Vanquis Bank Credit Card Reviews
Latest Reviews
★☆☆☆☆
“Avoid, Rogues, Wrongfull Charges on a Nil Balance !!!”
Written on: 18/05/2013 by VESPA1969 (1 review written)
firstly, Dan please don't comment on my review From my experience, vanquis are a rogue company I have never had bad credit, instead for years I have had no credit cards, so had to build up a good credit file. I paid off my balance every month on time, but vanquis managed to put various fee types on to my account, all compounding on each other. I made dozens of calls to vanquise over an 18 month period, each time they promised to correct these wrongfully charged fees. Eventually I went... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Extreme Danger!!!”
Written on: 16/05/2013 by nickski
A number of people, including myself, have taken out Vanquis cards and set up Direct Debits to pay. Vanquis then fail to take those Direct Debits and charge you late payment fees, over limit fees and any other fee they can think of. This happened on my first scheduled payment. In response Vanquis usually appear to say that no DD was set up, despite reassurance that it was set up when the card was taken out. Currently I have a DD set up by Vanquis from my bank. It is on my list of DD's,... (read more)
★★★★★
“Works for me”
Written on: 15/05/2013 by RobTu (1 review written)
After becoming bankrupt I had to wait a year to get a bank account with DD function. Vanquis took me on for a credit card and I get a txt from them each month telling me to pay. I call the (free from a landline) number and pay the balance of, which is often less than I owe due to the credit period. In 2 years with Vanquis I have paid no interest whatsoever, and no call costs. My credit limit has increased, as I would hope, but I spend within my means so all is good. If people are just bad... (read more)
Dantheman3's Response to RobTu's Review
Written on: 22/05/2013
thank you, im like you but nobody listens to me and think i work for them because i praise them ,i pay with my debit card on there website,dont bother with dd its to confusing,like you i get a text,but always check my balance on web as it gives a full readout of what you have to pay,simples
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★☆☆☆☆
“Use this and they'll screw you!”
Written on: 14/05/2013 by Goateed
Paid off the bulk of the card after HEAVY interest, now paying interest on top of the interest. They claim they'll help you, but they don't. Staff aren't allowed a Vanquis card, I wonder why... Took 6 days to clear my transfer, then added interest when it had been paid. Complete rip-off, don't ever use them. (read more)
Iaintw2's Response to Goateed's Review
Written on: 14/05/2013
yes it certaining a rip off
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Robtu's Response to Goateed's Review
Written on: 15/05/2013
Your inability to understand how to use a credit card is not the fault of the person giving you the card.
Read the terms and conditions.
If you pay interest on a credit card it is the fault of only one person.
You.
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★★★★★
“credit increase”
Written on: 13/05/2013
Been with them for 7 months and not had a increase yet. Started with a 500 limit. Ive got about 230 debt on it and highest debt on it was 420. Pay more than min payment off. When will i get an increase credit limit (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Useless.”
Written on: 10/05/2013
I've had nothing but problems with this company. If it's not their utterly pathetic website, it's their utterly pathetic phone service. It would help if their staff, would stop just for a minute or two, trying to sell what is essentially PPI (under a different name) to listen to a word you have to say. Every person I have spoken to on the phone is incredibly impatient and patronising. I really wish I had never bothered. DO NOT USE VANQUIS. (read more)
★★★★★
“Excellent - just pay it off in full every month”
Written on: 07/05/2013 by RichPrice65 (2 reviews written)
My credit rating was really poor so I applied for a Vanquis card as the first step in rebuilding my credit rating. I got the card in March 2010 with a £250 credit limit. I set up a direct debit to pay off the account balance in full every month. Since then they've given me a Gold Card and increased the credit limit to £3,000 and reduced the interest rate by 5%. In the past three years I've had no problem with them at all and apart from a couple of times when I've had cash advances I... (read more)
Dantheman3's Response to RichPrice65's Review
Written on: 08/05/2013
well done im pleased for you, i hope i can do the same,had the card over a year started at 150 raised to 550 at christmas,have not had a raise since though, i dont clear my balance often but pay at least 130 a month off when min payment is 30,hoping to get a gold card one day,never missed a payment or been late with one,when i rang them the other week they said they dont give gold cards to granite card holders which is what i am,so not sure whats gonna happen,
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★☆☆☆☆
“Do not use”
Written on: 26/04/2013
The way they charge their interest is confusing and split into two parts. They also charge in arrears unlike most other card companies so you end up paying more interest. I would not recommend to anyone. (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 28/04/2013
so why did you have one if you knew all this ?if you keep paying more than min payment you dont really notice intrest tbh
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★★★☆☆
“Fraud was sorted.. slowly”
Written on: 25/04/2013 by Manitee (1 review written)
Main bad points: You get sporadic phone calls advertising payment insurance. It is not a secure card, on line purchasing does not use any sort of 3D verification like other cards. Transaction attempts were made on my card and blocked by vanquis as they were obviously unusual, however I was not informed at the time, only when they had reattempted (successfully) to use my card a month later. I was contacted to check it was fraud, and they sorted it out and eventually paid me a refund (two... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Don't care about their customers!”
