called credit line you get $70 in available credit. As iIused the card my credit line increased to $500 but my available credit has never been more than $100, if that.
The company is trying to charge me for a credit increase that gave me no available credit. I asked to be sent a statement, like any real card company would, and was told that would be a $5 charge!
I cancelled my card and today received a final bill for $400 with no statement at all.
James of Florence, SC (09/09/06)
I have never had a credit card with Aspire Visa. I have repeadedly advised them and their collectors of this. Their customer was a different James, with a different middle name, social security number, different address, etc. Every time I convince them of this, they simply sell it to another collector and persue it again.
I have a credit rating in the 850 area. This is iritating, abusive and I think they are the type who will surface a false bad credit report on me.
Susanne of Yonkers, NY (09/08/06)
I was sent a letter a while ago about 0% interest as long as I paid a certain amount twice but it never happened. Ihave been struggling to clear the account for the past two years.
Erica of Memphis, TN (09/08/06)
I've had this credit card for a little over two years. Despite all my efforts, it is so hard to pay them off. Every year, they have this humongous annual fee, plus a monthly maintenance fee, and the finance charges are outrageous. It is so very difficult to make this payments. I called several times asking them to close my account and let me pay the balance and I was told that I would still incur finance charges and monthly maintenance fees.
I got this card thinking that it would help me. I filed chapter 13 in 2002 and thought that if I tried to establish credit it would booster my rating. Instead it's dropped it tremendously. The balance is so high and even though I pay more than the minimum payment and I still find myself over the credit limit.
Geraldine of San Diego CA (09/02/06)
I am charged a PERIODIC FINANCE CHARGE each month of between $98.00 and $99.00. I have tried to reach the company through the above phone number, but everything is computer generated voice response. I believe that I am being charged for things that were purchased months ago, as the Finance Charge is never written out, but as stated above...PERIODIC FINANCE CHARGE. I have emailed the company at - customerservice@aspirecard.com. Hopefully there will be a return on this inquiry. If not, I will try again, to contact a human person at the call center.
Margaret A of Brooklyn NY (08/25/06)
I have closed my account for more than 2 years now. Even making the minimal payment it is still over the limit. How it got to over the limit? Aspire kept adding late fees and yearly charges to an account that I have asked them to close in order for me to have paid off the $1000 balance I had. Now i's over $1900. How am I to pay that when my minimal payment doesnt even affect the balance going down?? Also Aspire claimed I could get into a program where for 6 months I wouldnt be charged any late fees or overage fees.
i agreed to the program just so I could lower the payments and get them off my back. to get into the program I had to make 6 consecutive payments. i did so only to find out that my state of new york is not covered by said program that was offered. I look at this as if I am giving aspire close to $2000 just to pay of a $1000 credit card? This is ridiculous! Aspire is a conniving company. If I could go back to the day I signed up for this in college I would have never went with aspire. i make sure that I warn everyone about aspire and their nasty ways. I need some help in how to go about paying off just what I owe and not the extras they have me accruing.
Aspire is putting a dent in my credit history. The money I should be putting towards my student loan repayments I have to be putting towards aspire visa. In trying to purchase a home I am having issues with aspire becuase they wont even send a copy of the letter in regards to their lie about me being able to enter into a covered 6 month pay break. This is stressing and very annoying. All calls seem to go on deaf ears.
Terry of Parkville, MD (08/23/06)
After 15 months of horrendous charges that drained us, I paid my account with Aspire in full and closed it on March 15, 2006. I also requested a written letter be sent to me proving my account was a closed account. They said It would be in the mail in 7-10 business days. Freedom was finally here.
Later a charge from an automatic 45 day payment plan was debited. I immediately canceled with the company that received the automatic payment funds. Then on July 21, 2006 I called Aspire to dispute the charge being made on a closed account. I agreed to pay the final charge and demanded Aspire wave 'other fees.' This time I requested a confirmation number proving that I called and owed nothing else and that my account was properly closed. I also requested for a second time that a written letter be sent stating a closed account. I was told that it would be in the mail in 7-10 business days.
