"Voluntary ARDA contribution" is automatic unless you opt out in a tight deadline

[4ARedOctober Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close 4ARedOctober]

"Voluntary ARDA contribution" is automatic unless you opt out in a tight deadline. I get piles of stuff from Wyndham and don't look at most if it since I have auto payment for my maintenance fees.

Lo and behold I just went through a cleverly disguised notice that says I must opt out of my "Voluntary Contribution" between March 9 and May 4th 2009 then they automatically deduct it on June 1st.

What a rip off. So much for voluntary. Isn't this illegal?

I will be calling the rip off artists tomorrow to see if I can get out of it.

[Jya-Ning Silver Contributor Find all posts View Profile Close Jya-Ning]

It has been discussed at Wyndham owner forums, and someone filed a complain to AG, and at this moment, I believe they back out.

Just for safety, you can try to call to make sure. But at this moment, if you don't option to pay, it will not pay automatically.

Jya-Ning

[4ARedOctober Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close 4ARedOctober]

Thanks......so if I understand it....they won't charge the fee to me even if I did not opt out?

[Jya-Ning Silver Contributor Find all posts View Profile Close Jya-Ning]

It seems like it will be against some local government laws. So, yes, at this moment, even if you did not call, you will not be charged automatically.

Jya-Ning

[longtimer Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close longtimer]

DRI automtically charges for this "voluntary" contribution also. If you try to deduct it on the bill, it's automatically carried forward as a balance due, even if you call and say you are not paying the fee. Then they threaten you with the inability to make reservations for having the "overdue" amount on your account. I have written numerous complaints to the AG and to ARDA. No response yet. Diamond claims they do not force owners to pay this, yet they make it impossible NOT to pay. Perhaps a class-action suit is necessary to stop this practice for TS owners.

[taffy19 Gold Contributor Find all posts View Profile Close taffy19]

DRI should learn from the Marriott as they have the choice right on your bill. You can choose which amount you want to pay. I don't know if it is the same for all Marriott resorts.