Complain about a product or service

First Premier Bank - Fees

Jacqueline of Newportnews VA (08/18/08)
I went on line just to check out things.trying to see what my credit report was, First Premier Bank came up. Iwanted to see if anything would happen. when 250.00 came up Itried to delete my name, then alive person came up and she asked me to wait a moment that she would reduce the interst rate.

Ishut down my computer, thought that was the end of it. but i recieved a letter in the mail about credit card protection, and two days later Ireceived acredit card. I tried to call them on 8/18/08 to find the number busy allday. Idon't want this card, that's why Ishut down my computer.

Asof yet nothing, but they wont pick the phone so that Ican tell them that i don'twant it. thecard is for 250.00 but the fees are 179.00

William of Sterling VA (08/10/08)
First Premier bank has reported 3 different things to my credit bureaus which has had a negative effect on 2 of them. In trying to contact them they do not have a valid e-mail address that you can use anywhere. I am currently in Kosovo in support of the US Army and do not have access to a phone, therefore I cannot contact them to have this resolved...

Economic consequences have been me paying a lot higher interest rates than I need to be paying and First Premier Bank has trashed my credit as well.

Richard of Eugene OR (08/05/08)
I applied for a credit card to try and re-establish my creit, when the card came it only had a 300.00 limit and the next day I recieved a bill for 179.00 and I have not even activeated the card!

Chris of Bakersfield CA (08/02/08)
I wanted a credit card I was just turned down by my own bank with a credit score of 657. I made a bad choice with First premier credit. The fact is the card comes in the mail all ready activeate! HOW IS THAT LEGAL do you realize if someone got into your mail box and KNEW that first premier did that that they could use it and steal your personal ID.

Another thing is canceling processing on the card I called and it makes me sick that I can't cancel a card a day or two after I applied for it they thought they were doing me a favor by taking $60 off of it. I still have to pay $119 I haven't even got the card in the mail. I am going to fight these guys tooth and nail I will close the account Paid in full with a Certified letter stating it and copies of everything so if they DO try to take me for ANYTHING else I will be ready for it

Someone needs to put them out of bussiness and SOON I VERY much want a attorney to contact me about this PLEASE if anything can be done I sent a Certified letter stating I did not want the card. it wasn't even 24 hours after I applied for it that I started to read the complaints I can't afford this card if there is anyway I could close the account without making it look bad on my credit report let me know.

I get paid min wage it hurts me a lot I have other bills I need to pay along with gas its just not want I needed I didn't realize they were bad I thought it wouldn't be that bad but from what I read it is really bad

James of The Dalles OR (07/30/08)
I just came back to a bill form these folks saying I owed them $202.13 for a visa card they say I opened.. I never talked to anyone there except to try and get this cleared up today 7/30/08. I'm sorry I gave them my social but didn't want to get reported to the credit bureau. They are checking into the charges and reported this as fraud and are going to send me an affidavit to sign..

After looking on the internet I can see that these charges are probably from the host of charges the apply to their card. It's a total catch 22 because I gave them my social and telephone number to get this cleared up and now I can't prove or disprove their contention that they had that info before the call today. I doubt they did, their was no one living at the address above during the time they say this happened. May 08.. What should I do now?

No damages yet unless they use my ss# for fraud or report me to the credit bureau.

Valerie of Milwaukie OR (07/27/08)
I had a terrible experience with this bank several years ago which is still hanging over my head. When I opened an account with them it was just for online purposes, etc. I was a single mom, & on a strict budget. Anyway, I had used the card while paying to use it just a few times, before I discovered that their business tactics was uncomfortably wrong. I was being double charged & not using the card. I tried to cancel, & was charged for not using it. And they flat out wouldn't let me cancel. They kept adding late charges on a fee of $25.00 for the card~ that I tried to cancel. I had a zero balance at the time while they neglected my cancellation request & instead charged me $25.00.

Since then I've been overwhelmed with bills etc. & that bank NOW claims that I owe them almost $800.00 over a late fee of $25.00 on a zero balance while they also never honored my cancellation in the first place. I'm frozen with anger, anxiety & frustration.. Since then I'm trying to start anew, & recovering from a long term injury~ which is a struggle. Nevertheless, this company is really wrong & I need this cleared up. They should'nt even be in business. Can you please help me?

My credit is shot & I'm being harrassed over a bill that I do not owe. And I cannot afford an attorney, so I need this resolve some other way. This is not right.

David of Rocklin CA (07/18/08)
I received an e-mail that I received a MasterCard With a $300 limit and a balance of $172.00. My payment is $25. My problem is that I never applied for the card nor have I received a card. I cannot get a hold of anyone at the company to explain the problem and resolve it. What can I do to stop this?

I am not sure but I believe I will be reported as delinquent when I do not pay the minimum balance.

Lisa of Valley Stream NY (07/18/08)
Like countless others, got this card to re-establish my credit. Besides the huge fees on the first statement, this bank charges a $6 Monthly Servicing Fee. I have ZERO balance on my card and I still being charged this monthly servicing fee? How could this be?

I think is un-ethical to be charged a servicing fee when other card carriers don't do this. So people who are trying to re-establish themselves have to pay? I don't get it.

Cassandra of Pembroke MA (07/15/08)
I took out a credit card to establish my credit (I was 21 at the time and took whatever I could get) and was immediately charged $172 in fees. I called and tried to get them taken down, and they took away $50 in fees. I also tried to cancel the card, and the woman would not let me. Flat out would not let me, saying I had to pay the fees first and that if I kept the card I would be offered all different kinds of protection and was very aggressive and rude.

So I kept it for emergencies to avoid the hassle of dealing with their service reps. I was then shocked when I tried to make a payment I was charged $7. Due to the hard times (pay for gas for work or gas for college?) I missed about two months in payments because I had no money to give, and I have been getting threatening voicemails saying 'call by 11 pm' by very angry sounded women. My limit was only $300 and I haven't even gone over that! They are so aggressive over the smallest amounts due. I am disgusted

As a college student (commuter) times have been very stressful- I rent an apartment and am about 40 miles from my school. As gas prices went up I had to make the choice between getting my education or working full time to be able to support myself. I had to drop out of school in order to make ends meet and cannot be bothered with this scam of a credit card. They have been nothing short of thieves of my money since I received it. Their m-o seems to be overcharging and bullying and I hope that their business crumbles the current economic depression.

Robert of Murfreesboro TN (07/10/08)
ok, i was called by a cumstomer service rep wanting me to pay the full balance being it was late...told him i could not do that, so i payed 31.00 which 11 of that was a fee for paying over the phone, and then signed up for another payment of 111.00 which 11 of that payment was also a fee, this was the same phone call mind you, so they take the first payment which 25 was applied to my account,

today is July 10th andi check my account and the balance is 129.95 so i said ok all my payments have been applied and all have cleared my bank, NOT! i looked on my first premier banck online account and i only have 9.00 available credit! i sould have 120 available, so i callled first premier and they said that it wount be available till July 28th lol WHAT! and i asked why, she said it was not a cash something or other payment and MY bank could still take adverse actions on the payment. ITS ALREADY BEEN TAKIN OUT MY ACCOUNT!

so first premier has my money but i can't use it till almost a month later SOMETHING IS FISHY HERE, i have never heard of this...is this normal?

first premier has my money and funds have cleared MY checking account but i can't use it and she told me it was going to be available on the 28th...which is when my annuel fee is going to be due too!

Rodney of Anaheim CA (07/06/08)
I had a problem paying my two bills with my credit card account in June of 2008. I was short on money and I waited until the due date to pay. I was charged $11.00 to pay by phone just before the due dates. I thought that was wrong, but I paid $60.00 on both cards where the minimum was only $20.00 for each individual card. I usually pay on one check in the amount of $40.00 for both. I was intending to pay $20.00 more when I called the agent. I made it very clear my intentions to pay for both cards.

Now I get a call on 07/06/2008 at around 9:16 A.M. from an agent trying to collect full amount on my one card stating they want to prevent collections. I said that I already paid on both. She only kept on insisting that I paid $60.00 on only one card. I told her that the bank should correct the problem themselves, not me. Then I hung up.

The damage that it may cost me is that I will be charge interest on the stupid behaviors of the bank, as they have done before, charge sums that are not reasonable to consumere. I even tried to get them to put all the money I owed them into one account. They refused.

What does not make any sense is why they want to put me into collection on one account when I alway pay for both at one time. This to me just not help with my credit score and puts me into a finanial bind when I am trying to pay them off so I would not yet credit cards again. They are too much of a bother and are ripping the public off and putting our economy backwards. I am on disablity and do not need any more cost that I can not afford.

David of Los Angeles CA (07/04/08)
I applied and received a secured credit. The offer declared that with the First Premier Bank Card, a person can build up their credit without and the interest rate remains low unless the person is late in paying their bill. Though the limit on the card was $300.00, I was only allowed to charge a maximum of $75.00 until the the cost of $250.00 to obtain the card, was paid in full.

The first bill I obtained requested payment but added several other charges not originally included in the company's advertisement. I first sent an email and recently wrote a letter, advising the company that I wanted to cancel the card and wanted a bill for only the charges I made (though I believe those charges were all previously paid). The company responded by stating that I had been reported to the 3 credit reporting companies and that they were going to submit a request that the debt be coded as a charge-off (a collection account which the company has failed to collect upon).

I recently called again and reiterated my request. Instead of receiving a bill I received 15 messages from representatives of the company, asking that I call so that they could provide me with some counter offers. I guess telling them I don't want their card and asking for a final bill referencing what I actually charged and a record of my payments, is too much for First Premier to comprehend.

Yesterday, 7/3/08, I received another bill in which I am asked to pay a minimum of $346.24. My total balance is alleged to be $446.24. The the limit charge alone is $196.24.

