Don't Be "Crammed"

When companies add charges to your telephone bill for optional services that you never authorized, such as voice mail, paging, a personal 800 number or club membership, it's called "cramming." You can contest charges for services you did not request. Look at your bill closely every month. If you don't read your bill carefully, you could end up paying for services you didn't authorize and don't want.

Charges for various services should be itemized on your telephone bill. If you're not sure whether charges are connected with your regular telephone service or are for extra services, ask your local telephone company.

The name of the company providing services and its toll-free number should be listed on the page showing those charges. If you did not authorize the services, call that number and insist that they be canceled and the charges removed from your bill. If you can't get through to the company, call your local telephone carrier and ask it to file a complaint on your behalf. If you are disputing charges, make sure to pay the undisputed portion of your bill by the due date.

If the "crammer" agrees to remove the disputed charges, let your local telephone company know. It can help you recalculate your bill, subtracting the disputed charges and any taxes or fees associated with them. If the "crammer" refuses, notify your local carrier that you're still disputing the charges. Your phone service should not be disconnected, but be aware that the "crammer" can refer the matter to a collection agency.

Consumer Resources

Your state, city or county consumer affairs office, state attorney general's office, and state public utility commission are listed in the "government" pages of your telephone book. Call them to file a complaint on problems like slamming and cramming or to ask if they have information that might help you.