Consumer complaint received 2019-06-01
Company: DISCOVER BANK
State: CA
Product: Credit card or prepaid card
Sub-product: General-purpose credit card or charge card
Issue: Getting a credit card
Sub-issue: Application denied

Complaint:
Approximately two years ago, I was a primary card holder with a joint co-signer. That co-signer was my mother. Payments were always on time, the account was current, etc. I paid everything and all charges were mine. My mother, XXXX XXXX XXXX, ran into significant financial trouble and contemplated bankruptcy. She also held a completely separate account in her name only. Knowing that she would be filing for bankruptcy and not knowing what Discover would do to my account with her as the co-signer, I quickly took money from my savings account and made a large, lump-sum payment of the entire balance so as to avoid any issues. Sadly, Discover felt the need to retaliate against my mother for her bankruptcy and to me, apparently, for paying off the balance thus eliminating the interest they were earning and closed my account without warning. The account was mine, with me as the primary account holder, and it was in excellent standing with a XXXX balance. I did nothing to Discover and yet they chose to close my account causing my credit score to take a hit because of the reduced credit availability and the closing of an older account thus reducing the average age of my accounts. I tried calling them to argue the point but their automated system would recognize my number and force the call to be transferred to the bankruptcy team who offered no help. In fact, they were outright rude and even suggested I pay the balance of my mothers card that was solely in her name. When I refused, I was disconnected upon. I attempted to contact supervisors, but to no avail. I was effectively blacklisted and retaliated against without any reason to do so other than a family members bankruptcy. 
Fast forward s few years later to now. I decided hey, maybe they go this straightened out on their side and so I completed a prequalification ( reference XXXX ). Despite having perfect credit with a FICO of 750+, 17 % UTL, no derogatory remarks or collections at all, XXXX of 4 years, home owner, and excellent income, I was denied. The reason given was Status of Existing/Prior Account. I called the number provided ( XXXX ) to their credit operations team and spoke with XXXX XXXX whom informed me that my earlier account had been revoked. I attempted to explain the situation but she wouldn't hear it. Like before, I needed to be transferred to that Bankruptcy department and guess what - they're closed right now and I'd have to call another day. 
I believe Discover is violating the FCRA as well as retaliating against me for the actions of another. Because of their actions, I have suffered financial loss by way of the closed account and effect upon my credit score. As evidenced by todays action, Discover - despite being aware of the situation and failing to remedy it - continues it's illegal and aggressive actions to punish a good standing prior card holder who is otherwise completely qualified according to their guidelines due to another card holder exercising her ability to file banakruptcy ( which was granted ). 
My financial well-being is superior with absolutely no blemishes. I work hard to pay my bills on time and my record reflects a perfect payment history. 

My name is XXXX XXXX XXXX and my phone is ( XXXX ) XXXX.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation