in 2003, yes 3 years ago I had signed up for an AOL trial account for 2 months, when I attempted to cancel this account, the representative that I spoke to offered me a free month (to help me reconsider about canceling), and when I called to cancel that month the representative offered me 1 free month, then when I called to cancel that, the representative offered me 2 free months, and I finally got tired of it and canceled it.
Now 3 years later, I get bill from a collection agency saying that I owe 95.60 for 4 months of service (the free term, so if they charge me they had lied, and false advertised to me), and are threating to put a negative mark on my credit for it. Anyway, after dealing with AOL they told me they had some technical problems with billing in 2003, but I'm still responsible for the money, even though they don't have my 3 year old records, and will HAVE to send away for them which they might be able to do. I told them to do this.
Now...who do I talk to to file a lawsuit?
2006-07-28 08:44:35 · 5 answers · asked by D 4 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
AOL has never attempted to contact me ONCE about charges I owed, as well as the fact the representive 3 years ago, said there was no balance due at ALL.
2006-07-28 09:01:49 · update #1
Oh this is a perfect solution to your problem.
you may be able to get this resolved with a letter from a lawyer. The most inexpensive way to do that is:
http://getprotectedhere.com
Check it out.
2006-07-31 06:15:28 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you are a resident in the USA, contact the Consumer Protection Bureau in the state where you reside. If no CPB, contact the state's Attorney General and file a complaint.
I don't think you have grounds to sue anyone for monetary damages. You have not lost anything.
Give the collection agency a written explanation. Those free offers were done on the phone. AOL will not be able to produce evidence of a contract with you.
I had a problem with AOL when I canceled my free service. I was probably on the telephone for more than 1/2 hour repeatedly telling the woman I did not want AOL. When I told her that NetZero was providing service for $7.00 per month, she offered to lower the AOL charge from $30 to $20 per month.
This exasperating cancellation procedure has made national news in the past.
2006-07-28 08:59:20 · answer #2 · answered by regerugged 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
AOL is notorious for problems with cancellations. Try the BBB. In the mean time contest the charges. If they can not produce the records to prove you ow them they can not collect them. Don't sit on this. Call the collection agency and write them a letter challenging the validity of the charges. They have to conduct an investigation.
Unfortunately because this is for less than a $100 you would likely spend more money in legal fees than you owe. I would try to take care of it on your own. The Better Business Bureau should be able to give you some guidance. You should also contact your state's attorney general office. Good luck.
2006-07-28 08:57:51 · answer #3 · answered by C B 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know the answer to your question, but AOL offered me the same deal when I was canceling their service. I took it once, but didn't keep taking it. I hope you can get to the bottom of it and without much more hassle.
2006-07-28 08:52:15 · answer #4 · answered by pottersclay70 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you need legal advice, you should talk to an attorney licensed to practice in your state.
Filing a lawsuit is a complicated matter. However, for an amount as small as this, you may want to talk to your local small claims court (aka municipal court). Many have legal aid clinics that can help with simple disputes like this.
BTW, if someone who is not licensed to practic law gives you legal advice, that person is guilty of unauthorized practice of law, which in many states is criminal.
2006-07-28 08:52:43 · answer #5 · answered by coragryph 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