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  From: First Equity Card  
 

Dear Sir or Madam – 

I work with First Equity Card Corporation, and I’m writing to request your assistance with the First Equity page maintained on your website “badcreditcards.org.”  First Equity is a small credit card company set up to provide credit to small business owners who are traditionally underserved by the large national banks.  We offer credit to creditworthy businesses on good terms, and we don’t use “teaser” rates or balance transfer offers, and we don’t target prospects in the “subprime” or credit-impaired segment.  We try to offer a straightforward credit card solution to small business owners so they can begin to build credit standing in the name of their businesses.  Because we are a small company and our business is limited to offering credit cards to small businesses, we are disproportionately harmed by the negative material about our company presented on your website.  While the larger bank credit card provides all have many more complaints posted on your site, the complaint page for First Equity appears near the top of any web search on our company while your pages on our larger competitors are not nearly so prominent.  Our major concern is that many of the posts presented by your website in relation to First Equity are inaccurate and misleading.  For example,

 ·         Post number 3 complains the First Equity offered credit on a pre-screened basis and that mo interest rate information was provided to the customer.  First Equity does not use pre-screened or pre-approved offers, and information on interest rates / APRs is included in every offer and with every card that is issued.
·        
Post number 4 claims that we offered a deceptive six-month introductory rate to the author when we have never used introductory or “teaser” rates in the history of the company.
·         Post number 6 claims that First Equity quoted an exorbitant rate for balance transfers, but we do not solicit balance transfers from other card accounts nor are they accepted via telephone as claimed in the post.
·         Post 12 encourages and facilitates the filing of complaints against First Equity without any suggestion that the complaints should have any valid basis in fact, indicating only that more complaints are better because “then the government will take action against First Equity”

A number of the posts, for example numbers 15, 16, 22, 23, and 29, indicate that First Equity does not provide contact numbers or addresses to customers and that we are thus not a legitimate or trustworthy credit card provider.  These posts are just not accurate.  We provide both our phone number and our address on every piece of customer correspondence that goes out, and every card carries a toll-free customer service phone number in a large font on the back.  Some months ago I wrote a post from within your website correcting some of the inaccurate information from prior posts while providing our contact address and phone number so that your readers can contact us.  My post was never published on your site, even though I sent in a second copy when the first one did not appear.  At this point I would like to ask your help in managing the First Equity Card page of your website to make sure that the information you provide is both accurate and helpful to your readers.  In particular, it would be helpful to everyone if you would post the following text near the top of your First Equity page:  “The following information has been provided by First Equity Card.  First Equity aims to provide a straightforward credit card solution to the nation’s small business owners, and we do not utilize introductory or teaser rates, balance transfer offers, or pre-screened / pre-approved credit bureau information when we market our card product.  Several of the posts appearing here may be mistakenly attributing these marketing tactics to First Equity, as they are commonly used by the larger bank credit card programs.  First Equity provides contact information and a toll-free phone number on all customer correspondence.  To reach First Equity you can write to First Equity Card Corporation, PO Box 84075, Columbus, GA  31908 or call toll free (866) 756-7870.”   I would also ask that the posts currently numbered 3, 4, 6, and 12 – as noted above – be deleted from the First Equity Card page on your site in the interest of accuracy and fairness.  Your site provides a valuable service, but this value is diminished to the extent that the information presented is not correct.  Given the advertising for credit providers that appears within your site, I am sure you will want to take steps to ensure the fairness and accuracy of the information you provide on First Equity now that we have brought these issues to your attention.  I would be grateful if you could confirm by return note that you will consider the above steps to address these issues.  I would again ask your understanding that as a relatively small company we are being disproportionately harmed by your site given the information presented there now. 

Thank you for your assistance,
John Yardley
First Equity Card
(215) 631-1201 x. 102

  JoEllyn
Rogers, AR  72756
Complaint_against: FIRST EQUITY CARD CORPORATION

Complaint:
This company advertises a business line of credit with varying "platinum" interest rates (0.0% for platinum premier, 6.9% for platinum plus and 9.9% for platinum classic).  In addition to NO introductory APR reduction for new customers, my latest bill denoted an APR of 18.63%!  When I called them to complain about the misleading APRs they initially offered, they "lowered" my APR to 13%!  I have not defaulted on this card nor missed any payments to warrant a hike in my interest rate.

I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CARD TO ANYONE!  Not only do they blatantly violate consumer disclosure laws by inflating the interest rates they charge, but the Customer Service Representative with whom I spoke was apathetic when I informed her I would be transferring my balance to another credit card.

I have reported this company to the Federal Trade Commission!!!
  Kristen
CT
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
I opened this credit card thinking that it would be good to build my my business's credit.  The APR seemed good and they were offering no annual fee.  When I got my first bill, my APR was 22% and a $39 annual fee!!! Then I went to charge a couple of large expenses on my card for advertising and the card was declined.  After trying very hard to get a live person on the phone, they told me that I can only use 1/2 my limit until I make my first payment.  So I said I'll give you my payment right now and they said it would take 5 business days to clear and they couldn't do anything else for me. I demanded a supervisor, who I also got nowhere with, so I said I'm closing my account.  2 weeks later I got a letter from them saying that THEY have closed my account due to something they found in my credit report and to not contact them, contact Experian if I have any questions!  I am writing letters to the Better Business Bureau and my state Attorney general, and the trade commission.!
 
DON'T OPEN AN ACCOUNT WITH THIS COMPANY!!!
  Kila
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint:
Joelyn & Kristen I have had the exact same experience with this company. I have excellent credit and solid trade references. I received a pre-approval from this company for a card for my business. First, First Equity sent me the card without any interest rate information. Before I used the card for the first time, I called just to verify the limit. I used their automated system and found out that only 1/2 of the credit I was granted was available. I went through the system to get to a person and the person informed me that I would have to make a purchase, receive a statement and then make a payment in order to have the full balance available. She also informed me that the interest rate was 18.75%. She then said she could lower it to 16.75%. I asked what type of account I had and was told that it was the Platinum Plus so I would not be charged a membership fee. I spoke to two people and they were both very courteous.

My suggestion would be to keep this card if you are not being charged the annual fee, however, I would also suggest not carrying a balance on this card. This is one of those emergency-use-only or use-and-then-pay-right-away cards. As a business owner you may need access to the credit at some point so you should not cut of your nose to spite your foot, however, their service is predatory in nature so you have to be very careful and mindful of that.

Thanks,

Kila
  Carrie
CT
EmailAddress: cqsbluemoon@aol.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint: I received an approved card for my small business with the introductory rate of 0% for 6 months, 6% variable thereafter never to exceed 9%.  After the 6 months expired I received a bill with 23%.  I called the company and they stated they were no longer offering this percentage rate and could bring my rate to 18.9%.  I am going into debt trying to pay off this card, possibly having to close my kennel and working as much overtime as possible.  I do not want to hurt my credit so I continue to pay.  I have written to the CEO of the company and received a letter back from I believe a secretary pretty much telling me too bad, we no longer have this offer available.  I have been taken for $10,000 and even though I pay an average of $200.00 monthly, my balance never goes down.  I haverecently began to sell everything I can to try and pay off this card.  This is the worst mess I could imagine and am a middle aged, professional woman, who checked for bad feedback before ac!
cepting and using this card.  There should be some protection for people who get taken by such a scam.  WARNING DO NOT ACCEPT OR DO BUSINESS WITH THIS CARD COMPANY.  I am in the process of trying to get CT to band this company in our state.  Best to all who have already been taken advantage of.
  Carrie
Connecticut
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

This company advertises a business line of credit with varying "platinum" interest rates (0.0% for platinum premier, 6.9% for platinum plus and 9.9% for platinum classic).  In addition to NO introductory APR reduction for new customers, my latest bill denoted an APR of 22.90%!  When I called them to complain about the misleading APRs they initially offered, they "lowered" my APR to 18.63%!  I never defaulted on this card, paid more than due, and still received the increase in my interest rate.