In August 2006 the original charge I previously paid was billed to me again (along with a late charge). I called on August 23,2006 and demanded why my account was still active. Repeatedly I was told that my account was closed. All anyone wanted to discuss was Aspire graciously fixing there 'error', my balance being zero, and assuring me the account is closed.
I disputed that an account that has any type of activity is not a closed account but an open one.
Anne of Nicholasville, KY (08/15/06)
I closed my account June (2004) I have been making monthly payments of $25 (sometimes more) on this account since then.
My credit limit was $1750 and I have cut my bill to $1690. I think that this is predatory and I will never be able to pay this bill off.
They continue to charge me $33 or more each month for finance charges. I see no way out of this.
Mary of Tampa FL (08/15/06)
In 1995, I opened account to help build my credit. They charged me $150 plus for $300 line of credit. I paid the $150 off but kept receiving charges, after having to go to Consumer Credit Service, I paid over $600 and still could not get them paid and only used $150. To date, they are calling my house every day and sending me bills stating that I now owe over $2000. Even when I went thru death in family and illness, they never let up. They have put this on my credit report so now I cannot get it to where I can think about buying a home. I am 63 yrs old and this harrassment and overcharges has taken it toll on my health.
It has affected my credit report, my health, constant harrassment even with death in family over $150 that I paid back many times over and every month it just gets higher and higher. My blood pressure is high along with other physical illness due to the stress of this whole mess. I have paid the bill in full many times over.
Beverly of Prairieville, LA (08/09/06)
I received a credit card offer for $200 from Aspire. I opened the account, and begin using my card. Unfortunately, I was suddenly hospitalized but once back on the road to recovery, I begin to get back on track with my bills. Every credit card and other bills understood the situation and agreed to return my bills to normal by deleting the charges and penalties.
Aspire however told me that this was not their fault and they charged me over limit and late fees. This eventually went from a $200 balance to a $900 balance. Everytime I call, no one wants to help me, and I never get to speak to an account manager when I ask for one.
Allen of Ozark, AL (08/08/06)
I cancelled this credit card one month after opening the account due to the hidden charges. I paid the balance in February 2006.
We just received mail attempting to collect $102.87. I tried to call the company but my social is not even recognized with the company. Checking my credit report they have reported deliquent amount. I never misssed a payment and paid the balance off.
Gail of Eden Prairie, MN (08/04/06)
I accepted an Aspire Visa credit card offer in 1999 and used the card once or twice for a total of about $200. When I was a little late on the payment, I was charged their exhorbitant fee so I paid off the balance and cancelled the card. I may not have paid the late fee. And that was the end, I thought.
Now, 7 years later I am being called 2-3 times a day from a collection agency to collect over $300 — which is more than I even ever used the card during the 2-3 months I had it. I asked them for a record of my bill and payments, and, of course, the collection agency doesn't have any info. They say the company has been sold so they have no records.
Kasey of Clearwater, FL (07/28/06)
I paid my account (due on 7/21) with my checking account online, received a confirmation number, and thought it was the end of it. On July 28, I tried to use my card, which should have had ample balance, only to be told the card had been declined.
I looked up their website, which of course, doesn't offer an online statement, just your balance in the 'make a payment' option. I couldn't access the site - it was down. I spent the rest of that day and all of the next trying to access the site. I checked my checking account, and the payment has been taken out, was taken out that day. Yet, somehow, I'm past due, and over my limit by more than fifty dollars. I would love to hear their excuses, but their absurd hours for customer service won't allow me to.
Geraldine of San Diego, CA (07/26/06)
Aspire Visa offered me an account with a APR of 11.99%. My account has never been less than 29% since I opened it!
I have been receiving my bills, and paying them on time. I cannot continue to pay these huge Finance charges for the use of their card.