Written on: 23/04/2013
I've had a Vanquis credit card for a few years now. I got it initaially to help repair my credit rating after I messed up when I was younger. Although I have managed to achieve this, it has not been easy at all. Vanquis don't care about their customers wwhatsoever. They will do anything they can to get money from you, charge you high interest rates, increase your credit limit when you don't want it, charge late payment fees when your paayment was not late. Several times I have had to contact... (read more)
See next 10 reviews
Showing 1 - 10 of 232 Reviews
★☆☆☆☆
“Harassed for late payment”
Written on: 19/04/2013
When you see the words "late payment" you could think I brought it upon myself BUT I explained the situation to Vanquis beforehand: On the day the payment should have been made, I telephoned and explained I would make a payment when my student finance arrives within the next two weeks. Starting a week later, I was harassed for payment several times a day by text, email and phone calls (which was far too excessive). I don't normally answer phone numbers I do not recognise but I eventually... (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 28/04/2013
im pretty sure you knew this would happen though,not being funny
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★☆☆☆☆
“rip off company”
Written on: 25/03/2013
we have paid vanquis card four times over and they keep charging charges with me losing my job we went to the finacial ombusment they get paid £500 a case to defend the bank do not use them (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 31/03/2013
never had a problem with them,they have been very good to me,and i act very responsible with the card
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Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 18/05/2013
dan your reviews are false
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 19/05/2013
they are not i work for g4s not vanquis , depends whether your a mong with money or sensible tbh
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Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 20/05/2013
then it really does not fit that you would make so many comments on other's comments on such a matter
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★☆☆☆☆
“Watch what you're doing with these ”
Written on: 23/03/2013
I am new to this vanquis having £100 from them? i read the complaints on line and i read something that they sell your information to other company's and when i hang up on the phone to them 10 minutes later i had a phone call but i missed it, it was 01422 and it was halifax in manchester.. can they really sell your information to third party company's i could get these compay's done for millions (read more)
Podgy231's Comment
Written on: 25/03/2013
i got in to difficultly when i lost my job we have paid vanquis card four times over and they still want £246 to clear the account my adivice dont go near them they dont care just another bank that rips the customer off
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 29/03/2013
can honestly say,never had a problem from vanquis
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Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 18/05/2013
dan why do you make the same sentiment in your comments to so many real comments?
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★☆☆☆☆
“Absolute rubbish DON'T USE them...”
Written on: 19/02/2013
I took took a card out when in a tight money situation, they gave me £1000 linit straight away.... I too noticed 'defferd payment' on my statement adding yet more 'interest' I actualy wrote pn nmore than one occasion, they didnt reply to either letter. I had to ophone them to make a payment (due to Xmas holidays) didnt want the £12 late fee, I rang the 0871x number, took them ages to answer, the girl I spoke too toojk details, then said hang on' I waited and waited, eventually I hung up,... (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 19/02/2013
i totally disagree with you on this,iv had my card since march 2012 and never had any problems,did you not pay online its the easiest way,and you can ring them on a normal number just google no to 0870 and type company name in and it gives you normal number,they asked me if i wanted a payment holiday plan and i said no,i have never had any issues at all,my credit limit was £150 now its £550,and to be honest i cant fault them,
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Intercityboi's Comment
Written on: 21/02/2013
You seem to make an awful lot of comments defending them and, as I have said previous, you won't be defending them if you ever fall in to any kind of financial difficulty with them. Just saying!
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 21/02/2013
well not seen any bad side to them to be honest,im not doubting what you say,and i agree if i was in finachial difficulty they prob would hound me,but my honest opinion is i think they are good for me ,
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Steviebeee's Comment
Written on: 21/03/2013
The biggest prob;lem with this company is that hound people that dont even have a credit card or a credit card with them.. I had never heard of them until I started getting bombarded with texts demanding payment for a card (that is not a card I own) ending 4525 and to reply with my 3 digit security number. .. Yeah Right!! No point phoning them as most of their numbers are not working or high premium rate.. whoever heard of a bank/credit card number using a premium number with such a high rate!! And checking on them I see their rates are ridiculous. .. They certainly are not helping people in trouble.. just helping theirselves.
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★☆☆☆☆
“Just say no”
Written on: 15/02/2013
Don't ever make a late payment then they will start making up telephone numbers for payments. (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 15/02/2013
im sure if you were responsible with the card , you would never make a late payment tbh
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Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 18/05/2013
another pious comment from dan
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★☆☆☆☆
“bad experience”
Written on: 10/02/2013 by iaintw2 (1 review written)
Warning to all Vanquis bank credit card holders here is my review on the matter 1. If you paid by your debt card instead your direct debt they can steal it from yourself. They are not obey your payment instructions too. If they do it again just go into your internet banking and cancel your bank instructions from it. 2. Payment option plan is like PPL. They also miss sold ppl 3. They sell your details to third parties this is in breach of Data protection act 1998 (read more)
Dantheman3's Response to iaintw2's Review
Written on: 11/02/2013
i beg to differ on this,i pay by debit card and never had a problem,i think you was behind on payments and they took a payment on your card,am i right,?and as for payment option plans,they ring and ask you,i always said no untill i have a high limit as its not worth it for me,550pounds is not a problem to clear,as for selling details on name me a company that does not do this ,
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Iaintw2's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 11/02/2013
hello
My payments are up to date
when you paid by the debt card insead of direct debt instructions thats why i am complaining about
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Dantheman3's reply to Iaintw2's Comment
Written on: 12/02/2013
still dont get what you mean,do you mean they take loads of money from your debit card without you knowing ????
