Being the hottest free agent signing in blogging history and the only contributor that won't end up the the last name of Czyzewicz, I figured it was time to post. I haven't picked a fight with a company in awhile but I would like to commend a promotion.
This is sort of like Cartmanland in that it's the greatest promotion you can't participate in. It ended two weeks ago. But I still feel it deserves some recognition. Hopefully there are Pepsi, MTV, Yahoo, or Harmonix employees scouring this site like Comcast does.
Basically Pepsi just finished a promotion with Rock Band that involved entering in codes from bottles for points that you could use for chances at various prizes. They included weekly raffles for entire systems, Rock Band store gift certificates, and game bundles. But the real value was the chance to instantly win a song token. This allowed you to download a song from a preset list.
Here are all the good things they did:
1. They teamed with Yahoo so I could just reuse an existing account.
B. The song tokens won. A lot. I think I ended up with 80/100 winning. That's insane. It also kept me buying more and valuing the caps as it was a high winning percentage. Most giveaways I end up doing for a week and then just call it off since I feel it's not worth the effort.
III. While the song catalog didn't include every song, the list was pretty extensive. AND, they didn't just make one list and stop. They made 2-3 big updates over the course of the promotion which added new songs that had been released since the last list came out. I was quite impressed and surprised to find this out. Props to them.
Four. If you chose the Wii as your system, they just gave you a code for $2 worth of Nintendo store credit. This was probably only due to the fact that Nintendo's online codes can only be redeemed for points and not specific items, but they still allowed this even after this "hack" was discovered. More props.
So good work all around, guys.
On the other hand, when I preordered Guitar Hero: Metallica, Activision gave me a free drum pedal (for the new double bass feature) which they made incompatible with the Rock Band drums. Sooo, thanks for that.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
No Word From Comcast, Two New Battles Rage
So, Comcast did not reply to my first letter, and I am not expecting much from my second letter. It just seems like the bottom line is that Comcast does not care, and they are just cool with that. I am going to continue being a pain, but when their online people who comb the internet looking for people saying bad things about them stops here, please take note that you did not fix my problem, and I am still highly dissatisfied.
In other news, there are two battles that I am watching as a third person. One involves my mom, who is a seasoned veteran of the arguing arena, and trained so many more in the ways of showing dissatisfaction. In the other event is my brother, trained by the former, and possibly writing to the blog on the status.
My parents received a bill a week or so ago from Verizon for over $500, which was double the normal bill. It was determined that a phone my sister mailed back to them, in exchange for her third version of the same phone, was not received. As such, Verizon billed the account $250 for the phone. Now, I can see a few things wrong with this, not the least of which is the fact that they value this phone at $250, and my sister has gone through 2 of them in less than a year due to poor design (buttons stop working due to texting, but it is a phone for texting!!!) My mom has decided she would call them to discuss this issue, mostly on the basis that she has been a verizon wireless customer for more than 12 years. That is right, not just a customer of Verizon, but of Verizon Wireless for more than 12 years. There were cell phones that long ago, and my mom had one. Also, they pay $200+ a month for the various plans they have with VW, and that is OK. So they spend roughly $3,000 a year on cell phone plans without complaining. Will Verizon be willing to throw that away just to collect $250? Well, my mom is going to challenge them on this point. If they refuse to credit the phone back, my mom said she would pay for it, and ask to cancel. Pretty hard to argue that, when the cancellation is usually around $175, which is less than one months bill anywho.
My brother's issue is very different. As an early birthday gift, I bought him a subscription to the NFL Game Pass online while he is in Germany. It was a 30 day subscription that he started on opening sunday (who really cared about the Steelers-Titans game on Thursday night??) The first weekend they were seemingly having bandwidth problems, and many accounts were phasing in and out on service. It seemed like they would allow some people in at one time, then boot them all off and allow others back on. However, you paid for the whole week. As an apology, the NFL offered one week of free service added on. This was a decent gesture, but it really did not help my bro out too much since he will be home when that free week kicks in. But they offered something.
Now it is week #2, and this time, service was just down entirely. You could not log in. This time, they offered refunds for this week. So in two weeks, the NFL is 0-2 for having their premium online package working. That begs the question on whether the NFL will have a better record than the Lions this season. Right now, it is a dead heat, although the Lions have scored far more points.
For my brother, it almost seems like time to ask for all the $$ back. Why would he think that he could even count on the program working to host a party for his German friends to watch and find out about the great sport of American Football. He also brought up the point that in the 5 months he has been in Germany now, the MLB package has worked nearly 100% of the time.
NFL, two things. One, call the MLB and find out how to run an online service. Two, expect a letter...
In other news, there are two battles that I am watching as a third person. One involves my mom, who is a seasoned veteran of the arguing arena, and trained so many more in the ways of showing dissatisfaction. In the other event is my brother, trained by the former, and possibly writing to the blog on the status.
My parents received a bill a week or so ago from Verizon for over $500, which was double the normal bill. It was determined that a phone my sister mailed back to them, in exchange for her third version of the same phone, was not received. As such, Verizon billed the account $250 for the phone. Now, I can see a few things wrong with this, not the least of which is the fact that they value this phone at $250, and my sister has gone through 2 of them in less than a year due to poor design (buttons stop working due to texting, but it is a phone for texting!!!) My mom has decided she would call them to discuss this issue, mostly on the basis that she has been a verizon wireless customer for more than 12 years. That is right, not just a customer of Verizon, but of Verizon Wireless for more than 12 years. There were cell phones that long ago, and my mom had one. Also, they pay $200+ a month for the various plans they have with VW, and that is OK. So they spend roughly $3,000 a year on cell phone plans without complaining. Will Verizon be willing to throw that away just to collect $250? Well, my mom is going to challenge them on this point. If they refuse to credit the phone back, my mom said she would pay for it, and ask to cancel. Pretty hard to argue that, when the cancellation is usually around $175, which is less than one months bill anywho.
My brother's issue is very different. As an early birthday gift, I bought him a subscription to the NFL Game Pass online while he is in Germany. It was a 30 day subscription that he started on opening sunday (who really cared about the Steelers-Titans game on Thursday night??) The first weekend they were seemingly having bandwidth problems, and many accounts were phasing in and out on service. It seemed like they would allow some people in at one time, then boot them all off and allow others back on. However, you paid for the whole week. As an apology, the NFL offered one week of free service added on. This was a decent gesture, but it really did not help my bro out too much since he will be home when that free week kicks in. But they offered something.
Now it is week #2, and this time, service was just down entirely. You could not log in. This time, they offered refunds for this week. So in two weeks, the NFL is 0-2 for having their premium online package working. That begs the question on whether the NFL will have a better record than the Lions this season. Right now, it is a dead heat, although the Lions have scored far more points.
For my brother, it almost seems like time to ask for all the $$ back. Why would he think that he could even count on the program working to host a party for his German friends to watch and find out about the great sport of American Football. He also brought up the point that in the 5 months he has been in Germany now, the MLB package has worked nearly 100% of the time.
NFL, two things. One, call the MLB and find out how to run an online service. Two, expect a letter...