I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CARD TO ANYONE!  Not only do they blatantly violate consumer disclosure laws by inflating the interest rates they charge, but the Customer Service Representatives, CEO and Administrative Assistant could have cared less about the issue at hand, stating "sorry we no longer offer that percentage rate".

I have been searching all areas to report to so this company cannot solicit this card in CT or any other state.  There should be some way consumers are protected by such a scam and this company should not be allowed to continue this gross lack of ethics.
  Donald C.
Chicago, IL
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
What a scam!  I received an "INVITATION" to open a new Business Credit Card.  Their broshure said that they are "so exclusive" they only offer credit cards by invitation.  I have a credit Score over 780, so I have had quite a few invitations.  Their literature was impressive. Three Levels of Platinum As low as 0.0%.  Long Term APR, as low as 0.0%.  Credit limit up to $100,000!  "Customized with my company name on the card".  I completed the application on-line, but I expected to see a page listing the various offers, the credit line I needed, and perhaps a sopt to transfer a few balances.  The application ended abruptly, with no way to contact First Equity.  Their website has no phone numbers, no email addresses, nothing.  The cards arrived today!  They are BEAUTIFUL!  They also have a $4,000 credit limit and an APR of 13.57%. The phone numbers on the back of the card lead you on a wild goose chase, but I finally landed a human.  I asked if this was a joke.  I have credit c!
ards with 0.0% APR for balance transfers and as low as 2.5% APR for cash advances.  Then the bomb fell, I asked what the rate was for Balance Transfers.....19.56%.  The next sound they heard was my cards being shredded.  I cancelled the accounts before making the first charge. THIS IS OUT AND OUT FRAUD AND DECEPTION IN ITS WORSE FORM.  STAY AWAY FROM THIS CARD COMPANY.
  John
Complaint_against: First Equity Card issued by Columbus Bank & Trust

Complaint: My story is the same as the preceding complaints: I have a credit score of 770, no late payments, low debt relative to my income, etc. First Equity Card-Columbus Bank and Trust sent me a solicitation touting a business credit line as high as $100,000 and a long-term APR as low as 0%. What I got was tiny credit line and an interest rate and fees that would bankrupt a business owner. When I asked what it would take to qualify for the terms advertised, I was given the runaround for months and months on end. In the meantime, these jerks started charging an inactivity fee because I hadn't used my account. I've never seen that before. I immediately closed my account. They kept sending me the same misleading solicitations encouraging to reopen my account. When I called to find out whether I would get better terms this time, the rep said I would just have to reapply to find out. I am not going through that circus again. This company should be shut down by the authorities.!
 It's nothing but a scam to take advantage of suckers and desperate people.
  Marvin
Phoenix, AZ
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corporation

Complaint: This company bends over backwards to hide its phone numbers from the public. Their website has very little information about who they actually are, and no posted phone numbers whatsoever. Here's one way to reach them: call the company's offices (First Equity Card Corporation, 1180 Welsh Rd, North Wales, PA 19454) Be sure to let him know your opinion of his company's attempts to make itself so difficult to reach by phone.
  Paul
Oregon
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: They sent literature and a letter offering a business card that would build my business credit with no annual fee. The name and ss# that they insisted on is my personal -- no benefit to my business'-- credit. They promised no annual fee, but the letter they sent me when accepted said annual fee of $39. I called them and they said send them a letter. I said no, let me talk to the supervisor. After keeping me on hold for 30 minutes (guess they thought I'd hang up) they said a manager would call me within 48 hours. None did. Called back and after another 30 minutes, a Jason came to the phone and said he would only reverse the charge after the charge had been posted to the account.I asked why not code it now to not charge the annual fee as promised. He said they had no such code or account type without annual fee. Then why do they advertise it?
  Mr. FSBO
Chciago, IL
EmailAddress: JB@forsalebyowneradvertising.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
If you've read all the down to me and you still don't believe that these are bad people business to do business with, then shame on you!!  The premise on my experience is as those before me...No Annual Fee, 0% etc.
I only wish I had the time to chase them down.  I transferred the balance to another card...and we're done!
  Sally
Jacksonville, Florida
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: Why am I not surprized to find a web site with numerous complaints against this company.  I had never heard of them until I started receiving phone messages from them AT MY PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT!! I have no idea how they got my work number or why they were calling me since I do not, nor ever had an account with them.  After leaving 3 messages in my voice mail I returned the call thinking it must be business related. When I asked the nature of the call they mentioned something about my account, I immediately told them I didn't have an account with them.  After requesting verification of my information they transferred me to "customer service" and I was told they didn't know why I was receiving these calls, I was not listed on any account and they had no idea how they got my phone number. I thought this was the end of it until I received another call from the same person I talked to previously!!!!  I could not believe it and asked them to remove all information they h!
ad on me and if I received any more calls from them I would report them to the Federal Trade Commission.  When asked what the calls pertained to and what type of business they were I was told they couldn't give me that information!!! I never received a satisfactory answer as to how they got my personal information or what the nature of the call was about.  Just "I don't know why we are calling you".  My answer was, then please stop. This company made me suspicious from the beginning. I don't know if someone is using my name for credit card fraud or what is going on.  
  Karen Porter
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint:
To file a complaint with the federal government regarding First Equity, please go to http://www2.fdic.gov/starsmail/index.asp and fill out the form.

For Institution Name, please enter: Columbus Bank & Trust - First Equity Card
For the Institution's address, please enter: 1148 Broadway, Columbus, Georgia 31902.
Also, please go to www.ftc.gov, click on "File a Complaint" and enter the same information there.
The more people file complaints, the more likely the government will take action against First Equity.
  al
new mexico
Complaint_against: first equity card

Complaint:
Can not be reached by any method they keep sending "contrivence checks"
with out end after the card was shredded.this is not a business but a scam
  JB
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: Thank you for the heads up people..I was about to fill out their application but decided to do my due diligence on this never heard of before company.  Glad I checked them out, after hearing some of the horror stories regarding this credit card offer, I've tossed my applicaton in the garbage where it belongs.  Thanks for the creators of this website.  They are doing a great service.
  Anonymous
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: Gosh I totally agree with JB, I couldn't find a phone number anywhere in sight on the promotion offer as well as on their website...that raised a red flag with me to search a little furher and found this site which kudos to you all for making these statements which help people from following through on scams like these.
  TW
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
My complaint about,..... or with First Equity Card Corporation is either the same or very simular to everyone else's before me on this posting. Even the experiences,...I mean everything!!!  So be aware!!! Don't do business with these people!!!  * * NOW,...PLEASE NOTE A SIMPLE REQUEST FOR ANYONE IN THE FUTURE WHO READS THIS & POSTS A COMPLAINT (OR ANYONE FROM THE PAST WHO READS THIS),....  Perhaps some continued information gathering is also helpful, especially on this site!!  So if any of you have whatever info such as street addresses, any & all telephone #'s, various e-mail contacts to this company (First Equity Card Corp.), & or contact names, etc., etc., PLEASE ALSO POST w/ every posting if possible.  It appears this company may have more than one street & mailing address, more than one telephone #, more than one e-mail address, etc..  Knowing this info for all of us, makes it much less harder for them to hide & exposes them even more for who they really are.  Some of you have already done this in previous postings,... many thanks!!
This is a big help!!  * * And remember,.... don't give up, "FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT!!!"  "THERE'S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO SKIN A CAT!!" (figuratively speaking,.. I actually like cats).  Best wishes & good luck!!   TW
  Anonymous
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
What a scam! I wish I had found this site before applying for the card (and now having it show up on my credit report!).  So I get approved and get the card. I dial the 866-756-7866 number on the card's sticker to activate the card. The recording says - "The information entered was invalid." I enter again and again, definitely entering the info properly. Finally the computer disconnects me.  I then call the 866-756-7870 number on their "congratulations" letter, and the same things happen. The computer rejects my information and the menu gives NO opportunity to get a live person!  Then the BEST thing of all happens... I dial this other number on their literature - 866-758-7870 - Now it's clearly a typo of the above number but believe me, this number is what's printed. So I try it and it's a PORN line for $5 per minute!  That's what prompts me to Google them and find your website.  Tomorrow I am immediately filing a complaint with the Attorney General. SOMEONE needs to put these frauds out of business.  I am shredding the card and writing them a letter to immediately close the account. I am sending it CERTIFIED to the President of the organization.  By the way, they have the nerve to give me a $2000 limit, and a WHOPPING APR of 24.21% after their offer says "low rates" and "a great credit line."  If 24.21% indicates "low rates," they need to have their heads examined.  Anyone interested in putting together a class action against them???
  Jennifer
Oregon
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
Contact Numbers that are listed on my statement...
1-866-756-7870  AND  1-706-644-0854

