Higher One’s earns a 2.6-star rating from 18 reviews, showing that the majority of customers are somewhat satisfied with financial services.
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checking
I have tried unsuccessfully to close this account. I had not been using this account for years so, I opted to have my monies transferred to another bank. Unfortunately, since this account was set up years ago in order to transfer monies between accounts, no longer having a valid card, and buying a new phone, I was unable to sign into my account automatically. In addition, since all of my banking was completed online, I also no longer had anything with my last four digits of my account on it. In spite of giving every detail such as my social security number, birthdate, current address, and the last four digits, no one would allow me to close my account. In addition, I receive emails every month reminding to put monies in the account so that I do not get a late fee. It is beyond ridiculous that I cannot close account . There has got to be a better way to conduct business.
holding deposit
I took out a loan on my 401k to get a car for 3000 higher one has placed an extended hold on the check today April 20th until May 1st I may lose my job over this I can't believe you are doing this I'm a single mom. If I lose my job I'm going to news station and I'm going to tell the world how this bank is making on internet while I'm paying for having the loan out this is so wrong. I ve filed a complaint with fdic. You are wrong for doing this
you guys tell me your closing my account due to your security breach
I got an email saying there was a security breach. Then they tell me they are closing my account because it's to much of a risk but yet my college still has to deposit to them before they transfer to another bank. It's crap. I never know when a deposit is made or how much and I can't even check my transactions . But they won't tell me why it was a risk to close it. It's their fault not mine and I do not recommend this bank to anyone
Is Higher One Legit?
Higher One earns a trustworthiness rating of 96%
Highly recommended, but caution will not hurt.
We found clear and detailed contact information for Higher One. The company provides a physical address, 2 phone numbers, and 2 emails, as well as 4 social media accounts. This demonstrates a commitment to customer service and transparency, which is a positive sign for building trust with customers.
The age of Higher One's domain suggests that they have had sufficient time to establish a reputation as a reliable source of information and services. This can provide reassurance to potential customers seeking quality products or services.
However ComplaintsBoard has detected that:
- Despite a high level of trust, our investigation found issues with Higher One's service, including poor customer service, lack of accountability, and responsibility to resolve complaints. Customers may face long wait times for responses, receive generic or unhelpful answers or no response at all. Only 38% of 0 complaints were resolved.
- There was some difficulty in evaluating or examining the information or data present on the higherone.com. This could be due to technical issues, limited access, or website may be temporarily down for maintenance or experiencing technical difficulties.
- Higherone.com has relatively low traffic compared to other websites, it could be due to a niche focus, but could also indicate a potential lack of traffic and popularity. The higherone.com may offer a niche product or service that is only of interest to a smaller audience.
- We conducted a search on social media and found several negative reviews related to Higher One. These reviews may indicate issues with the company's products, services, or customer support. It is important to thoroughly research the company and its offerings before making any purchases to avoid any potential risks.
not being able to close out account
I have had an account with Higherone since 2009. Recently, I lost my phone and had to try to log into my account from another computer. Unfortunately, I got locked out of my account due to too many attempts when I tried to reset my password, I was unable to do so because I did not have my full account number only the last four digits. Next they asked for my bank card 16 digit number which I was unable to give since the card had not been working and customer service was unable to tell me why several months earlier. And since they it had also expired. Although I was able to move monies into and out of my account through a third party through a third party already verified; it did not make much sense to keep my monies my account that I could not access. Even though I was able to verify my social security number, my email, my address, my phone number, my school, and the time that I opened my account, I still was not unable to cancel my account. Every month they send me an email stating that I will be charged another fee of $5.95, I can't even pay monies owed since they can't tell me what the balance owed is. I have spoken to customer service reps, supervisors and managers, and still no one can give me a solution or a way to resolve this issue, and yet every month they send me that email that I owe them monies.
Student Account
Higher One has repeatedly deposited, cleared then with drew and re cleared funds all while systematically paying bills then waiting till my balance was low and bouncing checks that had all ready cleared. On any given day my account would go from positive to negative then back to positive then back to negative. All while higher one continues to rake in waht I believe to now be over a thousand dollars they have found a way to scam from me. I have no clue who to turn to for help. Any ideas please let me know.
Late stipened check
I noticed that I had only 2 weeks left in my courses for school and still have not received any of my stipends. I called Higher One and was told "because I denied their checking account it would take three weeks longer to get my stipend." I could not use the stipend for school because by the time I got it I was taking my finals. Higher One provided a sub-standard service and it makes money off of federal government department of education money. Students don't have money and they take advantage of this population. I told my school and Higher One I wanted my information removed from their system and was told "I don't have authority to make that decision." They say they are there to get our stipends to us faster however, they have a different agenda which is to make money on student's stipend checks.
unjustified fees
I started banking with Higher One when I enrolled in School in 2013. I was sent a Debit Card and at first it was convenient (except they have no ATMS). However their service has deteriorated and whenever I have a substantial amount of money in the account it disappears. They do not give a detained accounting of where the funds are going. The last straw is that I was trying to buy product @ the store and I had $10 on my account. Suddenly I saw, I had insufficient funds, negative balance, $-0.03, and then $-29.03.
I never received my full student loan from the bank contact me by email macken39@gmail.com
Hello,
Higher One will have someone in Customer Care contact you as soon as possible. Thank you.
