In May of 1999, I paid off my Visa bill in full for $5288.41. A Marketing person called me and asked if I would take back my check they would offer me 6 months reduced interest rate. Their purpose was to prevent me from closing my account and going elsewhere. He promised to send me back my check. However, he kept my check and kept my debit essentially double billing me. For three years I've been in a battle and have piled up numerous letters to First USA and the OCC sending them evidence of First USA having cashed the check with a copy of the cashed check. They have ignored me.

For the last year they have harassed my family by phoning my home 1-4 times a day telling them I owed the money. They refused to deal with the issue and give me the name of a person to resolve this issue with. It's like the lights are out and no one's home but the phone harassers who have no knowledge of my case. In addition I have received an update in my credit report that states that the debt is 120 days overdue. Other that this report, I have a stellar credit history. I have finally decided to take them to court.

Before spending money on litigation, Kathleen should file a format complaint with the OCC -- Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, which regulates national banks. All that's needed is a businesslike letter explaining what happened and enclosing all relevant exhibits. It should be mailed (not e-mailed) to:

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency

Customer Assistance Group

1301 McKinney Street

Suite 3710

Houston, TX 77010