The company has added a negative mark to my record. My requests have been ignored and they have added exorbedent fees and penalties which exceed the amount I originally agreed to pay. I am stressed, concerned and very angry.

Brian of Bonifay FL (07/02/08)
they kept adding charges for this and that, screwing people over for more money

i just closed it

Rob of Tallahassee, FL (06/30/08)
I decided that it was time for me to get a credit card, despite warnings from friends and family members that have had bad experiences. I got an offer from First Premier, so I decided to accept it. Little did I know what I was getting myself into.

Like everyone else, I received my card with $179 already charged to it. I thought, well... it's an investment in my credit future. So I decide to sign up with their web site so I can better monitor the activity and have the convenience of paying the bill online. They charged me for signing up on their website. O.k. I thought I would make a payment early, as I thought this would look good on my credit. It costs money to make a payment. $11. They auto-drafted my checking account, after I provided them with my account information.

Then, after my payment posted to my account, my available balance did not change. So I gave it a couple days and nothing. After attempting to find their contact information on their website, I was forced to send an email... which has yet to be returned. Another couple days go by. I decided to give them a call. I found their number on the bank's website as it is not listed on the credit card's site. The young lady who I was speaking with, not-so-politely informed me that automatically deducting funds from my checking account was not a secure form of payment... and they had the right to hold the payment for 20 days.

I, for one, do not feel like giving this company an interest free loan. I intend to pay the remaining balance, in full via money order. -- I don't like the idea of my money floating around in limbo, and why should I have to pay them just to give them money? Oh and have you seen some of the things on First Premier Bank's website?

Mary of Las Vegas NV (06/30/08)
I initially contacted First Premier on June 18th 2008 to pay my bill, and talk about the account fee (48.00) that they were going to charge for the following month. I paid my bill, I wanted to cancel it but I wanted to go over the reprecussions of cancelling the credit card so, I would call back. She said that she would notate my account about the charge so, the wouldn't report it as going over the limit, and also if I were to close it with her she was going to comment on the closing that it was due to the fees.

Now, I call in on June 30th, 2008 spoke with a customer service representative about cancelling the account, I was then told I was over the limit by $6 . I asked the notes on my account that Dawn stated she made on the previous call, she said that there were no notes, and it has already been reported to the bureaus that I'm over the limit, and of course due to their fees.

I asked to speak to a supervisor I was then transferred to Crystal #40105 she then proceeded to tell me the same thing if I were to cancel I would still be reported as being over the limit and I would have to pay a $3 fee for any balance on the account every month including their account maintenance fee which is charged as a finance charge for what reason they do that I don't know. If I were to keep the account open I am to pay the 27.00 charge including the amount over the credit limit, and if I were to increase the credit limit I would then be charged 25.00 for that service. What I don't understand is the incorrct reporting that can be done by this credit card company and their outrageous fees.

Credit report / credit rating lowered. Amount of money being spent on keeping this account open

April of Baton Rouge LA (06/25/08)
I have two accounts with First Premier Bank. I was paying off my accounts one at a time. My visa card had a balance of 50.00 with a $300 credit limit. My mastercard was over $50 and my payment was not due until the end of the month and they suspended both accounts without any warning. They didn't give me until my due date to suspend the card. Which I think both accounts are separate. So I think that was wrong I went out of town thinking I could use my card and it was denied.

Renee of Fremont NE (06/17/08)
I too rcu the card with a balance already on it off $174! I purchased a few things on it and got behind on paying for it. To make a long story short they sent me to CCB Collections. I paid them on 2-1-08. And 4 months later i get calls from someone saying i still owe them $174! I have the receipt and copy of the stub of the money order. What can i do to make this go away.

They are ruining my credit even more!

Lekeya of Los Angeles CA (06/12/08)
I recently changed my phone number to the one I hvae now. Somehow they gt a hold of my number and will not STOP calling after numerous conversation with you they say is the immediate supervisor. I was told that ,y number would be put on the DO NOT CALL list, since every single person they ask for is not me. Each time they call they ask for a different person. So basically they have my number stored for various people and none of them are me.

It's getting to the point of harassment in the strongest sense of the word. It's been over 2 months now an to no avail have they even considered leaving me and my number alone. It costs 20 bucks to have my number changed, and that is not an option since I have spoke to them about calling my number for people I don't know even exist. And they leave so many voice mails that it overloads my mailbox and i miss important calls from people i actually know.

I have to turn of my phone and miss important calls because these people call so much, all day, everyday, staring at 7am. I cant even function properly because my cell phone is the only phone i do all my business on.

Tanya of Denver CO (06/05/08)
They sent me a pre-approved card in the mail. I let it sit for a while and decided to activate it. They charged me over 100 in fees within a month. Basically I used $71 of it and now I owe over $300. I made several payments but they keep harrassing me almost daily saying I still owe $. I told him I cut up the card and wish to try to resolve this. They just keep saying it's my fault and I owe them more $.

Heidi of Mesa AZ (06/04/08)
I got a bill in the mail for a credit card I hadn't even seen. My balance was already $172, with a credit limit of $250. I called to cancel the acct. immediately. It took me 15 minutes for the CSR to get that I was serious about closing the acct. She tried talking me into this & that & tried to scare me regarding my credit (ie you know it doeasn't look good if you open & close an acct so soon, this will show up on your credit report, etc.)

I told her I didn't care, that obviously someone with not-so-good credit cannot afford a start-up fee of $172. But the APR is ONLY 9.9. I kept repeating to please close the account. Back & forth. So frustrating. Just horrible customer service. I think this credit card is a complete joke & shame on this company for offering it. I found another one without all the lies & hidden fees. And with customer service people who listen & help.

I'm sure my credit report will be dinged.

Charissa of Herriman UT (06/03/08)
I have tried to make my credit card payment 2 days in a row online, the website is constantly down for maintenance. When I finally was able to access the website to make a payment I was charged a $7 service fee. Once my balance is paid off I am cancelling this card!

Anh of Austin TX (06/03/08)
I applied for First Premier Bank's credit card to help build credit. When I received the card, there was already $172 charged on the $250 credit limit.

This put me into $172 worth of debt that I wasn't in and now I'm out that much money because there's no way to contest it. I feel like the company is trying to discourage credit card holders from using their card, so they get the money without having to provide the service.

Neelanjan of Las Vegas NV (06/03/08)
i ordered there credit card online only to be charged 179$ for finance charges that were never mentioned at the time of card ordering.

Karen of Kenosha WI (05/10/08)
I did not apply for this card and it arrived with a bill already charging me $179.00 dollars. I tried calling the 800 number and I kept getting the run around. I went to their website and it only has how to apply for a card and how to check on your credit card account. I was trying to find a way to email them and couldn't find anything. I am thinking of cutting everything up and mailing it back to them.

Robert of Valleysprings CA (05/06/08)
premier billing for charges unknown to me i have documented proof ireported repetedly reported this unauthorized charge the last contact with premier employee reguarding matter explained they were directly afialiated with unauthorized charge company/pasport of fun

If you devide charges i actually made from what i have paid plus outrageous fees etc. those most probubly legal , i understood and accepted the outrageous fees ets but this is different this is diliberate billing fraud to has created a hardship for me i want my money back

my credit card to be over limet . current situation has potential to limetless damage

Loretta of New Port Richey FL (05/02/08)
I, too, am trying to re-establish my credit after bankruptcy. I accepted First Premier Bank's offer of a credit card over the phone after receiving marketing material in the male. In the entire half-hour phone call, I was NEVER told of the $179 fee. I would not have agreed to this! I can't even call this blasted company to cancel this account. Oh well, their statements will be thrown in the trash when they arrive. What can they do, ruin my credit? HA!

Hesham of Portland OR (04/30/08)
In 2003 I opened a First Premier Bank Credit card, I knew of all the fees and such, what happened was after 2 years of having the card, I wanted to close it, so I paid off the balance, didn't get a bill 3 months later a past due notice reaches me. I called again in protest, customer service said no notes stating account closed. What ended up happening and is still happening is I Close the account and 3 months pass and a new past due notice is sent. I can't seem to close this horrible account. Is there anything I can do? HELP

My damage is horrible only because it doesn't stop. It keeps repeating itself. I pay, they say they close, I pay they say they close, and the cycle goes on and on. I really can't afford this I have paid 5 or 6 closing bills already.

Craig of Chesterfield MO (04/24/08)
I was trying to re-establish my credit. After I received my credit card I used it once for a tank of gas. Received my first statement and I was at my credit limit. I made a payment of $125 and to close my account out because I figured it was a rip off. A year later my account is closed but somehow with interest and penalties they have my balance up to over $400 and I have refused to pay it.

Now I need to get this to go away. I dont know if I should bite the bullet and pay the $400 or is there something I can do. Its a rip off but the interest and penalties are getting out of control and now the phone calls are coming to my work. So my basic problem is I made one small charge. My account is closed after the payment I made and the small tank of gas is at over $400. Thanks

If I keep getting the phone calls at work I could lose my job.

Jill of Sioux City IA (04/13/08)
I am making a road trip this summer and needed a credit card for it (I have previously only used pre-paid cards but some places will not accept them. I received a solicitation from First Premier Bank and sent in an application. I received an invoice a week later (no card, just an invoice) showing a credit limit of $275 with a charge of $179 (leaving a balance of $96 on the card). Since receiving this, I have tried to contact someone through the numbers on the invoice but only get computer voices. I would have declined the card with such a low balance as it is pointless. This company never gave me the chance to do so.

I am returning the invoice with a letter declining the card, but I have a feeling I will be stuck with the $179.00 for stupidly applying for it. I am recoving from bankruptcy and closing in on retirement. This payment will be in lieu of paying another bill.