Money Taken from Account
I started banking with Higher One when I enrolled in School in 2011. I was sent a Debit Card and at first it was convenient (except they have no ATMS). However their service has deteriorated and whenever i have a substantial amount of money in the account it disappears. They do not give a detained accounting of where the funds are going. The last straw is that I was trying to pay my bills through the checking account and they let my checks bounce. One of the checks was for $35 and they allowed it to sit there and said I had insufficient funds. They then charged me $38 for a bounced check, and even after I put a stop on the check, they took another $38 out of my account and $24 for the stop payment. This is over $100 which they refused to use to honor my checks. This is going on while they are supposed to be settling a Class Action Suit! I am through with this rip off Company and just want to get my money back. In 2012 I went on a trip and when I returned home, they had taken almost all of the money I had out of my account. They charged me fraudulently for charges that were not mine, and it took more than a month to straighten it out. They told me that I had to get a new card, which took over a month.
If the lawsuits are without merit, why was Higher One court ordered to pay 11 million dollars out?
Hi Lauren,
Im Stacey Murello, a former Airborne Combat Medic, putting herself through school while needed open heart surgery for ASD, and being a single mom and homeschooling. Higher One has numerous complaints and I am petitioning for the close of your company to the US Board Of Education. You have stolen my money many times and I am planning legal action. Have great day! Look for me on the news! We gonna blow this story up!
Hi there, I’m Lauren from Higher One. We regret to hear of your frustrations and are hoping we can clarify some important points and help.
We encourage students to choose the option that works best for them and students do have options. Students will never be charged to receive their financial aid refund money no matter which option they choose, and no student is required to have a Higher One checking account.
With a basic Higher One checking account, Higher One charges the same fee for using out of network ATMs as most banks do. We have hundreds of ATMs nationally, with at least one at each institution we serve. Should a campus’ Higher One ATMs not be operational at any time, Higher One will reimburse OneAccount holders at their request for up to $5 per day for fees charged at other ATMs.
Higher One has always been transparent and takes an educational approach when it comes to the disclosure of fees. There is no hidden agenda and there are no hidden fees: before opening an account with Higher One, it is mandatory that students acknowledge and accept the fee schedule.
With reference to the class action: Higher One maintains, and has always maintained, that the claims in the lawsuits are without merit.
If you have questions about your OneAccount, please visit EasyHelp, our Customer Care resource center, or your account website at HigherOneCard.com. You can reach a Customer Care agent by dialing the number on the back of your card between 8am and 11pm EST (Monday-Friday).
refuses to release funds
This bank is insane I have to use it for school and they refuse to release my money. I called in to ask a question a lady was having a bad day and I got mean with her. I was fine and happy when I called in next thing I know she hangs up! And next day I have a hold on my account and I have done everything these people have asked. It's be a month and I'm late on my bills I am a student. They will not release my funds! Who do I go too.
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
I started school in September 2015, I have yet to see a dime of my money. They say that my DOB AND SSN don't match, and its my fault! impossible! I have sent notarized birth certificates costing me money. I also notarized Social Security Card and ID. The employees of h one are not even in America! I have made over 20 Calls. the list goes on and on I'm so angry I want to sue them and shut them down and never hear from this compa again. scam
Higher One is complete crap! Awful business. My financial aid was granted in May, it's now middle of Sept. & I'm still trying to get the card activated. The website is complete garbage. Just keeps navigating you back & fourth to the same 3 worth less pages, none of them are for activating my card. I am logged in & the website keeps telling me I do not have a card and need to reorder one, while I have the reordered card in my hand. I called the automated phone service which had me enter my card # & DOB which is "incorrect" according to the system. I'm not surprised after speaking with the incompetent fools that they employ. Every single person I speak with is completely useless! I'm not sure if they actually speak English or just have a few lines memorized with no idea of what they are actually saying. They just say "I understand maam.." But do they really? Doubtful!
This bank isn't actually a bank and that is what people need to realize. You can't access your own money unless you pay them for it. 3.5% to withdraw money from your account the same way you would withdraw money from a checking account anywhere else. $25 for wire transfers but with a very low limit. Should have known though since it is a MasterCard and not a Visa. MasterCards aren't widely accepted by most places and they know this. It's done so you are forced to withdraw your money by other means. Right now my options are to drive to the nearest HigherOne ATM and spend $150 in gas in the process of making the daily trips, spend $600 on wire transfers, spend $210 for doing a regular bank transfer, or the cheapest option, spent $100 in fees to use local ATMs and slowly, I mean 2 weeks, withdraw money daily due to a low limit on how much you can get out of an ATM. Also, be sure not to check your balance or enter your PIN wrong, at an ATM, because you will get charged for that. Don't attempt to pull out more than you are allowed, because there is a charge for every transaction, even if it fails. HigherOne is not a bank. No bank charges you to withdraw money from your account and says the routing number only works one way.
Everything that higher one says don't believe them, it's to cover all the lies and ### they do to student. Higher One has a law suite going on because of there high fees. Again this is our financial aide money. Why do we have to pay fees and ### to get aide. I say every school using Higher One we as students should join together nation wide should get rid of these f*** tards for good.
Hello! My name is Aaron and I work with Higher One. I'd like to provide additional information on how to have your identity verified and more information on the refund process.
The hold on your account is likely due to the need to verify your identity. Under the USA PATRIOT Act, the government requires us to verify each person's identity who opens a checking account with Higher One. Please see the following links for more information on the Customer Identification Program (CIP), and how to have your identity verified. The best way to ensure the hold is released is by taking a picture of our ID and attaching it to an Easy Help email.
What is CIP - https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=745
Valid forms of ID: https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=746
How to send an attachment (a picture of your ID): https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=2162
Regarding the refund process: In order for Higher One to disburse a refund, we must first receive a Refund File, containing a list of names and the amounts due to each student. We must also receive a Refund Wire with the actual money to be disbursed. Until we have received both of these, we are unable to release the funds. Per the USA PATRIOT Act mentioned above, we're unable to allow access to funds until an account is fully verified. Please contact Customer Care in one of the following ways if you need additional assistance on having this done.
