late catalogue charges

auriel182

I bought some goods from a catalogue a few months back. Twice I have been a few days late with my payments and have been charged £12, as the amount I owe is only £40 I wondered if catalogues are within their rights to charge such an amount? I realise its my own fault for not making sure the payments got to them on time, but just wondered if anyone can tell me if they can get away with such charges?:(

Poosmate

Ouch! Forgetfulness is quite expensive. I personally don't think a charge of £12 is excessive to be honest as a charge in itself, although when you put it next to what you owe then yes it does look excessive. However, whether you owe £40 or £400 the administration process will be the same.

Could you set up a standing order to make your payments in future?

I lost a Life Of Balance low interest rate due to payments going in the day after due date. I know it's crap but that's life!

Poo

miss_lisalou

Hi auriel, which catalogue is it out of interest? I only ask as I'm in a battle with Grattan just now, who've refused to accept my DMP and started charging £36 a month since January. My outstanding balance should only be £210, but now it's over £300 thanks to their charges! I've had to take my complaint to the Financial Ombudsman as I think the same as you - in relation to the size of the debt outstanding these charges are disproportionate and unfair.
Have you complained to the company concerned yet?

Tixy

The OFT judged that £12 was a fair fee for credit cards companies to charge and I assume that catalogues would be the same (on the basis that people have reclaimed charges in excess of £12 on catalogues in the same way they have for cards).

You could write and ask them to consider refunding one or both of the charges, but I expect they will refuse.

auriel182

Thankyou for your advice, yes poosmate forgetfulness can be expensive ouch ouch and treble ouch!!!!!
miss lisalou- the catalogue involved is Choice For You.
Cheers Tixy, I did think about writing to them concerning the charges, but as you say they would probably just stand their ground and I cant imagine getting anywhere, though I would like an itemised bill as to what they have done to warrant £12
Thanks again for all the quick replies.