Complaint Review: Cross Country Bank

I obtained a credit card from Cross Country Band in early 2002. I made all payments on time and incurred no late or overlimit fees for nearly a year, then...

In December of 2002, I received an offer from them stating that, because I was such a good customer, my credit limit was going to be increased. All I needed to do was cash a check they sent to me to activate the credit increase.

I phoned them and asked if it was legitimate. They said yes, just cash the check and I would get the automatic $200 credit increase; which I could use for Christmas presents or whatever I needed it for.

I wrote the check to myself; put it in my bank account, and used the money for Christmas gifts.

About a week later, I got a notice from my bank that said Cross Country had refused to honor my check. I called Cross Country but the insisted I was not entitled to the increase, even though I had the blank check they had sent me and had called to confirm the credit line increase. They basically said there was nothing I could do. The supervisor would not help either.

So, I had to come up with the $200 to cover my bank account, which made me get behind, after which I started missing payments and accruing late fees with Cross Country Bank.

I have since called Cross Country Bank, with no luck. They either put me on hold for up to 20 minutes, or disconnect me, or I get tired of waiting and give up. I have actually gotten through to a real person, after which they tell me there is nothing they can do.

Ms. No-Name
Eugene, Oregon
U.S.A.