| We are all too familiar with this phenomenon, a | | | | It happens quite often that providers modify their |
| better cell phone service deal is available, either a | | | | service plans. This voids the previous contract. So |
| better phone for free or a better price, and the | | | | make sure to read the small print on those |
| customer wants to terminate their current | | | | inserts included with your bill, in most cases it will |
| contract to the better one. However there is the | | | | notify that you have 30 days to cancel your |
| Cellular Service provider penalties that is causing | | | | contract with no charge simply because they |
| some aggravations. What should be done? | | | | changed the contract. |
| Your cellular provider to produce the signed | | | | Nothing works? Cut down on Extras! |
| contract. | | | | As a last resort, cut back to the bare minimum |
| Ask them to supply a copy and mail it to you. | | | | the provider allows and drop any extras, like |
| This step was once a great ammunition, however | | | | picture-messaging etc. Depending on the number |
| as of today, most retailers send their paperwork | | | | of months you have left, this could be cheaper |
| to storage facilities or scan them into databases | | | | than paying the early termination fee, which can |
| and can usually pull up contracts and receipts fairly | | | | often run up to $300 per line. However, at some |
| easily. So this step might not be a great solution. | | | | cellular companies changing your plan, even to |
| However trying does not hurt. | | | | reduce it, may extend it for at least another |
| A noise maker. | | | | year, so make sure this is not the case with your |
| If your service is not up to par, say you want | | | | provider. In all events do the math first to make |
| out because of the poor service. Then back that | | | | certain it will actually save you money. |
| up by filing official complaints online with the | | | | If you want to fight the termination fee, consider |
| Federal Trade Commission and the Better | | | | your time. Is it worth the hassle? |
| Business Bureau. One should not follow this step if | | | | Sometimes it's worth just to pay the early |
| the service of your cellular provider is good. | | | | termination fee. Sure, it's an expense in the wallet, |
| However most times there is room for a valid | | | | however once you pay, your nightmare is over. |
| complaint, so make sure to get this problem | | | | Following the steps above can be an unpleasant |
| working on your side. | | | | pursuit, and may rob you of hours, days, even |
| Study your bill for any changes to the Terms of | | | | weeks. What's your time worth? |
| Service. | | | | |