Additionally, the bank charged me for checks, even though the order was supposed to be complimentary for customers opening a new checking account. How would I draft a letter that allows me irritation to work for, rather than against, me?

Before going all formal with a letter, why not just call up the rep that opened the account for you and ask all friendly what's up with the misprint and fee?

And, you did read all the fine print right?

I agree, a phone call would be a lot more productive in this situation. If you write a letter, it make or may not get read/thrown in the trash.

If it is in fact a mistake, I'm sure they would replace the checks and give you a refund. It really doesn't seem like a major issue that they would avoid.

Personally I would hope you use a local home town back, you go back in and show the mistake to the clerk and they will correct it.

All the getting angry and letters don't need to be done.

Don't be irritated yet, yes they screwed up but give them a chance to make good on it. If they tell you you have to pay for the screw up and new checks, close the account and find a new bank.

I always go to a bank in person with a problem like this as they can immediately see the mistake and order the proper checks for you and do whatever paperwork to rectify the mistake right then and there. Don't be upset, remember people entered your order and people tend to make mistakes every day. You should have a new check order sent to you promptly.