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Vanquiscustomer's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 13/05/2013
this dantheman3 must work for the company always respondning to reviews!
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Iaintw2's reply to Vanquiscustomer's Comment
Written on: 14/05/2013
I say yes
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Dantheman3's Response to iaintw2's Review
Written on: 14/05/2013
you having a laugh,you mess up your account thats your own doing,just saying i have no beef with vanquis thats all simpleton
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Iaintw2's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 14/05/2013
dan,
I never fail in payments I paid them on time with direct debt/debt card/standing orders
your comments fell you are working with them
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Vespa1969's reply to Iaintw2's Comment
Written on: 18/05/2013
what is in it for you to make so many comments?
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Dantheman3's reply to Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 20/05/2013
nothing is in it for me, but just pointing out why knock something that has done me no wrong thats all,if i had a bad time with vanquis i would be the first to broadcast it on here ok
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Vespa1969's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 20/05/2013
yes but why point out that something, a bank of all things, has done you no wrong so many times is the pertinent question?
vanquis are somewhat of a rogue organisation . . .
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Dantheman3's reply to Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 21/05/2013
so why be a customer of them if you hate them so much ???
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Vespa1969's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 21/05/2013
like so many companies, utility, mobiles, you never know what they are like until you have dealings with them .
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Dantheman3's reply to Vespa1969's Comment
Written on: 22/05/2013
fair point vespa
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★★★★★
“good credit card”
Written on: 28/01/2013 by dantheman3 (2 reviews written)
i have been with vanquis for a while now,03/12 and i started on a 150 credit limit,it went up in december to 550,it is easy to use,and online is the best way to pay and access your account,i cant see how people are moaning,it gives you plenty of time to see what your min payment is,i have always paid well over min payment,never missed a payment etc,i do have to say the intrest you dont really notice tbh,the only annoying thing for me is,i wish i could get one of these gold cards,if your... (read more)
Pocahontas1St's Response to dantheman3's Review
Written on: 07/03/2013
I have to agree with you, Vanquis has helped me where i am today, it did exactly what it said. I paid more than my min each month and not even noticed the interest. I now have fantastic credit rating and just been upgraded to gold card. Although i don't actually use my vanquis now as i have another card at much lower interest all thanks to vanquis. You're right if you are having trouble then maybe its not the right time for you to be taking out cards or loans if you cannot make the re-payment or struggle too. You need to be sensible in this game. Hope you receive your gold card soon mines on its way!!
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Dantheman3's reply to Pocahontas1St's Comment
Written on: 08/03/2013
thank you pocohontas well still waiting,but glad you agree with me,and im pleased it worked out well for you to
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Vespa1969's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 18/05/2013
all 3 comments above have the distinct sickly tone of falseness
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★☆☆☆☆
“Vanquis Card? Never, ever again!”
Written on: 09/01/2013 by intercityboi (8 reviews written)
A few years ago, I received an email inviting me to apply for a Vanquis credit card. The sales pitch was good; Manageable and sensible credit limit to start off with, competitive interest rate, online servicing and friendly UK based customer service. OK, I agree that the interest rates were a little high, but I needed to repair my credit rating after being a little careless in my younger years. When the card arrived, I was given a £500 limit, which I thought was just about right. Not too... (read more)
Dantheman3's Response to intercityboi's Review
Written on: 24/01/2013
hi well not being funny,you could have refused credit limit increase,and you did spend it,i have a granite card it started on a limit of 150 and now is 550 pounds,im hoping it goes up and i can buy myself a motorcycle,and i know i can afford it,you cant blame them,they offer you the money you can always say no,i have found them very good,honest and reliable tbh,
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Intercityboi's reply to Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 28/01/2013
Hi Dantheman3,
Thanks for your response to my review and taking the time. I respect your comments, but please let me put a few things straight. Firstly, I had no reason to refuse the credit limit increases. I was in a very good financial position at the time to accept them and service them. From when I first applied, up until receiving the increase to £1500, I had been promoted to a managerial role. It was ONLY when I split with my partner that I needed some breathing space just to get back on my feet with somewhere to live of my own, before I could revert back to paying everything as it should be.
My main gripe is that customer service appears to go out of the window, especially when you find yourself in the situation I was. I was NOT trying to escape paying and nor was I sticking my head in the sand. Natwest, BarclayCard and Capital One were all absolutely first rate in understanding the situation and went out of their way to find a solution. They did such things as temporarily freezing interest charges, wiping late payment charges and taking smaller payments for x amount of months. This was the complete opposite to the stance taken by Vanquis.
I am pleased that you have been able to obtain a Granite card and that your limit is being gradually increased. I hope you spend it wisely, but please be mindful if you get in to any financial difficulty and have to ask this company for help. The situation wasn't brought on me by being reckless with money, it was merely a relationship breakdown, which (to be fair) happens to the best of people.
