Centurytel bundled services?

Question

I have had Centurytel for both my phone and (DSL) internet provider. I was paying for each service separately. I discovered that I could save money if I "bundled" those two services. I called, they confirmed I would save money so I had them do the bundle. Now 2 months later, another phone company and ISP has been authorized to do business here and are much cheaper. I called Centurytel to cancel and they said if you cancel, we will charge you a $200.00 cancellation fee. I asked what that was all about. I was was told that I entered into a one year contract when I bundled my services. I said, I have never signed such a contract and because I ordered the services on the phone, their rep never mentioned one word about any "contract". I was told that it was a verbal contract. I explained again that their rep never said anything about a contract. They told me I would be charged the $200.00 fee anyway. I have contacted my states consumer protection people and filed a complaint but it is taking a long while and the other company's offer is running out at the end of August so I need to know if my credit will be damaged when I cancel with Centurytel and refuse to pay the $200.00. Do I have a leg to stand on ? Will my credit rating be harmed ?

Answer 1

That situation SU*KS.  They didn't have what is referred to as a "third party" explain this contract thing with you?

Hopefully the CPA can help you.  Perhaps this new company will pay the fee to bring you over to there service.  They would probably want a contract too!

To answer your question about the credit rating.

I broke a contract with Qwest, I moved and my new housemate already had DSL so there was no need for 2 service lines.

They too had a 200.00 cancellation fee.  I argued and wouldn't pay it, they did turn me to collections.  Needless to say they there f'n money.

Good Luck!