OptionsHouse, L.L.C. Bad Customer Service, Ripped Off. Bad Online Reviews. chicago Illinois

October 11, I tried to open an account online on www.optionshouse.com. Chatted with someone who told me I had to fax in new apllication forms and identification. I managed to get a new account #, sent wire transfer to fund my account. I sent the docs via Efax.com and I received all 3 successfull transmission confirmation. First few calls, they denied receiving the docs. Even though I told them I have a proof and was more than happy to email them the proof. 3rd time I called they still have not received the docs, so I requested for an alternative #, sent the fax, and again received a successfull transmission. So a day wasted and could not open my account till next business day. Meanwhile I received an email from them that the money has been received by them and is sitting at the clearing house, waiting for my account to be approved. Called again next day, turned out they need more docs. This time, I told them I wanted to send it via email, so there won't be any more delays on their end. I was told to email them to newaccounts@optionshouse.com. A while after I received another email saying they have received my email with the attached documents. however my account is still not opened. Called again, this time talked to a very rude and combative customer rep, her name is Leah. Instead of trying to sound apologetic, she sounded offended. I told her I have wasted many days (October 11-October 15) and was very irritated that it took them so long to just open up my account. I asked if I could speak to someone directly from the new accounts department. They said no. After the unpleasant conversation with Leah, I finally told her to just go ahead and stop my new account application process and refund my money. She said she could not give a definite time when they will issue the refund, but they will charge me $30 fee. To avoid any further possible delay, I told her to just go ahead and please close my account. I then went online to chat with another online rep, her name is Rachelle. She was not very friendly either, however she was able to confirm what Leah could not. The account closing has been initiated and they will refund the money today, October 15. Which was true. I received the whole refund minus the $30 fee for cancelling the account application, even though the delays were all on their part. Whatever they requested of me, I supplied it promptly. They did not do the same on their end. Holding on to my money (which is almost $40,000 for 3 days, and then charging me a $30 after all the hassles I went through? This is nightmare. I should have earlier checked their online reviews, which are pretty bad. 

So I am very mad and I felt they ripped me off of my time and the $30. If it was my mistake, I would own up to it.

I just joined a new brokerage firm with no glitch on the same day. Good riddance.