disputing a late fee??

[pinkytoe]

Against my better judgement, I charged some new bed linens from JCP as we were having company and the bedding was kind of shabby. I don't normally buy from big box retailers nor do I normally pay by check (my mistake again) but I mailed a payment in full six days before the due date. The statement I just received has a late fee of $27 on the $31 payment. What recourse do I have and why do I have to submit to their unfair ways of earning revenue? Consumer hell...

[catherine]

I would simply call them up and explain that you mailed it in good time and it posted later than expected. That you've been a customer for a long time with a perfect record and would they waive the late fee just once. If they say no, say, "In that case, please cancel my card."

In my experience they'll give you a mulligan.

[jp1]

I'd also check your bank and see when the check cleared. It may be that they deposited it but for whatever reason dragged their feet on crediting your account.

[rosarugosa]

Yes do call them. If you have a good record, they should waive the fee. I've done this a time or two when I just goofed, and they waived the fee with no push-back.

[Teacher Terry]

Yes they should waive it.

[ToomuchStuff]

I'd also check your bank and see when the check cleared. It may be that they deposited it but for whatever reason dragged their feet on crediting your account.

I would do this first, as I expect them posting it, may be delayed due to the holidays, and better to be armed with that, in case of push back.

[pinkytoe]

As it turned out, they wouldn't talk to me as the account is in DHs name. So...I coached DH on how to be a nice guy awhen he called to request a waive of late fee. I think it worked.

[Money and Mountains]

Good deal! Usually, if it doesn't happen often, places will waive the late fee. Good job on coaching DH. I think often being the nice guy is the way to go (at least at first!) :)

[Rogar]

I had a late fee slapped onto my trash removal bill for a check that somehow got delayed in the mail for a couple of weeks. It took about 5 minutes on the phone to get the fee removed.

[CathyA]

The times that I was a little late on a bill, I just called them and explained things and they removed the fee.

[Greg44]

Over the years we have had some late fees - Usually it is because I thought I had paid it or completely spaced it out. I simply called - and usually start with something like "Pleading for your mercy here!" and explain just what happened.

If it really was an oversight and they can see your good account history - I have had them clear it off immediately. I then thank them profusely. Sometimes they will want an payment over the phone and that is fine. They want your business.
Being nice I believe will get you much further when you are at their mercy.

[Tammy]

I’ve only had a few over a 30 year span. I just paid them. Figured paying it would make me more careful in the future. Used it as a self improvement tool. Ha