. "A friend referred me to VCA and raved of his success with bartering. Since I repair computers I figured demand for my services would be high and I did get a steady stream of customers, only about 2 a week, but that was enough since my website business was taking off.\n\nThe problem began when I wanted to redeem my bartered bank of about $1010.00. I used a landscaper to take down a tree at $450 which was pricey but when I tried to use the rest, I got no response from the companies I traded with and when I called VCS they washed their hands of it and said they could do nothing.\n\nSo I wanted out. I had $110 banked and they said I owed $85 for past dues. I had to give up the $110 and pay the dues. I gave them my credit card number. Months later I get an email saying they were going to send lawyers and a collection agency after me if I didn't pay all past dues. It turns out they got the credit card info wrong again.\n\n______ noreply@thetradealliance.com on behalf of Value Card Customer Service [info@valuecardalliance.com] Your account is scheduled to close and to go to the law offices of Boates Law at 5pm tomorrow if not paid in full. Christie______________\n\nI payed the $180 and closed my account.\n\nBe careful with Christie and the VCA. They play hardball and won't work with you under anyone else's terms!\n\nDon F."^^ . "1"^^ . . "15"^^ . "2013-04-22T00:00:00"^^ . "1"^^ . . "1"^^ .