Commbank "your home loan direct debit repayment amount is changing"

[matty77]

I just want to see if anyone else has had this email come through today from Commonwealth Bank, changes to your home loan... now I always pay extra if I can off my loan as this obviously saves me money in the long term. Now it seems on one hand that Commbank is doing the right thing here and reducing payments except I didnt ask for a reduction nor do I want one, and in fact this will actually cost me more money long term - they are extending my loan term without me wanting it extended.

They are trying to look like the good guy here but really it will make them more money if they reduce everyones payments to the minimum. Why didnt they just email me letting me know I am currently paying above the minimum amount and if I would like to reduce it I can log into my account and do it rather then just assume I want a reduction.

This annoys me, and I have zero chance of ringing them and complaining unless I want to be on hold for 4 hours.. Plus I went and updated all my payments and the amount no less then 2 weeks ago, now I need to wait another 3 weeks until I can even fix it again..

/end rant

With the current uncertainty surrounding coronavirus, we're taking steps to continue providing the financial support our customers need.

This is why we're making a one-off change to your home loan direct debit repayment amount, reducing it to the current minimum required repayment. By paying the minimum, you'll have access to extra money should you need it.

What this means for you

Between 1 – 5 May 2020 we'll be automatically reducing eligible home loan direct debit repayment amounts to the current minimum. You will see this change on your normal direct debit date in May. If you're already paying the minimum, nothing will change.

You can view your current repayment details in the CommBank app or NetBank at any time.

Your options

If you're happy with this change, you don't need to do anything.

If you'd like to continue paying above your minimum repayment and pay off your loan sooner, you can do this from 6 May 2020 in the CommBank app or NetBank. You can also make additional repayments at any time.

 

[sptrawler]

One would think it should be an opt in offer, not an automatic reduction in your payments, it sounds as though you may be able to return your payment to what it is now on the 6 May.
I would probably drop into the local branch and ask for clarification, as it sounds as though they are trying to extend everyone's loans.
Just my thoughts

 

[qldfrog]

so nice of them... NOT...