Bill of Kailuakona HI (04/12/08)
I've applied for a card to try an re-establish my credit.Sent in the processing fee,and waited for my card.It's been over a month now and I just checked my credit report to find out that I have an overdue balance of 151.42.And yet have no credit card???????

Steven of Evansville IN (04/03/08)
I was solicited by mail informing me that I was pre approved for a credit card. All I needed to do was go online and type in the reference number given to me in the mail. The card arrived in the promised 7-10 business days. When I read the terms it came with a $325 credit limit with fees of $179. The first $25 payment was due in 7-10 days. I told the lady that I did not agree with the terms and to cancel the card. She never did tell me with 100% certainty that the card was cancelled. All she would say it that it has a 0 balance.

I'm not sure of the consequences. All this just happened today. I am cutting up the card and mailing it back to them with a complaint in writing. I am going to demand that this account be deleted and not reported to the credit bureau's. I do not know what to do from there. Any suggestions?

Laurie of St. Petersburg FL (03/24/08)
I was harrassed mercilessly by telephone for being a few days late for which I could swear I made payment via pnone no less. I was charged an outrageous amount of fees, both late and over-limit for less than a week overdue. What a bunch of predatory crap! I was called no less than 20 times a day. This is out right harassment. Their responce when I called to inform them That I e-mailed a payment was until payment posts we can call and harass you as much as we want. This is a horrible company and I have to spread the word. I am just trying to get my credit where it needs to be and these people just wait for you to slip up once so they can rake you over the coals with their fees. THIEVERY!!!!!! I was charged almost one hundred dollars in bogus fees. L. Harper

I have to worry that these people will wind up killing my credit in the long run. With their non-stop calls and harrassment at home and everywhere else I am stressed beyond my limits.

Laurel of Seattle WA (03/24/08)
If you want to make First Premier pay attention to these complaints, then as a group we all need to file complaints against them with both the Attorney General's Office of South Dakota and your state's Attorney General's Office. This is how the New York city lawsuit began that caused them to have to pay $4.5 million to people they defrauded. They won't pay attention until you complain to agencies that will actually go after them. Here is the Attorney General of South Dakota's website. Just click complaint and file it. When they get numerous ones they will take action. Also it does not hurt to file a complaint with the Comptroller of the Currency and the FDIC.

Mark of Ft Myers FL (03/21/08)
I specifically asked to have $336.00 2 times over a month period. Every 2 weeks I was left with $10.00 for paying my electric, Cell phone bill and buy groceries for my child--not to mention gas for driving back and forth to work. So my electric will be turned off in a week because of this.

Christine of West Palm Beach FL (02/27/08)
I received a letter in the mail 5/07 with a mc # and expiration date, and I called to get more information about the card before I agreed to accept the offer. The lady I talked to said that they would extend the first payment of $20 until Aug/07, that the credit line was $300, but with a fee of $60.00 and $7.00 fee charge for the card  being deducted. Also there was a charge of $150 membership annual fee, and there were other charges that left me with a credit line of about $60.00 to use right then. She said that once I made the first payment all this would cover all the fees and other charges; once all the fees was paid, I would have the full line of credit. She made it sound so good I thought this is a good way to start to rebuild my credit. I told her that I never received the actual card; she said it was in the mail. The same day I went online and paid for my AARP membership in the amount of $14.95.

in Aug. I sent a payment to Premier for $100.00 and explained to the csr supervisor that the reason I hadn't sent the payment in earlier is because I did not have a bill with the correct address to send it in nor an account number because I misplaced the letter. She was so rude to me. I made the pymt. on line, debiting my saving account. She said the reason I had not receievd my card was because it was returned in the mail. Well, to this day I have never receieved a card--only threats from this bogus company and demanding more money. I spoke with a Lisa in Oct. '07 and told her to cancel whatever account they had for me because I will not send them anymore money. They have constantly called my home daily, three to four times, harassing me; and I have told them repeatedly that they got $100.00 for a $14.95 charge, and they better be satisfied with it because there is no more money coming their way. I think they are frauds and swindlers. To this day I have never receieved a credit card, and I feel duped and STUPID. I DON'T EVEN KNOW THE ACCT# , AND FRANKLY DON'T CARE. I JUST WANT TO KNOW WHERE TO TURN TO.

The only economic damage that I have suffered is that they got $100.00 from me for a $14.95 charge--and the harassment everyday causing me such stress that I don't need at this time with the limited income. I can barely survive as it is. Now they tell me 2/29/08 is the deadline before they take more action. Please help me to know where to turn.

Lawanna of Cincinnati OH (02/27/08)
I received my credit report for the first time in four years. First Premier Bank is listed on my credit report. I have never had an account with first premier, nor have I ever applied for one. They will not remove the information from my credit report.

My credit score was lowered, and my credit reports looks pretty sad.

Peter of New Hope MN (02/20/08)
I applied for a credit card from First Premier Bank. It arrived today with Initial Fees of $179.00 and a note that the card is already active! I have done nothing with the card and want to know what is the best course of action to cancel this. I've been looking on-line, and all I see is one horror story after another.

Lillian of Charlotte NC (02/20/08)
First Premier Bank's credit card is listed on my credit report. I have never received this card nor a bill or statement.

This is hindering my attempt to acquire a refinance loan on my home.

Stacey of Mcdonough GA (02/18/08)
I wanted to build my credit back. I applied for the First Premier Bank Card. Big mistake. My very first statement was like this: Additional card fee $20.00, Program Fee *Finance Charge* $95.00, Account set-up fee *Finance Charge* $29.00, Monthly servicing fee *Fin Chg* $7.00, Annual fee $48.00, Premier credit card protection $1.17. Total first statement with out any first purchase $200.77.

Okay, I thought that I could handle this, I was wrong. I misplaced my last statement and seven days after my due date, I get a phone call. This man was telling that since I was late I owed the entire amount now. Keep in mine, SEVEN DAYS LATE, I was floored. I told him that I could not give the whole amount and he wanted to know what date he can put on my check to put it through. I told him that I could give him half, $145.00. He finally took that offer and then told me that there was a pay by phone fee in the amount of $11.00. I voiced my opinion and he proceeded to tell me that I didn't have a problem with it before. I let him know that I was never told that there was a phone fee when I made my payment in the past, if I had, I would had mailed it. At this time the man was getting very stern with me and without any concern for this issue. He then told me that he would bill me the $11.00 and it will show on my next statement. He wanted to know the date of my next payment and wanted to go ahead and make another check for that amount on that certain date. I told him that I could not give a date at this time, only that I knew that I would have this card paid in full and to cancel my account. He repeatedly asked the date for my next payment, I could not give that to him and the more I told him, the more stern he got and made me very upset.

My husband was becoming very upset with the fact that this man had me upset and took the phone away from me. I was so upset with this issue that I began to cry. I had never had anyone make me this upset over a bill. I had never had a company call and give me a hard time about a balance being SEVEN DAYS LATE. This man also told me that this has already been turned in on my credit. Now I have a negative report and money out of my pocket for just a $300.00 limit. I work in a business that requires excellent customer service and that is what I give. I work with those that can't make that monthly payment and go out of my way to save them money in any way possible. I honestly and truly hope that with enough complaints toward this company that they will come to know that customers, like me and many others make that company. I wouldn't want to see them go out of business, just become customer oriented.

Consequences, I have to pay this off. Economically, I am out basically the entire original balance due to all the charges to have one of there credit cards. Physical damage, only to me mentally.

Nicolas of Denver CO (02/16/08)
I, like many others apparently, am quite upset with First Premier Bank. I have had problems with these people since the moment I received my card. My card was already activated when I got it in the mail. Who would be careless enough to send a card that is already activated? Goes to show that they do not care who receives/uses MY card. The card only had a $250 limit, over half of which was already used by fee's etc making the card virtually useless until completely paid off. First Premier charges their clients a fee to make payments every month be it by phone or Internet. Who charges their clients to pay their bill? When I called them to ask about these issues, the representative with whom I spoke sounded somewhat inebriated and could not answer my questions. When I asked to speak with a manager, the representative put me on hold, then came back onto the line and said his manager didn't have any answers for me either.

They only have daytime business hours, and no customer service number that is available 24 hours a day. What if my card were to be stolen after 5PM? I have accounts with Chase Visa and Discover Card and have never had any of these issues with them. I have stopped using the card and plan to close the account next week. The First Premier web site states that they will roll up their sleeves to help their customers. They don't do it, however, because they have too many cards hidden in them.

Ashley of Carmel IN (02/16/08)
I thought it would be a good boost for my credit. Right after completing the application and receiving approval, I decided to look this company up. I went to several sites that had nothing but negative comments about Premier Bank being a fraud and scam. I immediately emailed Premier bank and requested that my application be voided and that I didn't want anything to do with their company. I assumed that was the end of the situation.

Here I am, looking at my credit report and First Premier Bank is listed. It states that My credit limit is $300 but I have somehow spent $180. That's a little difficult considering I never received the card. I just received the offer and wrote my letter of refusal for the credit line last week! My credit report also states that I owe $25 a month. This is ridiculous. How is this company consistently getting away with this type of consumer deception?

I am in the process of repairing my credit. The stress and emotional anxiety of being in debt is overwhelming at times. For a company to take advantage of one's poor credit is outrageous.

Andria of Hyattsville MD (02/13/08)
I have been a card holder with this company since 2002, back as a freshman in college. I wasn't working and didn't use the credit responsibly, the card only had a $250 balance. One year after getting the card, I was financially unable to keep up the minimum payments. It seemed as if when I made the minimum payments, the card balance would increase by the next billing cycle. The card was charged off eventually and on February 14, 2005, I made an agreement with collection agency Accounts Receivable Management to pay a portion of what First Premier Bank claimed I owed, which was $299.