--Call the number on the back of your card Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET. After entering your card number and date of birth you'll be read your balance information. After this, press "0" to speak with an Agent.
--Tweet @AskHigherOne Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. ET.
--Use EasyHelp's “Ask a Question” feature by clicking on any EasyHelp logo when logged into your account. Simply fill out the information in the "Ask a Question" tab and someone will follow up with you through email.
We hope this information is helpful!
Higher One
COLLEGE STUDENTS EXPERIENCE DELAYS IN FUNDING RELEASES AND USE OF FUNDS THROUGH THIS INSTITUTION:
The Higher One Debit MasterCard® is issued by Wright Express Financial Services Corporation pursuant to license from MasterCard International Incorporated. The card is administered by Higher One, Inc.
College Institutions have made a grave mistake in allowing this institution: Higher One to have exclusive 1st control over student funds:
1. Higher One dates showing FAFSA funds release never match with government. This company is seeing your student aide money before you and determining when to send you a card. It was two weeks behind my FAFSA disclosure letter showing my funds had been in Higher One's system - TWO WEEK. THEN HAD TO WAIT ANOTHER WEEK TO GET CARD.
2. DELAY TACTICS: Even though FAFSA recognizes who you are, the IRS know who you are, have had to send (5) faxes to Higher One with State ID, SS CARD, BIRTH CERTIFICATE, HOME LEASE, AND UTILITY BILL - to proof who I am. HELLO ! FAFSA, IRS AND COLLEGES ARE ALL ENCRYPTED - VERI-SIGN SYSTEMS ! WHY ARE YOU DELAYING STUDENTS WITH THIS NON-SENSE WHO NEED TO GET BOOKS AND LEARNING MATERIAL FOR SCHOOL !
3. THEN OF COURSE, ALL (5 ) FAXES NOT RECEIVED -- OKAY SO TRIED TO USE UPLOAD BROWSE FOR DOCUMENT OFFER ON WEBSITE. ONLY ACCEPT 250 KB'S - SO WHAT DOCUMENT YOU KNOW ARE THAT SMALL ON SCANS. TRIED JNG, TIFF & PDF LOAD...NOW WOULD TAKE !
4. USING THE CARD: FEE DISCLOUSRE DOES NOT TELL YOU - WILL CHARGE ATM FEE ON THEIR SIDE AND ATMS SIDE - SO YOU GET DOUBLE HIT WITH FEES.
5. ACCOUNT HOLDS: SO KEEP THREATENING TO HOLD YOU FUNDS UNTIL CAN VERIFY WHO YOU ARE ! DUH !
6. DECIDE TO TRANSFER SCHOOL FUNDS TO A REAL BANK, SINCE HIGHER ONE IS OWNED BY WRIGHT FINANCIAL EXPRESS...A FINANCE COMPANY - NOT A BANKING INSTITUITION -- ONLY GIVEN RIGHTS TO MASTER CARD ISSUES.
7. KEEPS LOOSING FAXES OF ACH BANK TRANSFER FORMS : EVEN THOUGHT MY BANK FAXED TO THEM IN MY PRESENCE. THEN LATER DATE HAD TO REFAX MYSELF WITH PREV TRANSMISSION RECEIPT.
8. FINALLY ACH TRANSFER TO ANOTHER BANK SHOWS - OH GOD ! FINALLY.
NOW HERE'S THE NEXT KICKER...ONLY TRANSFERED ON SET OF MY FUNDS...NOT ALL MONIES AT ONCE...
** CAN YOU BELIEVE WHAT STUDENTS ARE DEALING WITH -- ALL THIS WHILE TRYING TO MAINTAIN A GPA...
*** FINAL DECISION: REPORTING HIGHER ONE- WRIGHT FINANCIAL EXPRESS TO THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC) AND FAFSA - STUDENT.GOV. THEY HAVE NOT CONTROL OVER THIS VENDOR...NOR DOES THE STUDENT AND THE STUDENTS ARE SUFFERING THE PRICE...LITERALLY ! ****
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
This is the most horrible bank ever. I am sitting here literally in tears and almost ready to commit an act of violence!... for a whole month these people have been holding on to MY money like they are doing me a favor. They have blocked me from their facebook page. I don't even know where to begin to tell. They lie and say they send out cards when they don't. This is to delay withdrawal. It's it strange they make you verify your name ss# address email telephone number school name - no that's a torture tactic they do this is the military and jails assign you a number to keep you in check the same method applies here.. because if you tell them no or that you are uncomfortable telling 10 people over and over your info they simply hangup.. so what do you do? comply!... I kept asking them where is this card - now after they sent me through the 3rd degree to identify myself to them- they mail a card with no tracking number? that's bullcrap! what reputable bank sends cards with no way to trace them with a 10 day waiting period? --- today I called and asked how do I just withdraw all my money and close they account they ignored me and kept repeating the instructions for ordering a new card... I can not believe that this bank is allowed to operate yet alone be tied to students. I have complained to BBB I am waiting to hear back from Higher One BBB told me they sent over my complaint... I wish I could post screenshots so that I can show you the multiple lies they tell... they told me they mailed a card two days ago I looked at the website it was not mailed until today putting me right back at the 10 day window so these people will have had my money going on two months. Also, I am behind in all my classes and it appears that I am going to have to drop out of school. I am looking for an attorney to take my case to sue my school and Higher One I know I am not the only student they are doing this to and the school needs to share some of this responsibility.
