Providian's Shop Smart Program

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Post subject: Providian Shop Smart

Dennis Clancy
Date: 11/27/2000 0:14 am CDT

I foolishly signed up for Providian's Shop Smart program in July. I received a letter on August 2 welcoming me to the program. It is a program they offer where you get discounts at various retail outlets and at restaurants and places of entertainment. To lure you into this they raise your limit $119.00. I turned it down once and then in a weak moment said, "Sure I'll take it." Big mistake. I have not seen a booklet telling me anything about the program. Nor have I received a membership card. About late August I contact the Customer Service. They said they were behind in getting them out and would request that a card and book be sent to me. After two weeks I called again and was told an order was placed and I should have received it. I made a total of 4 phone calls to see what happened to it. I was told the same story each time. Each time it was supposedly mailed to me.
I then went to their website and e mailed them. I explained what happened and I would like to either receive the Shop Smart materials or cancel it. However, since I have spent a lot of my time tracking this down, I don't feel that they should lower my credit limit by $119.00. I advised them of this. No response. I sent a letter detailing the same information. No response.
I have decided to cut my losses and chalk it up to a stupid mistake on my part. I will buy any products from a bank again.
If anyone has an idea of what avenue I could pursue I would appreciate hearing from them.
I may have to contact the Office of the Controller of the Currency.
Dennis Clancy

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Ray
Date: 11/27/2000 9:07 am CDT

Contact your state Better Business Bureau, there may be other people with your situation. At least it builds a history so that someone else does not get taken.

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SAM
Date: 11/27/2000 6:53 pm CDT

SIMPLE WRITE THEM AN EMAIL REQUESTING TO CANCEL YOUR ORDER AND CREDIT YOUR ACCOUNT FOR ANY CHARGE MADE. AT THE SAME TIME ASK TO RECIEVE CONFERMATION TO YOUR REQUEST. YOU WILL BE SURPRISED, BUT IT WILL WORK. (IT HELPS TO BE POLITE)

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CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

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Tim
Date: 11/30/2000 2:15 pm CDT

Good advice from Sam and others...


Also write a letter telling them to increase your credit line because you feel more responsible. This works, too if you have been paying on time.

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CardRatings.com is the most comprehensive source for comparing credit card offers. Please visit CardRatings.com to view the best rated credit cards!

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