Once again, thanks for your thoughts and good luck with getting your bicycle.
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★★★★★
“Great for bad credit...”
Written on: 04/01/2013 by jerrym996 (1 review written)
I think they are very good with people with bad credit they give you a change.I had bad credit they helped me out great serive and call centre in england greatttt...kEEP UP THE GOOD WORK...WELL HAPPY... (read more)
Dantheman3's Response to jerrym996's Review
Written on: 24/01/2013
well happy to well done vanquis
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★★★★★
“Very good credit builder”
Written on: 25/11/2012
I have been with vanquis for a few years. I have enjoyed credit increases upto the £3000 limit. I am a gold service member and have a normal landline number to call them with an account manager. I fully understand the interest charges and that they are higher than other banks because vanquis are not afraid to lend me money as i have a very poor credit rating. I have always found the staff polite, understanding and reasonable. Whenever I have had reason to question my queries have resolved... (read more)
Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 25/11/2012
i have been with them for 7 months now, cleared my account balance a few times, always pay way more than min payment, so i dont understand why my credit limit is stuck on 150, never missed or been late with payments, yet on there site it says if you run your account well it will get increased after the 4th month,anyone else having this problem
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 26/11/2012
i take that back just had my credit limit increased to 550,
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Debb65's Comment
Written on: 30/11/2012
yes l to have had my card for nearly nine months but still have never been offered an increase always use my card and pay most of lt off..........
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 30/11/2012
might be worth giving them a ring , and asking for a review debs,i was giving up hope then a letter turned up saying i will get an increase,
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Debb65's Comment
Written on: 30/11/2012
l did write to them before we want on holiday to Orlando in October......but was told they l couldnt ask for review
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 30/11/2012
well you got me stumped on that then,would think they would have upped your limit by now,i would ring them personally and ask , it cant hurt
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Arthur2506's Comment
Written on: 01/12/2012
Mine went from 150 to 550 like Dans but it did take over a year! I know they don't just do reviews on request but you just gotta stick in there I think..
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 03/12/2012
arthur has yours gone up from 550 yet ? just curious will i have to wait a long time for another raise, trying to buy a motorbike off the webb and need more than 550 ?
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Tommo1992's Comment
Written on: 07/12/2012
You have to use a good chunk of your credit to get an increase, so if your balance was 400, they might upgrade you. I'm on 2250 at the moment.
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 10/12/2012
im just been put on 550 from 150 tom , how long does it take to get another raise ?
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Tommo1992's Comment
Written on: 10/12/2012
I think its every 3 months, I've only been with them just over a year
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 10/12/2012
great sounds good,been with them nearly 8 months and need 850 to buy a motorcycle so hoping to get one soon,
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Arthur2506's Comment
Written on: 10/12/2012
Mine hasn't gone up from 550 yet. But my mum has a the card - you have to use it regularly and pay off as much as you can every month. She has been with them 3 years and she now has their gold card with a £3000 limit.
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Debb65's Comment
Written on: 11/12/2012
I'm still waiting......have been with them for months!!!
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Dantheman3's Comment
Written on: 13/12/2012
just hang in there deb,im sure it will be raised shortly,they seem a good credit card company so far
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See next 10 reviews
Showing 11 - 20 of 232 Reviews
★★☆☆☆
“Draw you in and never let you go!”
Written on: 30/10/2012
I had to get a Vanquis card after, like many others, getting in to debt at university. Due to my poor credit rating this was the only company i could get a credit card from. Every few months i have received a letter with 'congratulations' and they had upped my amount. I believe this is something that should be done in consultation with the customer! I did not spend it but you always knew it was there. My repayments of £90 a month (on a £1800 credit spent) only covered the interest and... (read more)
Verygood's Comment
Written on: 31/10/2012
HI I read with interest your comments about the Vanquis card Is there any other way around getting this card repaid off! They have me in there grip and getting the cash out to repay some of the balance does seem to be the only option? Only problem is I'm up to 2000 now and paying £150.00 per month I can't afford to pay off the full amount!
Feel really stupid to have been sucked in!
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Agbdrl01's Comment
Written on: 06/11/2012
I'm sorry to hear that but why spend an amount on your credit card albeit Vaquis or any other for that matter if you cannot afford to pay back there money they are letting you spend?. I have a Vanquis card among two others and I never spend what I cannot afford to pay back in full each month. I'm sorry to say but you among many others have sucked yourself in to it.
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Fastcar6306's Comment
Written on: 05/03/2013
I balanced transfered my vanquis card the other day so wat u chattin about..:-D
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★☆☆☆☆
“Worst Credit Card Company Ever Avoid At All Costs”
Written on: 19/10/2012 by devil_tez (4 reviews written)
No only is this a bad company to be with for their high interests fraudently adding PII to your account etc. but after I paid the account of and closed it I got a statement come through with fraudulent activity I rang and asked why this happened when my account was closed and they apologised, cleared my account and closed it, 3 months later I get a text saying I haven't paid my minimum payment, I ring again and thousands of pounds had been spent on my account as they hadn't closed it or... (read more)
A881E's Response to devil_tez's Review
Written on: 29/11/2012
I just had one of there sales guys ring me, i ask them how long it will take as i am at work, he said 5-10 mins then put me on hold.