I am currently having the same problem. It has been two days almost three and they keep saying the information I am providing them isn't good enough. It is funny because I have sent in a copy of my ss card drivers lic insurance card proof of residence I have nothing else to provided but a urine test or a blood test. This is so annoying. I am to the end of my rope. I guess they do not realize students need this money to get things that are actually needed to complete class assignments. I will not ever use them again and I am currently looking into filing a formal complaint, not just on some complaint board so someone from Higher One to throw out false hope for other people.
HigherOne is awkward and laborious to get through, and alot of students get annoyed with it. Their only profit comes off of student's backs. The fees are ridiculous, and the only way to avoid them is pretty much to use one of their ATM's. That's if your account isn't getting hit by monthly service fees. It was designed by some Yale kids who saw an opportunity and took it. Which says very little about Yale I guess. Successful business? Yes. Creating something good for society? Well, some kids didn't have that dream I guess.
This company is a leech, and I hate dealing with it.
Hello. My name is Aaron and I work with Higher One. I'd like to provide you with some additional information and resources to assist with your situation. It may be easiest to address your concerns in order you've listed them.
1. This is not correct. The refund process includes many steps, but begins at the school. In order for Higher One to disburse a refund, we must receive a "Refund File, " containing a list of names of students who are due a refund, and a corresponding "Refund Wire" with the actual money from the school. Higher One does not receive the money directly from the government. In order for Higher One to disburse refunds, we must receive both of the pieces of information above from your college or university. When we do, we disburse the money the same business day. Please see this link to Easy Help for full information on how the refund process works: https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=2145
2. Under the USA PATRIOT Act, Higher One is required to verify every person's identity who opens a checking account with us. Most of the time, we're able to do this automatically. However, sometimes we require additional information. Because Higher One's checking accounts are online only, and there are no branches, we ask that Customers submit copies of their Government issued ID either by fax, email or traditional mail. Please see this link for full information on Higher One's Customer Identification Program (CIP): https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=745
3. The best way to ensure your identity gets verified is by taking a picture of your ID, and attaching it to an Easy Help email. You can even ask for a status update right in that email. Here's how to include an attachment through East Help:
https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=2162
4. At the time of selecting your refund preference, every customer who selects a Higher One checking account is required to view the fee schedule and confirm that they have seen it. Additionally, you can find a link to the fee schedule at any time by clicking the link at the bottom of your account page, before even logging in, or while logged into your account. While using another bank's ATM does come with a fee, there is no fee for using a Higher One ATM machine. You'll also notice a column on the fee schedule labeled, "How to avoid this fee" that explains how each fee can be avoided.
5. This is related to Number 2. Please see the link in that answer for additional information. Again, this is a requirement under the USA PATRIOT Act.
6. Students also have the option to have their refund directly deposited into an existing bank account of their choice. Just like receiving refunds to a Higher One checking account, this is a completely free option. Here is information on how to set this up: https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=2153
7. Unfortunately fax machines are not perfect, and some faxes do not come through 100% clear. We apologize for the inconvenience however this is the nature of faxes. It is certainly not a "tactic" to deter people from choosing this option. You can also scan a copy of the signed ACH form, and attach it to an Easy Help email.
8. Higher One only disburses the amount of money that is sent to us by the school. Higher One will never hold your refund, or a portion of your refund. If you have not received the full amount of your refund, please contact your school's Business or Financial Aid office. It is not uncommon for schools to send a refund in batches, or in smaller increments. Please see this link for additional information: https://www.higheroneaccount.com/easyhelp/pta?basepage=answer&type=public¶m=641
We hope this information is helpful! If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us in one of the following ways:
--Call the number on the back of your card Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET. After entering your card number and date of birth you'll be read your balance information. After this, press "0" to speak with an Agent.
--Tweet @AskHigherOne Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. ET.
--Use EasyHelp's “Ask a Question” feature by clicking on any EasyHelp logo when logged into your account. Simply fill out the information in the "Ask a Question" tab and someone will follow up with you through email.
Fee's Higher One Card
I have a Higher One Card because my campus Financial Aid office told me it was the only way to receive my refund. But the company is a SCAM they CHARGE outrageous fee's to retrieve my refund money in addition to the fee the ATM charges. I can't use the campus ATM that's free because there is never any money in it for 3, 000 plus students to use one ATM. They also charge fee's to use the card as DEBIT. This seem to be against Federal Regulations of a Federal Refund to have all these fee's this is the first time I had to use this card when i transferred to the University in GA I was not aware I had to use this card to receive my Refund or even loans back I will be leaving this school because Higher-One is a ripoff and they don't protect your privacy because they use WORK at HOME workers to take their calls and in order for these ppl to look at your account you must give them your SSN and DOB and card number talk about invasion of privacy and who knows who they hire they could careless about college students. They just want money for their card fee's.
Dear Terry Daley, VP of Higher One Customer Care
The issue is not "all of the free ways to use the card". The complaint is that a student has to "learn" your rules (which are hidden in tiny text) in order to get "free" access to federal student aide money--much of which are loans already steeped in fees before it gets to your clutches. Not to mention that your company was not a "choice" of your consumer--it is pathetic that companies such as yours are taking advantage of young people, the majority of which do not have the financial savy to know they are being ripped off until it is too late. For instance, those that are sophisticated enough should opt for direct deposit into their own bank or credit union accounts. However, they will not be using your card but 2 times a year and there is that pesky "rule" about being charged $19 if your "forced" customer does not use the card in a 9 month period...hmmm January (direct deposit; don't use card until September disbursement...wow..what a coincidence...9 months...just in time for Higher One to charge $19--even from the forced customer who never wanted your checking account/debit card. And one other thing...who controls when the money is disbursed to the student? HighOne does...again coincidence? or just great timing?
