Small businesses across the United States are raising serious concerns about PEAC Solutions (formerly Marlin Leasing Corporation), a equipment financing company that has accumulated hundreds of negative reviews and complaints. With a dismal 1.6 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot and a 1.07 out of 5-star rating on the Better Business Bureau, PEAC Solutions faces mounting criticism over alleged fraudulent billing practices, poor customer service, and unauthorized charges.
Overview of the PEAC Solutions Controversy
PEAC Solutions operates as a third-party financing company that partners with equipment vendors to provide leasing and financing services to small businesses. However, what should be a straightforward business relationship has become a nightmare for many customers who report being trapped in predatory contracts with hidden fees, unauthorized billing, and virtually non-existent customer service.
The controversy centers around several key issues:
- Unauthorized billing practices including continuing charges after lease expiration
- Hidden fees and charges not disclosed during the sales process
- Customer service failures with wait times exceeding 3 hours and frequent disconnections
- Difficulty canceling contracts or returning equipment
- Unauthorized credit pulls and electronic payments
The company has operated under multiple names, including Marlin Leasing Corporation, Marlin Business Services Corp., and Marlin Business Bank, before rebranding as PEAC Solutions. This pattern of name changes has raised additional red flags among consumer advocates.
PEAC Solutions’ Claims and Business Model
According to PEAC Solutions’ own website, the company positions itself as a “trusted financing partner” that works behind the scenes with equipment vendors. Their business model involves:
- Third-party financing: When customers apply for equipment financing through dealers, the application goes to PEAC Solutions
- Vendor partnerships: Equipment sellers partner with PEAC to offer financing options without being in the lending business themselves
- Indirect relationships: The actual contract is between the customer and PEAC, not the equipment vendor
However, PEAC’s own explanations reveal potential transparency issues. On their website, they admit that customers “may not have noticed” they were signing with PEAC and acknowledge that “sales professionals may not have clearly explained” the arrangement. This lack of upfront disclosure appears to be a significant source of customer confusion and frustration.
User Reviews and Complaints: A Pattern of Problems
Trustpilot Reviews (1.6/5 Stars from 742 Reviews)
The overwhelming majority of PEAC Solutions reviews on Trustpilot paint a disturbing picture of business practices:
Jeff Bogursky wrote in June 2025: “Are 0 stars available? This ‘leasing’ company engages in fraudulent business practices. I was sold by their affiliate BLINK Communications, a simple monthly phone service, cancellable at any time… Two months go by and I start getting dunning notices from a company called PEAC solutions who claim that I have an equipment lease with them for a 7000 dollar phone and its non cancellable.”
Attilio Leonardi detailed in March 2025: “Marlin Leasing Services continued to withdraw monthly ACH payments from our bank account (Bank of Hawaii) for nearly SIX YEARS—without authorization. These fraudulent charges persisted from November 2018 through August 2024, totaling $7,595.26 in unjustified deductions.”
DL Jessup reported in June 2025: “We received an invoice for equipment we don’t have at a location we don’t own, and there’s no way to get anyone on the line to question where this came from, and the invoices have added late fees and other penalties.”
Better Business Bureau Complaints (1.07/5 Stars)
The BBB profile reveals equally concerning patterns:
COREY S stated in May 2025: “We paid off the lease and no one seems to know how to forward a PAID IN FULL statement. I had been told our account was fully paid. And then received a nasty email letter stating that our account was going to legal measures.”
Laura B complained in March 2025: “Our loan required that we set up an automatic payment, which we did. The first month goes by and we start getting letters that our payment was late… EVERY. SINGLE. MONTH. we have had issues.”
Jeremy T reported in February 2025: “Completely fraudulent company! They are adding fees to scheduled monthly payments without notifying my company. This is the third time within three months.”
