Outrageous (operator assisted) phone charges

 Not having a long distance service, I recently made a 23 minute long
distance call (California to Texas) using operator assistance and was
billed a little over $60. The operator made no comment about the
charges at the time. I consulted AT&T costumer service about a credit
for being unaware of the high rates, but they said there was nothing
they could do. I could have purchased a prepaid phone including 5
hours of time for less than $40. But there was still nothing they
could do.

Live and learn, I guess.

-Bill

  Bill Bowden wrote:


Purchasing a prepaid phone card would be more frugal. This one has
worked well for me:
http://www.prepaidcall.com/Cards/clean.htm
A $10 card gets you over 7 hours of time if your call is to the US/Canada.

Susan

 
Yes, the convenience store next door sells several types of long
distance calling cards. The gal that works there recommended a $2 card
she uses to call Viet Nam. And my brother uses the internet and a web
cam to talk to relatives in other states. I knew these cheaper
services were available, but I didn't have time to research it. All I
wanted to do was wish my niece a happy birthday and figured it
wouldn't cost much to use the operator. I would have been happy with a
3 or 4 dollar charge, but I had no idea the rates would be almost $3 a
minute.
I spoke with an operator who explained they used to advise callers of
possible charges, but no longer do that, and it was the responsibility
of the caller to research the charges.

Thanks,

-Bill

 Bill Bowden wrote:


You have my sympathy. That was a rather expensive lesson but I expect it
will stick.

Susan

 
Yes, I won't do it again. I found the email address for
randall.stephenson@att.com, CEO of AT&T, and sent an email explaining
the situation. Got a phone call today from a representative who agreed
to "go half-way" and reduce the charge from 60 to 30 dollars. Still an
expensive call at $30, but I was happy to get the other 30 credit.

-Bill