I worked for Verizon Wireless back in 2003. While I was there I participated in their education reimbursement program. I left Verizon mid semester in 2003 and was advised by my HR department that they would send me notice of repayment options. Nothing ever came and although I did get mailings from Verizon, including a paycheck correction, nothing in the form of repayment for my shool loans appeared. Fast Forward 2 YEARS later. I get a call and letter from NCO financial stating that they have been trying to contact me and since I REFUSED to speak with them - they were going to report my debt to the major credit bureaus. I called immediately and wanted to set up payment arrangements. There were two accounts totaling around $800.00. I don't know a lot of people who have $800.00 sitting around and explained that I would gladly make small payments. I was screamed at and told that Verizon didn't give me the money in small payments so why did I think it was ok to pay it back in small payments? I was so shocked... The rep yelled at me and had me in tears. I requested her supervisor and when he came on the line he said, "Well, I am sure she didn't yell at you." I was astonished! They stated they had called and mailed several things to me and that I hadn't called back and that they were already reporting to the CBs. After I hung up on the supervisor I went online and got a credit report. Sure enough, it was there. They started reporting 1 month before I even got the first letter/call from NCO. I started getting phone calls and very rude messages. I entered a debt program and told them so... They still yelled and called constantly at me about re-paying the full amount immediately. They even threatened to send me to court over it! Finally, I stopped talking to any NCO reps. Then one day... I recieved a call from a rep named George Morris. He actually helped me. I explained that I was in a debt program and he worked with Take Charge America to get my NCO accounts added to the program. Since, TCA requires me to send creditor statements periodically (and NCO doesn't send regular statements) I recently contacted George for balance verification. He advised he doesn't handle my account any more but checked the balances anyway and gave me the name and ext of my new account rep. He said he can see all the accounts but might not be able to access them all - but at least he can give you the person who can! My accounts are down to less than $200.00!!! George Morris is the only one who has EVER helped me at NCO - he has never yelled, or even raised his voice. He has treated me like a human and never like a deadbeat. If you need help, at least give him a call - see what he can do for you. His number is 1-800-933-6736 ext 1184. (The system will say the exts have changed but I just spoke with him a week ago-so I know this is correct!!!) Hopefully this will help everone.
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