| |
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.... |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
