Sprint's "free trial" is a fraud
I just finished a conversation with (count 'em) five people at Sprint that insisted that the 14-day free trial period for Nextel only applies to the phone itself. It was like Alice Through the Looking Glass! Even though I returned the phone in 11 days, they said that because I had used minutes, I owed them for the plan. That revelation only came after I got a dunning notice for the bill I of course never thought I needed to pay and just "crossed in the mail" during the trial period. Oh, by the way I was supposed to know to call Nextel and cancel the plan after I left the store.
Since I have done trials with T-mobile, Cingular, and Verizon over the years, and NOBODY ever even hinted that the minutes used during the trial period were billa...
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Since I have done trials with T-mobile, Cingular, and Verizon over the years, and NOBODY ever even hinted that the minutes used during the trial period were billa...
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wait did they charge you for minutes (like overage 40c a min or something) or for the plan itself for the 11 days it was active? if its the first one thats messed up, if its the second then you are stupid for being shocked.
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Well buddy looks like your not happy, What the five yes count them five employees you talked too should of known is that they werent suppose to return the phone until it was canceled. Second the free trial isnt completely free, true i will give you that. but your activation fee is supposed to get refunded, (if not just contact them and let them know and they will refund it...done it for customers before) you wont charged for the whole month. for example: if your plan was $50 and you used it for 14 days you should only get charged for about $24 dollors worth of usage. everything else is suppose to get refunded, Act Fee, Deposit... and so on except for what you used. đ
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I'm sorry, but personally I READ anything BEFORE signing it, and if needed I ASK QUESTIONS. Because, now you are giving a bad rep to an error that you made...Not Sprint's fault you didn't ask. Personlly, I say YOU ARE THE FRAUD, NOT SPRINT. đĄ
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here is a very viable scenerio. Customer has a 500 minute plan. They use all 500 minutes. They cancelled 2 weeks in. They would have half the month refunded, but then they would only have had access to half the minutes. So they would be charged 250 minutes overage...
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yeah sorry to say it but i trust no salesperson ever which is why all companies have those nice little brochures printed up by the legal department which says what the "actual" policy is. hate to hear you had to have this happen to you but if nothing else use this as a lesson to read everything before you sign anything.
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I find it hard to believe that people believe the BS that some salespeople spew.
If it is too good to be true, it probably isn't true.
If it is too good to be true, it probably isn't true.
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a lot of the BS is based on ignorance of policies (it's rampant in all carriers) and basic greed. If I sell you this phone I get this much money compensation and if I see this many phones I get this much on my next check. It's the nature of the beast. I've seen some Verizon reps pull some doozies
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Ahhhhh, the "Nobody told me" method.
I would be willing to bet somewhere in plain english it was explained that you must pay for the service you use within the 14 days. ALL those other carriers you mentioned charge for the time used so to say you tried them and expected this is ignorant on your part. IF they told you it was 100% free during the trial then you have a complaint.
I would be willing to bet somewhere in plain english it was explained that you must pay for the service you use within the 14 days. ALL those other carriers you mentioned charge for the time used so to say you tried them and expected this is ignorant on your part. IF they told you it was 100% free during the trial then you have a complaint.
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There is no such thing as "free". There's always some kind of catch and again. Every carrier has something like this and every carrier charges you for the minutes used!!
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It's not a "free trial" it's a "risk free guarantee" which means if you are unhappy with your phone or your service you are allowed to cancel within the 14 day period w/o termination fees. This does not mean you get to use your phone as much as you want for free for 14 days and then cancel. Sprint will prorate your rate plan instead of charging you a full month. I'm not exactly sure what the formula for the proration is but it has something to do with how many minutes you used, what your rate plan is, and how many days you used it.
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KUDOS on the explanation! That's as good as it gets as far as explained goes, bottom line! It isn't a free trial, and, as a matter of fact, I've never heard Sprint refer to it as a free trial. Just 14 days to cancel the contract.
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rate plan divided by 30 days = base daily price... number of days account active times base daily price = prorated amount + taxes/fees
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What i am at issue with on this is when did you people pay the activation fee?? With Sprint, the activation fee is on your first bill, not paid in advance. If you had a deposit, that is due back to you minus your usage.
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THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A FREE TRIAL!
Whoever told you that they have one is the fraud.
You can cancel your contract in 14 days with no termination fee.
I sell their service for a living, and never had problems with cancelling the service. Plus, they are fair about the billing even if you cancel.
Why would they hand out $200-$400 worth of merchandise with free service? To lose money? People would abuse this to no end. Get real.
Whoever told you that they have one is the fraud.
You can cancel your contract in 14 days with no termination fee.
I sell their service for a living, and never had problems with cancelling the service. Plus, they are fair about the billing even if you cancel.
Why would they hand out $200-$400 worth of merchandise with free service? To lose money? People would abuse this to no end. Get real.
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this guy needs to share whatever drugs he's on....it says in plain as daylight print, on the front page, that he has 14 to return the service, he'll still get charged for whatever minutes he used...
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Sorry, it doesn't work like that. You need something in writing saying the trial is free for the service. You can't just assume things although many customers tend to.
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I don't doubt that you were lied to and received poor service by a customer respresentative in the store. It's quite common.
Sometimes I go to "browse" just to hear what lies they are telling customers that day. On some occassions, I'll interject and ask a question myself that will force them into backtracking their obvious fabrications of the truth.
