how can I gain control again?

Welcome to the forum :D Since you are registered, a counselor should be contacting you soon and discuss your options. Good Luck and Happy New Year :D

Welcome to the forums.. I am sorry to hear that about your rate being increased. I don't know if they can raise your payment without you being notified first. Do you get any type of statement?

Waterfall -

Welcome!

Your rate was probably raised because the entire payment was not on time. That's most likely listed in the terms and conditions from the credit card company - any late payments, full or partial, and the rate jumps. It's unfortunate, but it's exactly how they make money.

What was the other phone number they gave you - to a collection agency, or a higher up in management at the credit card company? I'd be curious to know who else they're having you talk to on this.

Since you have registered with this site, you will recieve a free phone consultation from a debt counselor in your area. They will be able to offer you some options for debt consolidation or settlement that will help you get your finances back on track.

Suebee, can they raise your payment without notifying you first??

I was given the phone number of someone else higher up for the credit card.
I have slowly paid away faithfully and consitently at this debt. You are correct I had made a partial payment and reviewed my account and realized I had only had a partial payment scheduled. This is what triggered the interest hike, just like all of us I was busy with work Christmas and juggling finances.
I realize it is not healthly to live beyond your means, the day comes when we must pay.

So did you know about the payment being increased??

Nat - if it is written into the terms and conditions on your card, your rate can go up without notice.

And Waterfall is correct - the partial payment being late is what triggered the interest rate hike. And you make very valid points, Waterfall. We sometimes make the mistake of living beyond our means. While we really enjoy it for a while, and it's great fun to obtain the 'THINGS' we think we need during that time, the time comes when we have to pay the piper. And that's NOT fun. The answer is to learn from the past mistakes and work towards a better, debt-free future. That's our goal here at this site, and what we're all trying to do!

Gee, that is good info b/c I didn't know that. Thanks...

How can I find out what has worked for others?

Welcome to the Community Waterfall :D Here is some info on Do it Yourself, you may find helpfull at http://www.debtconsolidationcare.com/diy/ You can also read others posts about how they are climbing out of the debt trap. It does take time, but it can be done. Talk to the debt counselor about your options, then you can decide which if any, you decide to choose. If you have questions, ask!!..Karen