On December 1, 2010, I attempted to withdraw $200 with my Wired Plastic Visa Card. The ATM did not dispense any cash. Within 72 hours, I was told that money would be returned to my card, but for some reason, Wired Plastic settled the transaction.
I disputed the settlement of $201.50 (which includes $1.50 for the ATM fee). The merchant expressed his apologies and did not dispute the error, and both the merchant and his banker processed the necessary forms so that I would get my refund. I filled out Wired Plastic's Dispute Form, and faxed them a copy of the receipts from the transaction accompanied with a letter as well.
Wired Plastic said I have to wait 90 days to get my money back although the merchant and his bank have already done their part. Wired Plastic is not a bank, but partners with Galileo Processing, Inc. and The Bancorp Bank. I have stopped calling them because they charge $0.95 for every phone call and do not provide a means for customers with complaints to contact them via their website.
I have resorted to faxing Wired Plastic, but I did call their office around January 17, 2011, and was informed by the Customer Service representative that I must wait another 45 days from January 12, 2011 to access the money in my account. She claims that the merchant has 45 days to respond to the settlement amount, which is on hold in my account. The merchant's bank has informed me that they have done everything necessary on their end.
I am a full-time student on unemployment and truly do not understand how a company like Wired Plastic have not lost their license since they commit illegal acts in their interactions with consumers. Since this issue was handled so poorly, I have stopped my direct deposit to my Wired Plastic Visa account because I do not feel secure with them handling my money.
At this point, I want to know who has jurisdiction over Wired Plastic and the manner in which they deal with consumers, or should I go ahead and contact a government agency like the Federal Trade Commission. At this rate Wired Plastic is on their way to a class action lawsuit, and their partners could possibly be held liable too.
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