Debenhams account card fiasco - 24 hour rule

[viticella]

I just wanted to raise this in case anyone else gets stuck with it.
I opened a Debenhams store account just before Christmas to get 10% off a big clothes shopping session. Well, they issued me not a Store Card, but a Mastercard Credit card. Said in store they could not help it and I had to ring up credit company to get it changed. Personally I have two credit cards already and think that's one too many!
After numerous phone calls and an HOUR in my local Deb's this morning (with the long suffering DS's in tow), it turns out you have to ring and downgrade the card WITHIN 24 HOURS of your application. Obviously was not advised on this at the time.
Very unlikely anyone in the shop floor will know this, and the kind people in the call centre probably won't either. So beware!
Just trying to summon up the will to write a snotty letter to Debenhams now. It makes me cross, they are so quick to offer/force you into taking on easy debts and credit

Thanks - was thinking maybe should get a store card with them as buy a lot of clothes for myself and 3 DDs there. I hate the idea of store cards really, but was tempted. Don't think I'll bother now!

Oh dear, this sounds a bit unorthodox . Check out www.consumerdirect.gov.uk or call them on 08454 040506. There is also a section on store cards (on the right handside) on the Office of Fair Trading website www.oft.gov.uk with 10 top tips. Sorry I am no expert, but these guys will probably be able to help. Good luck!

I agree you are right to be livid but aren't storecards just like credit card though, just charging even more interest???

But htey can only be used in that store. Unlike credit cards, which can be used anywhere.

It's true, the interest is high, but I usually pay it off each month. I just joined for the discount vouchers, sale preview evenings etc., and have absolutely no wish to use it as a credit card. Have resisted having any such card (except Next, I suppose) for years but have not had a good experience.

You have been missold the card - i.e. you we're signed up for different than what you had agreed.

I would think the quicker you sort this out the better so I would phone the store tomorrow.

Hope you get it sorted.

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If don't have any luck if you phone them get straight onto the contacts fredip71 posted.

They could be in a lot of trouble potentially.

There is a benefit of living overseas - when approached for one of these cards I just say I am not resident in the UK!