Other LanguagesAll Consuming blog moderator Kristin Alexander answers reader questions:
Donna wrote:“I received a pre-approved credit offer for up to $43,000 from [an Everett car dealer] with a notice that if I want to "Opt-Out" for this and any other credit offers to call 1-888-567-8688. A computer asks you to verify your name, phone number and address; but then asks for a Social Security number. Is this a scam?”
In most cases, I would suggest hanging up immediately. Calling an unknown number then providing a SSN to an automated voice mail system is one way to become a victim of identity theft or credit fraud. But this phone number is actually legit. It belongs to the credit bureaus' free opt-out program. If you’d like to receive fewer credit card offers, you can remove your name from mailings lists by calling 1-888-5OptOut (1-888-567-8688) or online at www.optoutprescreen.com You can also take your name off other junk mail lists by contacting the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) through its Web site, www.dmachoice.org.
The offer was clearly an advertisement for vehicle financing. Dealers obtain mailing lists based on credit scores. But despite the claim of that you’re “pre-approved,” the loan still needs to be approved by a bank unless the dealer is providing the financing. Used dealers sometimes provide their own financing – but often at an exorbitant cost to you.
Malia wrote:“My daughter has overdue fines from a traffic ticket. My daughter had no license when she got the traffic ticket. My car has insurance and she was scared to let me know, until I received a bill from Alliance. The amount that need to paid is $1,625. I was shocked. Please let me know what I need to do so I can pay this fine for her, so she can get her license.”
Malia, your daughter is fortunate to have such a generous mother. I hope she appreciates it and learns from her error. I suspect your daughter will be doing a lot of extra chores in the future ...
Lecture over; here’s my advice: Check with the court where the fine originated. Chances are that once a bill has been turned over to collections, you will have to deal with the collection agency to pay off the outstanding debt. You will also need to be sure the collection agency reports the payment to the court where the fine originated. You should then contact the Department of Licensing to determine next steps. Contact DOL at (360) 902-3900 or drivers@dol.wa.gov. Note that a teen must not have any traffic violations within six months of applying for the license and must not have been convicted of any alcohol or drug offense while holding an instruction permit.
Do you have a general question for All Consuming? Send it to allconsuming@atg.wa.gov. Unfortunately, we can’t provide you with legal advice. If you require mediation assistance to resolve a dispute with a specific business, please contact our Consumer Resource Center at 1-800-551-4636 between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays or file a complaint online.