Glad i put the phone down now. Im avoiding them after seeing the bad reviews. Thanks :D
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Devil_Tez's Response to devil_tez's Review
Written on: 21/03/2013
As an update to this, 5 months later they still haven't closed my account or sorted out the activity, as a result of this I now have a bad credit history and have had my other credit cards drop my limits because of the marks vanquis have put against my name.
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★☆☆☆☆
“Loan Sharks RIPOFF”
Written on: 18/10/2012
They sell your details to third parties who are then able to charge you for all kinds of un-needed "services " such as PPI, ID Protection (all at premium rates) and even charge £59 (how often??) for a Voucher Club where "exclusive" deals and Money off promotions are provided. I asked for all these things to be removed to which the lady replied she couldn't do that as it was a third party (I suspect they are related) that has "permission" to charge the account on a monthly basis.. Useless... (read more)
A881E's Comment
Written on: 29/11/2012
So this explains who sent my details to dodgy companies after ticking a box to say do not pass my details on.
Glad i declined there card now.
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★★★★★
“Great to improve credit rating!”
Written on: 10/10/2012 by jimbo1358
Firstly, they are for irresponsible spenders like me, and everyone else that has written a review, i suspect that all the negative ones are silly people spent to the credit limit then complain that it is a high APR even though you signed a contract agreeing to this! Dont over spend with this credit card! It is to help you manage your debt to help you get a good credit rating again! I have had this card for years after getting into some debt when i was younger, i paid it all off eventually... (read more)
Duke0485's Response to jimbo1358's Review
Written on: 08/01/2013
If it is there to help you manage your debt, why do they so vaguely add on extras and interest after minimum payments have been made to send you over your limit. What other credit card will take a minimum payment then aply the interest weeks later and mostly at irregular times so you do not knw when it is coming out.
They give you these cards because most people that have them are in a vulnerable position. They take advantage of this and hammer you further into the ground by pretending to be responsible lenders. They are far from this. Their tactic is to financially punish the already financially unstable customers as much as they can.
Their charges are never clear and their customer service is appalling, even they do no understand the way in which interest is applied half the time so how are they meant to advise their customers.
It makes me wonder who these people are that make these exciting reviews because they have kept their CC in good order. A credit liit should stop you going over your limit but vanquis repeatedly add the "interest" at a later date that is never consistent as they want to charge you their fees.
No ifs or buts it is as clear as day.
Modern day pirates with legal government to back them.
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★★★★★
“Just to let you guys know”
Written on: 05/10/2012
Vanquis are known to help those that need to build up their credit rating. If you want to build your credit rating, brilliant. They offer you sensible money to start with and if they see you can manage your money well they will offer you a limit increase- and you can always turn it down! If you don't know how to manage your money- don't bother even thinking about getting a credit card, you will end up in more debt! (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“LYING CHEATS”
Written on: 15/09/2012 by pipster1234 (4 reviews written)
firstly to all out THERE, you can call them on a free phone number 08007816314, it WORKS. secondly they are as i say in the TITLE. the interest rates seem to alter at a whim and they add this stupid deffered payment charge saying IT'S the same as interest and the 2 amount add up to what the interest should BE, again RUBBISH, they say IT'S due to a recent technical problem but it has been going on since 2002 as far as i can SEE. the staff are rude and UNEDUCATED, in fact i think i spoke to... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“@@ SERIOUS WARNING THEY SELL UR DETAILS TO DEBT...”
Written on: 14/09/2012 by BIGANDY00 (1 review written)
Vanquis Visa/MasterCard are a company that offer very little customer satisfaction! they are ONLY contactable via phone to which they charge 10p per minute! this is terrible customer service to offer? IF you are a reputable company you should always offer an email/phone and NOT just a phone number forcing people to pay a premium rate where they gain a percentage of every call made! I changed address with them and they asked for x2 utility letters from my new address and a signed letter... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Avoid this Company!”
Written on: 30/08/2012
My son applied to Vanquis two weeks ago and then changed his mind, this does not stop them ringing at least twice a day. I picked the phone up to them today and said, 'please stop ringing, my son is no longer interested'. To which the guy on the other end replied 'I will take that from him, not you'! I then replied, 'no you will not, you will take it from me and you will stop harrassing us' and put the phone down. He was extremely rude and abrupt. I would not go near this company,... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“rudest, unhelpfull company i have ever come across”
Written on: 29/08/2012 by fedupannie (1 review written)
Five years ago vanquis contacted me and offered me a credit card with a limit of £250, which i happily took up, i paid minimum payments, and every month seemed to have roughly the same £250 balance on my card.A few months ago they sent me a letter in big print saying congratulations , we have increased your credit limit to £1,000, and being unemployed due to illness, i felt as long as i was sensible i would be able to manage.2 months later i got another big print letter , once again... (read more)
Themoog's Response to fedupannie's Review
Written on: 09/09/2012
Personally I do not understand your gripe here. I would tend to agree with Vanquis and suggest that when your increase was given that you should have been honest with them and phoned to say I'm sorry but I am unemployed. You then spent on the card knowing that there was very little chance you would be able to pay them back or you would put yourself under far too much pressure to keep up repayments. Unfortunately, you made a choice to spend what you did not have just as most people (including myself) do.
