Question
How do I deal with this Bank of America credit card?
Ok, so I transferred a balance about a year ago to a Bank of America card. They offered 0% interest as long as I remained within the terms of the agreement. I have been faithfully paying my bill on time all these months. I pay over my minimum payment, and have often paid twice a month when I receive extra cash from side jobs. Last month I did the unthinkable...I overlooked the bill and ended up paying 3 days late. I waited for the bill to come to see what the damage would be. They charged me $39 for a late fee, revoked the 0% interest (causing $50 in interest charges) and doubled my minimum payment due. I called immediately to see what they could do for me. The lady was nice enough to reinstate the promotional interest rate, but was unwilling to work on the minimum payment due, which is the real problem. I have called them several times today, and they refuse to assist me. One gentleman even lectured me on responsible personal finances, and told me that to teach me how to be responsible, he was lowering my credit limit so I couldn't use the card anymore. I checked, and he did in fact lower it. All I want is for someone there who will talk to me calmly and rationally (I have been completely polite to each and ever person I have spoken with) and just help me out this one time. This last time I called, they told me that they can't help me because Experian reported a negative on my report to them. I promptly pulled my report, and I have zero negatives. They're just playing games with me. So that's the real problem, how do I get someone on the phone who isn't just some $8 an hour customer service rep with a God complex? Are there any tips or tricks?
10 months ago - 6 answers
Best Answer
Chosen by Asker
Call the customer service number on the back of your card. When you call and go through the automated system, you actually don't even have to put in your card number, that way they won't have access to your acount information and see possbile notes on your account about your recent calls. Just hit "0" until it takes you to someone. Without telling them the problem, ask to speak to someone with the highest authority. Tell them the situation and how you've been treated by previous representative you spoke to. If he/she has the same attitude say something along the lines of "If you can't make exceptions for loyal cardmembers, I'll take my business elsewhere." That usually works.
Source(s)
I used to work for American Express customer service. Oh and just so ya know.. call centers make a lot more than $8 an hour.
by Mrs. SDB
10 months ago
Asker's Rating: 
Other Answers
don't ever pay late. They are looking for reasons to raise the rates and tack on charges. Use on-line bill pay and have the payment made automatically.
by Roger M- 10 months ago
I am currently in the process of pulling out of B of A. I closed my credit card with them about a year ago. Same thing happened to me, only I paid 1 DAY late. There are new laws that are going to be made regarding this. The government themselves are calling this abusive and we will see changes. The problem is that it will take a couple of years so the banks will screw us over with fees until then because they know it'll happen. I'm surprised you got as far as you did. They wouldn't lift a finger for me.
by PuppyMama- 10 months ago
Honestly....nothing....unless you have the money to pay off the card in full....then cut up the card along with a note to them telling the to go [fill in the blank]. Credit card companies have gotten brutal with their polices in recent years......They screw you over for the same reason that a 6th grader can beat up a 1st grader....because they can. WAMU/Chase just doubled my interest rate: I have perfect credit, a 770 FICO score and not one missed/late payment since I got the card nine years ago... Don't count on finding anyone to speak with....everything is outsourced to India or some other such place...you'll just get a clueless rep who has no power.
by SlimMick- 10 months ago
hi trish, shop around now for other good deals and transfer your balance, sounds like they are a nightmare, good luck, mandy xxx
by mandy- 10 months ago
When you call customer service you can ask to speak with a manager. They might be more helpful, but I wouldn't keep your hopes up in getting this resolved the way you want it.
by Steve M- 10 months ago