Used a promotional check for a fixed interest rate recently. Verified with Barclays Bank CSR prior to depositing check at the bank that the offer was still valid. Good to go! Promotional information stated "respond by March 22nd, 2009 to get this offer by using the checks etc..."
Deposited the check on March 20th, 2009. Recieved our statement weeks later and discovered that I was being charged a 10.99% variable rate. Phoned the bank...no one speaks English and they repeated the same thing over and over again...must be a "completed transaction" prior to March 22nd, 2009. Where does "respond by" a certain date translate to "transaction must be completed by our definition?
Fortunately we're able to repay the money and will not be using the bank/credit card again. Filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau because of their shady wording and their practices.
It will be interesting to see the outcome...