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
New Bill
September 15, 2009
Comcast
Dear Comcast,
On August 28th, 2009 I notified you of a payment that was due to me from Comcast in the amount of $75.67 on account number 09509 134859-13. As per the normal policy of Comcast, I mailed the bill to you, for the amount due, and allowed 15 days for payment. As of September 14th, 2009, this payment is now late. At this time, as is customary for Comcast to do to its customers, I will be applying a late payment fee onto this account of 5%. For this case, this amounts to $3.79, bringing the new total bill to $79.46.
This payment is now due 15 days from today’s date, being September 30th. If at that time, I have not received a check for the amount due, of $79.46, made payable to the account holder, Robin Czyzewicz, I will be forced to apply an additional 10% late fee and send the account to a collections agency for processing. If you are having difficulty making this payment, please contact a customer service representative at the number listed below, and they will be happy to assist you in finding a method to reach an accord with both parties.
Amount due: $79.46
Due Date: 09/30/2009
Make Payable to: Robin Czyzewicz
Robin Czyzewicz
Sending a new bill
So, my refund from Comcast is officially late. Today, I had the following contact with Comcast:
user Robin_ has entered room
Robin(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:03:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I sent in a bill for the money that is owed to me on my account, with a due date that has passed. Where can I send the late fee notice?
analyst Diana.22774 has entered room
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:15 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Hello Robin_, Thank you for contacting Comcast Live Chat Support. My name is Diana.22774. Please give me one moment to review your information.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:17 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I will be happy to assist you with your questions.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:22 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
hello
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:23 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
How are you doing today, Robin?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:51 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i am doing well
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:52 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
how are you
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:04 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I am glad to know that!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I am doing great, thank you for asking!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:27 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I understand that you want to know where you can send your payment for you past due bill.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:27 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Is this correct?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:36 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i am having a bit of a problem receiving a refund on my payment
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
the problem is actually the reverse of what you just said
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:49 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Comcast currently owes me money
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:14:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I sent a bill to my local comcast office for the money that is owed
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:02 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
To clarify, you want to have the payment refunded to you.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Is this correct?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:19 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
yes
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:02 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you for the clarification.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I will be delighted to check on this for you!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:31 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
May I have your complete service address, please?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:17:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
2700 Jacqueline Dr APT H12
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:17:16 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Wilmington De 19810
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:30 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The account was closed out in August
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:35 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:39 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Okay.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
the account number was 09509 134859-13
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:19:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Protecting your account security is important to Comcast. Before I make any changes to your account, or provide you with private and secure information, I will need you to provide me with the last four digits of the Social Security Number listed on your account.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:19:26 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
XXXX
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:00 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you for the information.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:26 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
sure thing
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, upon checking you have a credit balance of $75.67. This refund will be sent to you via US postal mail in a form of check approximately 45 days after the pole disconnection of your account.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:01 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Your account was disconnected from the pole on August 24, 2009.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so I had this discussion the last time I spoke to someone as well
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:24 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
This will be sent at 3207 Ruby Dr, Wilmington, DE 19810.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:25 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I asked what would have happened if I pay a bill 45 days after I receive it
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:22:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
if I received a bill on the 24th of August, and mailed in payment on the 8th of October, what would happen?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:22:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The credit will still be reflected on your account and the refund will be sent to you.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:00 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
that does not answer the question I asked
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:05 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
if I were a new customer
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I got a bill on August 24th
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:20 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I sent in the payment on October 4th
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:24 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
what would happen
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I understand.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank for the clarification.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I would have to pay a late fee, is that right?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:39 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
If you have a new account and you were not able to pay the bill on time, applicable late fee charges will be applied on your account. Also there is a possibility that you services will be interrupted due to the past due balance. This can lead to the complete disconnection of your account.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:50 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:51 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
good
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:56 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, now lets reverse that
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:01 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
my account closed
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:05 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Comcast owes me $75
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and they intend to send a check to me
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:18 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
45 days after the "bill" is sent
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:28 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, I would like to send a late fee to Comcast
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:35 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
because at this point, the bill is more than 2 weeks late
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
hence, it is past due
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:52 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
what does comcast charge for late fees?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:27:49 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, basically, the refund is sent within the next 45 days after the pole disconnection of the account. This is the standard processing time that we allot.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:27:57 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
but I have my own standard operations
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I request that the money be received by me
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:13 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
within 2 weeks
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:18 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
just like comcast expects that from me
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:22 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The late fee charge ranges from $5 to $10.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:25 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok good
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:29 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, I would like to know, from you
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:37 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
where can I send my late fee charge?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I would like to mail this charge
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and an explanation
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:47 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
certified mail
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
to someone
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:53 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
where can I send this?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:30:08 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
You can send this to our local office in your area.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:30:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Let me get the address for you.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:31:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok, i sent my first bill to them as well
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:31:07 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i will continue to follow up with them
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
thank you for your assistance
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
You are welcome.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:17 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, you can send it to our Penn Mart Shopping Center Office located at:
21 East Basin Rd, Suite 20
New Castle , DE 19720
Phone: 302-656-3370
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm
user Robin_ has entered room
Robin(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:03:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I sent in a bill for the money that is owed to me on my account, with a due date that has passed. Where can I send the late fee notice?
analyst Diana.22774 has entered room
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:15 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Hello Robin_, Thank you for contacting Comcast Live Chat Support. My name is Diana.22774. Please give me one moment to review your information.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:17 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I will be happy to assist you with your questions.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:22 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
hello
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:23 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
How are you doing today, Robin?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:51 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i am doing well
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:12:52 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
how are you
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:04 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I am glad to know that!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I am doing great, thank you for asking!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:27 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I understand that you want to know where you can send your payment for you past due bill.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:27 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Is this correct?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:36 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i am having a bit of a problem receiving a refund on my payment
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
the problem is actually the reverse of what you just said
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:13:49 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Comcast currently owes me money
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:14:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I sent a bill to my local comcast office for the money that is owed
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:02 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
To clarify, you want to have the payment refunded to you.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Is this correct?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:15:19 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
yes
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:02 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you for the clarification.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I will be delighted to check on this for you!
