American Express Blue Card
Balance transfer checks rejected, misleading offer details

I was approached by the American Express Blue card with a new balance transfer offer; 12 months 0%. After calling in, I was approved for $8,200. Prior to even applying for the card I had specifically asked if I can use balance transfer checks to deposit these funds (read all of $8,200) into my checking account out of which I make my payments. I was told by rep (most likely someone in India) that Yes" I could do that. As a result, I decided to go ahead with the offer.

I was also instructed that these checks would be sent out in 7-10 business days. I was short on time because I was planning to fund my tax bill with these checks. These checks never arrived within the 7-10 business days so I called in to check if they had been sent out. The rep on the line; most likely still in India, told me that these checks were not sent out. I told him that I was disappointed because I was counting on these checks to pay my tax bill. He said he would send them out promptly. I did receive the check around the 1st week of april, which I eagerly deposited into my checking account; per the info provided by American Express Blue rep.

Today, April 26th, 06 I come to find out that American Express checks did not go through due to insufficient funds - Can you Believe this? I come to find out that these checks can ONLY be used with a third party payees, and not with yourself unless you want to treat them as cash advances. Hey, I am not stupid to be willing to pay X% on cash advances if I know I can get these funds at 0% or very low rate; When last checked, my FICO score was over 800.

So since American Express is only able to explain to me how this process works and is unwilling, at least at this time to wire transfer the cash to my account I believe the offer they present is only partially true and anyone who is looking for balance transfer should watch out. It is even more disappointing that they are not doing anything to fix this problem even though I have had other accounts with them in excellent standing; not late even once.

As a result of this mess, I am getting slapped with NSF fees and I am behind on my payments, which has not happened EVER.

Company: American Express Blue Card
Country: USA
State: Florida
City: Fort Lauderdale
Address: P.O. Box 297812

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