Does anyone else have problems with Orchard Bank Customer service?

[Anonymous]

I just applied for a secured card and they gave me a unsecured card for $300. I call to speak with customer service rep and they were not help at all, I rather talk to the automated system as their answers were not helpful at all. The online customer service was the same. I kinda regret applying now but I need the card. 

[JM-AM]

First congrats and Hi

While applying for a secured card with Orchard and receiving an unsecured card should be looked at in a more positive aspect. Means they feel your credit is more favorable for an unsecured card which IMO is a good thing. The only bad thing is that Orchard is not very well known to offer or give CLI, so you will be at $300 for awhile, where as a secured card you could keep depositing funds into your account and raise your CL as you feel needed. 

Dealing with Orchard CSR's from what I have heard is never really a good experience, most is out-sourced and not very helpful.

IMO I would let the card age and follow the advice of the forums to pay monthly (in Orchard card 4-5 days before the last business day of the month which is when Orchard reports) and leave a small balance to report on statements (about 10 a month or less since your CL is 300) and then as soon as statement reports PIF so no interest is paid. This will have a good impact on your scores and CR's as time progresses. 

Good Luck 

[Wolf3]

It took me almost 5 months to get a secured card from HSBC.   A little frustating but I like the card.  I suggest you keep the Orchard card and get another secured card from someone else.  

I also have a secured card from Capital One which I also like.   If you need a bigger limit, it is very easy to add money to your deposit, whenever you want.  

[KIPPIE12]

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@Wolf3 wrote:

It took me almost 5 months to get a secured card from HSBC.   A little frustating but I like the card.  I suggest you keep the Orchard card and get another secured card from someone else.  

I also have a secured card from Capital One which I also like.   If you need a bigger limit, it is very easy to add money to your deposit, whenever you want.  

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+1