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:16:31 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
May I have your complete service address, please?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:17:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
2700 Jacqueline Dr APT H12
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:17:16 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Wilmington De 19810
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:30 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The account was closed out in August
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:35 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:39 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Okay.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:18:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
the account number was 09509 134859-13
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:19:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Protecting your account security is important to Comcast. Before I make any changes to your account, or provide you with private and secure information, I will need you to provide me with the last four digits of the Social Security Number listed on your account.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:19:26 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
XXXX
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:00 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank you for the information.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:26 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
sure thing
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:20:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, upon checking you have a credit balance of $75.67. This refund will be sent to you via US postal mail in a form of check approximately 45 days after the pole disconnection of your account.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:01 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Your account was disconnected from the pole on August 24, 2009.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so I had this discussion the last time I spoke to someone as well
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:24 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
This will be sent at 3207 Ruby Dr, Wilmington, DE 19810.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:21:25 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I asked what would have happened if I pay a bill 45 days after I receive it
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:22:06 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
if I received a bill on the 24th of August, and mailed in payment on the 8th of October, what would happen?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:22:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The credit will still be reflected on your account and the refund will be sent to you.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:00 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
that does not answer the question I asked
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:05 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
if I were a new customer
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:09 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I got a bill on August 24th
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:20 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I sent in the payment on October 4th
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:24 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
what would happen
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:34 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I understand.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Thank for the clarification.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:23:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I would have to pay a late fee, is that right?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:39 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
If you have a new account and you were not able to pay the bill on time, applicable late fee charges will be applied on your account. Also there is a possibility that you services will be interrupted due to the past due balance. This can lead to the complete disconnection of your account.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:50 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:51 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
good
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:24:56 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, now lets reverse that
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:01 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
my account closed
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:05 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Comcast owes me $75
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and they intend to send a check to me
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:18 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
45 days after the "bill" is sent
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:28 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, I would like to send a late fee to Comcast
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:35 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
because at this point, the bill is more than 2 weeks late
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
hence, it is past due
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:25:52 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
what does comcast charge for late fees?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:27:49 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, basically, the refund is sent within the next 45 days after the pole disconnection of the account. This is the standard processing time that we allot.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:27:57 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
but I have my own standard operations
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and I request that the money be received by me
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:13 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
within 2 weeks
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:18 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
just like comcast expects that from me
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:22 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
The late fee charge ranges from $5 to $10.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:25 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok good
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:29 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
so, I would like to know, from you
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:37 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
where can I send my late fee charge?
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:41 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
I would like to mail this charge
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:44 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
and an explanation
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:47 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
certified mail
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:48 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
to someone
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:28:53 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
where can I send this?
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:30:08 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
You can send this to our local office in your area.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:30:12 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Let me get the address for you.
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:31:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
ok, i sent my first bill to them as well
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:31:07 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
i will continue to follow up with them
Robin_(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:03 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
thank you for your assistance
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:11 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
You are welcome.
Diana.22774(Tue Sep 15 2009 13:32:17 GMT-0400 (Eastern Daylight Time))>
Robin, you can send it to our Penn Mart Shopping Center Office located at:
21 East Basin Rd, Suite 20
New Castle , DE 19720
Phone: 302-656-3370
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm
Monday, August 31, 2009
Still battling Comcast
Well, I eventually got a follow up on the comment post I received here. I was told to contact them, send them some basic account info, and they would look into the situation around my rebate. The response I ultimately got...
The account was just stopped billing on 08/23/09. The disconnect was completed on 08/24/09. It takes 4-6 weeks to receive the refund check.
So, even the help people, who troll the internet looking for ways to right Comcast's wrongs, are not given any power to improve the situation. It just delayed me in sending my letter by a day or so. Don't worry, the letter goes out today then... certified. Just so I know you got it.
My response to this email:
I guess I will need to follow my planned course of action then. I had thought that perhaps someone from this email address was going to address the problem, rather than just summarize the situation. I find it highly unacceptable that I am expected to pay a comcast bill roughly two weeks after I receive it, and when I am due a refund, it takes more than a month to get it. Not only this, but when I pay, I am prepaying for my service!!! Expect my letter arriving at my local comcast branch, certified, requesting payment within 15 days. If I dont receive it by the due date, expect a late fee and an additional bill. Just the way that your policy works, this is my policy as well.
The account was just stopped billing on 08/23/09. The disconnect was completed on 08/24/09. It takes 4-6 weeks to receive the refund check.
So, even the help people, who troll the internet looking for ways to right Comcast's wrongs, are not given any power to improve the situation. It just delayed me in sending my letter by a day or so. Don't worry, the letter goes out today then... certified. Just so I know you got it.
My response to this email:
I guess I will need to follow my planned course of action then. I had thought that perhaps someone from this email address was going to address the problem, rather than just summarize the situation. I find it highly unacceptable that I am expected to pay a comcast bill roughly two weeks after I receive it, and when I am due a refund, it takes more than a month to get it. Not only this, but when I pay, I am prepaying for my service!!! Expect my letter arriving at my local comcast branch, certified, requesting payment within 15 days. If I dont receive it by the due date, expect a late fee and an additional bill. Just the way that your policy works, this is my policy as well.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Letter to Comcast
August 28, 2009
Comcast
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing this letter in regards to account XXXXXXXXX. As of August 24th, 2009 this account has been closed. The boxes on the account were returned on August 25th, 2009. The account is now showing a credit of $75.67, as shown on the attached receipt.
I was told over the phone that after this billing cycle ends (9/10), I should expect to have a check mailed to me within 15-30 days. I do not find this acceptable. The account closed on 8/24. 15-30 days after 9/10 would be a month or more after the money was due to me. If it were the reverse situation, I would be billed late fees for turning in payment 1 month after it was due.
As such, I am sending you this notice of a bill, payable to me at the below address, for $75.67. This bill is due 15 days from today’s date. If the payment is not received prior to this date, a 5% late fee will be added to the charges for each 10 days the payment is not received. Thank you for your effort in resolving this matter.
Due Date: 9/12/2009
Amount Due: $75.67
Make All Checks payable to: XXXXX
Mailing Address: XXXXXXXXXX
Sincerely,
XXXXXXX
Comcast Experiment
I had an interesting discussion this morning with a Comcast Rep. I canceled my service on August 23rd. The billing cycle on my account was from 8/10 until 9/10. Since you pay in advance for all of your service, I had paid up until 9/10, which means that I used less than half of what my total charge was. When the bill is $130, that is actually a little bit of money that I would love to have back. So I entered into a representative chat room to find out what to do about this.
I explained the situaiton to the person regarding the payment, and how I wanted my money back. She told me that when the billing cycle was up, they would identify that I was due some money, and that I should expect it 15-30 days after my cycle ends. I asked her what would happen if I paid a bill 15-30 days after it was due, and she told me that I would fall behind and would owe late fees. So I asked why does it make sense that Comcast can force me to prepay, but when it is time for me to get money back, it can take up to a month and a half from my cancelation date. She told me this was company policy.
So I asked her where can I send a bill. I told her I wanted to send them a bill, for what was due to me, and that I would put a due date of 15 days in the future just like a standard Comcast bill. If the money has not been received by the due date, then I would send them a new bill with the late fees added.
At this point, I think the lady just wanted to get rid of me, and she gave me an address where I could do this. So... I am going to work up a bill for Comcast and mail it in. Maybe even with signature confirmation so I can confirm that they received my bill. Then I guess I will see what happens. Maybe I will get a response.
I explained the situaiton to the person regarding the payment, and how I wanted my money back. She told me that when the billing cycle was up, they would identify that I was due some money, and that I should expect it 15-30 days after my cycle ends. I asked her what would happen if I paid a bill 15-30 days after it was due, and she told me that I would fall behind and would owe late fees. So I asked why does it make sense that Comcast can force me to prepay, but when it is time for me to get money back, it can take up to a month and a half from my cancelation date. She told me this was company policy.
