Brandon Notices

I got a Blockbuster gift card for Christmas, but the little paper folder it was inserted into didn't have the value of the card written in the appropriate spot—only a few question marks instead. I looked at the back of the card, and found a number I could call to inquire about my balance. When I called that number, however, I got a recording mentioning that the offices were closed and that I would have to call back some other time.

I assumed that the telephone card balance inquiry system had mistakingly been taken offline during the Christmas holiday, so I went to the Blockbuster website to see if there was a form online, but all the website had was the same phone number.

I finally got around to calling the phone number again a few minutes ago. After pushing through a few menu choices, I finally got to the gift card balance inquiry line, where a recording told me that all the agents were helping other customers, and that I should expect a hold time of at least 25 minutes. What?! I'm not going to wait that long! Why isn't this system automated? This is crazy!

Update (Jan. 15, 2008 at 7:32 p.m.): I just tried again, but their offices closed an hour and a half ago.

Update (Jan. 18, 2008 at 10:30 p.m.): I almost forgot! In case you're curious, I e-mailed Blockbuster with my card number, and someone replied yesterday to tell me that the card is worth $10.