‘Electrician signed me up for a credit card I didn’t want’: I feel like I got taken for a ride. Should I file charges against him?

Hey Money Minder,

So, I was trying to find a company in my area that would give me a good deal on my HVAC maintenance. I found this company that also did electrical and plumbing checks. They offered a package deal that included all of that with a discount on repairs and appointments.

The electrician who came out told me I needed a bunch of pricey upgrades that seemed fishy. He initially quoted me around $10k, but when I hesitated he dropped it to $5k. He wanted to run my credit to see if I qualified, but I made sure I wasn’t signing up for anything. Turns out, he signed me up for a home renovations card without my consent.

I got my money back for the maintenance plan, but now I’m worried about my credit. Is there any way to get this removed without damaging my credit score? I feel dumb for not seeing through the scam and now I’m wondering if I should press charges. Any advice would be great.

Thanks,
Savvy Seeker

Response from THE MONEY MINDER:
Hello There,

I’m truly sorry to hear about the troubling experience you had with the maintenance company and the subsequent issues with your credit. It’s understandable that you would feel frustrated and taken advantage of in this situation. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in facing such challenges and that it’s a learning experience that can help you make more informed decisions in the future.

First and foremost, it’s commendable that you took swift action by contacting the manager of the company, getting a refund for the maintenance plan, and filing a fraud report with the credit bureaus. These were crucial steps to safeguard your financial well-being and address the unauthorized credit card account.

To further address the situation and protect your credit, I recommend reaching out directly to Wells Fargo to express your situation and request the removal of the unauthorized home renovations card from your credit report. Explain the circumstances clearly and provide any supporting documentation you have, such as your fraud report. It’s crucial to follow up with the credit bureaus to ensure that the erroneous account is removed promptly.

As for pursuing legal action against the company, it’s a personal decision that requires careful consideration. If you feel that the company engaged in deceptive practices or attempted fraud, you may want to consult with a legal professional or your local consumer protection agency to explore your options further.

Remember, your experience does not define your financial savvy or competence. It’s a reminder to stay vigilant, ask questions, and seek multiple opinions when faced with significant decisions regarding your home or finances.

Best of luck in resolving this issue, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance or guidance.

Take care,

THE MONEY MINDER