So I asked her where can I send a bill. I told her I wanted to send them a bill, for what was due to me, and that I would put a due date of 15 days in the future just like a standard Comcast bill. If the money has not been received by the due date, then I would send them a new bill with the late fees added.
At this point, I think the lady just wanted to get rid of me, and she gave me an address where I could do this. So... I am going to work up a bill for Comcast and mail it in. Maybe even with signature confirmation so I can confirm that they received my bill. Then I guess I will see what happens. Maybe I will get a response.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Playstation Scam
So in an earlier comment I mentioned that if you ever had an item that a regular store won't let you return, take it to Walmart. They generally let you return anything without a receipt. "My grandmom gave me this" works rather well. That is admittedly a bit shady. But if you wanted to take the plunge totally to the dark side, you can be like these guys:
http://www.joystiq.com/photos/absurd-ps2-returns/1337815/
Basically they build PS2s out of wood and stuff them with small dumbbells for weight. Then they return them and most likely sell the other one on ebay or something. Immoral and all, but highly amusing.
http://www.joystiq.com/photos/absurd-ps2-returns/1337815/
Basically they build PS2s out of wood and stuff them with small dumbbells for weight. Then they return them and most likely sell the other one on ebay or something. Immoral and all, but highly amusing.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Victory!
I called Comcast today and immediately asked to be connected to the retentions department. This is was a tip given to me by my brother. The retentions department is there to retain you as a customer. You can either give your sob story to a customer service rep, only to be transferred to retentions, or immediately ask to be transferred to them so you only have to deliver the sob story one time. I chose the latter.
I explained to the woman that my bill had been escalating steadily for several months now. This was the case. It seemed like each month one promotion would run out, or they'd raise a rate, leading to a very annoying $5 increase each month. This took the bill from $140 or so to $200 (this includes internet as well). In that time, we did add one DVR box, which costs $15 a month, but other than that, nothing had changed.
Let me quickly interject here and say that I am bound to some bizarre moral code, probably learned through Sesame Street. Even though I know Comcast makes a ridiculous profit off of me, I do not feel like I can ask them to charge me less than any rate that I ever paid. They are offering me a service, and I don't feel like I need to cheat them. I just feel like they shouldn't be cheating me. So I have absolutely no problem paying $140+$15 per month for exactly what we've been receiving. My brother's idea was to say, "I'll pay $99 and not a dollar more," but I am just not capable of doing that. It's the same reason why I can't steal music or movies or whatever. I feel like they provide a service, and that they should be compensated for it. End of sermon.
They connected me to a lady in the retention department, and I explained to her that I was frustrated with my rates slowly increasing, and that I had been paying $140 which I was cool with, but $200 I was decidedly less cool with. She put me on hold saying she was going to look into what to do. This took a minute or two, but when she came back she had good news. She said she could give me all of the premium channels, my sports package that I've been receiving, and the DVR service for $155, which is exactly what I was hoping for. I agreed, and she said the promotion would last for 6 months. This is what my brother said happened to him, only they never took away the promotion.
All told, the call took about 10 minutes, most of which I was on hold while the lady updated the system, etc. I would gladly wait 10 minutes to save $50 a month, or $600 a year. This was incredibly easy to do, and I would recommend it to anyone.
I explained to the woman that my bill had been escalating steadily for several months now. This was the case. It seemed like each month one promotion would run out, or they'd raise a rate, leading to a very annoying $5 increase each month. This took the bill from $140 or so to $200 (this includes internet as well). In that time, we did add one DVR box, which costs $15 a month, but other than that, nothing had changed.
Let me quickly interject here and say that I am bound to some bizarre moral code, probably learned through Sesame Street. Even though I know Comcast makes a ridiculous profit off of me, I do not feel like I can ask them to charge me less than any rate that I ever paid. They are offering me a service, and I don't feel like I need to cheat them. I just feel like they shouldn't be cheating me. So I have absolutely no problem paying $140+$15 per month for exactly what we've been receiving. My brother's idea was to say, "I'll pay $99 and not a dollar more," but I am just not capable of doing that. It's the same reason why I can't steal music or movies or whatever. I feel like they provide a service, and that they should be compensated for it. End of sermon.
They connected me to a lady in the retention department, and I explained to her that I was frustrated with my rates slowly increasing, and that I had been paying $140 which I was cool with, but $200 I was decidedly less cool with. She put me on hold saying she was going to look into what to do. This took a minute or two, but when she came back she had good news. She said she could give me all of the premium channels, my sports package that I've been receiving, and the DVR service for $155, which is exactly what I was hoping for. I agreed, and she said the promotion would last for 6 months. This is what my brother said happened to him, only they never took away the promotion.
All told, the call took about 10 minutes, most of which I was on hold while the lady updated the system, etc. I would gladly wait 10 minutes to save $50 a month, or $600 a year. This was incredibly easy to do, and I would recommend it to anyone.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Store Update
So far, the store is up and running. I think the summary of items posted is as follows:
1) A bundle of roughly 90 comic graphic novels I bought for $58.
2) Chris has posted a few photography/art pieces.
3) A few scattered older books I still had from my half.com/amazon.com stores.
At this time, I have sold about 14 books going at roughly $3 each. 11 of them belong to the series I just purchased, so out of the 90 books, I am down to about 79 (with a few repeats), and have received $36 back. Pretty happy with that progress. I also sold 3 other books that had been on half.com or amazon for a few months with no bites. It seems that posting them on ebay opened up a whole new audience, and also allowing me to offer free shipping made a huge difference. It cuts into the profits slightly, but, when I picked up the 90 books, I decided that all I needed was $1 per book, and I would be doing alright. Right now I am averaging well over $3 per book. 4-5 more books and the rest will be house money.
As for the photography/art, perhaps my brother can comment more on this topic, or post something for us. He has been getting some more looks than in the past, and the flexibility of allowing the art to remain posted for an extended period at a fixed price has helped his cause. He also mentioned that he has seen more traffic to his other website, so a sale should be coming in the near future. Maybe posting up a few more items soon could gain even more attention (nudge nudge).
Anywho, that is the ebay store update for now. Less than one month in, and I still think it is a good idea. Now I just need to get my hands on some more books. I am always in the market for more products. Keep me posted if you get any.
1) A bundle of roughly 90 comic graphic novels I bought for $58.
2) Chris has posted a few photography/art pieces.
3) A few scattered older books I still had from my half.com/amazon.com stores.
At this time, I have sold about 14 books going at roughly $3 each. 11 of them belong to the series I just purchased, so out of the 90 books, I am down to about 79 (with a few repeats), and have received $36 back. Pretty happy with that progress. I also sold 3 other books that had been on half.com or amazon for a few months with no bites. It seems that posting them on ebay opened up a whole new audience, and also allowing me to offer free shipping made a huge difference. It cuts into the profits slightly, but, when I picked up the 90 books, I decided that all I needed was $1 per book, and I would be doing alright. Right now I am averaging well over $3 per book. 4-5 more books and the rest will be house money.