On the other hand I agree with the interest on these cards being very high, I have been a Vanquis customer for 4 years now and have a credit limit of £1000. On two occasions I miscalculated the interest and ended up going over the limit just days after making a payment, so here's the solution. When you make your monthly payment, make one a little higher than the minimum and don't spend on the card again for at least a week as this will give a more accurate reflection of your available balance.
Lastly, I have also found that the person you speak to on the other end very much determines the result of the call, some are straight down the line "you knew what you were doing so tough" people, while others can be more sympathetic and depending on your own attitude to them as individuals you can get charges reversed or discounted.
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★☆☆☆☆
“irresponsible lenders!”
Written on: 28/08/2012 by lynneh001
I admit I had a bad credit history but had managed to sort my finances out and owed nothing. Vanquis then contacted me to apply for their credit card, saying this would help to improve my credit rating. Started off with small credit limit, and I managed to pay this every single month for a few months. They then increased the limit, without asking first. They obviously deal with people like myself, who have not been able to manage money in the first place, and so by increasing the credit... (read more)
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Showing 21 - 30 of 232 Reviews
★☆☆☆☆
“customer service is terrible. i put in a complaint and...”
Written on: 28/08/2012 by dannyboy1984 (1 review written)
customer service is terrible. i put in a complaint and got given the number 08447704379 to ring the complains dept. i have spent hours ringing them and never get through. after about a minute an automated message comes on saying please leave a message but they NEVER get back to you. i got told 2 weeks ago my complaint was next in the que..... still waiting after 2 weeks. who works in complaints? monkeys??? i have decided to go to trading standards about vanquis and i suggest everyone else... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Awful people”
Written on: 20/08/2012 by Ann302010 (3 reviews written)
Having fallen in to money issues due to a break up, I contacted them to ask for help, I got none..my then 1100 bill is now 1900 with interest...I had to default several times to get them to agree to what I could afford to pay back...worst credit card company ever...attitude of staff disgusting..and interest rates is too high avoid at all costs...u pay back way too much and when u need help u get a slap in the face Pay cash for everything getting any sort of finace was the biggest mistake of... (read more)
Dannyboy1984's Response to Ann302010's Review
Written on: 28/08/2012
having trouble myself with them, their customer service is disgusting and when you put a complaintin and ring the complaints dept they never answer the phone or even put you in a que. for anyone who wants it complaints dept phone number is 08447704379
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★☆☆☆☆
“Loan sharks”
Written on: 19/08/2012
Closed the account paid what I was told was full and final settlement came back for more They ar licensed loan sharks use them at your peril (read more)
★★★★☆
“GOOD STEP UP”
Written on: 08/08/2012 by Mandimo
I had no credit because i paid everything in cash. Credit gets credit right. The only thing was no one wanted to give me a credit card. I had been with my own bank for over 10 years and had my regular wages coming in every month.Vanquis did a thorough registration process. There rates were high but i managed my money well.I did my banking online with them and was always pleased with everything there. Vanquis have just put my credit limit up to £2'500. My own bank have just given me a £4950... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“sharks”
Written on: 08/08/2012
Took card out with them with a £150 limit had no problems paid minimum by direct debit and also payed extra on payment slip I went 53p over limit and got charged £12 default rang customer services they have serious issues need training big time don't touch them with a barge pole (read more)
Meglaura's Comment
Written on: 11/02/2013
your right iam on a debt m plan but they still phone
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★☆☆☆☆
“Modern day Shylock - stay away from Vanquis”
Written on: 31/07/2012 by Mullyw (2 reviews written)
My biggest regret is applying for this card. I should have just controlled my finances better as this outfit claim to help build your credit rating but actually rob you and charge 69.9% interest. They send out a gold card when your credit limit reaches £1500 which you may think is a good thing. It means completely the opposite. A step up in interest charged is what it means. If you make the minimum payment only you will NEVER pay this card off. Customer service is the worst I have ever... (read more)
Mullyw's Response to Mullyw's Review
Written on: 31/07/2012
And I am certain that the positive reviews on here are written by vanquis / provident employees.
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★★★★★
“Vanquis Credit Card - great for fixing ”
Written on: 27/07/2012
I applied for a Vanquis Credit card just over 18 months ago - at the time I was unable to get a normal current account - (I held a building society basic bank account) or really any form of credit due to some stupid financial mistakes I had made in the past(about 4 years previously). I started with a £500 credit limit - after managing my account (ie. meeting at least minimum payments without fail) I have had my credit limit increased first to £1500 and then by still making regular... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Do not go for the Vanquis bank ”
Written on: 23/07/2012 by uiop_poiu
Drastic costumer service. Foolish staffs asking stupid question even cannot understand the question. I have not had seen such a horrible service from any bank service. For every stupid thing they are going to charge you without informing you. Never ever apply for such an stupid organisation. They do not even sent me a card but they do not send me any card yet!!!! I have applied for a card, they did not even send the card to me but they add some plans to card which charges me. They start... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Daily harassment !!”
