Direct Debit not set up when you think it is!

stello2008

I recently applied for a Virgin credit card with 0% balance transfer rate. All well and good. Because I gave all my bank details on the application I assumed (my fault!) the direct debit would be set up by them.
It isn't! It's down to the customer to set it up.
They don't tell you that. They don't send any forms out. When you miss the first payment they slap you for £12!
Anyone think I can fight this? It was my assumption but I'm sure I've not been the only one and I would argue that they deliberately don't make it obvious to the new customer. Nice little earner for them eh?
Any comments?

YorkshireBoy

I have some bad news for you...I think you'll find they have also withdrawn the 0% intro rate and are now charging the standard rate on your balance.

Some people have managed to get the 0% reinstated, but be prepared to grovel (like you've never grovelled before) and ask to set up a direct debit for the minimum payment.

As is the case with ALL cards, your direct debit isn't set up until your statement says it is.

sjc_2

Agree plus you need to be careful what they set up. I generally as a rule wait for the letter confirming the DD is set up or it appears on my statement saying payment will be taken by DD as to avoid this situation.

Also had the opposite where I requested the DD was set up to take the full balance, had letter confirming this, then when the statement arrived they had took the minimum and hit me for interest. Managed to get it refunded though.

heppy23

YorkshireBoy wrote: »

I have some bad news for you...I think you'll find they have also withdrawn the 0% intro rate and are now charging the standard rate on your balance.

Some people have managed to get the 0% reinstated, but be prepared to grovel (like you've never grovelled before) and ask to set up a direct debit for the minimum payment.

As is the case with ALL cards, your direct debit isn't set up until your statement says it is.

I agree, never assume a direct debit has worked until you see it in two places (your bank account and where it needs to be).

stello2008

Just an update - got in touch with Virgin and explained what had happened and they were very helpful! They refunded the charge, reinstated the 0% rate (had to ask for that) and now all is well!

To anyone in a similar position - phone them up, be nice and polite and ask for their help!

As a result of this I will always make a manual payment on any new credit arrangements until a DD is confirmed.

Night-owl_6

I agree never think a direct debit is in place until you see it appear on both accounts.
Also Virgin HAVE withdrawn the 0% rate