I just learned that I have a long-distance phone service account which has been dormant for 4 years and has just accrued a service charge. They’re squeezing me for it, but I don’t think I should have to pay this. (I’m no deadbeat, I’ll explain my reasons below). I have no experience standing up to The Man so I seek advice here. How do I convince them that I don’t owe this money without causing a hit on my credit?
I thought that the LD account was closed in 2000. The record shows that I haven’t used LD service with that company since that time. In October 2004, they assessed a $10 service charge and are hassling me about paying it. I didn’t get the bill in a timely manner because I no longer live in the US and my mail forwarding is spotty. They’ve turned the issue over to their “internal collections” (whatever that means.)
Honestly, I can never remember having ever intentionally canceled long distance service, ever. I just assumed that this is something that happens when you switch LD providers or cancel phone service at a location. Apparently that didn’t happen in this case, though. Is that a defense against stuff like this?
I know it’s only $10 and I’m considering just paying it and putting it behind me. But the principle irritates me… it’s a $10 service charge for service I never consumed. Also, the cynical part of me thinks that this is a subtle extortion plan.
Advice appreciated.