This is the worst credit card company I have EVER dealt with!  They approved me, I used it, was a few days late paying my first bill (I had a chaotic week and completely forgot)  We paid our bill... only seriously, a few days late.  I accepted the fact that I would get a late fee, knew I screwed up and everything. That didn't bother me.  What did bother me was that they stopped funds available without telling me this on the phone when I paid the bill.  I called them about it because I was declined, to my surprise, when making a purchase.  I was shocked because I knew I wasn't even CLOSE to maxing out.  Anyways, I called them, they said the remainder of the funds will be available after 24 hours of paying my bill and that everything was now fine because I paid.  They reminded me of the next payment due date and were kind to me on the phone.  24 hours later, I checked and the funds were available. I used the card right after that and then I went to use the card a few days lat!
er and to my surprise AGAIN, I was declined!  WHAT THE HECK?!!!   I called them regarding this and the lady said that that I needed to make 2 on time payments in a row for the remainder of funds to be released.  They had already released the funds  a few days before and I had used it just fine. NOW it gets shut down again on me?  She then said there was a note on my account stating that the account has been closed.  CLOSED?!!!  OH MY GOSH!  I admit I was late a few days, but have never had a card cancelled on me.  Also, I have never had a card not give you a second chance to make an on time payment. I wrote an email to them and explained my situation.. I got a cold, short response.  The account was closed and a letter was sent out on the day it was closed.  I have yet to see this letter.  I did however receive a new bill and it didn't mention anything about the card being cancelled.  They are so confusing and their reasons for things are not clear.  I asked why they closed i!
t, the lady said I would have to WRITE A LETTER and she didn't have a phone number!  WEIRD!  She told me she didn't have a reason for my cancellation and couldn't help me regarding it.  DO NOT go through them for a card.  I had hoped to build my business credit being a new business but now I am worried that they have done just the opposite... ruined it!  WARNING!  Don't go through them!  Use the phone numbers above to contact them.  I was able to get to a customer service agent every time I called without problem.  Feel free to let them have it!  I am happy to file an official complaint on them.
  SE
Oak Park IL 60302
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I can only say THANKS. I was this close to fill out the application when I run into this site.
Can not thank the site and the contributors enough.
SE
  David
Mississippi
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
THANK YOU everyone for saving me from making a BIG MISTAKE!! I received several mailings from them - they obviously got my name from the state's public records - and finally decided to get a card and their mailing was the latest. ZERO interest rate! NO ANNUAL FEE! HIGH LIMIT for my business! What's not to like, right?
So I filled out the application and was about to stick it in their envelope when a flash of caution overtook me. THANK GOODNESS! I didn't recognize the company, so I thought I'd Google them. It brought me here. THANK YOU EVERYONE!! Your experiences have saved at least one sucker from getting scammed.
Now, to return the favor, I'll share with you what I intend to do about this. Since I have not actually been scammed, I cannot report them to my state IG or the BBB or the FTC or the FDIC, all of which you SHOULD do if you've been a victim. (Also write a letter to your local paper, you might save someone else. Just report facts, no opinion, don't want you sued!)
From now on, I will look forward to receiving mails from these folks. Why? Because they include a POSTPAID envelope! I will use scissors to cut out the name of my company and any other identifying info, then I will stuff all their material (plus anything else I can find) into their postpaid envelope and send it to them. It will cost them more than regular bulk mail for this, and I think if enough of us do this, it will make a difference. I only do this to companies I'm really irked with, and these folks qualify.
Second, whenever I get a marketing call, as soon as I determine that's what it is, I ask THEM for their credit card number. YES! I really do. Here's what a typical conversation goes like:
====================================
(Ring) "Hello?"
"Mr. Smith?"
"Yes, who's calling?"
"This is Slimeball Scuzzbucket with First Equity Card company and I'd like to tell you about a very special offer we have on a credit line for your business."
"Okay, may I please have your credit card number?"
"Pardon me?"
"I need your credit card number."
"What for?"
"I charge $125 per hour for listening to things of this sort, and I have a two hour minimum. Will that be Visa or Master Charge?"
Click.
====================================
I hope this helps someone out there.
====================================
  Gary Roberts
Ft Collins, Colorado
EmailAddress: dsprods@bellsouth.net
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: All of the above: No communication, deceptive and fraudulent disclosures, no means of even checking purchases to the card. Fortunately, I have very little owed on it and will close it out ASAP. WORD TO THOSE TRYING TO STOP THIS COMPANY: Direct your complaints to VISA INTERNATIONAL. When George W Bush got his new banking and credit card regulations passed through the Congress, most of what this card carrier is doing BECAME LEGAL. You can go off to the BBB, the FTC, and your State AG all you want, but Bush MADE THIS LEGAL. But VISA is very sensitive about it's reputation..and potential multi-billion dollar class action suits. Attack VISA. Cut off the head of the snake.
  B Rose
Jamul CA 91935
Complaint_against: First Equity Visa

Complaint: This company keeps sending me UNWANTED JUNK MAIL. My company was sold years ago. YOU KNOW THEY WILL NOT PROVIDE ANY SERVICE BECAUSE THEY HAVE NO TELEPHONE CONTACT NUMBERS. They only have an application fax number or a number with an answering machine on it...telling you to write a letter and mail it to them if you want off of their mailing lists. I googled First Equity and was able to look through the numerous complaints on this site. Luck for me, someone had posted a contact number. I called and was asked for my Social Security Number (I said YOU DO NOT NEED THAT AND YOUR REQUEST IS DENYED). Next they wanted my account number. I told them I didn't have one. I asked for a supervisor. They said they couldn't connect me with a supervisor until I provided them with my Social Security Number. I persisted. I was told no supervisor was available. Finally, the person on the other end of the line did ask what I wanted. I told her I wanted to have them STOP SENDING ME UNWA!
NTED MAIL. She was polite and took my information. Now we will see if she (or her superiors) do what they promised to do. TAKE MY COMPANY NAME OFF OF THEIR MAILING LISTS!
  Matt
Fairfax, VA
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint: I just wanted to thank the folks that set up this website and the others for posting their experiences with First Equity.  I too received numerous offers from First Equity and was about to respond to their 0% offer when I tried to call them and couldn't find a phone number.  I thought this was odd and did a Google inquiry and viola!, found this website.  I could have been a sucker and applied.  Thanks guys.  I'll just continue to trash their solicitations, or cut them up and send them back - I liked that idea.
  angela
EmailAddress: angini@anginicloses.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: I applied for their credit card and they spelled the company name wrong. So I am trying to call someone but sometimes I get through & sometimes I don't. Also, I have to enter my account number to go to the next step, which I don't want to do because that will activate the card with the wrong co name. If I don't enter anything, the line disconnects. So I want to just cancel the card. Any suggestions? Thank you.
  Home-Based WBE in Nevada
Complaint_against: First Equity Platinum Business Card