As for the photography/art, perhaps my brother can comment more on this topic, or post something for us. He has been getting some more looks than in the past, and the flexibility of allowing the art to remain posted for an extended period at a fixed price has helped his cause. He also mentioned that he has seen more traffic to his other website, so a sale should be coming in the near future. Maybe posting up a few more items soon could gain even more attention (nudge nudge).
Anywho, that is the ebay store update for now. Less than one month in, and I still think it is a good idea. Now I just need to get my hands on some more books. I am always in the market for more products. Keep me posted if you get any.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Sprint to the finish
Today, I felt like writing more of a remember the time I... type of story. Today's story is about Sprint. A few years back, Erin's family decided to get sprint phones. She was not available when the phones were being selected, and the person at the store said that it would be OK to bring the phone back within two weeks and exchange it for store credit towards whichever phone the user wanted. So, Erin's mom wanted to get the phones turned on, and she dropped off Erin's phone at school later that night. So, Erin decided to try it out, see if she liked this one or not. After a couple of days, she decided that she would rather have a flip phone, so, on the weekend, we took a little trip to the local Sprint store, and that is when the story changes.
We arrive at the store, and we explain the story to the person at the counter. She comes back and says that a manager would need to help, so she goes and finds a manager. We explain the story to the manager. She takes a look at the phone and says, "We can't take that back because there are finger prints on the phone, and a small scratch". We explained that the lady told us originally that the phone could be used, and then brought back. The scratch, may I add, may have already been there. It was so small, and so shallow, it could have been created just putting in the battery. This wasn't happening with this lady though. No way. So... we argued with her for a good 15 minutes. She brought out another manager, and they all decided that they could not take the phone back.
We went to the car, because at that time, Erin was not buying a new phone from those people. She called the customer support line while we were in the car, and told them what had happened. The lady on the phone said, "Oh sure, we will take the phone back and you can just order it this way". That easy. No questions. Mentioned the small scratch, she said no big deal. Then we discussed what happened at the store, and she told us that should not have happened, and that if we wanted to file a complaint we could. She would just need to know the name of the manager we spoke to, etc. So, I walked back into the store, up to the lady who looked less than enthused, and I asked her for her business card. I told her that the Sprint in the sky will fix the problem, and that we needed her card so that I could file a complaint against her. She said, I will go get you one. Then I left...
Within a month at the most, that store was gone. No lie. Funny to think that maybe I helped, but I imagine I was in a long line of people with that same problem. But, the moral is, don't take no without a little fight. Always ask for the next level up. You are paying them for their service and people like cell phone companies just want you to stay signed up.
We arrive at the store, and we explain the story to the person at the counter. She comes back and says that a manager would need to help, so she goes and finds a manager. We explain the story to the manager. She takes a look at the phone and says, "We can't take that back because there are finger prints on the phone, and a small scratch". We explained that the lady told us originally that the phone could be used, and then brought back. The scratch, may I add, may have already been there. It was so small, and so shallow, it could have been created just putting in the battery. This wasn't happening with this lady though. No way. So... we argued with her for a good 15 minutes. She brought out another manager, and they all decided that they could not take the phone back.
We went to the car, because at that time, Erin was not buying a new phone from those people. She called the customer support line while we were in the car, and told them what had happened. The lady on the phone said, "Oh sure, we will take the phone back and you can just order it this way". That easy. No questions. Mentioned the small scratch, she said no big deal. Then we discussed what happened at the store, and she told us that should not have happened, and that if we wanted to file a complaint we could. She would just need to know the name of the manager we spoke to, etc. So, I walked back into the store, up to the lady who looked less than enthused, and I asked her for her business card. I told her that the Sprint in the sky will fix the problem, and that we needed her card so that I could file a complaint against her. She said, I will go get you one. Then I left...
Within a month at the most, that store was gone. No lie. Funny to think that maybe I helped, but I imagine I was in a long line of people with that same problem. But, the moral is, don't take no without a little fight. Always ask for the next level up. You are paying them for their service and people like cell phone companies just want you to stay signed up.
Monday, January 12, 2009
FiOS is Coming...
Or so Verizon would like to make you think. They have been putting these commercials out for a few years now, and I still can't get it in my area, nor can my parents. My brother and I discuss the commercial with the FiOS guy and the cable guy bumping into each other in the hallway, and the FiOS guy says he is doing a few installs and mentions the addresses. Then the cable guy says he is doing a few cancellations, and mentions the same addresses. Unless the houses they mention happen to be at a 5-way intersection, I just don't believe that there are that many people who even have access to FiOS. Either way, externally Comcast has not shown that they are worried about this even though no company could be too excited about a new, well established competitor.
Internally however, I have noticed a significant change in the customer service at Comcast since FiOS began popping up. When I lived at Drexel, we had a few issues when the internet would be out, or the cable would be fuzzy, and it took forever for them to show up or to care. Then I graduated, moved to Delaware, and got a new cable plan. I looked at Verizon then and they did not offer FiOS there yet, but they did have an internet and DirectTV package for $99/month. While I had no intention of using DirectTV due to the fact that most Flyers, Phillies games would be on comcast sportsnet, I told Comcast about this offer and they gave me that rate for 6 months with a free installation etc. Not bad to start.
6 months later, I now had my HD TV, so I was paying $13 per month for the HD DVR plus $3/month for the modem, then the $99. The promotional rate expired, and I got a bill in the mail for $140+. I decided that this was too much, called Comcast. The first person I spoke too told me about the promotions available, and none of them were very good. I said that I could not afford $140/month, so I guess I would have to cancel. She sent me to the retentions department. I think it is hilarious that cable, cell phone, and credit card companies have retention departments. Basically people who try to offer you whatever they can to keep you just a bit longer. Anyway, I spoke to a second lady, told her I used to pay $99, then with these other add-ons and the promotion expiring, it is now $140+ and I can't afford that, so I need to cancel. She asked me if I could afford the $99 from before, and I said yes but only if I still had what I used to. Done! Now I pay $99/month, no rental fees, and I still get the top tier digital cable with HD DVR and the internet.
In the end, I think Comcast still makes out because for them, the cable is already there in the neighborhood, it is just an issue of leaving a switch turned on or flipping it off. However, I appreciate that they realized something that many other companies do not. When faced with a "I can offer you this much money or cancel" situation, Comcast chose any number greater than $0. I will share stories in the future where companies chose the other option, but it left both parties moderately happy. I have since received several general notices about changes in prices for plans and so forth, but my plan remains $99/month, and has for a year now.
My suggestion to the readers is to call Comcast and try something similar. Tell them that what you are paying right now is just too much in this troubled economy, and that one of the first luxeries to go is going to be super hyper digital cable. I would be shocked it they say OK, it is off. I think you could talk them under $100 and keep everything you have, since they are struggling too. Just my thoughts. If anyone tries this, let me know how it turns out.
Internally however, I have noticed a significant change in the customer service at Comcast since FiOS began popping up. When I lived at Drexel, we had a few issues when the internet would be out, or the cable would be fuzzy, and it took forever for them to show up or to care. Then I graduated, moved to Delaware, and got a new cable plan. I looked at Verizon then and they did not offer FiOS there yet, but they did have an internet and DirectTV package for $99/month. While I had no intention of using DirectTV due to the fact that most Flyers, Phillies games would be on comcast sportsnet, I told Comcast about this offer and they gave me that rate for 6 months with a free installation etc. Not bad to start.