Dear Miss V,
-It is disappointing to me to hear of your experience. I hope we can help you with any questions you may have, please contact us at your convenience and/or login and submit an inquiry with "Connect with Casey".
-We offer several ways to access your funds for free, including using your Debit Card to purchase with Swipe & Sign & Zero Liability.
-We are committed to fee free cash access for accountholders using our ATMs and offer a committment to reimburse accountholders up to currently $5 a day to access cash at another ATM, should our ATMs on campus be non-operational for any reason.
I hope we can find a way together to answer your questions and resolve any open items.
Thank you,
Terry Daley, VP of Higher One Customer Care
ATM Card
It is my perception that when the FAFSA checks come out for the fall semester that a high number of students will be paying A LOT of fees due to inactivity or other legal binding rules. This is immoral and bad business practice.
You must put yourself in my position. I am an active full-time student on campus and I know that a lot of students are not able to access the features that Higher One provides. Furthermore, it is also my perception that they have NO CLUE about the fees that they will have to pay to Higher One.
My learning institution is a trade school, a technical college. Students that go here may have no other bank account. Students that go here may not know how to manage money. Some students will start to see legally binding fees that have been removed from THEIR accounts. Students will lose faith with not only Higher One, but the learning institution that provides Higher One ATM cards as a way for students to receive their FAFSA refunds. What is Higher One doing about empowering and educating customers? Nothing that I see.
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
Skygirl13,
I am with Higher One. First, we want to say that we appreciate and share your concerns related to personal finance education. However, we have found that college students, regardless of their field of study, are in fact much more responsible and financially literate than perceived. We understand that not everyone has received the same level personal finance education and is why we’ve implemented a number of initiatives that educate anyone seeking stronger money management skills.
One of our most popular and widely used features, is a Fee Schedule that is available right on the log in page of the account. Before selecting a refund preference, or logging in, students can see all the fees associated with the OneAccount checking account. More importantly, the fee schedule also contains a column explaining how to avoid each fee. Additionally, students who may already have an open account with another institution always have the option to have their money deposited into that account 100% free. Part of the reason the fee schedule is so readily available is so that students can make an educated decision on which account they would like to use.
Helping students build a strong foundation for money management and financial literacy is very important to Higher One. Our Financial Literacy and Consumer Advocacy Program Manager, Mary Johnson, regularly publishes articles relating to this very topic over at www.OneForYourMoney.com, Higher One’s online student community for learning about, and promoting, financial literacy. We recently wrapped up Financial Literacy Month which is held every April. During this time we hosted the Higher One Financial Literacy Month Challenge of the Week in which Mary challenged college students to do one thing that would help them better understand their finances. From the comments, you can see this was a great success! The Challenge of the Week, along with all of OneForYourMoney.com’s other valuable resources, www.OneForYourMoney.com/financial-cents, make it an indispensible tool for those wanting to know more about how to manage their finances better.
We certainly appreciate and share your passion for responsible money management! It is also important to know that opening a Higher One checking is never required to receive a refund disbursement from the school. Students always have the option to have the money directly deposited into a existing bank account of their choice.
Refuses to release funds
We were issued a "refund" debit card for funds I paid for my child to attend class at a local community college. He was accepted to a 4 year univeristy and moved out of state. To date, they will not "release" the funds because his copies of his drivers' license are "too dark, " "too light, " "not legible, " "an edge cut off, " "not clear, " "can't read birthdate, " you name it. I SWEAR these people would find fault with Jesus, himself if he swoped down from heaven to prove eligibility. My son has personally talked to them three times and I have four. I think they WANT us to give up so that they get to keep our money. This is a SCAM. Do not sign for one of these. Go straight to the school and demand a check from the state. A check that you can take to the bank and cash! This is utter ###.
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
fraud
Awful company. I was a victim of fraud and had 1, 500 dollars taken from my account. I alerted the company immediately when I discovered the stolen charges. I notified them of every charge that was made against my account that I did not permit. First, it took them a month and to credit SOME of the money back to my account. When I told them that some of the money was still missing and submitted a written claim they denied me the rest of my funds. I now have to pay back money that was stolen from me. When I asked them why they allowed a charge that was processing to go through when I alerted their company and told them to shut down the card they ignored the question. I am now awaiting a letter detailing why my complaint was rejected I was told that the company claimed to recieve the funds legally. The crook was rewarded, while I am made to pay for their crimes. By all means avoid this company.
Thankyou Mister M,
Thankyou for your comment. I am in the process of bringing a lawsuit against this company. I did not know about the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. I will bring it to my lawyers attention.
Thanks Again
Madassin
This bank is the worst they told me my account was compromised. I think I would know if my account was compromised, right? They made me upload a notarized document on how my account was compromised. So they have a hold on my account going on a week now I believe and they won't give me any answers. I can't know who's working on my case. All they told me was to wait on a email, I'm still waiting on that email.
I fax the bank form to transfer my funds to bank account the customer service agent it will take three days they never did it . The customer serivce agent said it will happen on my next refund disbursement causing me to pull my money out HIgher One account they lied about having Higher One Atm on one of my campus they after i complianed they were installed . The customer serivce agent said i could get my fee credit back they never did . They haven't release my money and will not let me get a check due 3.65 carge on my account
.Dear Cindy Gutierrez,
Your account is overdrawn and currently has a negative balance of -3.62.
