Complaint Review: Telecheck

I never heard of TeleCheck until today when my check, written to a merchant I had been using for a long time and recently began using this company, was declined with a Code 3. The first few moments were embarrassing as this person looked at me in disbelief that I would try to give him a bad check. Fortunately, he came to his senses and realized I had spent thousands at his store and paid by check many times without an incident. He okayed the check, then knowing I was angry gave me the information to contact TeleCheck and find out the reason for the decline. Although he had the company's report of all the codes, he couldn't give an explanation after reading it himself.

I immediately went home to call TeleCheck. Since I've had a checking account for over thirty years, never had an NSF check and an A-1 credit history (yes, I check my credit report frequently), I truly expected them to say they simply don't approve checks over a certain amount, which is understandable. What I got was no explanation at all, just a girl who was obviously reading a pre-written script off of a card that said "nothing in a hundred words or less".

Each time I attempted to get more details, the girl would begin reading the same script again - word for word. The only other thing she did actually reveal was they have no information on what anyone's banking or credit history is. So on what basis do they approve or decline someone - - flipping a coin? That's supposed to explain making someone appear to be a bad credit risk?!

An honest company has no problem making their requirements and procedures clear to anyone who asks. The merchant I dealt with wants me to report back after contacting TeleCheck and I intend to. The best way to put an end to companies like this is when merchants finally realize they'll be losing even more money and customers if they don't find a better solution.

Lee
McHenry, Illinois
U.S.A.