I called my credit card company, Chase, because I wanted to know why my ending balance was more than the beginning balance by $10.

I had made no new purchases on the credit card. I opened an account with them only because they were offering a fixed rate of 4.99 percent on balance transfers until the balance was paid off. I took advantage of this offer and transferred some high interest rate credit cards to Chase.

I have not been late on my payments to Chase and, as a matter of fact, I often pay more than the balance due and even pay earlier than the due date each month.

The representative said due to the economy only card members who have a low interest rate were subject to the following new provision:

1. Pay a $10 surcharge each month

2. Elect to change your low interest rate to 7.99 percent to avoid the $10 charge

3. Pay your balance off in full

I was stunned; Chase is intentionally making only low-interest credit card holders subject to this new provision.

I wouldn't be so enraged if this policy was implemented to all credit card holders of Chase. Why are low-interest rate members being singled out by Chase to saddle the extra cost? Since the economy affects everyone shouldn't Chase be spreading out the cost to every member so I wouldn't feel the pinch as much?

Chase is not honoring the low interest rate we were promised. My credit rating is excellent and I work very hard to maintain this rating. Like many people, I have had to make adjustments to my living habits due to the economy. It hurts me emotionally and I have to dig more deeply in my pocket because of Chase.

EILEEN BOYLE

Schwenksville