Did you know that resolving this overdraft and returning your account to good standing is an important step in avoiding negative long-term implications to your banking history? With this in mind, here are some fast and easy ways to help you cover the overdraft and return your account to good standing:
1) Add money from another bank account
Once logged in to your account, click on the "Resolve now" link located in the box labeled "Please resolve your overdraft" at the top of the main page. Next select "Transfer from another bank account" and follow the prompts.
2) Make a credit card payment
Once logged in to your account, click on the "Resolve now" link located in the box labeled "Please resolve your overdraft" at the top of the main page. From there, choose "Pay by credit card" and follow the prompts to enter your card information.
3) Use a Western Union Direct To Bank transfer
Visit Western Union's website to find the nearest location offering "Direct To Bank" money transfer (and a listing of their fees). You will need the following information:
Madassin, this is ironic that the same thing happened to me the other week and they gave me the exact song and dance...i feel victimized by this company and feel as if the are aiding the thieves in stealing the money...who is your attorney and perhaps this should be a class action lawsuit against higher one.
Take them to court; both HigherOne and Bancorp Bank. Under Regulation E of the Electronic Funds Transfer Act (EFTA), financial institutions MUST provisionally credit your account for the entire amount in dispute within 10 business days; if they violate these them they are violating Federal Law and you are also entitled to Treble Damages (3 Times the amount in dispute) from them for violating Federal Statutes.
Unrequested account, terrible cust svc & fees to retrieve fed student funds
It's amazing to me that this set up is even legal. I ended up dealing with Higher One only due to being a college student, as now, rather than simply receiving a mailed check from Fed Student Loan services via the college, the college has set up a program whereby students must agree to and activate an account with the college selected financial institution Higher One in order to then receive their funds. Higher One does allow the student, once the account with their institution is set up (which is then defined as a checking account, holding any grants and student loans issued through the school, and assessing any bank fees generally associated with any regular checking account) to request and sign paperwork authorizing auto deposit to a different banking institution for any following disbursement, or even a paper check to be mailed (for following only though - if anything's already been disbursed to Higher One you still have to find some way to get your funds without being charged for accessing/pulling it out.) Regardless, the student still has to open the initial account with Higher One, and make these changes, and will always have to deal, even if only indirectly, with Higher One as the institution now handling disbursement of student financial aid for the college in question. It is extremely questionable to me that government funds and tax-payer dollars intended to aid students directly in their college attendance, and which students then pay interest on for any repayment required, can be placed in a fee based private sector banking account, selected by the educational institution, and then fees charged to the student to access and use said funds. It seems to me that the banks have found yet another way to keep our money, and the educational institutions are helping them. A student now, not only has to worry about repayment of loans and interest after school, but also any and all associated fees tacked on by the college selected banking institution the funds are now funneled through.
Higher One likes to point out that they provide a free ATM on campus to make it easy for student to access their funds. When I started, and even now, a year later, that one free ATM on campus, which every student receiving student financial aid uses during the 2 wks following funds being made available, runs out of money daily (with lines of irritable students out the front door trying to get to their funds to pay for their classes and books, or rent, if they used their rent to buy books). If you make it to the ATM early enough in the day for it to be stocked, only $500 a day can be withdrawn, meaning if books cost $1000 or more, you're out of luck until you find enough days when the machine is still stocked in order to make the max $500 withdrawal each of those days.
If you want to access your funds via another machine, you will pay the Higher One ATM fees for using a different ATM in addition to that ATMs fees. Higher One will insist that they'll cover any fees on their end (no the other ATM fees) should this be necessary due to lack of their ATM funds, however, you then have to prove that there were no funds in their ATM at that time (take a camera with a date stamp on it, and be prepared to have to offer it - although by that point in effort, you've spent more time worth more money than what you'll eventually prove they owe in refund).
If you wish to wire your funds from Higher One to your regular bank or credit union account, you'll pay $25 to $50 between the current fees for wiring and any associated charges. (again, remember, the money you're trying to access and wire is federally funded for student education - the fees being deducted coming out of the same grant and loan funds )
You can always write a check on your Higher One account to another institution to transfer the funds, but first you'll have to pay for a full box of Higher One checks (apparently they don't offer temp checks) to write the one check you ever intend to use, to move your money.
The Higher One customer service has been woefully under-trained and for the most part reminds me of someone handing a 16 year old, who'd rather be anywhere else, the phone and telling them to tell the caller something.
Where I'd believed I'd addressed all of this at the beginning of my second semester, having filled out the ACH paperwork and managing to get auto deposit to my existing account (not with Higher One), I recently found out that I still had an active checking account (which again, I never requested or wanted - I only wanted to receive my student financial aid). Additionally, since the student must remain tied to, and deal with Higher One regardless of personal preference and/or where they set up auto deposit, it has the feel (not to be confused with the horror of resulting long term damage) of what one might expect in dealing with companies associated with only via identity theft; suddenly being forced to make time to deal with an institution never chosen by the individual, and only due to someone else's actions (in this case, the college, and with your notification of their doing so, although with no choice or alternative offered - if you want to receive financial aid, you will agree to the initial account with Higher One) - granted not even comparable to potential damage and stress for identity theft, but still a very similar irritation for having no other choice but to deal with a bank you didn't chose or want to deal with.
For all of my concerns and complaints for the process and irritations associated, my main question still remains, how is this legal? How can a college select a for profit financial institution for it's students, accounts literally forced on the student, and fees/profits going toward the for profit banking institution then being drawn off the very taxpayer supported, federal funds sent out in the student's name?