Complaint: Thank you...thank you...thank you...to each of you who discussed your complaints here regarding First Equity.  I was just moments away from filling out the application form (because, of course, I can always use low interest capital for my business), decided to "Google" the company (thank Heavens, too, for Google), then and found this site.  We small business entrepreneurs surely do need to stick together and this site is very supportive/infomative.  In light of your timely warnings, one more bogus "offer" is now being gobbled by my trusty paper shredder!  Regards HB-WBE in NV
26
  Crystal
Georgia
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: This is the worst credit card I have ever seen, but I have to say that those of you who are complaining only have yourselves to blame I filled out their application too and yes, the invitation is very misleading, but if you had read the terms and conditions as you are supposed to you would have received all this information from them! That is the reason I shredded the card! By the way, those numbers for contact don't even go to First Equity card they go to a call center in GA that processes all the info for them! These big credit card companies all do that. How do I know I used to work for a call center! So don't bother with the contact numbers on your acct info. 
27
  Anonymous, II
This  card sucks big time, Il
First Equity Card

Complaint:
Same issues as above...15K credit line, used before with no problem.  My balance was less than 300, and I accidentally paid it about 5 days late.  My statement said I had over 11K available, but the 800 number says 0!  What!  I tried to use it and was declined.  Just got another statement...still says I have all this cash available, but the 800 number still says 0.  Called in and got a human who put me on hold for 10 min.  SOmeone from their risk division (what?) said I was selected for a random security check.  Needed to send in business license, drivers license, etc. in order to get ANY info on the account.  What the hell..I am closing this card as soon as the balance is paid off.  Oh yes, she also said she needed all these documents before I could even close it.  What the hell!
28
  Gregory Hecox
Wichita, Kansas 67208
EmailAddress: Dukems2004@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Hi Folks,
Got an invitation from First Equity Credit Card to apply for a business Platinum Plus credit card.  The offer was 0% I think or no more than 2.99% fixed.  I fell for it, applied online and got a letter of approval in the mail with checks within a week.  Just on a hunch I called to comfirm the interest rate and about fell over when they told me I had a 14% variable rate.  I asked what kind of card I had and they told me it was a Platinum Plus.  Well what possible card could there be ahead of the Platinum Plus I asked?  The Platinum Plus Plus card, perhaps?  The operator did offer to reduce my interest rate to 9.99%, but I persisted in calling the credit approval office and explained the
situation.  I got nowhere, it was like talking to the wall.  I know from credit monitoring services that I have great credit scores so I knew it wasn't that.  I ended up canceling my card before even receiving it.  Beware folks, this is company using duplicitious marketing practices.  Good day.
29
  Shanna
Georgia
EmailAddress: dmb211@juno.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Complaint

Complaint:
I ordered this card over 2 months ago. I never received the card in the mail. After a huge search for the credit card company's phone number I contacted a representative to resend another card. I was informed that I was not an authorized user and my husband would need to add me as a user. My husband added me as a user 2 days later and I spent 25 minutes on the phone with a representative giving her my information as well as a corrected address that First Equity had previously entered wrong. After 2 more weeks I still have not received a card in the mail. I called customer service back and was told that I am not an authorized user. I complained to a supervisor about this problem. I told her that I has spent valuable time on the phone with representatives 2 weeks prior to add me on as an authorized user. I also expressed to her my frustration that I had not even received a card from them and I was already having problems with the company. The supervisor was unhelpful as well !
as unconcerned with this problem. She told me that my husband could call again and add me as a user. I told her that was unacceptable and that the next time my husband called to speak with First Equity it would be to cancel this card.
My husband will be cancelling this card this week!
30
  Wendy
Marietta, GA
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint:
Everyone, thank you so much for posting your complaints! Like most of you, I received an offer in the mail with those excellent terms too. I had never heard of this company before, and was a little leery. So, I decided to Google them and found this site. Here I was thinking before, that maybe it would be good if I got the card to use for some advertising, but after reading these complaints I will be shredding the information as soon as I get home today!
You guys are life savers!
31
  Schahrzad Berkland
Poway, CA
EmailAddress: schberkland@sbcglobal.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I started filling out the online form, and a RED FLAG went off.  What reputable company asks for your birth date and social security number?  I wondered if this was just a scam to get my personal information, so I decided I would call them to do the application online.  There is no phone number on the website!  Only addresses in "Contact Us"  I checked my mail solicitation, and the only phone number on it is a fax # for faxing in the application.  I then knew for sure this is a bad company.  I googled the name, and found this website.  Folks, maybe it's my age (mid 40's), but I realized this is a bad company before I even opened the account.  Just ask yourself:  why would anyone offer 0% to a start up company?  Why would anyone not put their business phone number on the marketing/promotion materials, or on their website?  Anyone who applies for this card is frankly, gullible.
32
  Bob
Dallas, TX
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
Thanks for all the above complaints.  Kept me from even thinking about going with them.  I will however be sending back all of the postage paid envelopes with a "no thanks".  Maybe if they have to pay enough postage, it'll help shut them down.
Feel free to send them back something heavy with your "no thanks".
33
  Tom
South Carolina
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I had received this invitation only business card offer in the mail. They claim that they are the best in the business for small business. What a joke this was. I run a company that makes seven digits in revenue a year. My personal credit was in the 700's and I had already build the company credit to 500k in unsecured lines. So I applied for the card, finally received it, and even made my first purchase on it. When I received the card it only came with a $3000 credit limit which I thought for small purchases would be fine. Then one of my purchases got declined and when I called I was told that only half my credit limit was available until after I received my first statement and make my first payment. I did not care at that point and just would use another card until this was resolved. I received my statement, I sent out a check for the full balance due, and thought no more of it. A couple weeks go by and I get a call from one of there reps stating they never received the pa!
yment. I told them sometimes things do get lost in the mail and I would give them the full amount due over the phone and just cancel my check later. They tagged on a finance charge at 24.14% and a $39 late fee on top of that. I told them I did send in the payment on time and that it got lost. The rep told me I could call customer service back in a couple of days and they would remove the late fee since it was my first time. I figured I would wait until the next billing cycle and deal with it all then since all my charges did not show up on the first bill. About a week goes by and I get a letter from them stating that they lowered my credit to $500!!! I called them up, paid my remaining balance, and told them to close my account. Once the rep said they would send a letter out confirming this the only other thing she herd was my shredder.
This company is a scam and a fraud. They do not disclose all there facts and will not work with you to keep you as there customer. DO NOT EVER APPLY FOR OR USE THERE CARD.
34
  CONCERNED PERSON
VIRGINIA BEACH VA, 23464
EmailAddress: FAIHTNHIM4@AOL.COM
Complaint_against: FIRST EQUITY CARD

