In a phone call from a representative of Advantage America Benefits I was told that this representative worked for the government who was awarding 500 select people to receive a $12,500 grant for a processing fee of $49.95 of which would not be taken out of my bank account until the funds from the grant were received. When I was prompted to answer questions which were being recorded the person asked me if I agreed to have the processing fee of $49.95 taken out of my account within two business days. I said no at that time the representative stopped the recording and told me the recording was old and restated the money would not be taken out of my bank account until I received the grant, and I should answer yes to the question. Perhaps being to trusting I agreed. The company took the $49.95 out of my account two days later and did not receive the funds, which they promised.
After I was notified by my bank that the funds were withdrawn, I contacted the company and was told the fee was not refundable. I asked to speak with the management and was told the representative could not allow me to talk with the person in charge. The representative took a report of the situation and ensured me I would receive a call. I waited for five days and did not receive a call, but I did receive a welcome letter. The letter stated I signed up for Health Works Health Care Plan, which was never mentioned in the initial conversation. The letter also stated that for another charge of $299.95 I could receive a Government Grant Information Guide. Because the representative told me that I would receive the grant of $12,500, but I only received a welcome letter requesting I give further money to receive only information I beleive this to be a rip off.
I have since called the company back and spoke with another representative who again told me the processing fee was not refundable and assured me she would send a report to the management about the problem. I have yet to receive a return phone call.
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