How to Identify and Protect Yourself from Scams
Before Signing Any Agreement
- Read all documentation carefully: Ensure you understand who your actual creditor will be
- Ask direct questions: Inquire specifically about third-party financing arrangements
- Get everything in writing: Request written confirmation of all terms, fees, and conditions
- Research the financing company: Check reviews and BBB ratings for any mentioned financing partners
- Understand return policies: Know exactly what happens at lease end and who handles equipment returns
During the Contract Period
- Monitor your accounts closely: Check bank statements for unauthorized charges
- Keep detailed records: Save all payments, correspondence, and contract documents
- Pay attention to billing changes: Question any unexplained fees or rate changes immediately
- Know your rights: Understand state and federal regulations regarding debt collection and financing
Red Flags to Watch For
- Pushy sales tactics that discourage reading contract details
- Vague explanations about who will be servicing your account
- Reluctance to provide written documentation of terms and conditions
- Multiple company names mentioned during the sales process
- Automatic payment requirements without clear opt-out procedures
- Long wait times when trying to contact customer service
- Generic template responses to customer complaints
Legal and Regulatory Concerns
Several customer complaints suggest potential violations of federal and state regulations:
Possible Fair Debt Collection Practices Act Violations
- Excessive phone calls (some customers report 30+ calls per month)
- Calling workplaces after being told not to
- Leaving detailed debt information on answering machines
- Threatening legal action without intent to follow through
Truth in Lending Act Concerns
- Lack of clear disclosure about who the actual creditor is
- Hidden fees not properly disclosed
- Misleading information about early payoff options
Unauthorized Payment Issues
- Taking electronic payments without proper authorization
- Using check information to set up unauthorized ACH payments
- Continuing to charge after lease expiration
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is PEAC Solutions Legit?
PEAC Solutions is a licensed financial services company with BBB registration number 0088059, issued by the State Department of Banking & Insurance in New Jersey. However, “legitimate” doesn’t necessarily mean “trustworthy” or “customer-friendly.” While the company operates legally, the overwhelming number of customer complaints suggests serious issues with their business practices and customer service standards.
2. Is the PEAC Solutions Tax Scam Real?
Many customers report being charged sales tax with interest over the entire lease term, rather than paying tax upfront. While this may be legal depending on state laws and contract terms, customers often report this wasn’t clearly explained during the sales process. Additionally, some customers report being charged taxes on bundled deals where taxes should have already been included.
3. Can I Cancel My PEAC Solutions Contract?
Most PEAC Solutions contracts are non-cancellable leases, meaning you’re typically obligated to pay for the full term regardless of circumstances. However, some customers have reported success in getting contracts modified or cancelled by escalating complaints through the BBB or state regulatory agencies. Each situation is unique, and legal advice may be necessary.
4. What Should I Do If I’m Being Overcharged?
- Document everything: Keep records of all payments and correspondence
- Contact PEAC in writing: Use their [email protected] email address
- File complaints: Submit complaints to the BBB and your state’s attorney general
- Consider legal action: Consult with an attorney if unauthorized charges continue
- Contact your bank: Dispute unauthorized electronic payments immediately
5. How Can I Get Equipment Returned?
Many customers struggle with equipment returns. PEAC typically requires customers to:
- Pay for shipping and insurance to return equipment
- Get written return authorization (which many customers report difficulty obtaining)
- Ship to designated PEAC facilities, not the original vendor
Get return instructions in writing before your lease expires to avoid continued billing.
Regulatory Response and Industry Impact
The pattern of complaints against PEAC Solutions has caught the attention of consumer advocacy groups and state regulators. Several states have received multiple complaints about the company’s practices, and some customers report filing complaints with federal agencies including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
The equipment financing industry as a whole has faced increased scrutiny due to companies like PEAC Solutions. Legitimate financing companies have had to work harder to differentiate themselves and ensure transparent practices to maintain customer trust.
Conclusion
While PEAC Solutions operates as a licensed financial services company, the overwhelming evidence from customer reviews, BBB complaints, and documented business practices suggests significant problems that potential customers should carefully consider. The company’s own admission that customers often don’t realize they’re signing with PEAC, combined with hundreds of complaints about billing irregularities and poor customer service, creates a concerning picture.
Small business owners considering equipment financing should thoroughly research any third-party financing companies involved in their transactions. The old adage “buyer beware” applies strongly when dealing with equipment financing arrangements, especially those involving companies with PEAC Solutions’ track record.
For consumers who find themselves dealing with PEAC Solutions, documenting everything, seeking assistance from regulatory agencies, and potentially consulting with legal professionals may be necessary to protect their interests.
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