Complaint:
Ready for this story?
I recieved a call saying my April 2007 payment was not recieved and that I owed 498.00. I looked online where I pay them and saw that a payment was made on April 4th 2007 for 6,500.00. I called back to the "collections dept" after not making the lady understand my point I was transfered to a supervisor. She said that I missed a payment, in AUG 2006! now two was recieved in SEPT 2006 but it could not be put on the Aug 2006 payment! I was upset so called the regular number for customer service. She said she does not even know whay they brought up the year 2006.So this tells me they don't even know what they are talking about!BUT my payment was counted as late because ,READY FOR THIS???? I PAID ONE DAY TOO EARLY!! so it is another way for this company to commit fraud against us and to take a late charge and possibly up the interest rate.So even though I paid 6,500. it is not recognized as a payment. So I am being penelaized for paying ahead of time by one day. Even the customer service rep said the system is flawed, and it is not a good thing. This bank is being fraudlent with its customers by having penatiles for being a good payuing customer. SO IF YOU ARE STILL DOING BUSINESS WITH THESE PEOPLE PLEASE KNOW YOU CAN'T PAY EARLY EITHER!!
35
  Ken
McKinney, TX 75070
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
Thank you all so very much for the heads up on this company.  I too started to fill out the application and found it odd that they did not have a telephone number.  Now I know why.  Thank heavens for google and this website.  This company should be shut down.
Ken
36
  Mr. Frank Horsley
California
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I can only say THANKS. I was this close to fill out the application when I run into this site. Can not thank the site and the contributors enough.  the best thing to do is return the prepaid envelope with the blank aplication or remove your information from their offer and make envelope heavy enough so that it cost them more so that they stop soliciting with folce information. if we all start doing this they will have to stop soliciting and messing with small bussines owners.  please lets not be taken by fools and SO WHEN YOU GET THEIR SOLICITATION JUST RETURN IT IN BLANK  "DON'T FILL OUT THE APLICATION" EVEN PUT IN THE ORIGINAL ENVELOPE THAT IT CAME IN FORLD IT TO MAKE IT  FIT SO THAT THE ENVELOPE COST THEM MORE IF WE ALL START TO DO THIS THEY WILL FEEL THE PRICE.
Thanks
Frank Horsley.
37
  Peter
New York, NY
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: I have received an application for their Visa card but when I could not get through to anyone I did search and here I am.  I strongly encourage everyone who has here to file a complaint with their local District Attorney's office and put these people out of business.  I was going to include a phone number for Visa but I have misplaced it.  Enough calls to them might have positive results, too.  Good luck and thanks.
38
  Scott
madison, Al
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
My complaint is the same as the dozens listed here with one more really bad twist. I have a street address. However, I have a book keeper to handle my bills. My Book keeper has a PO Box. Every month, my account got suspended because they couldn't seem to know who to mail the bill to & they don't want to accept a PO Box. Last month, I called to get it fixed again & I couldn't understand the customer service agent. She mumbled badly. I finally asked if I could speak with another agent & she passed me on to her supervisor.
The supervisor greeted me by telling me I had upset the 1st agent because she thought I was racist! Can you imagine, calling an overcharged, paying customer a racist simply because he couldn't understand mumbling! I never thought, let alone said anything about anyones skin color. It has nothing to do with anything in banking & I was so offended to be called a racist, I closed & payed the account immediately.
39
  Rob Bowers
Newtown PA 18940
EmailAddress: clipperproducts@snip.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: I thank you all above as posters.  You probably saved me a lot of grief.  I got that same snappy looking "great deal" application today that you have all described.  Since I've had credit card companies jerk me around in the past (and I have a good credit record), I automatically start with the fine print. And, fortunately for me, I went right to work on Google and found this site.  I have already placed this application in the circular file, where it belongs. 
40
  Anonymou
Memphis TN
First Equity Card

Complaint:
WOW ..... thanks guys .... I am so glad I found this site!!! I got the First Equity Card and CANCELLED without even making a purchase on it. After viewing these DISASTERS on here I didn't even wanna bother with dealing with a "company in hiding" on bogus APR's ....... THANKS A MILLION GUYS .... YOU'VE SAVED ME THE TROUBLE.
I urge all that can .... CANCEL YOUR ACCOUNT !!!!
FIRST EQUITY CARD 1-866-756-7870 .... this number does work
41
  Jeff
Springfield, PA
EmailAddress: nospam@who.com
Complaint_against: FIRST EQUITY CARD CORP

Complaint:
My good friend asked me to look into this company.  When you read the info posted some of you will be able to guess what i do for a living.  I can only hope this information can help someone.  My friend got totally screwed by this company.
This company originally started in PA. They still hold an office not far from where I live.  The company's operations are conducted in GA now. 
God Bless and good Luck!
42
  Designs for Living LLC
Jacksonville, FL  32257
EmailAddress: customhomeplan@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: What a bunch of yahoo's.  First, even though they sent me the card, they kept sending me solicitations to pen an account.  That is ignorant.  Second, when I got the card I did not use it for awile and when I did the lowered my limit by almost 40%.  I just got off the phone with their "no customer service" department and spoke to Rachael who gave me the standard corporate line.  I then spoke with her supervisor Fateema who did the same thing.  Since I have good credit and want to avoid the mail I pay everything online.  The first bill I received was after I made my first payment.  They claim they sent a bill out, but I never saw it.  Their excuse was "we never got anything back".  I too am reporting them to everybody I can.  This method of doing business is deplorable.  If I did business like that, I would be out of business.  They are truly a bad credit card and a hugh ripoff.
43
  mont
atlanta ga
EmailAddress: kwintegra@charter.net
Complaint_against: first equity corp

Complaint: First Equity Card Coporation, Unethical credit predation

Complaint Rating: My good friend asked me to look into this company. When you read the info posted some of you will be able to guess what i do for a living. I can only hope this information can help someone. My friend got totally screwed by this company.  This company originally started in PA. They still hold an office not far from where I live. The company's operations are conducted in GA now.  In closing, I suggest everybody get on the horn and start telling everyone that you have their info and can now more effectively aid in the pursuit of remedy through the SEC (sec.gov), FDIC (fdic.gov) and US Dept of Commerce (doc.gov).  God Bless and good Luck!
44
  C. Helu
Reno, Nv
EmailAddress: peavine645@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: I am so grateful to all of the comments warning me NOT to fill out this application!  I'm glad there is a site such as this one for us to help one another.
45
  sam louhi
21012
EmailAddress: dlouhi@verizon.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp.

Complaint:
This company is clearly a certified thief ,This site should get all these complains to the district attorney's office or the financial authorities ,so they can shut this thief business down ,It took me 20 days of internet invistaigation to finf who their legal agent in the state of maryland so i can file a small claim with the district court of Maryland ,
this is an excellent and very helpfull site Thank you moore power to the poeple.
46
  Steve
Roscoe, IL 61073
EmailAddress: surfingthenet12@verizon.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: I received a personal invitation for a First Equity Card and it sounded appealing for my business. However, a "gut reaction" told me to check further into this company. I found this site first and that's all I needed. I thank the previous posters for some good information but it's a shame they had to find out the hard way and I hope each and every one of them contacts the proper authorities to file complaints. Again, thanks for posting and saving me some unneeded headaches...I just deleted the sign up pageand shredded the mailed application form.
47
  Anonymous
CA
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: Thanks again to all of you for warning me about this screwy company. I really feel sorry for those of you who got taken advantage of. I was in mid online application mode when I felt something not so right. I did fill out two pages of the application, so we will see if they send me the card even though I quit before finishing. I wouldn't be suprised if its alrady in the mail with a late payment. Thanks again!!!
48
  Anonymous
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: What business in 2007, doesn't offer a contact phone number???  Having opened my own small business, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity...that is until I read all the complaints on this site.  I spoke with a young lady in customer service that I swear had to have started today.  She knew nothing..Ridiculous. The offers just keep coming.
49
  Cheryl
Winchester, Tennessee
Complaint_against: First Equity Business Credit Card Svc.

