ROSEVILLE, Mich. (WXYZ) — Problems with credit and debit cards caused delays across West Michigan.
Multiple customers posted on social media about their experiences.
Meijer addressed the issue Monday afternoon in a statement.
“During the weekend we had sporadic issues with credit/debit purchases at some of our stores, which caused delays in processing time and in some cases more than one charge for the same amount. Our understanding is numerous retailers were affected. In most cases, the financial institutions will quickly cancel out the duplicate charges. If any customer has an issue they should alert their financial institution, which should be able to quickly take care of the problem.”
A spokesperson for Chase Bank a statement to FOX 17, saying, “We are very sorry for the inconvenience this caused our merchant clients and their customers. As of 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, card processing was restored. We are working on reversals of any duplicate transactions.”
The same story happened on the east side of the state.
“It was very frustrating,” says Kelly Smith who spent nearly four hours at a Meijer store in Roseville on Saturday.
Smith says the lines were ridiculously long, but they stuck it out.
“We finally got to one line and got to the register and they said the cards was down,” says Smith.
However, she still attempted to swipe her electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, and after three attempts.
“They said we’ll use your debit card if you have it just don’t put your pin number in,” says Smith.
After two failed swipes the third time was the charm. Later in the day, she tried to use the card at a different store, and that's when she discovered her card was triple charged.
Customers at Meijer locations across Michigan have had similar complaints.
7 Action News called the customer service line and heard an automatic message stating... “We are aware of current issues affecting some customers that could result in multiple charges”
The automated voice message also instructs customers to alert their banks if the additional charges remain on their report.
Smith says it will take 2-3 days before her money is refunded, a headache she feels could have been avoided.
“I felt like if you knew your card system was down, why you don’t say accept cash only?” says Smith.
FOX 17 reached out to MasterCard, which says while they did see some reports, their network was operating normally over the weekend. They say if you note duplicate or unauthorized charges on your account, you should contact your bank to review and resolve the issue.
Starbucks also responded saying it is possible some of their customers' credit cards were declined May 21, stating the issue has been resolved. Those wishing to reach out for support are asked to call 800-782-7282.
FOX 17 contributed to this report.