Kathleen of Honolulu ,HI (07/26/06)
I foolishly accepted Aspire's offer of a $2000 credit line, in the hopes of beginning to repair my credit. In less than 2 weeks after receiving my DREAM credit card, I received a letter from Aspire stating that they had reduced my credit to $650, effective immediately!
This was during the Christmas season and since I was short on cash I used my card to purchase gifts. I hadn't even received my first bill yet and they were already reducing my line of credit?
They were 2 weeks late in sending me my first billing statement and had already assessed me an over the limit fee and a late payment fee! I attempted to contact them more than 10 times by telephone, to no avail and also by written correspondence. They sent me a letter 5 weeks later giving me some irrelevant information, but never addressed my complaint!
Barbara of Indianapolis IN (07/21/06)
I opened my account with Aspire in 2002 there hidden charges became ridiculous they would chage me when they increased my credit limit, my credit limit was increased by $150 dollars so they charged me $150 for my annual fee which really made no sense. The in 2005 I was sent an enrollment to help me balance my account when it was really an agreement for them to close my account. I was fine with that I figured I would pay it off and my credit score would be fine...well I got my bill down below my limit and I only had to pay about $300 dollars more to have it cleared...of course some how some way they said a payment did not make it on time...they charged me a late fee which put me back over the limit so then they charged me an over the limit fee plus my monthly payment which all totaled about $89. When I called to try to make arrangements because I knew if I did not pay the money I would get more fees added.
They do not work with there customers at all and they will try to get more out of you if they can. All in all it is a year later and I have to pay almost $500 if not more for a card I had gotten down to $300 dollars and also that I can not even use and have not used in a year. Aspire is truly a rip off. My credit score is also ruined.
Dina of Lansing MI (07/21/06)
I accepted a credit offer from Aspire Visa. After being approved for the card, they required 150 dollars to be charged up front on the card, then they wanted a 20 dollar payment to activate the card. I followed through with the 20 dollar payment, but they claimed that I had provided incorrect routing and account numbers from my financial institution. Aspire Visa operates in a fraudulent manner to squeeze every ounce of money they can get out of consumers. I demanded that they close the account that I never used. I have a feeling they are going to try to bill me for something, but I am prepared to fight.
James of Montgomery, AL (07/17/06)
I had a card with Aspire in 1995. I paid the balance owed and closed the account in 1997. When checking my credit report a few days ago I see they said I owe them$2,400. My report show $0.00 balance.
My credit score was up to 711, but because of this it has fallen to 500.
Roberta of North Highlands, CA (06/16/06)
I paid off this account some months ago. Today, I got a phone call from a lady at Aspire saying that I needed to pay another $65 but I don't know why. I would very much like to CLOSE this account, but this company is a comedy of errors and it is impossible to get professional service from them. They seem hungry for any excuse to create more charges.
I had to pay $65 I was not expecting.
Sandra of St Paul MN (05/23/06)
My parents passed away in September and December of 2005. I notified Aspire Visa of their passing, and sent them copies of Death certificates and appointment of representation. They call me every other day, asking for documentation. I have even tried to fax it to them, and the fax never answers. They have been calling me for months now, it's May, and I also know that they must be charging late fees and interest upon interest on the bill, but then tell me, do you have proof the letter was received. The last caller, said that I was rude when I asked to speak to someone who speaks english, because I could not understand him. He then just kept saying let me talk to your sister (I don't have one) and let me talk to someone else in your house, I don't want to talk to you. I finally had to hang up it was so ridiculous.
Gina of Portland OR (05/11/06)
I have had my Aspire card for almost 8 years. I had a high balance $4,400.00. I did make my minimum payment every single month.which out of my $130.00 payment only $15.00 went towards principal. BUT the worst thing is, I was able to pay it off pretty much. I paid $4,000.00.Once I did that, THEY CLOSED MY ACCOUNT. According to the 3 credit agencies, I only had 1 payment late ever, in May of 2001. I was shocked to say the least.