Author's update:
While responses from Community College of Denver staff tend toward singing Higher One's praises; stating it's a good way for students to get a "first" bank account, and that it's also a great way for them to learn about financial management (whether the student has requested or actually needs this lesson or not) - Higher One has been reported on across the country for its dealings with students on other campuses. Below are some reports:
A report on Higher One practices in Oregon: http://blog.oregonlive.com/finance/2010/09/higheronedebitcardfees_at.html
and from CA: http://californiawatch.org/dailyreport/college-districts-new-bank-card-provider-has-history-fee-complaints-5031
from DefendYourDollars: http://www.defendyourdollars.org/2010/09/collegestudentswarnings_abou.html
Author update: Community College of Denver seems to only sing Higher One's praises as a way to provide students an initial/first account, and entry into personal financial management (whether they need it; or request it, or not) - however, here are links to reports and stories coming from other states where Higher One has been called to task, at least to some minimal extent:
A report on Higher One practices in Oregon: http://blog.oregonlive.com/finance/2010/09/higheronedebitcardfees_at.html
and from CA: http://californiawatch.org/dailyreport/college-districts-new-bank-card-provider-has-history-fee-complaints-5031
from DefendYourDollars: http://www.defendyourdollars.org/2010/09/collegestudentswarnings_abou.html
Here it is, 2015, and Higher One is still allowed to do this. Our colleges are still doing this. Grant money, scholarships, even financial aid have very strict restrictions on what they can be spent on, and fees at a banking "institution" are not on any of those lists. I am curious what the rep at slimyone@higherone.com had to say, if you even wasted time talking to the thief in the first place. Perhaps there are ways around these rules that I don't know about, or perhaps she works for somebody who doesn't care. If there are ways around it, and they are doing this legally, I'd love to know.
That's a nice way of Liberal your way out. I'd take a Republican hammer and select option #4: smash your freak'in head.
Hi perplexed1,
I’m a Higher One rep. You raise some interesting points but I think you may be missing some important pieces of information. If you can please contact me at slemoine@higherone.com, I’m happy to go through any issues you may be having and how we can resolve them.
Higher one lies about cash back for purchases
I was told I would receive a 5% cash back bonus if I bought Six Flags Over Texas tickets with my Higher One debit card. They are big liars. I never received a 5 % cash back bonus. When I called customer service to try and receive my cash back bonus, I was put on hold for an hour and a half. I was then told that it would take 24-48 hours to make a decision on my complaint. It is not 3 days later and they still will not give me an answer. I was told once again after waiting on the phone for 2 hours that in 24 hours I will get an answer. I am still waiting. Higher One is a scam company that lies to students to win over their business and when they do Higher One does not honor their promises.
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
Hi Maui2011, my name is Aaron and I work for Higher One. We came across your message and wanted to follow up with you. We certainly understand your frustration and hope we can help resolve the situation. At this time a Customer Care Specialist has attempted to contact you via email and phone with more information and next steps. Please look for an email from Higher One with more information.
The promotion you’re referring was an online offer only and therefore would not receive the cash back offer if the purchase was made at the park itself. Please see this FAQ on OneRewards for more information: http://www.onerewards.com/about/faq When purchasing an offer through OneRewards it is recommended to only have one browser window open and to not visit any other sites while the transaction is being made. We hope that you will use Higher One’s services and OneRewards in the future and am sorry for the confusion.
We appreciate you sharing your feedback about your experience with Customer Care and am very sorry to hear this happened. We strive for Stellar Service in every interaction and apologize for the wait. Again, please look for an email from Higher One with additional information on this situation.
Employment
BEWARE potential employees. Higher one boasts how open and friendly they are, and maybe they are in their main location, but they have been hiring remote csr agents. You are thrown into tons of training and information which is good, but they do little to support you in the beginning. You are told how good/bad you did and what to work on, but with no suggestions, or verbal conversations. THEY also mis-represent the entire details when hiring. I was asked if it was a permanent position which I was told yes, but then they let me go after their peak season. They offered to possibly call me again for the next peak...but really they should of been more clear in saying that it was a temp position for a certain amount of time and then there was shift bidding. I had NOOOOOOO Idea that the shift I was hired for may or may not be available after a certain amount of time, I thought that was only if you wanted to change your shift. SOO if you are trying to coordinate children and their schedules...the schedule you get hired at you may not be able to keep. You would need to be available from 8am to 8pm to be able to keep your job. Had they informed me that it was possibly a temp position, I would of kept my other job which was paying me more than Higher One. Now...no job at all. I had to purchase new phone, and headset, and purchase unlimited long distance service for this job. Good company, very strict...just be aware NOT to quit another job for this one, they count on temp employees...keeps the cost down.
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
For the past 6 - 8 wks I have not been able to access my account online
I am a non-traditional student at UWG. My school began using Higher One in the Spring of 2004. At first, it seemed very handy. Refunds have been made available well before the date expected each time. I figured that I would go ahead and order checks and streamline my finances with one account. That was a big mistake! For the past 6 - 8 wks I have not been able to access my account online. I contacted customer service on two different occassions and explained the problem that I was experiencing. I was promised that they would look into it and I never got any feedback. My husband gave me a check to cover all of our bills out of his account since he would be out of town. I mailed my deposit in (overnight) and I mailed my bills out as well. After a couple more weeks past, I was still unable to access my account online so I finally went to Auxilliary Services on campus to get some assistance. They contacted Higher One and we got my access all straightened out. I printed a statment immediately -and I was completely frustrated with what I found. My deposit was posted on November 22nd. Two checks came in that day and were paid, but they also charged me insufficient funds fee. Mind you I had more than enough money available to cover those checks. On top of this it wasn't until the next business day (23rd) that they returned my check and credited my account back for the check amount. The money was there but they charged me a fee and the next day returned the check and credited my account back...what's up with that? The day after my deposit was posted(23rd), most of the other checks came in and they did the same thing. They showed paying these checks, charged insuffienent funds; it wasn't until the following day that they returned the checks and credited my account back for the check amounts they did'nt pay. Again, my balance was more than sufficient to cover this! My husband checked the date that the funds were removed from his account, and that was on the 24th - the day they "returned" most of the checks I wrote to pay my bills. Not only did they treat my deposit as if it wasn't there on the 22nd, they continued to return checks after they had already received the funds from my husbands account! This has been a spiraling cycle since then. Now my account is in the negative. All together, as of yesterday, I have accrued 10 insuffiecent fund fees totalling $320! Not to mention the fees from the merchants that thier checks rejected. I contacted customer service and explained patiently the situation. They emailed my back and said they would credit my account back for only four of those. I called them back and explained that was not acceptable. They are stealing my money and taking christmas away from my family! What nerve!
