First, VDB by UA are ETCs, no cash. (as you see in the VDB thread). The expectation for cash was misplaced.

They made a offer and UA accepted, they misunderstand the offer they made. Did they every specifically say CASH and not ETC? Because if they had the discussion would have ended. So, offer made and accepted, no IDB.

The truth is the GA does not have the time to play games with passengers. You are either offering or not.