6 months later, I now had my HD TV, so I was paying $13 per month for the HD DVR plus $3/month for the modem, then the $99. The promotional rate expired, and I got a bill in the mail for $140+. I decided that this was too much, called Comcast. The first person I spoke too told me about the promotions available, and none of them were very good. I said that I could not afford $140/month, so I guess I would have to cancel. She sent me to the retentions department. I think it is hilarious that cable, cell phone, and credit card companies have retention departments. Basically people who try to offer you whatever they can to keep you just a bit longer. Anyway, I spoke to a second lady, told her I used to pay $99, then with these other add-ons and the promotion expiring, it is now $140+ and I can't afford that, so I need to cancel. She asked me if I could afford the $99 from before, and I said yes but only if I still had what I used to. Done! Now I pay $99/month, no rental fees, and I still get the top tier digital cable with HD DVR and the internet.
In the end, I think Comcast still makes out because for them, the cable is already there in the neighborhood, it is just an issue of leaving a switch turned on or flipping it off. However, I appreciate that they realized something that many other companies do not. When faced with a "I can offer you this much money or cancel" situation, Comcast chose any number greater than $0. I will share stories in the future where companies chose the other option, but it left both parties moderately happy. I have since received several general notices about changes in prices for plans and so forth, but my plan remains $99/month, and has for a year now.
My suggestion to the readers is to call Comcast and try something similar. Tell them that what you are paying right now is just too much in this troubled economy, and that one of the first luxeries to go is going to be super hyper digital cable. I would be shocked it they say OK, it is off. I think you could talk them under $100 and keep everything you have, since they are struggling too. Just my thoughts. If anyone tries this, let me know how it turns out.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Store is Up and Running!!
Few Phone meetings and things over lunch today, so can't write much. However, the ebay store is up and running, with some items posted. The store is the C&C Stuff Factory. More details to come, but the first sale happened overnight. Tomorrow, my brother and I should be millionaires.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
How long should stuff last?
That was the question I asked Catherine after a successful return of a 3 year old Christmas gift. For Christmas 2005, Catherine received an iHome iPod alarm clock. An iPod alarm clock is a lot like a regular alarm clock, except it can wake you up to whatever is on your iPod. This particular version costs $100, which seems expensive, but if people are buying it, why not?
Catherine's alarm clock began to malfunction after about 1.5 years of service. In a nod to the device that gave the iHome clock life, it has two wheels that let you control things like volume, tuning, and setting the time for your alarms. One of the wheels started to work improperly to the point that the device was no longer usable. It sat on Catherine's dresser for some time (1.5 years), not doing anything.
This year during the Christmas season, we decided to try to return it to Bed, Bath & Beyond. It had now been about 3 years since the time the device was purchased. We saw two issues with this attempted return:
1) There have been possibly 2, but at least 1 new version of the alarm clock released since hers was purchased.
b) She wasn't sure it came from Bed, Bath & Beyond in the first place.
We did know that BBB sells the new version of the alarm clock, so we decided to try it out. We took the box and all of the original pieces back to the store and handed it to the cashier. She scanned the item and it came up on their system. Value: $99.99. She handed us a receipt for store credit, and that was that. She didn't even look in the box, which was fairly amazing. Doubly amazing was that the current iHome clock was selling for $89.99 as a part of a sale, AND we had a 20% off coupon, so it ended up costing much less than the 3 year old version we just traded in.
Places not named Radio Shack are usually very eager to please their customers, so it never hurts to try to return something that you believe has failed you. As I learned from Catherine's mom, places like Costco will take back any item you purchased their no questions asked for 2 years. They simply ship it back to the manufacturer and get a refund from them, claiming that the product did not live up to the customer's standards. Since Costco sells so much stuff, the manufacturer wouldn't dream of pulling out of there, so they comply. This benefits you greatly, and keeps the manufacturer from producing a crappy product which will be returned en masse.
Last point: how long should stuff last? I asked Catherine if she was disappointed in the length of time her clock lasted, and she said very. 1.5 years does seem like a short life span. But what about 3 years? 5 years? Many electronic products are upgraded on a yearly basis, and some even more frequently than that. This leaves us with a lot of outdated gadgets laying around, some of which no longer work correctly. Just because your device broke down after a year or so, and there's a new version out doesn't mean you should feel OK that your crappy product is broken. Talk to the retailer and see if you can return your item for credit towards the new one. If that doesn't work, talk to the manufacturer and see if they will help you.
And of course, if all of that fails, stage an 8 year boycott and send follow up letters to the CEO whenever you have a chance.
Catherine's alarm clock began to malfunction after about 1.5 years of service. In a nod to the device that gave the iHome clock life, it has two wheels that let you control things like volume, tuning, and setting the time for your alarms. One of the wheels started to work improperly to the point that the device was no longer usable. It sat on Catherine's dresser for some time (1.5 years), not doing anything.
This year during the Christmas season, we decided to try to return it to Bed, Bath & Beyond. It had now been about 3 years since the time the device was purchased. We saw two issues with this attempted return:
1) There have been possibly 2, but at least 1 new version of the alarm clock released since hers was purchased.
b) She wasn't sure it came from Bed, Bath & Beyond in the first place.
We did know that BBB sells the new version of the alarm clock, so we decided to try it out. We took the box and all of the original pieces back to the store and handed it to the cashier. She scanned the item and it came up on their system. Value: $99.99. She handed us a receipt for store credit, and that was that. She didn't even look in the box, which was fairly amazing. Doubly amazing was that the current iHome clock was selling for $89.99 as a part of a sale, AND we had a 20% off coupon, so it ended up costing much less than the 3 year old version we just traded in.
Places not named Radio Shack are usually very eager to please their customers, so it never hurts to try to return something that you believe has failed you. As I learned from Catherine's mom, places like Costco will take back any item you purchased their no questions asked for 2 years. They simply ship it back to the manufacturer and get a refund from them, claiming that the product did not live up to the customer's standards. Since Costco sells so much stuff, the manufacturer wouldn't dream of pulling out of there, so they comply. This benefits you greatly, and keeps the manufacturer from producing a crappy product which will be returned en masse.
Last point: how long should stuff last? I asked Catherine if she was disappointed in the length of time her clock lasted, and she said very. 1.5 years does seem like a short life span. But what about 3 years? 5 years? Many electronic products are upgraded on a yearly basis, and some even more frequently than that. This leaves us with a lot of outdated gadgets laying around, some of which no longer work correctly. Just because your device broke down after a year or so, and there's a new version out doesn't mean you should feel OK that your crappy product is broken. Talk to the retailer and see if you can return your item for credit towards the new one. If that doesn't work, talk to the manufacturer and see if they will help you.
And of course, if all of that fails, stage an 8 year boycott and send follow up letters to the CEO whenever you have a chance.
What can't you sell on ebay?!?!
