Consumer complaint received 2025-01-16 00:00:00
Product: Credit card — General-purpose credit card or charge card
Issue: Problem when making payments — Problem during payment process
Company: CITIBANK, N.A.
State: IL

Complaint narrative:
I am writing to formally address ongoing issues with my secured credit card account. While my payments are promptly credited upon processing, Citibank has consistently delayed releasing my available credit. This practice imposes undue financial inconvenience, creates unnecessary complications, and raises concerns about discriminatory treatment in how my account is managed. 

Account Holder : Account Number : Date of Payment Issues : Ongoing Background of the Issue On numerous occasions, I have made payments to my secured credit card account and paid the full balance due. Despite this consistent payment history, and despite payments being promptly credited to my account, there is an unwarranted delay in releasing the corresponding available credit. 

As a secured credit card holder, my account is guaranteed by a security deposit, which eliminates the risk of nonpayment. Citibanks continued practice of holding my available credit even after payment confirmation lacks justification and disproportionately impacts my ability to manage my finances effectively. 

This issue is compounded by inconsistent and confusing instructions from Citibanks customer service. Despite confirmations from my bank that payments were processed and transferred to Citibank, I have repeatedly been directed to seek additional verification from my bank. This redundant requirement not only creates unnecessary obstacles but also demonstrates a lack of consistency in Citibanks handling of my account. 

Consistent Payment History and Account Changes I have maintained a strong payment history and have always paid my account balance in full. While there were a few isolated instances where account adjustments were required, I promptly addressed them to ensure the continued integrity of my payments. 

* On XX/XX/year>, I had to update my account information due to changes with my bank. I immediately informed both Citibank and my bank of the updates to prevent any issues with payment processing. 

* On XX/XX/year>, I reported the loss of my bag, which contained my ID, bank cards, and checkbook. I promptly notified Citibank to ensure my account remained secure and that any necessary adjustments were made. 

Despite these isolated events, I consistently communicated with Citibank and my bank to ensure that all payments were processed and my account remained in good standing. Citibanks continued delays in releasing my available credit do not reflect the proactive measures I have taken to manage my account responsibly. 

Concerns About Discriminatory Practices Citibanks actions in withholding my available credit appear to be discriminatory and unequal when compared to the standard of care provided to other customers. As a secured account holder, my payments are guaranteed by the security deposit provided at the time of account opening. Despite this, Citibank has subjected me to delays that are neither reasonable nor standard. This raises concerns of possible discriminatory practices under : 1. Equal Credit Opportunity Act ( 15 U.S.C. 1691 ) : The repeated delays in releasing my available credit and the imposition of excessive verification requirements suggest that I am not receiving the same level of service as other customers. 

2. Fair Lending Regulations ( 12 CFR 202.4 ) : These delays and obstacles may indicate unequal treatment based on arbitrary or unjustified standards. 

3. Unfair or Deceptive Practices ( 15 U.S.C. 45 ) : Delays in releasing my available credit, coupled with inconsistent customer service instructions, may constitute unfair practices. 

Impact of the Delays Citibanks delays in releasing my available credit have caused financial harm, including : * Limited access to funds needed for essential expenses. 
* Negative impact on my ability to manage my finances effectively. 
* Emotional distress due to the ongoing inconvenience and lack of resolution. 

Conclusion As a loyal customer, I trust that Citibank values fairness, transparency, and the satisfaction of its account holders. I urge you to address this matter promptly and ensure that I am treated equitably. Should this issue remain unresolved, I may consider seeking assistance from regulatory authorities to protect my rights as a consumer. 

Please respond to this complaint within [ reasonable timeframe, e.g., 14 days ]. I look forward to a resolution that reflects Citibanks commitment to fairness and customer satisfaction. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Company public response: Company has responded to the consumer and the CFPB and chooses not to provide a public response
Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation