Walmart Ordered to Pay $89,000 Settlement in Credit Card Civil Case

was ordered to pay $89,000 in penalties and costs in a civil enforcement case alleging San Diego County customers were misled regarding their status as applicants for Walmart credit cards, the District Attorney’s Office announced Monday.

The case – in which Walmart did not admit liability – was approved by Superior Court Judge William Nevitt Jr.

Earlier this year, Walmart paid $2.1 million in a case brought by California prosecutors for failing to honor Walmart's “$3 off” overcharge policy. That policy had been imposed in an additional law enforcement case brought by state prosecutors in 2004.

“The DA’s Consumer Protection Unit continues to ensure Walmart does not misrepresent their goods and services,” said San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis. “San Diegans who shop at Walmart should be able to rely on what they are told in the store and make decisions based on good information.”

The credit card case stemmed from employee complaints at the in 2010. The investigation revealed employees were misrepresenting to consumers that they had been “pre-selected” for a Walmart credit card, although the consumer had not been pre-screened for acceptance.

The company also failed to adequately instruct its employees in proper credit card application procedures, according to investigators.

Under the terms of the judgment, Walmart is required to train employees regarding proper credit card application procedures, and to refrain from misrepresenting a consumer’s status as a credit card applicant.

Walmart cooperated in the investigation and resolution of the case.

– City News Service