Complaint:
I wish I had seen this site before I committed to this company.  Not only was the interest rate quoted false but it was outrageously high; from 24% (purchases) to 26% (cash advances).
In addition to that, when I paid off this account to be rid of it, they continued to charge interest on the cash advance that I had paid off at the same time.  Get this:  $00.02 was the charge and $2.29 was the insurance charge on the 2 cents.  If I had ignored this statement, you know where my balance would have eventually ended up.
When I called them on it, they said that I had agreed to this method when I signed up and that the interest on the cash advance was going to continue to amount, along with other charges.  When I threatened a suit over 2 cents they credited off the total $2.31.  They are one to watch out for.  Don't sign up for this one.  They've got a license to steal.
50
  West Manor1 LLC
TN.
EmailAddress: tussintok5@yahoo.com
Complaint_against:  First Equity Card

Complaint:
The first thing we have to say, is that when there is no telephone number for contact information, that's the red flag for us!!..Next, there offering to give you an immediate cash advance without even asking how much you make a year? Next, Platinum premier, platinum plus, platinum classic? Are you kidding? Next, you want our SS# and date of birth and mothers maiden name? Yea, right....  We don't think so.....  Next, how did this company get our D.B.A. name.....We can only think of two names...Our bank, and Capitol one bank....hum mm,we'll have to check into that...  Were going to send back there prepaid envelope with some weight to help them out...and you should too!  Were fortunate that we did not fill out this form online, or mail it in to get this card thanks to this site!  We will call the district attorneys office and let them know about this farce.  To all the people that got this card and used it, we are so sorry. We will do everything in our power to help you!  Our advice.....DO NOT ACCEPT THIS CARD AND GIVE OUT YOUR INFORMATION!!!!  Your friends, West Manor1......
51
  W
Rochester, NY
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
It seems that my complaint will be redundant or supportive to the many claims against this card company. Their Ad invites low interest to 6.9% or less with no annual fee. When I was approved and called to ask about the 18+% that they wanted and the annual fee of $39.00, the respondent was quick to eliminate the annual fee and reduce my interest to 14.9%, which still was way beyond what I accept and certainly far from their Ad.  This company is representing a bait and switch technique for the naive and desperate.  If you are considering this type of credit system, I will recommend Capital One. They have always been fair to me throughout many years of business.  Do Not Fall For First Equity as it is a First Class Scam!
52
  Marilyn
Rockford IL
Complaint_against: First Equity card

Complaint: Gee, I wish I'd read this before I went and applied for this thing...The invite would have made nice shredder food.  I got the same invitation that most of you guys got - it sounded great!  And frankly, they made it sound like I had already been preapproved.  Wrong!  I finally decided to do the application on-line and then I waited.  And waited.  Tried to call them, and got only a prerecoded message about most people getting approved in two weeks.  I was concerned because if they sent a card, it may have gotten stolen.  But today I got the news - they turned me down!  And the reasons they gave were pretty screwy.  One was that I had too many delienquencies and then they said I didn't have enought retail activity recently.  Huh?!?!  If I haven't had enough activity, how can I be delinquent?  But after reading all the complaints listed, I realize I dodged a bullet and they probably did me a favor.  Sounds like a BAD company!!!  By the way, their phone # is actually !
on the back of their invication, very last line, in teeny tiny print.  But all you will get is a recording, so good luck!
53
  O Johnson
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences with this company.  I too accepted their card (unfortunately before I saw this site).  After reading the post I called the company and closed the account, not before printing my online statement showing $0 balance and never having any charges.
I have a score of 830 or higher on all three credit agencies DTI of 3% and still received a 15.99% card from with a $9000 limit with their initial receipt of the card.  When calling to cancel the account phone reported only a limit of $6750.  
I never used the card once had it a total of 2 months.
I follow all here by noting to stay away from this card company.
54
  Maria
Dallas, TX
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: Complaint: I just wanted to thank the folks that set up this website and the others for posting their experiences with First Equity.  I too received an offer from First Equity and was about to respond to their 0% offer when I tried to call them and couldn't find a phone number. I wanted ask questions, not being familiar with them, in fact not ever hearing about them in the past, and thinking I can apply over the phone--I feel its more secure.  I also did not find a number on the application only the website and a fax #. So, I googled inquiry and here I am.  I was close to being their next victim.  Thanks guys.  I just used their pre-paid envelope to send back their offer and cut off all my info including the code on the front lower left side of the offer right before the tear off them back - I liked that idea.
55
  mike
houston tx 77063
EmailAddress: mike1226@myway.com
Complaint_against: first equity card

Complaint: This company is going out of business they just put a hold on my card and refuse to explain it. the phon #  nobody in the office customer service dont have any explonation eaither. what a joke.     mike
56
  W. Eric Cloud
Washington, D.C. 20002
EmailAddress: CloudLaw@aol.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
I am an attorney in Washington, D.C. I represent a senior citizen who is the victim of identity theft. A preacher stole his personal information and applied for a credit card with First Equity Credit Card Corporation which is a subsidiary of Columbus Bank & Trust of Columbus, Georgia.  My client and I have repeatedly advised First Equity that he never applied for credit with them and never used the credit card that was sent to the preacher. They continued to call three times a day, seven days a week, at all hours of the day.  I sent them a letter of representation which should have stopped the collection calls from a reputable company, but not First Equity.  The calls continued unabated. By the way, it is almost impossible to find out First Equity's address.  The company goes to great lenghts to conceal its true business address which is: Columbus Bank & Trust of Georgia, First Equity Credit Card Corporation,1148 Broadway, Columbus, Georgia 31902.First Equity has trashed my!
 client's credit rating and caused him considerable stress.  I am now in
litigation to stop First Equity's madness. IT WOULD BE MY CONSIDERED ADVICE TO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY.
57
  S Fountain
WPB, FL
EmailAddress: stevefountain1@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
I'm not sure as to the posting dates of the complaints against First Equity or Mr. Yardley's protective response, but Mr Yardley's response does nothing more than prove the authenticity of the complaints and hostility towards FEC.Case in hand...I too, received this card through a pre-approved offer during my start-up.  During the ebbs of our cash flow, we've had the opportunity from time to time to talk with customer service.  From our experience, one hand does not know what the other is doing.  Customer service has brazeningly lied to us.  Of course, they always "apologized" repeatedly throughout the process..even when asked not to.Just recently, after speaking with 4 different people, each with a different explanation, we finally asked to speak with the CEO so that we could remedy the situation.  After much deliberation, we finally got the number.  Turned out the COO didn't know he had been promoted to CEO. Hmm...This is a pay as you use card and nothing else!  If you can't pay choose another card to make it through the cash flow ups and downs.Respectfully submitted,Steve
58
  Carol in Florida
33609
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint: Ditto to the complaints about this company.  Yes, they promote teaser rates that last about one billing cyle.  My rate is now 23.99%!  And, I have good credit.  Poor customer service.  Do NOT get a First Equity Card for your business.  
59
  John
Weaverville, NC 28787
Complaint_against: First Equity Business Card

Complaint: Don't bother with this joke of a company.  I pull in over 1 million a year and these losers offer a card with $1000 limit at 26% interest. American Express beat them by $15,000 on the limit and 10% on the interest with the same information. This company is a joke so don't waste your time.
60
  Cameron
EmailAddress: GVCAINES@SCCOAST.NET
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp

Complaint:
Well, I finally got enough money to pay off this horrible credit card. I am being charged 27.99% and the way its going it would never be paid off. I tried to find there website to transfer the money to pay off this credit card and of course it's difficult to find any info. Stay away from this credit card. HUGE MISTAKE!!!! Customer service is horrible too.
This company gets an F-.
61
  Jerry Romo
fort
EmailAddress: jreyromo@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: first equity credit card

