My name is Heidi and I am from Toledo, Ohio. About a two months ago, we switched cable providers (From Direct TV to Time Warner) in order to save about $100 a month. Direct TV sent us a FedEx box to return our three cable boxes in the mail. Sadly, it slipped my mind and then my 32 year old sister was found dead in her apartment-which then became my primary focus.
About four days after my sisters funeral, I noticed my checking account was overdrawn. Knowing that was impossible, I looked closer and noticed Direct TV had withdrawn $1240.60 from my account without authorization; overdrawing my account. I immediately called Direct TV who said if I mailed the cable boxes, I would be reimbursed about $760.00 (Which I still have not received) but that I would not be reimbursed the remaining amount (close to $500) claiming it was an "early cancellation fee." Although I explained the unique circumstances to Direct TV, they said there was nothing more they could do.
That day, my husband filled out paperwork at our bank stating that the withdraw of these funds were unauthorized but it takes at least 10 business days for the investigation. Meanwhile, we were unable to pay our house payment or any other bills. I have since called Direct TV about 7 times to see if they had received the cable boxes and to find out when they would be crediting my account. I spoke to a gentleman named James who agreed the withdraw was ridiculous and apologized; however, stated he could not refund the fees unless we would switch back to Direct TV from Time Warner! Appalled, I said I would NOT return to a company who conducted business in this manner!
Direct TV is now claiming it will take 6-8 weeks before they will credit my account. My husband and I are furious; this appears to be another example of a big cooperation taking advantage of the little guy. My husband has called the governors office as well as Marcy Kapturs office to complain. Agreeing to share this information, their office admitted they have received many complaints against to Direct TV. For the very same reasons! Something must be done, even on a federal level, to keep this from happening to another vulnerable family!
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