Not being knowledgeable of the agreements that I could make with collection agencies or credit card companies, I allowed First Premier Bank to report the accounts as settled for less than owed and other derogatory information, including leaving the account listed as derogatory. That year I received a card without applying in the mail from First Premier Bank, in an effort to improve my credit I accepted and have had the card ever since. In the interim I have been talking with Julie Giles, President of First Premier Bank, who sent me a listing of all my invoices, as well as shot me down every time stating she will not change the status from a Derogatory account to Current, as well as listing it as Closed Paid. They were able to do so with one of the three bureaus but won't do it for the other two. I have been fighting and fighting and just December 2007, they sent me a Platinum card in the mail for being such a good card holder, how could you extend me an additional $350 yet not make a simple change to my credit report? For this I am boycotting First Premier Bank, if you want a credit card that will improve your credit, use Rewards 660, they increase your credit limit $100 every time you make three consecutive monthly payments, good deal and they currently report to Transunion and Equifax.

The damage is every time I dispute something with them whether it be for them to update my credit balance on my other cards they're unresponsive, and also told me that they will not be making any changes to my credit report.

Robin of League City TX (02/13/08)
I received a letter in the mail from First Premier Bank (Sioux Falls, S.D.), asking for my Social Security number so they could process my application (I had not applied for a card). I later realized I had become an ID Theft victim. When I received my credit reports, First Premier had already done an inquiry 3 days prior to the date on their letter. It dropped my scores. I have tried to contact them, in vain. Impossible to get a human--almost totally automated. At one point I finally got a rep., who claimed I was not in their system, so they would not/could not remove the inquiry from my report. I don't know what to do other than file a dispute. My understanding is that disputes are extremely difficult to remove. Any suggestions appreciated! Am considering hiring an attorney (Contingency, as I am on disability). I only found out because I had to request my credit reports because of the ID Theft.

Lower FICO scores, facing increased interest on a vehicle purchase.

Homero of Bayshore NY (02/11/08)
I received the card and already charged $172.00 into my card with $300.00 credit. THEY CHARGE ME TOO MUCH.

Kenny of Lincoln NE (02/10/08)
Don't get behind with this outfit. They will hound you to death using the phone without caller ID, including calling you on Sunday. Thank your senator and congressperson for gutting the powers of the Federal Trade Commission. That action gives predators like First Premier the ability to provide a liner for pond scum. Run away. You don't need anything from these jerks!

I have filed a complaint with the FTC just to see what happens.

Marcus of Eden Prairie, MN (02/10/08)
I am trying to buy my first home so I checked my credit report.  It showed an unpaid balance from First Premier Bank for $215.

I have never seen or applied for this card.  My report says my limit was $250 but says my high limit $394.  How is that possible?

My credit has been lower due to these bogus charges.

Catherine of Upper Marlboro, MD (02/09/08)
I closed and canceled this account out, and returned the card to them via certified mail last year.  I was charged a really high fee within one month that brought my card almost $200 over the limit.

I was trying to get some clarification on why the fees were so high if I just opened up the account. They claim that I still owe them $90 and that it's 30 days past due. Its not right. Then they said that they closed the account out. This account has been paid in full and was closed by me, not them.

Kelley of Yukon, OK (02/09/08)
I received a credit card that I did not apply for.  I have tried calling them and could not talk to live person, only computer.

Also this card says that I owe them $179 and my credit limit is 250.  My credit is not spotless but I have cards that do not charge me like this.

James of Napa CA (02/06/08)
About two years ago I received a gold credit card from First Premier Bank. I obtained a $200 credit limit and was allowed about $100.00 after all of their fees were taken. I have made all of my payments on time. About a year ago I moved back in with my ex-wife. Since I have no bank account she helped with sending a check for my payments; I would deposit monies into her account. I decided to pay off my card to build my credit; however, after a couple of months there was a hold put on my account. First Premier wanted to know who was writing the checks for my payments and required written permission to insure that I was not writing on an account without permission to do so. My ex-wife wrote a letter and faxed it to the security division. All the while they did not allow me to have access to the $370.00 I paid on my card. First Premier then required a written letter from me stating I was not a writer on this account. I did that.

By now it's going on approximately a month, and I am being told it will still be 3 to 5 days before this situation is resolved. Then again I was told my ex-wife needed to obtain a written statement from her bank showing that the $370.00 had indeed been paid. She did that and faxed it to the security department. I made a purchase before any of this insanity started for $250.00 to Sportsman Guide and then canceled that order to which the company refunded my credit card. First Premier has held this money as a credit but has not to this day returned it. I paid almost four hundred dollars in good faith as I use it to pay bills, food, etc. I believe this treatment is an invasion of my rights I would appreciate any help you can give. Thank you.

Daniel of Salem SC (02/04/08)
My first mistake was that I had inadvertently paid the renewal fee for the second year. I then sent Customer Service a notice that I wished to cancel service. Not only did they not close my account but held a few charges until two days AFTER the next service year. I then found that they then considered the account not only not canceled, but that these charges constituted my acceptance of the second year. After losing the argument with them that I had not effectively canceled my account, I begrudgingly agreed to pay off the amount due and that my renewal fee was additionally lost.

They are now accessing me a three dollar fee for some Carrying Cost, whatever that means. I have been unable to get Customer Service to explain what this cost is, nor how long I will have to continue to pay this cost. They also explained that I will be assessed an additional late fee ($15) if I do not pay this. What is extremely confusing is that they now show this account to be closed. So how can they charge me this?

William of Springfield IL (02/03/08)
I received my card with a balance and never used it.  They never mentioned a program fee ($95), an account set-up fee ($29), monthly service fee ($7), and an annual fee (($48).  All I saw was the 9.9% rate.  I just  got this thing and will cancel it.

They do not even want you t call to activate it. All this money for a $300 credit card.  I have cards which I keep up.  I am older, and they took advantage.  I am to pay more for a card than it is worth?  I don't think so!  I hope it won't hurt my credit, as when you call to stop this card, they tell you the free introductory offer is for 30 days.  Of course, this is a recording.  I have worked hard to keep my credit, and I would hate to see a company like this get by with this!

Lisa of Gastonia NC (01/07/08)
I have never personally applied for this bank card; however, my identity was stolen via internet, and although I have sent these people the info. needed to clear this up, they have not. I even had alerts out to my credit reports, and that still did not help me with these people. I wish only that they would take this negative info. off  my credit report .

It has hurt my credit score so much, and it's been on there since 2002.

Laura of Annandale VA (01/06/08)
They sent a preapproved card and I submitted my application. My husband told me it was a scam so Itried contacting customer service and they don't even give you an option to speak to someone. I could not cancel my application.

I'm waiting to see if this will affect my credit which I am trying to build.

Charles of Hundred WV (01/04/08)
We had the same issue as the example you use where Premier Bank issued us a credit card with a line of credit for $325 but the bill arrived with never having used the card. The bill was for $279 in various fees. We are trying to cancel the card but cannot get hold of anyone.

Ruined our Christmas by putting us in to a worse situation than what we were & still didn't have money to buy gifts. If we did anything like this we would be arrested for theft. How does this company get away with this?

Juan of Houston TX (01/02/08)
This company continues to send their pre-approved applications to my residence despite my requests with customer service telling them to stop. I also sent a letter stating the same. These people say they help those who might want to reestablish their credit. What they are really doing is getting rich by charging such high fees. Hard working Americans are being taken advantage of. Please stop these people from the evil they are doing. THANKS.

Misty of Johnstown PA (01/02/08)
I was trying to establish credit, and I thought this would be a way to start with the bank card. Was I ever wrong. My credit limit was $200, and on my first statement they took out $150 in fees, which I did not mind, but then I got my next statement and it had a $29.99 late fee. I sent my payment way before the due date. It is not my fault they did not cash it until after the due date. And the finance charges are ridiculous. I have only had they card for a month and I am canceling it. They charged me a late fee, and now on my credit report that is going to be a strike against me. I don't understand how a company can be so greedy. They say they will help, and they only make it worse. They are just taking our money.

Juanita of Northridge CA (01/01/08)
I thought I was trying to rebuild my credit by getting this card. Was charged up front $172, paid it and was given $250 credit limit, but the other fees took up this limit each month. I tried to canceled the card by calling and sending a letter and never used the card, but to my surprise it was on my credit report ;and it is still incurring the extra fees only.

This has and still is making my credit report bad, which means I cannot buy a house, new car or bid for better job. I feel as though I am stuck!

Anthony of Milwaukee WI (12/31/07)
I got one of their credit cards. I paid all of the fees, and paid the card in full. They took the money directly from my bank account, so they knew that the funds were valid. They plan to hold onto the money from 16-21 days. I thought that they meant if there was a check sent, they would hold the money.

I paid them in full to have a birthday party for my daughter. I was denied, even after my account had a zero balance.

David of Henderson NV (12/28/07)
My experience is not unlike others who received the card with $172 balance owed and a limit of $300. In addition to this major disappointment, I have trouble EVERY MONTH logging on to my account to pay online. When I did make a payment online on the actual due date, I was informed that the transaction would show THE NEXT DAY as the DATE PAID, which would mean it was paid late, and the late fee would then apply (even though I actually paid it on the day it was due). Every month, I have to call them before I can log on because the system ALWAYS tells me the CVV number that is wrong. It is the number on my card, but the system doesn't acknowledge it. So, every month I have to make another phone call where they PROMISE to correct the problem. I am then able to access the account that one time. Then, next month I have the SAME ISSUE all over again. I am tired of having to call them every month because they cannot get their web site fixed. It is the worst experience I have EVER HAD with a website or a creditor!