Paul of Keysville, VA (05/07/06)
I paid my Aspire visa off every month and never carry a balance. I sent a payment of $250 last month but they said I only sent $60. I faxed them a copy of the cancelled (by them) check. They sent a notice back saying, "yes, it came here but was cashed by a different bank".
So now I am out $250 and don't know who cashed the check from their company.
Mollie of Willits CA (04/10/06)
I applied for an Aspire Visa after they emailed me with an offer of credit dozens of times. I provided them with both my physical address and my mailing address. They still claim they cannot verify my address BUT they HAVE NEVER even attempted to verify my address--which is a legitimate address. Considering the numerous complaints I have read about them, I think I'll just stay away from them.
Tim of Westbrook ,CT (03/29/06)
A couple of years ago I sent some credit cards to a credit agency to consolidate my credit and lower my rates. Aspire was one of them.
After the agency took over paying my credit card bills, on time I might add, Aspire called and told me I was behind in my payments. I tried to explain that a credit agency was sending the payments but she wouldn't listen and kept cutting me off. I was at work at the time, which is a busy establishment, and couldn't be on the phone arguing over a credit card.
When I checked later, the payments were made on time and the error was theirs. There was another instance, before I consolidated my credit, when I got a call saying my payment hadn't been received. I checked my check register and saw the check had been cashed.
Aspire just doesn't have their act together.
Susan of Edina MN (03/11/06)
I filled out an application on the internet. I received a letter asking that I send a copy of my drivers license and a recent utility bill for them to "complete the application process" I suspected this and wrote to the company asking if they indeed needed this to be sent in the mail for approval. I never got a straight answer. I received another email saying my account had been sent to "Jefferson Company" I tried calling them and got in touch with a Mid-something company that was also a collection agency. Now I cannot get through anywhere to have it all cancelled. I'm afraid of the information I gave them on the initial application. Of course I did not send copies of any personal material.
E M of Elkridge MD (03/06/06)
I received a credit card in the mail after a telemarketing caller coerced me into agreeing to one to be sent. However, it was not an application, but an approved, ready-to-be activated card that I received. I also received a form labeled "Important Information." On reviewing this information, I noticed that there was a notice to the buyer that said: "1. Do not sign this credit agreement before you read it or if it contains any blank spaces. 2. You are entitled to a completely filled in copy of this credit agreement."
I called the customer service number, and after determining some basic information (like my APR), I was transferred to Ryan the supervisor to find out why my copy of the agreement had blank spaces labeled "Name of bank officer", "Office Held", and "Insert date of revised agreement." He refused to give me that information, stating that it was private. He refused to give me his last name, stating that was private. He claimed that Columbus Bank and Trust provided the money and Aspire provided the customer service.
He refused to answer my questions and eventually told me that I should "use my discretion" in accepting this card. While I was talking to him, I looked on this web site and noticed the list of complaints about Aspire and told Ryan that I would like written confirmation that I have rejected this card and any affiliation with Aspire. He has promised one in "7 to 10 business days." I then called Columbus Bank and Trust only to find out that the only service the bank provides is the manufacturing of the cards. Where does the money come from, I wonder, if the bank doesn't provide it?
William of San Diego CA (02/26/06)
I just received a call from Aspire Visa stating that my account was past due and that if I would make my payments through April 21, 2006 that they would be happy to remove the late fee.
I checked my chech register and I told him I had made my payment on time and how could I be past due $10. He told me it had to do with federal regulations and that the $10 was interest accrued during the Jan. to Feb. cycle. He looked up my account and said that I had indeed sent in my payment on time and for the amount that was the minimum due.
He kept saying he was sorry and wished he could offer me a better explanation on what happened. It was the man on the phone that quoted to me the amount that was due on that bill, and that I had paid that amount. I became very upset with him as I had not done anything wrong, but he was telling me I would have a late charge on my next bill if I didn't pay him immediately on the phone. I paid the sum he asked for and asked him to have someone inform me how this could happen.
