How to File a Complaint Against Your Credit Card Company

If you take the time to search for the term "credit card complaints" on the Internet, you'll find thousands of message boards, forums and blogs which contain reports from consumers about the unethical practices of credit card companies. Why, then, are so few complaints filed against credit card companies with the U.S. government? There are no government agencies that regulate credit card companies, which means that consumers are defrauded every day. If you feel that you have been treated unfairly by your credit card company, file a complaint.

Top Reasons to File a Complaint Against Your Credit Card Company

There are plenty of reasons why you might need to file a complaint against a credit card company, but a few a more common than others.

1. Late Fees - Even if you send your payment on time every month, credit card companies can find a way to charge late fees which can start to mount up. For example, let's say that you write a check to your credit card company but forget to include your account number on the check. The credit card company can claim that it took them longer to process your payment because of your failure to include the account number, and subsequently charge a late fee. Things like this should be reported.

2. Overlimit Charges - There are usually hefty fees associated with charging more than your credit limit, and irresponsible spenders deserve to incur those charges. However, if you are "pushed" over the limit by late fees, finance charges and other things that are beyond your control, you should file a complaint. Credit card companies make money by charging fees on top of fees, and you shouldn't be forced to take that kind of abuse.

3. Interest Rates - In recent years, more and more credit card companies have been sued for charging interest rates higher than the ones advertised to their customers. For example, if you fill out a credit card application and receive an approval for a 9.9% interest rate, you should file a complaint if you receive a bill with 10.9% interest calculated. This is unethical and an abuse of credit card practices.

File a Complaint With Your Credit Card Company First