I subbed when it became available and didn't run into this problem. However, there are multiple people in my FC that are reporting this issue as well. Its looking like this is a massive and widespread problem - which doesn't seem to be location based.

What's worse they are also saying that they are being charged $1-2 when they try to pay (probably a way to verify the card).

Try subbing with a game card, unless you are also locked out from doing that?