I received a call back a few minutes later from the same gentleman saying he had given me the wrong information and that my minimum payment was actually $10 higher than the amount on my bill and on the amount he read to me from his computer that was due. This is an out and out lie! I only wish there was something that could be done about this type of unethical business practice.
Sue of Saylorsburg PA (02/09/06)
I was given an Aspire credit card limit of $300. I have never used the card but somehow I now owe over a $1000 because they keep charging membership fees. If the card is not being used it is incredible how the charges mount up based on zero activity.
Their so called customer service representatives are extremely rude and discurtious. They somehow have obtained my cellphone number, that I never gave them, and are now constantly calling me at work. They are pestering me at all hours of the day and night consistently with abusive behavior.
Denise of Pompano Beach, FL (01/31/06)
I closed my Visa account in December 2005, but I keep getting bills when my balance should be zero. My balance now is up to $204.50!
The one time I tried to use this card online, for $24.95, it was declined, so I never tried using it again. The only charge I ever had was the $6.50 monthly maintenance fee, that I faithfully paid on time. I had the account active to rebuild my credit.
I've called Customer Service twice and they say it shows my account is closed. They tell me that the balance will be zeroed out since it is an annual fee with maintenace fees and now late fees on top of it, and not purchases made by me. But to get this resolved, has become a nightmare.
I am going to drive to GA from FL, in person, if this doesn't get resolved. I want to make sure they zero it out in front of me! I cannot believe this company is allowed to be in business.
Mark of Holloman Afb NM (01/29/06)
Aspire originally called to say my wife was preapproved for a credit card. My wife wanted to get all the information regarding the credit card before she signed up for it. The gentleman was pushing for her personal info (ie. SSN, phone numbers, etc.) She gave our address and told him to mail the info so we could look it over. He kept demanding a SSN to be able to mail the info so she hung up.
The guy called back 6 times - each time with a different number so we cannot block it. He now calls daily and I have now told him that if he calls again, I will file a police complaint for harrassment. When I asked for a manager he hung up on me.
Jason of Charlotte, NC (01/23/06)
I received a call from a collection agent with this company that I have a credit card with. Since the call was received at work, I informed the rep that I was not allowed to have personal calls on my job.
She informed me of the card balance and I told her again I would have to call her back because I could not talk about this at work. She continued to be harrassing and stated "it's on $24.00 you dont have that in your account. I again told her I could not discuss this at work and I disconnected the call.
I was questioned by my manager as to why I was on this call. It could possiblly cause me to loose my job plus I felt very harrassed and threated.
Charles of Prairieville LA (01/17/06)
I received an Aspire Gold credit card and begin using it. When I reached $500 of used credit, my card starting getting declined.
I called to find out why my card was being declined and was informed that although I have $1,000 credit limit, I can only use 50% of my limit . And, if a payment is not made before the 9th of the month, I will be charged a $35 over-the-limit fee.
Nothing that I received with the card indicates anything about only using 50% of my credit limit.
Toni of Avondale AZ (01/17/06)
The ONLY reason I applied for this card was so my husband and I could rebuild our credit. I think it has done the exact opposite for us.
We recently moved so I checked the box on my statement and put in our new address. The following month I did not receive a statement so I called the 800 number on the back of the card but there is not a real live person to talk to. It is all automated and when I entered my information the recording said there were no matches! Go figure!
Aspire Visa finally decided to call me but it was a month later! When I asked what address they had for us they gave me the new one. I told them I hadn't received a statement and all they said was late fees would be on the next month's bill.
If they had my new address they knew exactly where to forward the statement, they just simply did not do it.
I just want to pay off what I truly owe and close my account. I regret EVER getting this card!!!
