Can a video rental store charge me $600 through a collection agency?

Question

I received a phone call back in October from a collection agency - telling me that I had a $600 balance with a video store (local independent one) for two unreturned DVDs.
First off, I DID return them (but they WERE like 4 days late). They called me and asked me about it, and I told them that it was returned. They said that they never got it. And then they just asked me to check again in my house in case I hadn't returned it. So I told him that that's useless cuz it's not in my house - it was returned!
One month later, a $100 charge that shows up on my credit card bill from the video store.
I was like, what the heck!? I thought about calling them to argue about it - but I figured that they would at least not bother me anymore. $100 is more than enough to buy two DVDs from Best Buy, isn't it?
So I don't really understand what this $600 is being charged to me for? Is there anyway I can dispute it and win?
And if this charge is legit, then what was with the $100 before?

Answer 1

This is how Blockbuster got in so much trouble. That is why they don't have late fees anymore. you should first check the lease agreement with the store you rent from. It should spell out what their fees are and how much they are.. It will take Little homework on your part, but It may be worth it in the long run. Second if there is no mention of it I would call a lawyer. Your rental card (or whatever they use) is your contract. also think back, Did you sign an agreement with them? if so, you may wanna check that out too. and again if it's not in writing how much they can charge you for late fees then I would contact a lawyer. if nothing else the threat of a lawsuit would cause them to wave the fees and forgive the debt. Hope it helps!

Answer 2

I would definitely dispute that through your credit card company. Usually, you can call the number on the back of your credit card and tell them the problem. They will then give you the info. you probably will need to write a letter and send it to the credit card company.
I'm not 100% sure, but I think it works something like library books. I believe they are only allowed to charge the price of the video; then the video is yours. Those two videos can't be worth any $600! Try to find out what the law in your state is for that.
Good luck!

Answer 3

they can charge you. i used to work at a video store and generally when a movie is released the video store buys the movies from the company that released it and the store owns the video. HOWEVER some movie companies decide not to sell the video to the store (not sure why) so the video store has to return the movie to the manufacturer as they reduce their quantities. and if they don't return the movie the video store is charged $100 for it. but i don't know what the $600 charge is all about, i would contact a lawyer.