Emerge Mastercard ripoff lying stealing slimeballs Atlanta Georgia

We had a getsmart mastercard for more than two years never a late payment or over the limit. For that matter we did not max the card out either. We had a decent rate of 14% and they were offering us credit limit increases about every six months. Two years ago I logged on to make the payment and it was rejected saying our account had been sold. What?!!

I spent three days trying to find out who the card had been sold to and finally got and address and 800 number in Georgia. I called and said I understand you now own my card and i am afraid my payment is late. They stated it was their fault because the new cards and statements did not get sent out in time. I thought getsmart (Providian) needed to notify us but apparently they don't have too. So they waved the late fee and the phone payfee since it was "their fault" So at first I thought this would be ok. Then I get the first statement and findout the APR is 29.99%.

I called and spoke to someone who stated that was their rate and I must deserve it since the only buy highrisk accounts. Make a note here PROVIDIAN owns EMERGE! So they sold my account to one of their own divisons. Nice! I was told all accounts are reviewed by the bank periodically and thats how rate reductions could be achieved. I asked define periodically and they said every 2 years. Well it has been 25 months. I have never been late, never been over the limit or close we have only used this card for extreme emergencies since they took it over. Two months ago I sent $1100 and instead of a rate reduction during my review they raised my credit limit?!?!? NO Thank you.

We have done everything possible to stay off the radar of this company. I have tried to get the card paid off a $1300 balance remains but at nearly 30% it is like peeing on a fire.

Any suggestions? Mine are stay calm, communicate with them as little as possible, sent payments early (electronic tranfer through your bank is the best) because payments get credited ontime, and lay low. I have also heard not to close the account until you reach a zero balance otherwise they contact you and say you limit has been lowered and you are over the limit and start piling on the fees!

Erika
Delaware, Ohio
U.S.A.