Written on: 27/06/2012 by spanner28 (1 review written)
It's a shame we can't give a no star rating for these things because Vanquis don't even deserve a 1 star !! Ok i landed myself with a Vanquis credit card because i wanted to buy a car on finance and i needed the credit rating. Had a limit of £500 and only ever bought petrol on it ( most being £70 for a full tank ) and i payed it off within a week. About a year ago i had real issues with my bank which was refusing to let me put money into accounts and DD's didn't go out ( my bank took full... (read more)
Guest's Response to spanner28's Review
Written on: 23/07/2012
This review is a bit harsh, I have Vanquis card as well and I have never had a problem. With their customer service, I would say it is fair for them to contact you repeatedly when you admit to ignoring them……and owe them money. Vanquis is a bank that deals with people who have poor/no credit so they help people like you and me, build a good credit score. With that in mind having them chase you for the payment is fair enough, you would rather have them chase you for the money than leave it be and report the miss-payment on your credit file!!!!
Chill out and think before you slander the people that are helping you out in the first place by giving you credit when know body on the ‘High St.’ did.
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A881E's reply to Guest's Comment
Written on: 29/11/2012
Its not harsh... its the truth
truth hurts maybe.. but name and shame them is totally acceptable so others do not make the mistake of using them like i nearly did
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Spanner28's Response to spanner28's Review
Written on: 23/07/2012
I think it is fair of me to 'slander' these people considering the abuse i have received from them. My comment here is quite pleasant considering what i have been through. I was once contacted by vanquis with them demanding money from me when i hadn't used the card in over 5 months and there was no outstanding money on it, infact the card was dead in my eyes. The representative was very rude and would not allow me to talk, his constant talking over me got to the point where i recorded the call, contacted the highest representative and played it back to her and she was far from pleased about the way i had been spoke to and reassured me ( even though it wasn't necessary ) that there was no outstanding money on my account.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion on something, i have mine, you have yours so please don't tell me to 'chill out'.
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Sazzle12's Response to spanner28's Review
Written on: 19/09/2012
Spanner he/she who commented on your review clearly works for vanquis or knows someone who does! people have no idea what its like recieving that many calls a day! Might aswell call themselves 'loan sharks'
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A881E's reply to Sazzle12's Comment
Written on: 29/11/2012
I agree... Definately seems fishy.
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★★★★★
“Cant fault the service.”
Written on: 22/06/2012
Hi, I’ve had my card for the 6 months for the sole reason to sort out my credit score. I’m usually quite a stickler and selective with these kind of things but after a few years and mistakes i applied for the card And had a quick response and acceptance. I clear my balance (between £75- £150) each month, on time and via direct debit. Ive had no problems with the company service or the card and find that if you stick to the credit agreement you agree with when you take out the card... (read more)
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Showing 31 - 40 of 232 Reviews
★☆☆☆☆
“Total Garbage lender!!!”
Written on: 19/06/2012 by yamman32
If loan sharking was legal then Vanquis bank would be market leaders! Totally unreasonable awfull company!, Awfull persistant ignorant abusive staff. AVOID AT ALL COSTS! I would not recomend this company to my worst enemy! Should be on watchdog. The ammount of complaints they receive is unbelievable and still they do not learn. No matter how bad things get, AVOID Vanquis bank. (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“what a joke”
Written on: 13/06/2012
vaunquis call centre is one of the worst if you fall on difficult times they wont help at all dont go with vanquis you will regret it like i am (read more)
Guest's Comment
Written on: 15/06/2012
I would like to add to this comment as i do 100% agree but more, they agreed eventually after several months of me sending them proof of redundancy and then signing on JSA that i could no longer keep up the payments on the account. Over them months after having proof, they still charged me on average £170 per month for a variety of charges. They do not care about your financial situation and if anything, they prefer you was struggling to make more money from you.
Yes it's easy to get a credit card with Vanquis and they certianly do make you feel you're doing the right thing by increasing your limit ever couple of months.
But let me assure you one thing, this firm is border line loan sharks as the call centre give aggresion, attitude and no care for the consumer.
I agreed on freezing the acount and a fixed monthly figure until the balance was £0. For this i set up a direct debit that i later discovered they don't actually set a DD up, no mandate what so ever, they store your account details on the system and manually charge your card as if you was to use it in a shop...... THIS IS NOT THE AGREEMENT OR EXPLAINED. So basically they can try their look and take more than you agreed on a DD mandate... Happened the first month and second until i reported my card as being fraud, unagreed payment shedules and methods also amounts.
Now Vanquis can see me in court smiling as i kept to my side of the deal and it was them who did not.
Please, i know times can be hard for many but do not fall under this companys wrath of evil and lack of care to their customers.
