I gave in to a telemarketer who was selling the MCI Neighborhood Plan. I was blind to red flags that were going up in my head that day. Why would I trust a telemarketer now? The Neighborhood plan sounded like an excellent deal, $49.95 a month unlimited local and unlimited long distance. My first bill for 22 days of service was $76.33.
First, I was told that there would be a tax charge. I was not told there would be a total of 18, yes eighteen, charges described as taxes, surcharges (CA high cost fund A, and CA high cost fund B?) that totaled $13.99 for less than one month service, 22 days to be exact.
I was charged $18.80 for long distance service un an unlimited long distance plan. I was also supposed to receive first month service at 24.99,1/2 half standard rate and did not.
I did contact MCI and the long distance was credited to next month bill and a voucher is supposed to be in the mail for the 1/2 off rate. But this whole process now raises a red flag for sure.
How many people are experiencing overcharging on their monthly bill? The point is could this be less than an honest mistake? How many people sign up and do not receive their voucher for 1/2 off first month?
Most importantly, the issue of the 18 extra line items described as taxes and surcharges. According to the telecom act of 1996 the telecommunication companies do not have to pass federal and state taxes on to consumers. That is not the issue though, the issue is whether these extra charges not only unethical are they legal? They are disguised or not revealed when the plan is pitched. Most people consider tax as just that, tax.
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