Complaint:
is in not strange and contradicting this statement made from someone who supposedly works for them "First Equity does not use pre-screened or pre-approved offers, and information on interest rates / APRs is i0ncluded in every offer and with every card that is issued."
Every company that sends out offers says that you have been preapproved so anyone knows that
1) you start your argument with a bold lie
2) everyone seems to be on the same page in the compaint they have against you so either that means we are all related or you actually do what we are saying
3)you will be found for the fraud you are doing
62
  Keith
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Complaint_against: First Equity Business Card

Complaint: Bad business practices prevail with this Visa issuer.  I have several branded business credit cards, including Washington Mutual, Capital One, Discover and First Equity. I have had the First Equity card for about 2 years.  I was granted a liberal credit line at 9.9% APR.  My balances vary on the card from month to month and have never been late. After more careful review of my statements, the APR "silently" rose to 18.9% one month, then a few months later 23.9% and then most recently an astonishing 29.9%.  I paid off the balance and contacted their customer service department and informed of the situation.  After checking my account for lates, defaults, etc, the APR was restored back to the 9.9%. I was told the account was "flagged" and moved into the non-preferred category, but given no reason why this was done.  Needles to say, if I wasn't reviewing my statements, this sneaky tactic would have gone on longer.  I guess they figure if they can rob 1 out of 10 cust!
omers by silently raising the APR without reason until the customer discovers this tactic, it adds to the already grossly inflated profit these banks make on the backs of their customers.
63
  Bernard
New York, NY 10011
EmailAddress: bbastin@aol.com
Complaint_against: 1st Equity Card

Complaint: BEWARE!!!!!! - this company is a total thief, if at all possible do not subscribe to this card.....I was 1 dy late and they raised my rate to 23%...Thank God i had a good month and am now able to pay the entire balance and close this account. And they say New York banks are thieves....
64
  KatFish
Buford, Ga
EmailAddress: gotdraft@yahoo.com
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint:
So I got this offer in the mail today. And as I usually do, I researched them online to find out who they were. I can't say I am all that surprised at the complaints on here. After all, I don't even own a business!! But received this offer in the mail and it has the name of one of my websites on it. It's a personal website, which by the way, is no longer online and hasnt been in a few years. Nor do I even own the domain name any more haha. Never been in business for myself, don't plan on starting one up. So that was red flag number one.
Number two, as people say on here, where's the contact info at?!?! I see a fax number of 866-507-2432 on the enclosed application. After reading the terms of service and small print, I found another phone number, 215-631-9470. It's under the section titled "FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION". I haven't even bothered with calling it, not interested.
My advertisement calls for one of three cards. Where the APR is listed - "As low as" 0%, 6.9% and 9.9% depending on which card you are approved for. Of course, the last one is the Platinum Classic card which comes with a $39 yearly fee. I see people complaining about this. But it states right there in the fine print, if you are not approved for the Premier or the Plus card and are issued a Classic card, there is a $39 yearly fee. YOU HAVE TO READ THE FINE PRINT! Don't ever take for granted what is printed on the offer without reading ALL of the fine print!
Default APR's are listed as 25.99%. Meaning, if your late, there goes your rates. Then again, by reading the numerous complaints here on this company, I wonder if anyone actually benefits from a decent rate, or even the advertised "TEASER" rate (as if I believed that statement above from someone that supposedly works for First Equity). It also specifies that your variable rate may range from -5.32% and 20.67% for purchases. Your intial credit line and APR are determined at the time you apply... once again, YOU MUST READ THE SMALL PRINT, it's all written in black and white. I found no promises of low APR's anywhere in this advertisement. Only statements of "AS LOW AS". But the smaller print explains it all.
The website is way too lacking! As everyone else here has said, the contact page contains three different addresses. No phone numbers.
Anyway, thanks to those for making this type of information available. My application is headed right for the shredder. Sounds like a nightmare company to deal with. Customer NO service!!
Someone else mentioned in here about cancelling their account and sticking with their debit card. THATS THE ONLY WAY TO GO THESE DAYS! No finance charges, no membership fees, no monthly payments, no APR's. What's not to like! :-) Check out Dave Ramsey and read up on his take about credit cards. ;-)
Chuck
65
  Anonymous
Complaint_against: first equity

Complaint: Thanks to all for sharing. I checked on First Equity as I got an invitation as well. I am now shredding it, NOT "putting it in the garbage" as some other posters have said. Please remember, that's a common method to have your identity stolen.
66
  Hani
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
EmailAddress: kushk@verizon.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp.

Complaint:
Wow!  Glad I found this!  I got an offer today in the mail.  Sounded too good to be true - high credit line and 0% long term APR, so I wanted to call them. 
Of course there was no number on application, so I came to the website to look for a number, which didn't exist.  There was no email either.  So I googled First Equity Card Corp. to see what I could find, and I'm so glad I found this web site before I applied for this card!! 
Sounds like a disreputable company with disreputable people!  I just ripped up the application form and tossed it.
I plan on checking out this web site in the future before applying for credit cards!! 
67
  Mark
Grand Rapids, MI
EmailAddress: compass_chemical@sbcglobal.net
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Company

Complaint:
Its nice to know I am not alone in this. I opened my account with this company when I starter my company a few years back. Even though my payments are on time, my interest rate kept going up. I would call, they would tell me they will lower it. NOTHING! In fact, last month I was promised a call from a supervisor to "get it worked out". NOTHING!
I have been promised several times over the last three to four months that it would be taken care of. These people will lie to you, promise to fix your problem, then do nothing. HERE IS THE BEST PART:
when you call them back, magically they have no record of your last call. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND NOT USING THIS COMPANY! 
68
  Maria
Dallas, TX
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: Complaint: I just wanted to thank the folks that set up this website and the others for posting their experiences with First Equity.  I too received an offer from First Equity and was about to respond to their 0% offer when I tried to call them and couldn't find a phone number. I wanted ask questions, not being familiar with them, in fact not ever hearing about them in the past, and thinking I can apply over the phone--I feel its more secure.  I also did not find a number on the application only the website and a fax #. So, I googled inquiry and here I am.  I was close to being their next victim.  Thanks guys.  I just used their pre-paid envelope to send back their offer and cut off all my info including the code on the front lower left side of the offer right before the tear off them back - I liked that idea.
69
  mike
houston tx 77063
EmailAddress: mike1226@myway.com
Complaint_against: first equity card

Complaint: This company is going out of business they just put a hold on my card and refuse to explain it. the phon # 2156311201 ext 101 to 109 nobody in the office customer service dont have any explonation eaither. what a joke.     mike
70
  W. Eric Cloud
ashington, D.C. 20002
ailAddress: CloudLaw@aol.com
omplaint_against: First Equity Credit Card

Complaint:
I am an attorney in Washington, D.C. I represent a senior citizen who is the victim of identity theft. A preacher stole his personal information and applied for a credit card with First Equity Credit Card Corporation which is a subsidiary of Columbus Bank & Trust of Columbus, Georgia.  My client and I have repeatedly advised First Equity that he never applied for credit with them and never used the credit card that was sent to the preacher. They continued to call three times a day, seven days a week, at all hours of the day.  I sent them a letter of representation which should have stopped the collection calls from a reputable company, but not First Equity.  The calls continued unabated. By the way, it is almost impossible to find out First Equity's address.  The company goes to great lenghts to conceal its true business address which is: Columbus Bank & Trust of Georgia, First Equity Credit Card Corporation,1148 Broadway, Columbus, Georgia 31902.First Equity has trashed my!
 client's credit rating and caused him considerable stress.  I am now in
litigation to stop First Equity's madness. IT WOULD BE MY CONSIDERED ADVICE TO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THIS COMPANY.
71
  john
alabama
EmailAddress: razorsharp153@inbox.com
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: Do not use or cash the convience checks. They sent me checks with a $6,000 limit, I cashed one to pay off something for $2,300. The check came back 2 weeks later as insufficient funds, which of course caused other checks to bounce in my account. We called to talk to them, they advised the day after the checks were sent that my limit had been lowered without telling me. They could not state a reason for this and advised that it is perfectly legal. They said I could "find this information in the fine print".So even though they send you a book of checks that advertises that you are approved for $6,000 @ a 3.9% rate,  they can change this with out telling you. I have never been late with a payment, they even verified that. STAY AWAY FROM THIS COMPANY!!!!!!!!
72
  greg
strasburg co.80136
EmailAddress: korbjune@aol.com
Complaint_against: frist equity business card

