Getting $crewed by a bank, need advice (HELP!)

[AlecBGreen]

Hey evildu'ers! Here is my situation:

Last Spring I opened a free checking account w/ SunTrust and put in $25. I never once used it, deposited or withdrew money. Basically it was opened then forgotten (I had plans to use it in the future). Fast forward to a month ago when I recieve a notice from a collection agency saying I owe them, the bank, $50! I go down to the bank and it turns out they mistakenly opened a "premiere" checking account instead of the free checking I signed up for. They withdrew $9 per month as a maintenance fee, the account went negative and then they hit me for a $30 closing fee. When I foudn this out, I went down to the bank and talked to one of their staff.

Me: OK, so you guys made a mistake?
Banker: Yeah, sorry!
Me: So lets fix this.
Banker: OK, you pay the $20 you owe and we'll waive the $30 closing fee.
Me: EXCUSE ME? :wtf:
Banker: yeah, lets comprimise.
Me: Uh, doesnt this sound a little crazy to you? YOU MADE A MISTAKE, and not only are you KEEPING my money, you want me to pay MORE!? :argh:
Banker (laughs, seriously he did): :) Yeah, I know it sounds kinda crazy...

Long story short, I stopped myself from punching the dude out and left. I left my number for the regional manager to contact me, was called Friday but didnt answer her, and now Im contemplating what I should do/say to the manager.

Any suggestions? The bank ADMITTED they made the mistake but because I didnt bring it to their attention within 30 days, I still owe them money. What should I do!?

[flvegan]

1. Talk to the regional manager.

Tell her the same thing you've stated here.

Remind her that now that their mistake is with a collection agency, it's affecting your credit rating, and you don't appreciate it.

[NashVegas]

2. What He ^^ Said

I'm amazed they let you open up a free checking account with so little, and no minimum balance. Talk about a bad business plan. ...