I felt like writing about some ebay stories today, rather than my ranting and raving about a particular company. I have always been one to buy things online over buying things in the store. Just ask my brother. I am always telling him about the prices of something at buy.com, or bestbuy.com or some other place. Recently though, I realized that ebay is a great place to start for almost any item. Especially ones that wouldn't bother you if they were used (books, movies, games, light bulbs, parts, accesories). I have had great luck in the past selling basically anything and everything on ebay. I have sold used bowling balls, books, movies, CDs, old routers, old computer speakers, old computer monitors, old car magazines, a portable refrigerator, fans, and more. Basically, I think that any item you are staring at one weekend, thinking about replacing or just tossing entirely, it is worth it to post it up on ebay first. For your basic item, it is about $1.00 to post with some pictures, and for books it is even less (free to post if you use half.com or amazon over ebay). Sure there are some closing fees, but only if the items sell. If it doesn't sell, you are just out the posting fee. But if you do sell it, you make a little money for something that you were just going to discard.
Sometimes it is a bit disappointing to not sell an item. However, I can think of several times I did post something that I did not expect to sell and then it would go for a profit of maybe $5, $10, or maybe more. No it is not a fortune, but it helps offset the next item you do buy.
As to selling tips that I have observed, think of the same things that entice you to buy something from a particular online store. Free shipping is huge. Free shipping has made all the difference in selling items on ebay. However, you need to be sure that you get a good estimate of the shipping costs and figure that in to your price. The best thing I have seen is to take advantage of the Post Office. In particular, any media item should be sent media mail. It is dirt cheap. But, you have to make sure your item qualifies. It can't have any advertisements in it, that is the main rule. But there are others. Also, for larger items, the USPS has flat rate Priority mail boxes. These are great. No matter the weight of the item, the boxes are a flat price. Perfect for things like old magazines that weight a lot, but aren't large. Also good if you were to sell barbells, or something similar that is heavy but small. If your item does not fit into a flat rate box, and is not a book, then FedEX or UPS is the way to go. USPS has other options for large items, but their prices typically don't compare, and often times will be twice as much.
The other major thing that ebay has going for it is the lack of taxes. Some of the big time ebay stores have taxes depending on the state, but most do not. Free shipping, no taxes, sounds just like Delaware.
As for buying things on ebay, I have had great luck buying things like dress shirts and books, but also most recently compact fluorescent and LED light bulbs. These things are pricey to buy in the store, but there were some nice deals on larger lots of bulbs on ebay. Especially for a homeowner, you could get 20 60 Watt Compact bulbs for less than $20, and with free shipping. Sure these bulbs probably fell off a truck, but just don't think about that when you are enjoying cheaper energy bills.
Until next time...
Sometimes it is a bit disappointing to not sell an item. However, I can think of several times I did post something that I did not expect to sell and then it would go for a profit of maybe $5, $10, or maybe more. No it is not a fortune, but it helps offset the next item you do buy.
As to selling tips that I have observed, think of the same things that entice you to buy something from a particular online store. Free shipping is huge. Free shipping has made all the difference in selling items on ebay. However, you need to be sure that you get a good estimate of the shipping costs and figure that in to your price. The best thing I have seen is to take advantage of the Post Office. In particular, any media item should be sent media mail. It is dirt cheap. But, you have to make sure your item qualifies. It can't have any advertisements in it, that is the main rule. But there are others. Also, for larger items, the USPS has flat rate Priority mail boxes. These are great. No matter the weight of the item, the boxes are a flat price. Perfect for things like old magazines that weight a lot, but aren't large. Also good if you were to sell barbells, or something similar that is heavy but small. If your item does not fit into a flat rate box, and is not a book, then FedEX or UPS is the way to go. USPS has other options for large items, but their prices typically don't compare, and often times will be twice as much.
The other major thing that ebay has going for it is the lack of taxes. Some of the big time ebay stores have taxes depending on the state, but most do not. Free shipping, no taxes, sounds just like Delaware.
As for buying things on ebay, I have had great luck buying things like dress shirts and books, but also most recently compact fluorescent and LED light bulbs. These things are pricey to buy in the store, but there were some nice deals on larger lots of bulbs on ebay. Especially for a homeowner, you could get 20 60 Watt Compact bulbs for less than $20, and with free shipping. Sure these bulbs probably fell off a truck, but just don't think about that when you are enjoying cheaper energy bills.
Until next time...
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
First Major Boycott
Some of you may already know this story, or may at least know that I don't shop at Radio Shack but never knew why. Well, here is the story, and my follow up since then.
The story starts about 8 years ago, around this time of year actually. With our new connection to a cable modem, we no longer needed the second phone line in the computer room. So, my parents moved the second line to my bedroom since I used it most regularly anyway. For Christmas, I got an answering machine for that line, so that all of my friends could leave messages and people would not have to bother answering the line (this was of course before everyone had cell phones and no need for all these extra lines and phone machines and what-have-you). So, how psyched was I? I had my own phone line, and an answering machine. My very own Radio Shack brand answering machine, purchased at the local mall.
About two weeks later, the answering machine started doing funny things. Often times it would pick up and say nothing other than static. Other times the messages it collected would be inaudible. My mom could not find a receipt, buy hey, it is a Radio Shack branded item. I am sure they will at least offer me store credit, or an even exchange, without the receipt...
My mom and I arrive at the mall, and the man at the register tells us that with no receipt he cannot take it back, nor can we exchange it. Store policy. We say, well that is silly, but you are a mere register man and not in control of store policy. Let's talk to a manager. So out he comes.
Sorry guys, can't take it back, store policy. We make the argument again that the machine is a Radio Shack brand item, so it had to be purchased from Radio Shack. What is the difference if there is a receipt or not? Can't do it. So, we ask for the information for the next step up, the Regional Manager. The manager gives us the information, and away we went.
When I got home, we talked about what I should say. Ultimately, I decided that if this manager also refused to take the item back, I should inform him that I am a 10th grade male, who loves video games, tvs, stereos, and anything electronic. If this is their store policy, then I would make it my policy not to shop at such a store. It was good to have a plan, but I figured there was no way it would come to this. The Regional Manager would see the rediculous nature of the event, issue the return, and all would be right in the world.
Amazingly, ten minutes later, there I was, telling the regional manager exactly that. I would never shop at Radio Shack as long as I live. He basically said OK.
Since then, I have kept to my promise. I believe I was forced into ordering some electronic components from Radio Shack one time at school because the professor teaching the course had all the part numbers and such. Aside from that order, I have not shopped there since. I have actually sent Radio Shack in the sky two letters since then, just mentioning the amount of money that I estimate I have spent at Best Buy since that event, and the amount of money I have spent at Radio Shack. Maybe it would be time for an update, though I hesitate to figure out how much I have spent at Best Buy in the past 8 years.
So that is my story. The lesson I learned here in trying to get your way from a company is to always have a plan of what you intend to say before you call them. If things go correctly, you will never need to say them (though occasionally this is frustrating, as you get all revved up for a fight, call them up, and they just fix your problem without putting up a fight. How rude?!?!). Having written and called so many places since then, this is still one of the most surprising episodes. I am still just amazed that this $20 machine could not even be exchanged for the same item, still being sold in those stores. Some of these places are just not interested in making money.
