Sears Credit Services

Just a warning to Sears Canada customers who have a Sears Credit Card.

Sears Credit Card Services is now run by Chase, and Chase may make changes to your account.

I've been a Sears customer for at least 2 decades and have purchased thousands of dollars in appliances and merchandise over the years. My credit account has always been in good standing.

I needed a new washer and dryer, and ordered a set from Sears by phone. After I made the purchase, I checked on my account, and was astounded to find that my credit limit had been changed from $5000 to $500 - seemingly overnight.

When I spoke with a customer service rep at Sears Credit Services, I was told that their "system" made the change because I had a "delayed" payment in September 2008 (this was because I was in the hospital). The account balance at the time was under $50.00. I was told there was no recourse for me to appeal this decision.

Sears had no problem taking my money in November and December as I shopped for Christmas gifts, and I was only notified of the credit limit change on my January 2008 statement.

I then called the salesperson and asked them to cancel the sale. She told me the sale went through (not sure how that happened), but I still canceled the order. The salesperson (upset about losing the commission, I'm sure), told me that I shouldn't be angry with Sears, but with Chase. Not a helpful comment as I apparently have no access to Chase through Sears.

I wonder how many other credit "adjustments" companies like Chase will be making on the slightest pretense. They are shooting themselves in the foot though, as now I refuse to spend a cent at Sears.

Check your credit card statements carefully!