Duane of Frankfort KY (01/14/06)
I recieved an email stating that I had been approved for a Visa Gold credit card. I recieved the account package in the mail a week later. I was given an available balance of $300 upon opening the account.
After reading through the paperwork, I found out that I had to pay a $150 annual fee, $29 account opening fee, and $6.50 every month as an account maintenance fee. Totaling $238 a year. When I talked to customer service, I was told I had to pay $20 a month to stay current ($240 a year).
I am leaving for Iraq in 3 days, and don't have the time nor money to pay the balance on a credit card I have never used. I don't feel I should have to pay $238.00 just because they sent the card to me. I was under the impression that I could read over the information, and decide if I wanted to keep the credit card.
So I am paying $20 a month to carry this card in my wallet if I don't purchase a single thing with it. I told them numerous times that I did not wish to have this card. I have not activated this card or used a cent of credit from them. However, I am still having to pay all the annual fee's and account balance fees, monthly fees, and I might have to cover the National Debt while I'm at it.
Monte of Lockwood MO (01/12/06)
I was promised (preapproved) a credit card, filled out the forms, and then denied the Visa card.
I already knew that my past credit would prevent my getting a card but their promise, along with the extremely high interest rate, led me to believe that they were willing to speculate.
Also since filling out their forms I've been receiving 100s of spam letters daily.
Carole of Kissimmee, FL (11/29/05)
After disgusting customer service I phoned Aspire to close my account, which had a zero balance. I was told to fax my request in writing, which I did. That was in April. I have just found out the account is still active. I have e-mailed and faxed and don't know how to get this company to close my account.
Laura of Cincinnati, OH (11/29/05)
I had an Aspire Visa. They wouldn't tell me my interest rate, how much I owed, or send me a statement, so I had to guess at the payment. I guessed wrong and they changed my interest rate, charged me late fees and over-limit fees. When I tried to close account and make a settlement they would not accept it.
My credit line was $300 and I supposedly now owe $1,500. I never used the card and the $1,200 is late fees and interest, etc. This is criminal behavior.
Diane of Keystone Heights, FL (10/28/05)
After receiving an Aspire VISA, I saw that in addition to the $20 activation fee, there was $179 in other fees that reduced the $300 limit to virtually nothing. I had expected something like that, and paid $75 toward the $20 activation and the remaining fees, only to find out the card was not activated.
I emailed the company and stated that unless they activated the card by the end of the business day, I wanted them to credit my bank account $75 and cancel the card. They have done neither.
Who regulates these limited spending credit cards with huge hidden fees? I have tried without success to contact them by phone.
Kait of Mastic, NY, writes:
I had been using this credit card for over a year and now my intrest rate after my Christmas purchases went up to over 30 percent APR. This is crazy. I have a decent balance and I pay $90 just in interest. I could be paying this card off for the rest of my life. Someone really needs to do something about this company. I am a fulltime college student who also works fulltime. I feel like I am just working to pay off my Aspire Visa bill.
Dana of Lanham, MD, writes:
Where do I begin? I feel as if this company as been screwing me over since the beginning. I had just moved from home and was just beginning on my own. I had gotten this card to help make a few purchases for my new place. Like many, I believed that making the minimum payment would be all right, but it wasn't. I was paying more and more every month. I currently pay a 36.75% interest rate that continually goes up.
I finally ended up moving back home and consildating my bills. Aspire wasn't among them because they didn't accept my consolidation company's offer. Another thing that they had forgotten to mention: currently I am way over my credit limit and they have just cancelled my purchasing powere with this card. What I don't understand is how that they could do this when I cancelled and cut up the card over a year ago. I've have a list of other complaints about this company too. I've written the Attorney General's office in both Maryland and Georgia about this company's business practices and am waiting to hear back from them.
I'm in debt with this company up to my ears, they have harassed me at my workplace with nasty and threatening phone calls. Currently, I am trying to transfer the balance of the card to another so I can pay it off.
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