Regards
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★★★★★
“poor credit history”
Written on: 06/06/2012
Looking at some of the reviews, it seems that most people here have yet to learn the same lesson that it has taken me almost a lifetime to. Listen, the only reason why we have this card is that we are all useless with money. It really is simple, make the payment on time and if you don't like the rate, pay it off in full at the end of the month, nobody forced you to borrow the money and if you think there might be a problem, don't use the card. They only hound you at work if you miss... (read more)
Mike_R_2012's Comment
Written on: 01/07/2012
totally agree! i finished my 6 yr IVA 10 months ago and wanted to rebuild my credit rating so applied for a Vanquis card 4 mths ago and was accepted with a £500 credit limit. right from the off i set up a direct debit to pay the full amount off each month (Vanquis dont like it when you do that lol). then last week decided to apply for an amazon mastercard as they offer loyalty points you can use online and also a fiver when you are approved. thought did it online and thought i would get turned down but got instantly approved :) now i have a Mastercard with a credit limit of £1400 and an apr of 16.9%! so when i pay off next months balance its goodbye Vanquis with a cut up card.. the moral of my story? .. use Vanquis for your own benefit don't let them use you!!
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Guest's Comment
Written on: 03/07/2012
I agree. I got my card after years of poor credit history. I kept within my credit limits and paid on time. Now I have a much better credit score and have got a credit card at half the interest rates. So it's goodbye vanquis and thanks for your help in the past. Yes their charges are extorsionate, but that's because they lend when other's don't.
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Mullyw's Comment
Written on: 31/07/2012
Rubbish. They are loan sharks and operate on the very edge of the law. How the FSA are not investigating this outfit is beyond me. They pray on people who cannot get credit then trap them and use aggressive and abusive behaviour to get their money back. P.s. how is the job with vanquis going??? Only an employee would write something like that
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★☆☆☆☆
“Drastic Service”
Written on: 06/06/2012
I got this card, because like most, mr credit file had dropped considerably, thankfully I am in a position to pay off most of my balance each month (as I used the card for hotels with work), others are not so fortunate. What I would say to those that feel desperate enough to own a credit card, DO NOT choose Vanquis. The rates are incredibly high and change without warning, add to this their additional charges which can often amount to the same fee as the interest (thus doubling the standard... (read more)
★★★★☆
“Helped me out alot”
Written on: 31/05/2012 by djrkenyon (2 reviews written)
I dont have the best of credit history's so when i saw this card i thought why not i know the interest is high but i needed the money so had no choice i was approved for my card and it arrived within a week with the pin coming a few days later with a £250 limit the minimum payment is only around £12 with it showing the interest on the next statement as £14 so its not recommendatory making the minimum payment but its a good way to prove your credit worthy (read more)
★★★☆☆
“Vanquis - only for people with bad credit”
Written on: 25/05/2012
Looking at some of the reviews it is clear that a vast majority of people have misunderstood what vanquis is about, yes the interest rates are woeful, however, this card is designed as a LAST RESORT for people with bad credit and do not want to go down the extortionate pre paid card route. PLEASE NOTE THIS CARD IS DESIGNED TO HELP YOU REBUILD YOUR CREDIT SO YOU CAN APPLY FOR A BETTER CARD WITH BETTER INTEREST RATES. If you keep to your payments then you will be fine, keep to the 250 limit... (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Ripping me right off............”
Written on: 22/05/2012
I took out a Vanquis card in June 2009 for £250, I have paid between min payment and £25 a month for nearlly 3 years and have only missed 3 payments, I now owe £286 They are a bloody discrace and i am going to contact the Ombudsman as I think something needs doing about these companies. I worked out thay i have paid at least £540 over the last 3 years so i think they owe ME ...... I think it is bloody disgraceful that they can do this... (read more)
★★☆☆☆
“Never ending ”
Written on: 22/05/2012
Where do i start. I warn anyone who are thinking about taking a credit card from these people to beware. The 39% APR is a con the minimum payment shoots up faster then a speeding bullet and does not come down on a £250 limit you need to repay at least £50 a month. I have payed back in the last 4 months £280 and still owe over £100. There is at least 3 hidden charges not mentioning the ppi which you have to take even if you are in work or not. In short if you can pay back what you have... (read more)
Djrkenyon's Comment
Written on: 31/05/2012
i have never had phone call and you dont have to take the ppi out you just have to be firm and say no to it as for paying it back obviously it would take ages making the minimum payment
thats why they recommend you make more than that.
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★☆☆☆☆
“Not reachable ”
Written on: 10/05/2012
Company gives you credit and all but you can not contact them on their given number once you puse the card!you can not even able to pay online!i think capital one is better then this cheaters. (read more)
★☆☆☆☆
“Awful”
Written on: 06/05/2012
Okay so this card is designed for those who have got into difficulty in the past. Nonetheless the APR is high and the hiking up is even more stupid as I have found to my cost. The customer service is awful; they cancelled by DD at the bank and told me I had done it, refused to be reasonable about it on the telephone (one of those 10p per minute calls so costing a fortune) and all written correspondance has been totally ignored. However, they also keep hassling me trying to sell me deals... (read more)
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Showing 41 - 50 of 232 Reviews
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Fedupannie's Response to VESPA1969's Review
Written on: 22/05/2013
hi Vespa, i too have the same issues with vanquis, and lodged a complaint with the ombusman 8 months ago.Im still waiting to see if they can resolve the problems, because i have been plaqued by phone calls from vanquis, and dont feel i can take much more What was your outcome with the ombusman? i was told that they never rule against vanquis, so im not holding my breath, apparently they are not as neautral as they make out.