Amex F/R. They want my taxes, but I filed an extension. Opinions...

[ah32]

So, I called the IRS to get a copy of my application for my extension and they don't have one.  All they can provide me is a letter stating they received one and I have until Oct 15th to file.  They actually owe me money, but I didn't have all my receipts together at the time.  My question is this, Amex cannot prove what I put down on my application as far as my tax liabilities and payments, so can I put down what I think I had originally? I did my taxes very quickly, but I have since moved.  I cannot tell you where anything is.  I'm just going to guess and hope for the best.  Since they can't prove what I had originally, if it's close, I hoping to eliminate any problems.  The IRS lady thought I was CRAZY and mentioned I should get another credit card.  Hmmm.  I think she's right.  She did send me a copy of my transcript and it says nothing.  Just, that I'm filing single and have until Oct 15th to file.  Any opinions?

[Anonymous]

Unless AMEX is doing something for you that no other CC provider is able to do, I think the IRS lady is right. Why jump through all these hoops for a simple credit card?

[Anonymous]

Not sure why you ywould want to go through all that.  If the prestige means that much to you then go for it. Just getting sour on everything I kee hearing about Amex.

[Anonymous]

Here is an interesting story.
Source

Brenda of Astoria NY (9/30/03):
I have been an American Express user for over 14 years. First with a Corporate card provided by my employer then again with a personal blue card. Since the day I received the card I have paid my bills in full and on time, never missing a payment.

A few days ago I received a call from the Financial Review Team at American Express. The woman I spoke to told me that unless I send them 3 months of bank records and a copy of my W2 form they will cancel my card. They also told me that if my card were canceled it would go on my personal credit record. Can you believe it, I have worked so hard to establish a good credit record and they are threatening to destroy it.

I told them I could not understand why they were asking this of me since I have been such a good customer. They told me this is a new policy and they put my card on hold. I cannot believe it. I always pay my bills why would they put it on hold for no apparent reason. I called and spoke to several different people and all said the same thing. Your card is on hold until we receive your information. I was reluctant to send it in but then faxed over a W2 form. they told me it will take up to 7 days to review. Meantime I can't use my card.

How dare they do this and get away with it? I don't think they have a right to ask for such personal information. If I give them my employer and salary that should be enough. what business is it of theirs what accounts and how much money I have. I could understand it if I were a bad customer but I have a perfect record with them. They told me that this new proceedure started in 2000 and they have to request this of all their customers. they said it's taking a long time but eventually they will ask this of everyone.

I have filed an official complaint with American Express which I sent by registered mail. This whole experience has been terrible. I am in the process of buying a new home and can't afford to have any problems with my credit. This has caused such stress for me. Not to mention that I tried to purchase something and was told that my card was on hold. I was embarrassed and I'm outraged.

[Anonymous]

""Why jump through all these hoops for a simple credit card? ""

Exactly!  Why would anyone want an unreliable credit card, one that you need a backup for "just in case"?  

There are soooooo many other choices out there.  Amex needs to learn that lesson.

[Anonymous]

After searching Amex F/R on google I am sitting just where I am. I got enough luv, not pushing it any further. Amex F/R is happening all over the place.

[Anonymous]

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@Anonymous wrote:

""Why jump through all these hoops for a simple credit card? ""

Exactly! Why would anyone want an unreliable credit card, one that you need a backup for "just in case"?

There are soooooo many other choices out there. Amex needs to learn that lesson.

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Amex is very generous with credit limits! Great customer service! They jump through hoops to help the customer. Except when doing an F/R. Amex changed their strict standards to keep up with the market. I would guess when they opened their doors to higher risk customers they got burned a little. Just why do it mid stream, they should have done this as part of the credit app. Now it just makes people frustrated. It is different to get an F/R after tapping a CLI luv button, but for customers that have not requested a CLI with clean credit. That would be upsetting to many in my opinion.

Message Edited by ilovepizza on 08-17-2007 01:43 PM

[Anonymous]

I see that the story is dated 9/03 so apparently they've been practicing this policy for a few years now

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ilovepizza wrote:
Here is an interesting story.
Source

Brenda of Astoria NY (9/30/03):
I have been an American Express user for over 14 years. First with a Corporate card provided by my employer then again with a personal blue card. Since the day I received the card I have paid my bills in full and on time, never missing a payment.

[Anonymous]

How to get around the F/R according to this person.
LINK

Here is more about this too on this thread. I found a lot of posts back in 2003.
LINK

Message Edited by ilovepizza on 08-17-2007 02:00 PM

[ah32]

Couldn't read the links.  I only have access to certain sites while at work.  I can check tomorrow at home. 

What pisses me off is that I just did a balance transfer onto this card for a lower rate! I agree, one should be subjected to this bs at the time of application, not after use.  I've already made generous payments! I'm so mad, I'm not sure what I'm going to do.  That's two fricking inquiries for two cards that would be closed against my will while I have a balance I can't pay immediately.  I closed out the cards that were charging annual and monthly fees and opened new cards to continue to grow my credit score!

Where does the law stand on this? Can we collectively sue? I'm going to have to give this all some thought.  I'm just curious, what can they do with an application for extension?