Complaint Review: Budget Rental and American Express

In June of 1996 I rented a car from Budget Rental Car. I was offered an upgrade, and asked what the cost would be. The rental agent quoted me the cost, which I accepted, AND THEN authorized my credit card for the exact amount that I was quoted.

I had hard copy proof of the authorized amount. However, when I returned the car, the agent apologized for misquoting the cost and the bill was $187 higher than the $412 I was quoted.

I will never use Budget Rental again, but my real complaint is with American Express. Although I disputed the charge for the amount of the dispute, and paid the quoted amount, American Express held with the vendor and refused my dispute.

I bank all transactions electronically, so I looked up the following. Since June of 96, I have spent $471,992 on credit cards, and $160,925 was classified as business. I have spent $14,099 on rental cars.

I have not used Budget Rental Car, and I have cancelled my personal and business American Express Cards.

I pass this story on wherever and whenever I find an appropriate forum.

Neil
Lake Forest, California