The Fixer: Chicago Sun-Times

Credit card firms turn the screws

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Dear Fixer: I'm sure you've heard from hundreds of others who are being abused by their credit card companies. I have had a Citibank card since 1985. I've never been late with a payment to any of my credit cards. Recently, I got a letter saying they are raising my rate to what will be 29.99 percent unless I close it.

Join the Fixer for a live chat today at noon

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

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Tip Jar: Have a tip? Leave a tip. Need a tip? Take a tip.

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

The Tip Jar is YOUR place to share tips and advice for fellow Fixer readers. If you've got a tip for avoiding a rip-off or saving some cash, please share it here!

Osmond fan learns online shopping lesson

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Dear Fixer: I placed an order for a Donny Osmond T-shirt and photo book at Donny.com on Oct. 10, but I never got the merchandise.

Seeking 1 AmEx account, they got 2 -- plus $150 bill

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Multiple credit card accounts create one big headache - and an unwanted bill.

When ComEd can't read meter, bills pile up

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Dear Fixer: My family is having a problem with our ComEd bills. The problem started more than two years ago, when we started to receive large electric bills, almost double those of everyone around us.

Mud Hens players, Boyd's order have this in common

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Dear Fixer: I ordered several items from Taylor Gifts but never received the merchandise or a refund.

Owner of defective tree will see the lights at last

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Christmas tree lights are naughty, not nice.

Soaring credit card rates sneaky but legal

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Remember the end of the horror film "Carrie," when that scary hand comes shooting up out of the grave? We're feeling a bit like that here at Fixer Headquarters. Everyone was happy when the new Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act was signed. But just when we thought interest rate surprises and other tricks were safely in the ground, we find they're not quite finished yet . . .

Missing grades, payment put former student to test

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Dear Fixer: I attended National-Louis University's Michigan Avenue campus from the summer of 2000 through the fall of 2001 and completed all my classes.