So I signed up for the HSBC credit card with $50 cash back as seen here: http://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/17356
My first ID check was declined (even though they sent me a card once I'd done it) because I the Everyday Money credit card to do the check (issued by HSBC - go figure). I then had to wait 13 days days for my account to be activated (they blocked it).
So anyway…I'm checking online and my first statement ran from 15/10/2009 to 07/11/2009. It was for just over $300. However…I did actually spend $500 before the statement ended, they just didn't include any transactions after the 5th. I called them to enquire and it turns out that "they can't change the eligibility of this promotion and I am no longer eligible"
Also…the promotion stated that "To receive the $50 credit, minimum spending must be $500 or more for each month of the first three consecutive months of your new HSBC Credit Card after approval of your card." The key word being "month" and not "statement period".
What is everybody else's take on this? I did spend $500 before the end of the statement period, just the transactions got included on the next statement, and I definitely spent $500 within a month of opening my account.
Briefly looking at the deal is says month, which one could imply either way but it should be per statement. For example if I got approved on the 31st, then I would have to spend $500 in one day.
So then, you would have to see if they list statement periods in the terms and conditions. If they do well then, don't see much you can do other than raise hell with them, perhaps contact the banking ombudsman.