Corrine of Kingston PA (12/22/07)
I was pre-approved for a credit card from First Premier Bank. I have no idea where this card came from. On Wednesday, December 19th, I got home from my office and found the card in the mail. On December 20th I sent the card back to them, cut in three (3) pieces on the same document they sent me the card on. I sent them a note telling them I did not want the card. On Saturday, December 22nd, I was hit with a bill. I tried to reach the bank on Saturday but found out their banking hours are M/F 7 AM to 7 PM. I am not paying that bill for something I did not want in the first place. What a shock to be hit with a bill! How can I undo this horrible thing? I am so afraid that they will make me pay the $179. There are so many fees for a card that I never used! Plus, I NEVER activated the card. And I don't have the card in my possession as I mailed it back to them, cut in three pieces. Can you help me out?

I am totally shaken up! I am so afraid that I am going to HAVE to pay that bill. I have no info on the card but my account number: 5178-0078-0800-4005; I am so frightened right now. I need help and I need it fast! Someone please help me. 

Trinity of Corinth KY (12/10/07)
I applied and got a First Premier Bank credit card to clean up and build my credit. The card arrived with balance to pay and no limit. I paid a $20 a month for almost a year and used the card 1 time for a $10 purchase. I called to cancel the card because I didn't understand why I was paying all this money and hadn't spent any. Then they billed me $500, and I said I wouldn't pay, so they have put a negative mark on my credit!

Jennifer of Sarasota FL (12/03/07)
My husband had a First Premier credit card with a limit of $250.00. As you have stated on your web site, all the fees were taken out and left us with minimal credit. But, we paid on time, and after a period and lots of fees later, we requested a limit increase. They denied the increase on the same card, but offered us ANOTHER credit card, with the same limit and the same fees. They did this to collect the high fees and additional interest rates. We think it was unfair to do this and took advantage of us. Due to financial medical problems, we had to let the cards go to charge off, as we were unable to pay on both of them. I also had my own card with the same fees and high finance charge. Those fees and other misc. charges times 3-- this is a lot in fees. We eventually closed the cards, and they still charged us over the limit fees and late fees and more.

Terri of Vacaville CA (11/24/07)
I received a First Premier Bank card with a balance of $179.00 with a $300.00 credit limit. The card has never been used, yet the balance continues to escalate. I want to pay it off and end my association with them, but the penalties remain due and payable. I had no clue this would be the case. I was only interested in establishing credit after divorce.

The stress of having this dangling without end is nerve wracking. I have had to decide whether to buy food and medications or make, yet another, futile payment to Premier. I am in more financial dire straits than prior to the card. I feel completely duped by the pitch of the customer service rep.

Elena of Adjuntas OTHER (11/14/07)
I applied for a First Premier Bank credit card through the Internet and I was approved. The credit limit they gave me was a little more than $200.00.  What is bothering me is that even though I canceled the account, I still have to pay the credit limit ($250.00) which was approved from the beginning without my using it: I have not spent $250.00 but have to pay for it.

I asked why I have to pay for monies I have not used, and they tell me that unfortunately they have to charge me. I'm not given any other explanation.

Lakshmi of Irvine CA (11/14/07)
After reading the article on Consumeraffair.com,  I looked into my credit card from First Premier Bank. They have a $250.00 limit; I use the card to give to merchants with whom I may not be totally comfortable giving a big balance card or online use. After reading your article I discovered the charges they hit me with are $6.00 a month plus $48.00 membership, and they have permitted charges to my account that have no details. I pay off the balance each month. Never thought to question until I read your site. I am canceling this card right now.

I got this card in 2002. I now calculate I have paid in excess of $1500.00 in fees and charges.

Shelley of Indianapolis, IN (11/11/07)
I have had a First Premier Card since 2004. They started me out with a $300 credit limit and I am still at that amount. On this month's statement I was charged a $29 over limit fee because they charged me a $49 annual fee and a $6 monthly fee.

They have THE rudest Customer service reps I have ever had to deal with.  I am paying this off and closing the account.

Brandy of Elsberry MO (10/26/07)
In 2004 First Premier Bank offered me a credit card with a $300 dollar limit. I was trying to boost my credit. I used it one time and have been paying on it since. And it has hurt my credit terribly. They still say I owe them 400. I would never get one of these again.

Mike of Oologah OK (09/24/07)
A credit card from this bottom feeder arrived in the mail Friday. Trying to call them is hard. Go to #1 in their phone choices, but don't enter anything. Eventually they will switch you to a live person.

Returning the cut up card by certified mail today. We are having a very hard time financilly and don't need this.

The threat of a bad report on our credit rating when we have done nothing is not fair.

Amy of San Diego, CA (05/28/07)
I haven't used my credit card in months and have faithfully been checking my invoices. I'm saddened to report that First Premier Credit Card charges a $6.00 a month  "participation fee" along with the $48 annual fee. How disappointing to learn that I will pay $120 a year for a card I never use. Can this be ethical?

Autumn of S. Londonderry, VT (05/28/07)
3 years ago I decided to establish credit and stumbled upon First Premier Bank Card.

I signed up for their starter card which had a $250 credit limit and is sent with $172 in fees already on the card.  I figured that was the price you paid to establish credit.  After 3 years of a sparkling clean payment history, not to mention acquiring 4 different credit cards each with $2000-$3000 credit limits and a credit score of 710, I got a great offer from First Premier.  It stated that because of my perfect payment history and great credit, I had qualified for their Platinum Card with better rewards and higher credit limit.

I thought to myself, why not? I sent in the paperwork and 2 weeks later I received a new First Premier Platinum Card. This card had the same $300 limit as the card I got 3 years ago when I had no credit and it also had the $172 fee already on the card.  They basically sold me the identical card and charged me $172 to do so!

Anne of Brownwood TX (04/24/07)
I had the same problem. I only made two purchases on mine and paid the balance due. All the sudden I have a 400.00 balance when the limit was only 200.00. They just called me while we were under a tornado warning.. I told him I had to get off the phone, he said but let me say this. wouldn't quit talking, finally I hung up. What can I do about this?

It's totally ruined my credit

Patrick  of Clifton, Nj 07012 NJ (04/07/07)

Attempting to rebuild credit, took their offer, a $250.00 line less fees netted a 72 dollar limit. Six months later I ask for a credit increase, they deny me based on credit report which is how they offered me the card in the first place. They claim the increases are based on payment history. I have routinely sent 5 times the minimum in order to build credit. In addition the 6$ monthly usage charge is nuts!

Lorie of Tiskilwa IL (03/14/07)

I keep being spammed by this bank, over and over and over! I have added them to my block senders list, clicked unsubscribe in the email, called them and asked to be taken off, mailed a letter to them at their Sioux Falls address; asking to be taken off....sent attachments of their emails to the spam dept of our government...what am I to do? I had their card before and was charged all those fees...paid it off and closed it. Since then all I do is receive spam from them.

Toni of Bradenton FL (03/14/07)

I applied for this credit card in hopes of rebuilding my credit. I was aware of the fees and was prepared to pay. However, I did not expect to receive a card that was almost at its limit! I have $178.00 worth of charges on the card and only $72.00 available to me, and I have yet to use this card.

William of Dalhart TX (03/13/07)

I was offered secured credit card that I used a few times. I later told them to cancel card and apply the security deposit to amount owed on card, they said ok. 3 years later get collection letter for $819.53?????????!!!!!!

Manny of Westminster CA (03/08/07)

I got the card to try to establish credit. They approved me for a $200.00 credit line and automatically had a $175.00 fee. I paid the amount in full and tried to use the card but I find out that they hold my payment 45 days to clear with my bank, even though it was cleared from my checking account. After I paid to use there website, I made payment and I find out that the payment was never processed and an additional late fee was added.

I called and they told me that I entered the checking account number wrong and it was my mistake. When you use there website your account number is saved. If the first $175.00 payment went thru and your settings are saved, why did they not get processed? I then was frustrated, closed my account. My end balance was $140.00. They then call me and say that I owe $210.00. I made one purchase of 25.00.

Nicholas of Milford CT (03/03/07)

Some time on or about February 18, 2007 I received an internet offer for a First Premier Bank Charge Card at an annual 9%. I applied not knowing the terms and was accepted. Then immediately I was able to read the terms. They were so outrageous that I then within minute emailed the bank to cancel the acceptance to no avail. Today March 3, 2007 I received the card. There is no way they can be contacted to speak to a person for customer care about the issue.

Kelly of Kansas City MO (02/28/07)

I had a to file for bankruptcy in 1999, but still suffer the consequences of trying to get credit, though all is fine now. These people sent me one card with a $250 limit and $187 on the card already.



 

Zvi of New York NY (02/26/07)

They keep adding fees to my bill that is completely fictitious, such as participation fees, fees for paying fees, etc. I try to keep my balance at zero, but new fees keep popping up. they almost reported me to the credit bureaus for lateness because I didn’t check my balance online, which I had left at 19 cents, and for that they called and demanded payment, which of course includes a $7.00 payment fee.

Cathleen of Litchfield OH (02/21/07)

My son, who is under aged, decided to get himself a credit card. He has no job. First Premier issued the card despite no parental approval and with disregard to checking legal age. As a parent, I get the mail and when something comes in for my children, I open to see just what is going on. Lo and behold, a bill for $178.00 on a brand new account! $95 for a bogus program fee, $29.00 account set up fee finance charge, and $6.00 participation fee, $48.00 annual fee from 3/07 to 2/08!

Roberta of San Francisco, CA (02/01/07)
I received an unsolicited card in the mail on Feb 1, 2007, with a limit of $300 and an initial charge of $178 for various fees and an outrageous interest rate. I threw it away and the very next day received a statement for the $178 dated more than 10 days before I received the card!!!!