The story starts about 8 years ago, around this time of year actually. With our new connection to a cable modem, we no longer needed the second phone line in the computer room. So, my parents moved the second line to my bedroom since I used it most regularly anyway. For Christmas, I got an answering machine for that line, so that all of my friends could leave messages and people would not have to bother answering the line (this was of course before everyone had cell phones and no need for all these extra lines and phone machines and what-have-you). So, how psyched was I? I had my own phone line, and an answering machine. My very own Radio Shack brand answering machine, purchased at the local mall.
About two weeks later, the answering machine started doing funny things. Often times it would pick up and say nothing other than static. Other times the messages it collected would be inaudible. My mom could not find a receipt, buy hey, it is a Radio Shack branded item. I am sure they will at least offer me store credit, or an even exchange, without the receipt...
My mom and I arrive at the mall, and the man at the register tells us that with no receipt he cannot take it back, nor can we exchange it. Store policy. We say, well that is silly, but you are a mere register man and not in control of store policy. Let's talk to a manager. So out he comes.
Sorry guys, can't take it back, store policy. We make the argument again that the machine is a Radio Shack brand item, so it had to be purchased from Radio Shack. What is the difference if there is a receipt or not? Can't do it. So, we ask for the information for the next step up, the Regional Manager. The manager gives us the information, and away we went.
When I got home, we talked about what I should say. Ultimately, I decided that if this manager also refused to take the item back, I should inform him that I am a 10th grade male, who loves video games, tvs, stereos, and anything electronic. If this is their store policy, then I would make it my policy not to shop at such a store. It was good to have a plan, but I figured there was no way it would come to this. The Regional Manager would see the rediculous nature of the event, issue the return, and all would be right in the world.
Amazingly, ten minutes later, there I was, telling the regional manager exactly that. I would never shop at Radio Shack as long as I live. He basically said OK.
Since then, I have kept to my promise. I believe I was forced into ordering some electronic components from Radio Shack one time at school because the professor teaching the course had all the part numbers and such. Aside from that order, I have not shopped there since. I have actually sent Radio Shack in the sky two letters since then, just mentioning the amount of money that I estimate I have spent at Best Buy since that event, and the amount of money I have spent at Radio Shack. Maybe it would be time for an update, though I hesitate to figure out how much I have spent at Best Buy in the past 8 years.
So that is my story. The lesson I learned here in trying to get your way from a company is to always have a plan of what you intend to say before you call them. If things go correctly, you will never need to say them (though occasionally this is frustrating, as you get all revved up for a fight, call them up, and they just fix your problem without putting up a fight. How rude?!?!). Having written and called so many places since then, this is still one of the most surprising episodes. I am still just amazed that this $20 machine could not even be exchanged for the same item, still being sold in those stores. Some of these places are just not interested in making money.
Monday, January 5, 2009
An Opening
So I decided to create this blog at the urging of my brother, and because sometimes time becomes available during the day.
Let me introduce this blog then. In the last year, I have become a bit of an ebay junkie. I started buying books in lots on ebay, with the sole purpose of selling them back to people, individually, on half.com and amazon.com. This may not sound as if it would offer much in the line of income, but it does surprisingly well. I started with a modest investment to buy some medical books and mental health books, and the results were OK. Took a little bit of time, but slowly I sold a few to come back to even. Then, the big break happened. In April, my mom wanted my bro and I to clean out the ol' bedroom. Not for the faint of heart. In the process, my brother decided that he didn't want some of his old graphic novels (superman, spiderman, those types of things but longer than comics). So, I put up about 12 of his books in early May, and by the end of May, most of them sold, for an average of about $5 per book. Again, this may not sound like a big deal, but the sites include an allowance for shipping. And if one buys all their stamps ahead of time, for any book less than a pound, shipping consists of stamps and a mailbox. Not too hard.
After these books, I decided to put some money into buying larger lots of graphic novels (mostly batman). In total, I have sold approximately 150 books, ranging from books on arthritis to a free giveaway to my newest Playboy subscription, to several school text books. While I have not yet made a fortune, I have continued to buy larger lots of books, with the thoughts of cashing in someday to buy a liquidated lot from a dealer.
Now ebay Phase II is the possible opening of an ebay store. Details to follow.
For the other subject in this blog, I think my mom summarizes it best. She mentioned one time that if there was a phrase that summarized my life, it might be "that's not fair". I have always been one to stand up, and tell someone what they are doing is not fair. Whether it was directly affecting me, someone I knew, or even a total stranger. I think mostly, it is either to prove a point, or to defend a principle alone. One way or the other, it has led to many an interesting story in my life. I frequently will write to companies about products I have purchased, and give them feedback. I want to share some of those results, and see what results others have seen. I can collect these ideas and we can get a good feel for which companies actually care about customers, and which ones just try to take your first dollar, and no interest in return business.
So, those are my intial thoughts here. I will try to write some ideas out over lunch breaks, etc. Looking forward to sharing some ideas and stories.
Let me introduce this blog then. In the last year, I have become a bit of an ebay junkie. I started buying books in lots on ebay, with the sole purpose of selling them back to people, individually, on half.com and amazon.com. This may not sound as if it would offer much in the line of income, but it does surprisingly well. I started with a modest investment to buy some medical books and mental health books, and the results were OK. Took a little bit of time, but slowly I sold a few to come back to even. Then, the big break happened. In April, my mom wanted my bro and I to clean out the ol' bedroom. Not for the faint of heart. In the process, my brother decided that he didn't want some of his old graphic novels (superman, spiderman, those types of things but longer than comics). So, I put up about 12 of his books in early May, and by the end of May, most of them sold, for an average of about $5 per book. Again, this may not sound like a big deal, but the sites include an allowance for shipping. And if one buys all their stamps ahead of time, for any book less than a pound, shipping consists of stamps and a mailbox. Not too hard.
After these books, I decided to put some money into buying larger lots of graphic novels (mostly batman). In total, I have sold approximately 150 books, ranging from books on arthritis to a free giveaway to my newest Playboy subscription, to several school text books. While I have not yet made a fortune, I have continued to buy larger lots of books, with the thoughts of cashing in someday to buy a liquidated lot from a dealer.
Now ebay Phase II is the possible opening of an ebay store. Details to follow.
For the other subject in this blog, I think my mom summarizes it best. She mentioned one time that if there was a phrase that summarized my life, it might be "that's not fair". I have always been one to stand up, and tell someone what they are doing is not fair. Whether it was directly affecting me, someone I knew, or even a total stranger. I think mostly, it is either to prove a point, or to defend a principle alone. One way or the other, it has led to many an interesting story in my life. I frequently will write to companies about products I have purchased, and give them feedback. I want to share some of those results, and see what results others have seen. I can collect these ideas and we can get a good feel for which companies actually care about customers, and which ones just try to take your first dollar, and no interest in return business.
So, those are my intial thoughts here. I will try to write some ideas out over lunch breaks, etc. Looking forward to sharing some ideas and stories.
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