Three months ago, I closed one of my VISA accounts but a valid $20.00
charge came in at the same time and I didn't realize it until two
months later in which time my bill had ballooned up to $79.00 because
of two consecutive late payment fees that were assessed.  It seems
excessive that two $29.00 late fees could be applied to a $20.00
balance, but the Bank refused to provide any relief.  One reason I
didn't realize I had a charge was because I had opted for e-mail
statements which only linked to the website and I couldn't log on.  In
checking the FTC rules, there is a rule that prohibits pyramiding late
fees, but it didn't seem to apply in my case since I had skipped
making payments.  Any recourse or recommendations?

If you had 'closed' your account, the charge should have been bounced.
It could not possibly be valid.

How did you 'close' your account?

If you have documentation, you just write with copies and a very
polite 'Get Stuffed' message.

If the charge technically came in before you closed your account, then
it is entirely your responsibility. I recommend you pay the fees. If
you don't make the payments, you are liable for the late fees. Chalk
this one up to an expensive lesson learned, and don't make the same
mistake again.

probonopublico's point is valid - if the charge was levied on a closed
account, you are liable for nothing. But the simple fact that the
charge went through suggests the account was open at the time, so I
doubt you have any recourse there.

V