Complaint: in march of 2007 the number was stolin and about $2200. in phone cards charged to my first equity account over a period of 8 months I am out of town a lot and did not discover what was going on untill I returned home I emailed them in june of 2007 it was ignored again in sept 2007 it was ignored again in nov.2007 they informed me they would investagate  and let me know they took $695. off oe the account then infromed me again they must do more investagating aftr 120 days they sent a letter stateing I was responisable for the bill and put the $650 back on  have added misc. fees large intrest fees late fees I thought this was a good thing for my businss but it was not stay away from this company If the number or your card is stolin they oh well you pay.
73
  John Lang
Durham, NC
EmailAddress: temp@projectEz.com
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: I just received an unsolicited mail from Pat John,son, First Equity Card. I am on the the Opt Out and Do not mail regristry so I wanted to call them to take me out of their database.  Despite John Yardley's letter to this site, there is NO PHONE number on this junk mail that I can call. There's only a FAX!  Of course, when you dial that number, you get a beep and not a person.  There is also NO PHONE number posted on their site. Bottom line, who would ever do business with a business tha only posts its phone number on the bad credit card site?
74
  Beth
Pittsburgh, PA
Complaint_against: First Equity Card Corp.

Complaint: I am so sorry that people have had bad experiences with this company.  I have been using them for a couple of years now with no problems.  My APR is 13.9% with a $6,000 limit, not great but not the worst I have either.  Their phone number is hard to find, but if you google "First Equity Card phone number", it pops right up.  I have made payments by phone when I forget to send payments, and there has been no problem.  The customer service reps are polite and helpful.  Maybe it depends on what state you live in as to where your call gets routed to.  I'm in no way defending any credit card company...they're all shady in one way or another.  If you live in PA, you may want to call and talk to this company first before you dismiss them altogether.
75
  Bob
NH
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I have to say their accountants are out to lunch... we make payments on time all the time... yet I am constantly getting calls becuase my account is past due... and now from a collection agency... I have cancelled checks, with their stamps and even have told them what account they are depositing it into and the bank... yet they refuse to believe or even bother to check...
DON'T USE THESE GUYS.... Very rude... and they really don't know what they are doing...
76
  Brian
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint:
I do not want to waste any more of my time today. Suffice to say, we paid off our entire balance in one lump sum two days ago. Our check cleared of course. To our surprise we tried using the card today to pay a supplier only to have it declined.  Getting past the embarassment, and after getting the run around by not knowing who to contact, which bank owns who (is it first equity card or columbus bank and trust or synovus), was told that there is a 5-7 day hold until our bank verifies in writing the check was good.  I asked if I could have my bank contact them and get resolved today, and they said no, it is their policy to wait 5-7 days.  I asked for a supervisor. I only got as far as a call center supervisor. I asked for someone in their business, as an officer I could speak with. I got nowhere and they continued to repeat the same thing over and over. I could write or fax them with my complaint.
I hunted around and found that they are located in Columbus Georgia, but First Equity was not listed in their directory. I asked another supervisor when calling a different number if I could be put in contact with a business person, not someone on the call center side of the house. Again, I was declined. They would not provide any information on the company, where they were located, any people I could speak with.  My gosh. I have been in business 29 years. I have called reputable companies and been able to speak with senior management; be it Boeing, MasterCard, Anheuser Busch, Northwest Airlines.  Every company makes their executives known and available.  This company appears to be tetering on the edge of bad busines practices, even if legal.
I am registering a complaint with the Georgia Attorney General Office tomorrow, as well as the Columbus BBB, VISA and my local media, which i believe may be interested in investigating this company.
I have sent an email asking to cancel our card, which has a credit balance on it, but again, we cant charge anything. Have you ever heard anything so ludicrous? I am also mailing them and calling them.
I also left a respectful message for the person that responded to the posts in this site. Let's see if he will call me back.
77
  Jennie
Sumter, South Carolina 29150
EmailAddress: elaineroq@ftc-i.net
Complaint_against: First Equity  -  Columbus Bank

Complaint: Beware of this Company!  They say that they are there to help small business and there is nothing futher from the truth.  We are a fairly new company that fail for First Equity.  We have always paid before time because we have sales people traveling from state to state, so we depend on these cards.  Two months ago our sales people had to go to Texas for training and I started getting calls from the guys saying that their cards where being rejected.  I called First Equity and was told that the Corp had put a temp freeze on the account to check it out and that it would be open in 3 days.  This is the second time that they have done this to our company.  One of our employees was taking a group of clients to dinner and guess what?  This is not the way you conduct business.  They are hurting our business not helping us at all.  STAY AWAY FROM COMPANIES THAT TELL YOU THAT YOU CAN NOT TALK TO THE CORP OFFICE!
78
  Dave
Sacramento, CA
Complaint_against: FIRST EQUITY CARD

Complaint: I DON'T HAVE A BUSINESS, AND I'VE NEVER OWNED ONE IN MY LIFE...WHAT A JOKE THIS COMPANY IS.
79
  michelle
Complaint_against: first equity business card

Complaint: bottom line the worst!!!!!!!!! i have good credit and they lowered my credit line after i transferred another balance! terrible customer service as well. DO NOT GET THIS CARD!!!!!!!!
80
  N Matin
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
EmailAddress: matinpropertiesllc@comcast.net
Complaint_against: First Equity

Complaint: I would like to take this opportunity to thank all that have lodge complaints against this firm. As a new small business owner, this site has been invaluable. But where do we go? This is so familiar to the current housing monsters that are mentioned on TV ever day. I too like so many of you, getting ready to apply. The first RED FLAG was there were no interest rates for cash advances for a card that claims to offer a line of credit. This is the second time this website has saved me from what could be very costly. Thank ALL of you again. To John, from FIRST EQUITY you should find another job or start your own business. Then ask yourself would you use FIRST EQUITY?
81
  DMZ
New York, NY 11379
Complaint_against: First Equity Card

Complaint: WOW!!! I applied last week, and was wondering when I will hear from them. I look at the letter they send me couldn't find a contact number. I went to their website and no luck. Somehow, I find this website. I started to read all the complaints and begin to get nervous as I read all the complaint. By the time I read the last complaint I thought I have made a big mistake. I called all the numbers provided on this website, but only got recordings. So I thought there's nothing I can do besides wait for the card to arrive.  I went to check my mail and there it was. My First Equity card was in the mail box. I opened and called them right away and cancelled on the spot. I got my card and cancelled it on the spot. When I was listening to my account information, it does NOT match what is shown in the letter they send me. My credit limit on the letter shows $8000, but on the phone, I was told my credit limit was $6000.  They really are dishonest. Thank goodness for this website. I just called a more reliable Citibank and apply for another one. This bank should be ok. I hope! Thank you all for contributing to this website.  I hope whoever is going to sign up read this before they decided. Wish I'd found this before I waste my time....
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
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