They will not give me a letter that this account never existed. How can I trust them that this it true?

Karen of Southfield, MI (01/29/07)
In an effort to obtain a credit card and to re-establish my credit, I applied for and received a First Premier Bank credit card.  I was more than surprised when the card arrived with a $172 balance already on it!

I made the first payment (same amount of the balance due) and then discovered that the card still had no available line of credit for use. The payment was held somewhere at the credit card company. I want to get rid of this card quickly, and will pay all balances due, however I feel as if I have only made my credit situation worse by accepting the credit card from HELL!  I'm more in debt now than before. 

Samantha of Woodbridge, VA (12/26/06)
I have had First Premier for 13 months now.  I have paid EVERY bill on time with no over limit charges or bounced payments.  Today, for the 5th time, they charged me $7.00 to make a online payment. They took the money from my bank acct. on the 12-21-06 and I found out today that it won't post until 1-08-07 because my check MAY bounce !

I called their so-called customer service line and was told that they could hold any payment for up to 15 days because "It's policy". 

Wendy of Telford, PA (12/19/06)
I received this card back in September. The card came with about $181 in fee's. They did not mail me a bill for December 2006 and, now my balance is up to $319. 

I closed my account today. I am heartbroken because I am trying to get my credit on track.

Antonio of Hialeah, FL (11/20/06)
I was very surprised by the card. Even though I have not used the credit card, I have been already charged almost $200!

Valerie of Panama City Beach FL (06/15/06)
I opened a First Premier Account in order to establish good credit. This is a joke! The monthly fees and erroneous miscellaneous debits and annual fees cause for over the limit fees to be generated and the card is NEVER paid in full even if monthly payments are made on time. I am getting no benefits from this credit card. I believe that this company is defrauding the public. My credit limit was set at $250.00 more than a year ago. I have made consecutive payments monthly and today my account is over the limit and delinquent because of the extra fees they have added to it. I have never even used more than $50.00 for purchases on this card total yet today I owe more than $329.00!

Kathryn  of Lynbrook NY (04/10/06)
I opened this card and it already came to me activated with charges of $178.00 when my limit was I believe $250.00. I charged about $63.00 on the card and made a payment when my first bill came. Afterwards, I wasn't receiving bills in the mail and I thought that was strange and then I would receive bills one right after the other after calling them. It was so hectic and mixed up that I called to cancel the card, because it didn't seem like something was right on their end. I had a bad feeling about the company and I was really worried that it would further mess up my credit. I'm only 23 and I don't want to be in debt for the majority of my life!

When I called to cancel, they said I was all set. Then I started getting bills again in the mail. I called them back, but couldn't get through to anyone. The bills stopped again. Then a while later, a collections agency called me and told me that I owed over $400 dollars for this card. I understand it's not their fault, but I tried to explain what was going on to them. They told me not to pay it yet and to get in touch with First Premier.

I finally got a hold of someone there and they told me that my account was not cancelled. I was surprised an explained the entire thing to them as well. They assured me that they would take care of it right at that moment, and to be honest, I still don't know for sure if they cancelled it like I asked them to. I don't trust them at all and they are ruining my financial life. I have no idea how a company so sleazy could still be in business. I feel like such an idiot for getting the card in the first place, because it seems like such a scam.

I now "owe late fees" totaling over $400 dollars, and when I keep trying to cancel the account I get a phone call about a month later about more "late charges" and I tell them the account is cancelled, they check back and tell me that it's not cancelled at all, I try to explain my position to them - I just want them to cancel the card. I'm getting calls from my collections about late charges I never should have had in the first place and I don't understand why they assure me it's a cancelled account when it's in fact, not at all.

Ann of Campbell CA (03/16/06)
I applied for this credit card a few months ago and they have all these charges on the statement that I never agreed to--'privacy matters' etc. I am really upset because I havent even been able to use the card b'cause I have paid out so many different MONTHLY fees (that seem illegal and unwarranted). I think this is a scam and I want ALL my money back from not only the charges that I never approved of--- but of all the miscellaneous monthly charges that seem VERY UNREASONABLE AND ILLEGAL.

William of Thomasville PA (03/10/06)
I am writing concerning Premere Bank. They operate, sort of like Cross Country Bank. I receive applications all the time from them. Saying they will help, people get a credit card, that has had bad credit. Here is where they get you, they say the interest rate is as good, as people with no credit problems. They say on the app, that you will receive, something like $250 credit limit. But when you read the fine print, after they charge you, with all the fees, you might have left, if you are lucky, about $50 credit limit.

This happened to my daughter and after she received the card, she tried to use the card at a store, but she only had enough credit limit, to buy a pack of cigarettes, that was all. Now she has a debt, and no credit limit. She thought it would be a good way, to help her credit, but it only put her deeper in debt.

Deidre of Denver CO (03/03/06)
I received a card in the mail from First Premier Bank. I did not apply for this credit card. I read the disclosure statement and they want to charge me a total of $178.00 in fees. That would leave me a balance of 50 dollars. I do not want this card. I did not sign anything and I am following the instructions that say to cut the card in half and send it back to them. What do I need to do to ensure that I have no further problems with this company. Furthermore, how did they manage to get authorization for a credit account on my behalf?

I did notice that in their disclosure, they say that if I don't return the card within 30 days it is automatically a binding contract. I have the envelope, which is post dated March 1st, 2006, but the card says it was issued in February. Is this a way of possibly not giving me a chance to deny the card?

Joshua of St. Paul MN (02/24/06)
I thought that I was signing up for a secured credit card offer but had no idea until I received their credit card that what I purchased was actually a one-time pay for "no services rendered" fees. To my dismay, I have "blindly" agreed to this and now question what I can do to cancel this ripoff.

To make matters even worse five days after submitting my application for this "scam" I lost my job and have no way to afford such a thing. If this isn't a predatory lending practice then I certainly don't know what is. What can I do? Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

John of San Antonio, TX (02/20/06)
I signed up for a Visa credit card and they have charged me with hidden charges, late payments, over limit fees, etc. Plus they will not let me cancel my card.

I have canceled my card twice and paid the amout requested on several occassions and they still keep sending me a bill every month for additional fees. They have done the same thing with my wife's account.

Kent of Fort Lauderdale, FL (02/18/06)
On 2/8/06 a man called my house and asked to speak with me regarding an important business matter. He demanded that I submit my checking account information to pay my account current. This procedure would result in another service charge to take the payment over the phone.

I paid approximately $179 to get the Visa credit card to start with, and was not aware of the $179 account set up fee that they did not disclose until a month later. I also  found out I would incur a charge to pay via internet as well as phone.

I explained to this man that I was in a nationally declared federal disaster area and that I would be able to pay in about a week.  His reply was, "that's your problem, not mine."

He told me that because First Premier bank is chartered in South Dakota his company would be exempt from federal and Florida banking rules and regulations.

Peggy of Temecula, CA (02/13/06)
I applied online several months ago for a credit card. Five different letters have been sent to me, all of them say exactly the same thing: "You have been approved for a credit card." Just send us a "copy of your driver's license" or "your original birth certificate."

Needless to say, I am not gullible enough to do as they ask however, I feel it's important to report this.

Charles of San Rafael, CA (02/05/06)
First Premier is constantly charging me cash advance fee's though I have NEVER made a cash advance.  I have attempted to cancel the card for about a year, yet they keep sending me statements with fee's.

The card was recently stolen and reported.  I recieved a letter stating that they would settle for %60 of the balance and then immediately close the account when received. So I complied and immediately received ANOTHER new bill with a balance and they ignored their offer.  

I am out of the country and this is very difficult to resolve.

Richard of Cupertino, CA (02/04/06)
I received a  First Premier Bank card ,with $300 credit limit, that I didn't apply for. Two days later I received a statement with balance of $198!

They charged program fee $95, account set up fee $29, additional card fee $20, annual fee $48. I called the customer service immediately and told them I didn't apply for this card and requested the account be closed immediately and credit the account. The representative promised she would do that.  I asked for a confirmation letter and her work ID, but she wouldn't give me either.

Then she told me that I applied for the card over the phone with a representative (which I never did).

Two days later I checked my account balance and found my balance increased to $396 - I never used that card.  Seems they are robbing people and it's definately a crime.

Donald of Goldsboro, NC (02/04/06)
On 2/2/06 I rec'd a letter from First Premier Bank thanking me for applying for a credit card. I did no such thing so I immediately contacted all 3 credit reporting agencies and put a fraud alert out on my/my wife's SSNs. I am awaiting those credit reports.

I contacted First Premier and was told I wouldn't have rec'd this letter if I didn't apply. I was told at first there was no application on file, then there was and that it has now been cancelled.

I was told by First Premier that they had my SSN, date of birth, etc. This, of course, concerns me but what concerns me most is that as of Jul 2005 we had an excellent credit rating when we refinanced our home. The letter implies that our credit is less than favorable (their reporting agency TransUnion). Won't know more until we receive credit reports.

Keisha of Fort Myers, FL (01/31/06)
Unfortunately I made a few credit mistakes in college and am now paying for them as well as fixing them. I applied and received the First Premier credit card with the full understanding of all its fees and the fact that these were just a stipulation of the mistakes-take it or leave it. I took it and paid all the fees immediately.

Every month, if I use the card, I pay it off. It seems that the penalization for this is that my last large payment in the amount of $235.18 was "held" for 15 days due to the "security hold" that I was told was somewhere in small print. 

I was told that the reason for this "security measure" was because I could, as a consumer, cancel the payment with my bank--so they were making sure that I didnt cancel the payment.  However, according to Wachovia, if I did in fact "authorize" them to take the money out of my account, my dispute would be denied.

First Premier needs to revisit their policies and procedures to reflect the true nature of the way banks are run.