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
Now higher one is on the phone telling me they are sending my whole refund to some lawyer (that they cant tell me a name) and that I now have to pay them a THIRD time for ONE check they honored! WHAT THE FVCK HIGHER ONE!?!?!?!?!
Higher One send me a paper check and I cashed it only to find out the ordered a stop payment on the check. Company that cashed the check filed charges against me for the bad check and now higher one refuses to release the funds for a check they never cashed...how is this legal?
Higher one is one incredible machine. They have their reps that give themselves their own titles. For example after being given the run around about an ACH that was started on one day when they received my money, then they switched and erased the transaction with that date completely and changed it. They literally just erased a transaction date from my history. So after many calls I try to escalate it as far as I can. Well the first rep I speak to I tell him right away that I want a supervisor lucky me he was a supervisor, then I tell him I want someone higher than him. After a silent hold of 30 min I get a "manager", I ask please transfer me to your superior. So his superior picks up greets me and says I'm the assistant manager. Really the superior of the manager is the assistant manager? When you ask to escalate the call they toss you around the call center to another rep you'll never speak to anyone that will actually resolve your issue. They can't tell you where your money is, and they're ACH transfers do not take 3 business days. I'm lucky if is see my money in one week. They drag out the transfer as long as they can then then blame your bank so you call your bank and they tell you that they have nothing pending so when you call back the dates change, a transaction is erased and they say you should receive it in 3 business days. Mind you I've printed account inquiries with the original date and screen shots. And had to fight with them to admit to the original date for them to tell me they can't comment on that. I don't understand why they don't just release my money the way they're supposed to. It's a very shady practice they have going on and I have no clue when I'm supposed to get my money. So since I refuse to use they're over priced banking that steal from students they'll just give me money when they feel like it? Everything that is posted on the website on the cards and what they market on campus is complete utter ###. It's all a game that we are subjected to with no other options. We are at they're mercy. This is deceitful the school doesn't help they wipe they're hands there's no one to talk to in person. I'm trying to finish my education and here is higher one walking through halls grabbing me by my feet and trying shake what ever they can out my already empty pockets. This company bank whatever the hell they are is nothing but a bully and thieves. What bank goes and changes a customers banking transactions around to suit them?
I am very disappointed and worried to hear these stories of distress! I have no had this type of issue with Higher One as of yet but IF I DO I WILL DROP THEM LIKE A HOT POTATO!
Happy New Year 2015 Everyone!
GT
Hello,
I'm Lauren from Higher One and I'm hoping I can clarify some important information.
First, thank you to everyone who has shared their candid feedback. It's always helpful for us to take this into account as we're constantly striving to improve the Higher One experience for students.
With respect to fees: Higher One has always been transparent and takes a straightforward, educational approach to the disclosure of fees related to checking accounts offered through Higher One’s banking partners. Higher One goes a step further than others to provide an explanation of potential fees and instructions on how to avoid those fees with video tools and tips on our website. Before opening a OneAccount offered through Higher One, students are required to acknowledge and accept the fee schedule regardless of which Higher One account they choose.
Additionally, Higher One does not provide overdraft protection for its checking accounts. To help you avoid these fees, Higher One will not authorize ATM withdrawals or everyday one-time debit card purchases when you don't have enough money in your account.
Thanks again for your feedback. I hope this helps.
Lauren
Higher One
Higher One did not honor checks that I wrote and then charge me a $38 dollar fee twice, and $24 when i put a stop payment on the check. The money was in my account and they held the check without letting me know it was there. Whenever there is more than $100 in my account Higher One finds a way to charge me fees and take money from the account. Why is taxpayer money going to support these crooks? It is unfair that College Students are being sent to be robbed when they are starting out in life. In 2012, they allowed charges on my debit account which were not authorized by me. It took them over 30 days to finally reconcile my account. The Government should not allow funds to go to this bank.
this bank is not good and they rob people. my account was compromised and i filled out a claim form and was told it was corrected and they deposited the money back. my account stays frozen, i am told to send a notarized letter, i send it. in the mean time i get charged a ton of insufficient fund fee's totalling over $1000, even though i had money in my account. finally after they recieve the notarized letter they transfer way less into my account. they basically took all of my money and robbed me!
This bank is a scam with a name. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THEM!
Do not do business with this bank.
My experience too; not sure I should even write checks anymore as there is no guarantee they won't send it back. I posted that I had a rent check and large electronic deposit come in same day with plenty to cover and not only did I get a late fee...but they sent the check IMMEDIATELY back...how embarrassing and damaging to our lives. I really think this company should be closed. A real bank would charge the fee maybe (I don't think if they come in same night they would) and PAY the darn check not send it back. Ridiculous.
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Higher One emailsmppsupport@higherone.com100%Confidence score: 100%Support
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Higher One address115 Munson Street, New Haven, CT06511, United States
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