Kathern of San Juan Capistrano, CA (01/31/06)
When this bank sent me a credit card, I read the fine print and promptly cut the card in half and sent it back to them with a note telling them I do not want their card.

I have now received a statement with a balance of $210??

I am returning the statement along with another note. However, the statement says:"We may report information about your account to credit bureaus. Late payments, missed payments, or other defaults on your account may be reflected in your credit report".

Todd of Ocean Ridge, FL (01/25/06)
I recieved a bill for this credit card in the amount of $213.95.  That total is just for their fees - there was no other activity.

I did not order this card and I did not accept this card.

Art of Chicago Heights, IL (01/23/06)
Because I  was "pre approved" for a credit card I called in to apply for it. Less than 10 days later I get an ACTIVATED card in the mail with a credit limit of $250 and already charged with "intial start up" $178 in fee's.

In this day and age who sends credit cards out activated?

Angela of Shirley, NY (01/21/06)
I have a credit card to rebuild my credit.  I paid my bill in full on 12/12/05.  Obviously I made purchases that went $15 over the limit, so they charged me $25 for the over limit fee and another $25 for a late fee. This was on the 27th of Dec, before my bill was due or I had even recieved my statement!

So I sent them a payment for $200 and my balance is now $135 - mind you, I had only charged $15 over my limit of $250 - so my balance was $335? I have no idea how that is even possible.

Then they suspended my privileges.  I was not even able to review the charges with them because I had not yet recieved my statement. 

Melanie of Ceres, CA (01/16/06)
When I tried to cancel this credit card within the first 30 days of receiving it, they convinced me to keep it. I told them I was on a fixed income SSI and it would be hard for me to make payments on time. I had also told them I had filed Bankruptcy chapter 7.

They said, "Not a problem".

On Jan 16th I called to let them know I was not going to be able to make my payment this month and they were very rude.  The woman reminded me over and over again that there would be a $25 late fee attached, plus I also owe the stupid Particapting fee.

Kandice of Casper WY (01/09/06)
On behalf of First Premier Bank, a collection agency contacted me by telephone.  When I explained to the agent, Marissa, that I was in the process of filing for bankruptcy, she told me "Yeah Right! You can't afford an attorney! You're a debtor! You don't pay your bills!"  I, in turn, told her that she could contact my attorney and hung up the phone.

She called back 4 or 5 times in a row, over the span of about 2 minutes. The first time she called back my boyfriend answered the phone and she proceeded to inform him of my debt.

The first time I spoke with her I asked her to send me a statement in the mail, and she refused. I also informed her that due to her harassment and abusive tactics she was in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Act.

Rosalyn of Charlotte, NC (01/08/06)
I have been trying to get my account and credit updated. I have been verbally abused, hung up on, disrespected as a customer and a person by over seven different people.

I am devistated at the way this company has handled my account and how they allow their employees to talk to me, all because one of my payment checks was incorrectly returned and therefore not posted.  I have faxed them 3 times and mailed a letter requesting these people leave me alone but they don't.

Betty of Timpson, TX (12/29/05)
I do not even remember applying for a credit card, but I got one.  Then they tell me that $178 in fees had been posted to my account and there is a $48 annual fee.

When I try to get them on the phone to cancel the card all I get are automated answers.

John of Gainesville FL (11/12/05):
First Premier tried to charge me an additional fee for making a late payment. In reality, the payment had been made via EFT through Bank of America 2 days prior to the due date. Once Bank of America provided proof, First Premier changed their minds and backed off the fee. One of the major reasons I chose First Premier was that they promised to help improve my credit report by reporting account information to the credit agencies. For 13 months I have made payments on time, never been over my limit and always paid the minimum or more each month, but First Premier has not submitted any information to the credit agencies. I have been promised that this situation will be resolved, but to date, it has not.

Debbie of Rochester NY (11/08/05):
I was online applying for a home improvement loan and reviewed several different loan offers. Somehow I ended up receiving a credit card from First Premier with a $300 limit. I promptly called customer service and told them I did not want the card and was not sure how it had been sent to me. The representative refused to cancel the card and reported my claim to the consumer fraud department for further investigation. This card will ruin my chance for a home improvement loan and is causing me great stress.

Terry of Seattle WA (11/07/05):
First Premier is supposed to be helping me rebuild my credit; however, I pay my fees on time and pay my account early, but they continuously place an unexplained hold on my account each month. They are violating their advertisements.

Michael of Tracy CA (10/29/05):
I received a $300 credit card limit from First Premier. After all the hidden fees, I had only $95 credit left on the card before I even received it. They keep leaving rude and threatening messages on my answering machine to try to get me to pay. I have paid off my account today and have hired a lawyer to deal with First Premier.

Thomas of Toms River NJ (10/28/05):
First Premier is charging me $175 for a credit card for which I did not apply.

Elizabeth of Berkeley CA (10/25/05):
First Premier put my credit card account on hold in November 2004 when I was out of the country, despite my having called them in advance to let them know I would be traveling. My card expired the next month and they stopped sending me bills. When I finally received a call in January 2005 letting me know my account was past due, I paid $300 to bring the account up to date and signed up for automatic payment since their bills were late/erratic. I requested a new card on 4 different occasions and never received one. They closed my account with a balance March 2005 "due to non-use". They say they can revoke an account at any time even when the customer pays on time as I did. This has damaged my credit rating.

Michelle of Orlando FL (10/15/05):
I have paid my credit card bill on time each month via money orders sent certified funds, so I have proof that First Premier has received each payment before the due date; however, First Premier has sent my account to collections and reported me to the credit agencies because they are not posting the payments to my account until after the due date.

David of Athens TN (10/14/05):
First Premier has made a total of 8 harassing phone calls demanding payment on a bill that is not due until 10/28. They have violated the terms of the contract by imposing a monthly fee and an annual fee. These fees, in turn, caused an over limit resulting in over limit fees. They reported my account closed by credit grantor to the credit agencies which makes it appear that I was in default. I have since had my report changed to show that the account was closed by the consumer.

Hector of Ashburn VA (10/09/05):
I would like to pay First Premier what I owe them and close this account; however, I am having trouble dealing with the bank representatives. It is extremely frustrating.

Michael of Fishers IN (10/08/05):
First Premier says that I opened an account with their company and agreed to pay their fees. I did get a card in the mail from them, but since I did not apply for a credit card, I discarded the entire envelope and its contents. Now months later, they tell me that I owe them $144.03 for a card I never opened, wanted or used. Customer Service is very rude and unwilling to help. They have reported me to credit agencies and now I have another strike against my report.

Dennis of Haledon NJ (9/29/05):
I cancelled my credit card 2 months ago and waited for my money. When I did not receive it, I contacted customer service and was told I would have the money within 14 days. Since I still did not receive it, I contacted them again and was told that someone had placed a stop on my credit. Now they say I will have to write a letter requesting that I receive my own money.

Brenda of Laurel MD (7/26/05):
I received an offer over the phone for a MasterCard and sent First Premier $39.99. I received the card a few weeks later and the information said I had a $250 credit limit - $49 available. I spent $46 at the store and then started receiving numerous calls from First Premier asking me when I was going to pay them $250. I paid them the $46 I spent and asked that my account be closed immediately. They now say I owe them $260 due to late fees.

Leona of Athens TN (7/10/05):
I received a First Premier card in May. I have made numerous payments on the card and even sent in overpayment as I knew I would need to use the card on a trip I was taking. My account showed a credit of $54 when I tried to use the card on vacation. The card was denied and I was told by First Premier that it had been placed on "Security Hold" because my large payments were a security risk. My card is being blocked because it was paid on time! As a result, I had to transfer money from a savings to a checking account so that I could continue with my vacation.

Paul of Rio Linda CA (6/24/05):
I responded to an unsolicited offer that came in the mail. When I spoke with the representative on the phone, nothing was mentioned to me about fees associated with receiving the card. I was enticed with the 9.9% offer and pre-approval and thought it might be a good card to have in case of an emergency. Now I have received the card and a statement showing that I have a $250 limit but am being assessed with fees totaling $178. I have been deceived and this card will cause hardship to my family's budget.

Paul of Denver CO (6/20/05):
I was scammed into getting a credit card that had a $200 "set up fee". First Premier did not key my address correctly and someone else got the card. They have now charged me $485, reported me to the credit agencies and ignored 2 affidavits and a letter sent certified mail. They are rude and have and have messed up my address 4 times. I now have a refusal to pay notice for First Premier that will stay on my credit report for 7-10 years.

Joyce of McCurtain OK (5/04/05):
I received a First Premier card with a $300 limit as a way to help improve my credit score. First Premier would review my account for future raises. Within the first year, I received 2 raises for a new credit limit of $500. I have now had the card 2 years and they refuse to give me a raise because of my credit rating. I have never been late, never had over limits and have paid more than the minimum due each month. How is this helping me build my credit?

Kenneth of Huntington Station NY (4/30/05):
I am 19 years old and applied for my first credit card. I did not understand that I would be charged $178 in fees with First Premier. I thought that I would have to call to have the card activated, so when it came, I did not call; however, now I have a charge of $178 to this account as the card is already activated when you request it. I tried calling the automated system, but it asked for my social security number and I was not willing to give it. Please advise how I can get out of this.

Yolene of Wellington FL (4/29/05):
I received a card from First Premier, but when it arrived and I saw all of the fees, I tried to call and have the account cancelled. No one is answering and I don't want these people to continue billing me. I am trying to repair my credit and this will further hurt it.

Connie of Huber Heights OH (4/25/05):
First Premier Bank has sold an account to Arrow Financial Services that is supposed to be mine. I have never had a credit card from First Premier; however, they have charged me fees and interest for the card. They are now taking me to Civil Court. Please advise.

Tracy of Louisville KY (4/24/05):
First Premier is charging me $178 for a credit card for which I did not apply, have never seen and never used. They have marked my credit report by revoking card privileges. I will see a lawyer tomorrow and would like to have your lawyer contact me as well.

Celeste of Savannah GA (4/16/05):
I received a card from First Premier with a credit line of $500. Little did I know that by accepting the card, I was accepting fees totaling $178.

Kathy of Greenfield WI (4/13/05):
I cancelled my cards with First Premier over a year ago because of the phenomenal fees I was charged. I made payments on time and paid more than the minimum. I am still being charged a maintenance fee, a finance fee and an annual fee. I last spoke with customer service on 4/13/05. Once a customer closes an account, shouldn't all fees stop? Also, since the card closed, the interest has jumped from 9.9% to 18.95% to 23.9%.

Camille of Hurricane UT (4/11/05):
I made an online payment of $100 to my First Premier account as I do each month. I realized a week later that the money had not been credited to my account and there was a return check fee as well as an over limit fee. First Premier stated that my bank had reversed the payment due to incorrect account information. As I did not see a reversal on my bank statement, I called the bank and they confirmed that no payment had been reversed. They also faxed me a copy of the cancelled check. I faxed the copy of the check and a copy of my bank statement to First Premier, but they will not acknowledge the information and continue to call asking for payment. I cannot get anyone to look into this further and I am out $100.

Cheryl of Mayfield KY (2/16/05):
Information concerning my account status was given in detail to a person who is not listed on my account. This is a violation of my right to privacy.

Kristin of Valparaisoi IN (1/10/05):
First Premier has charged a fee after saying that it would be waived, used a welcome letter as a bill, hung up on me, charged a late fee without having sent a bill and used deceptive solicitation practices.

Cliff of San Francisco CA (1/09/05):
I received an unsolicited credit card from First Premier Bank. They sent me a MasterCard with a $250 limit less $178 in fees. Can they legally send me a card for which I did not even apply? Will they have a xerox of my enrollment? Do I go above them and complain to MasterCard? Damages will be forthcoming, but so far, they expect me to pay $178 for an unrequested card.

Todd of Thousand Oaks CA (12/23/04):
I closed 2 accounts with First Premier over 14 months ago. Both accounts were paid in full. They have currently posted on my credit report that I am 90 days past due on one account and 60 days past due on the other account. I have disputed this several times, but they continue to report this information. They have damaged my credit and caused me to lose a refinance on my home.

Barbara of Mckees Rocks PA (12/23/04):
My soon-to-be ex-husband had an account with First Premier Bank and didn't pay it. He had his phone shut off and somehow First Premier got my cell phone number and has continued to leave messages for me at all hours of the night and day to give my husband. I have asked them not to call me as the bill is not my responsibility and I am not a messenger service for my ex. They claimed they would take care of it, but now I am getting numerous hang-ups all hours of the day and night with the caller ID blocked.

Christine of Lakewood CA (12/20/04):
When I received my First Premier card, there were already $175 in fees charged to the card. I paid the balance in full and used the card rarely. When I received a bill, I paid the balance in full. I received a call from a collection agency a week ago stating that I was having a judgment filed against me by First Premier Bank. I was surprised, to say the least. After I paid the balance in full, I used the card once more and was a few days late with the payment. The balance on the card at this time was $100. They immediately closed my account, sent it to collections and began adding interest. By the time collections called 2 months later, I owed over $400. I settled the claim just to get them out of my life; however, I know that these are not normal practices.

Kevin of Tupper Lake NY (12/18/04):
First Premier sent me a credit card with a ridiculous amount of fees. I cut up the card and returned it to them. They are still sending me bills for $178. This bank should be investigated immediately.

Anne of Dillard GA (12/14/04):
My son cancelled his account with First Premier when he discovered the terms and rates were not at all what he had anticipated. The account was never cancelled and has now risen to a few hundred dollars. The collection agency is telling me there is nothing we can do but pay the money due. We believe in honoring debts, but this is clearly a bait and switch.

Brandon of Hernando MS (12/12/04):
First Premier Bank sent me a card for which I never applied. I shredded the card so it could not be activated; however, they are still saying I owe them money. I refuse to pay a penny to them.

Mark of Milwaukee (7/12/02):
Received an unsolicited credit card from this comapny with unbelievable fees, including a $29 account setup fee, $95 program fee, $6 participation fee, and $48 annual fee, for a total of $178 in fees (credit limit is $350). I called to cancel but the individual on the other end let me to believe that they were going to hold me accountable anyways for the fees (I've never even received a card from them). This is by far the biggest rip-off I've ever seen attempted.

Silene of Naples, FL (5/22/02):
I applied over the internet for The Future Card, a card designed for people trying to rebuild their credit. The credit line was $300. When I received the card and saw that my limit was actually $188 because of all the charges added to the card I called in to cancel, I spoke to "Kim." She told me that those fees were only charged at the minimum of $20 per month and that NO INTEREST OF FINANCE CHARGES would be applied to the fees that the bank applied to the card. Therefore, if I made no purchases, there would be no Interest or finance charges.

I chose then, to keep the card, when I got my second, not first, bill, I saw a total finance charge of $2.64, I had not used the card for that monthly billing period, nor since I had received the card. I called in to cancel the card again, and they told me that I could cancel it, I would just have to pay $161. In other words, I have to pay for all the fees. I explained that I had called in to cancel the moment I received the card but apparently got misleading information which resulted in me changing my mind. They told me that when I "clicked" the "I Accept" buttom on the internet I had agreed to all the fees of the card and I was stuck with the payments. How about that for people who want to fix your credit huh?!

I'm finally going to cancel the card today (on 5-22-02) just because thinking about how I was used makes me physically sick. I need to have it out of my head. I'm unemployed and now I have to pay some $160 to get out of this.

Maggie of Brandon FL (2/15/02):
I received a credit card offer last year from First Premier. I was dumb enough to accept the offer and incurred immediate fees. By the time I got the physical card in the mail to activate it (with a limit of $300), I had a balance of $92 available credit, $208 of were administrative fees! I hadn't even made one purchase yet. My reasoning to continue was that I needed to re-establish my credit.

I've made small charges to keep the account going but I make large payments (a minimum of $100 per month) to keep my balance really low. I keep the card for emergencies only. So far, I've obtained two overlimit fees and two late charges. How could that happen? First Premier would deduct my personal checks electronically as soon as they received them. It's almost mandatory that they do that unless you see the check box in small print that gives you the option of having them deposit it the traditional way. I made a payment last November and saw that it was not deducted immediately, it took 2 weeks, I do believe that they held on to it and one other payment to charge a late fee.

I was told that my payments were not received on time and that the fees brought me over my limit (the late fee along with other fees, such as a monthly fee of $6 and a $5 cash advance fee that I NEVER use!) Now that the time has come for me to request a limit increase, I can't qualify because of those incidents that were beyond my control! Is that fair?

Frank of Roseville CA writes (9/12/02):
I sent my first payment to the bank via phone check from my friends bank of america acct. for $20.00 the transaction was approved electronically with a verification number and all then aprox. 10 days later someone from First Premier called me and said that I now owed a late fee and an over the limit fee and so on. I have just recently had a similar problem with First National Bank of Marin.

I am on a fixed income because of my permanant disabilty, therefore cannot afford to have myself fairly represented by an attorney. These banks are feeding on the very people who can afford it the least!

Martha of Mooreville MS (11/17/01):
I applied for a credit card to help repair my credit. The card was supposed to be unsecured and once I received the card I called to ask some questions and was told that there was a $250.00 debit to the card for applying and I was to repay that amount. I was not told this on the application nor had any knowledge of this.

Wiliam of Phoenix (11/7/01):
I too fell for their unsolicited offer of a CC with a $350.00 offer. Since I have had problems with my credit, I felt that it woud be a help to reestablish myself. I have had the card for about six months now, and have been busy paying off the "over" $200.00 in fees that they charge JUST TO GET STARTED! Now, I am at the point where I have paid all of the intial fees, and they have "suddenly" found that the SS # that I used to try and access my account online, is NOT the same one they have on file. What it is, is a one digit difference between a 7 and a 2. Now I have had this SS # for 41 years, so I know what it is. But they said when I called them that I had to "prove" who I am, and that the SS # I used is indeed the correct one.

Okay, that sounded reasonable, so I did as the lady told me (customer service) and FAXED a letter from the SS department, along with a statement of my SS Disability earnings (I am a terminally ill patient) and she said that would take care of it. She said I should wait for two weeks and give them time to process it, and then check back with Cust. Ser. Guess what? THAT was the wrong info. and they cannot accept a FAX, that it has to be an original, and that SS admn. must send it to them, and not me!! [This is what the new lady told me]

So I again, get in my wheelchair and called for a ride to the local office of SS, and sat there while a young lady filled out a form with the heading of the SS Administration, and gave the info they needed and then she sealed it in a SS envelpe and dropped it in the outbox. I watched her do all of this. NOW, after two more weeks, I call and they now say that it must be a "raised letter stamp" on the letter,and my account is STILL frozen. [I have also sent in another payment, so they can't say that I'm delinquent, and gee, it got credited with NO problem]. Now this morning yet another Cust. Ser. woman says that I have to go back to them again to get it "properly done". I tried to explain what a chore this is for me because of my disability and she said my physical problems were not their responsibility!

It has cost me over $200.00 to have a CC that I cannot even use. I have Congestive Heart Failure, COPD, and Cancer. It is a pain for me to move from room to room let alone be running to the other side of Phoenix repeatedly. I also am on Xanax to avoid Panic Attacks and Depression, so you can imagine what this is doing to me.

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