Anyhow, on Sprint does clearly state on their website:
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Sometimes I go to "browse" just to hear what lies they are telling customers that day. On some occassions, I'll interject and ask a question myself that will force them into backtracking their obvious fabrications of the truth.
Anyhow, on Sprint does clearly state on their website:
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14-Day Risk-Free Guarantee
Try Sprint risk free for 14 days. If you're not completely satisfied with the Nationwide Sprint PCS Network, your service or phone, simply return your phone and deactivate service within 14 days.
We'll refund your activation fee and waive your early termination fee, and you will only
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i'm interested to hear some of these 'fabrications' you have heard. not that i doubt you because i have heard some myself. more interested in knowing what people are saying.
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captainplooky said:...
I don't doubt that you were lied to and received poor service by a customer respresentative in the store. It's quite common.
Sometimes I go to "browse" just to hear what lies they are telling customers that day. On some occassions, I'll interject and ask a question myself that will force them into backtracking their obvious fabrications of the truth.
Anyhow, on Sprint does clearly state on their website:
14-Day Risk-Free Guarantee
Try Sprint risk free for 14 days. If you're not completely satisfied with the Nationwide Sprint PCS Network, your service or phone, simply return your phone and deactivate service within 14 days.
We'll refund your activation fee and waive your
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the market calls that slamming a customer, not lying... when you add services, make promises or conveniently forget to mention that the 30day free trial on your cable subscription doesn't end automatically end after 30days... in the end it's all in the paperwork and suffer the fool that just signs and doesn't read it. P.S. the wireless industry should be crusading against itself... wait... since we're using medieval references... I would dare say self-inquistioning itself. đ
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You spend your free time at wireless stores waiting to hear people lie?
Go see a movie or something.
Go see a movie or something.
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texaswireless said:
You spend your free time at wireless stores waiting to hear people lie?
Go see a movie or something.
For real!!! Why would you go into someone else's job and mess with them like that?? How would YOU like someone messing with your money?? Bet you wouldn't...
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Oh, I understand the whole "Mystery Shopper" concept. But, captainplooky "Interjects" (steps in) on a sale to grill the Rep. Man, I feel bad for the rep if they don't know their shhhhh.
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That in the market is called "a busy body" ha.. hey.. I've been known to do it and I work for one of the 5 top carriers. You can't help but correct mis-information, sometimes you actually encourage the sale by correcting the false data.
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A busy body indeed đ ...I have done it once or twice, but only to the Reps that work with me. I work for a Corporate Owned Sprint Store, and you know working for Corporate means you can't slip, cause if you do it's OFF WITH YOUR HEAD!! đ
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Plooky- I'll take a ticket to "Princess Diaries"
Booth Attendant- ok, that'll be $10.
Plooky- WHAT, I've been a loyal customer at this theater for 38 years!!!! I spoke to customer service, and they told me to come to the theater and my ticket would be free. I refuse to pay for this movie, I'm a informed consumer, and you sir are wrong!
B.A- Sir, we've been open for a year now. And do you have a coupon for the movie? That's the only way I can let you in for free.
Plooky- Do you know who I am? I need no coupon. I'm a tech bubble survivor b*tch! The money you lost, I gained!! Now fetch me your manager boy!
B.A.- My manager isn't here.
Plooky- (dropping the infamous quote) "Kudos to your acceptance of the status quo." ...
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Booth Attendant- ok, that'll be $10.
Plooky- WHAT, I've been a loyal customer at this theater for 38 years!!!! I spoke to customer service, and they told me to come to the theater and my ticket would be free. I refuse to pay for this movie, I'm a informed consumer, and you sir are wrong!
B.A- Sir, we've been open for a year now. And do you have a coupon for the movie? That's the only way I can let you in for free.
Plooky- Do you know who I am? I need no coupon. I'm a tech bubble survivor b*tch! The money you lost, I gained!! Now fetch me your manager boy!
B.A.- My manager isn't here.
Plooky- (dropping the infamous quote) "Kudos to your acceptance of the status quo." ...
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I actually do refuse to show my ID in appropriate situations. I also refuse to answer questions and consent to unwarranted searches. I take my freedom and the sacrifice of those who died to preserve it quite seriously.
I go about it a bit more judiciously though then portrayed in your story.
I learned a long time ago that being uninformed of your rights allows people in authority (like police officers) to deny you those rights by intimidation and threats.
If interested, I'd check out these sites. They are straight-forward and fairly concise. Also remember laws vary from state to state so be sure know your state's law.
http://www.flexyourrights.org/busted/movie_clips »
http://www.aclu.org/police/gen/14528res20040730 »...
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I actually do refuse to show my ID in appropriate situations. I also refuse to answer questions and consent to unwarranted searches. I take my freedom and the sacrifice of those who died to preserve it quite seriously.
I go about it a bit more judiciously though then portrayed in your story.
I learned a long time ago that being uninformed of your rights allows people in authority (like police officers) to deny you those rights by intimidation and threats.
If interested, I'd check out these sites. They are straight-forward and fairly concise. Also remember laws vary from state to state so be sure know your state's law.
http://www.flexyourrights.org/busted/movie_clips »
http://www.aclu.org/police/gen/14528res20040730 »...
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Btw - another tip that might not be read or seen in those videos that is very helpful:
If you are every pulled over by an officer while driving a motor vehicle, DO NOT APOLOGIZE to the officer.
An apology, in some areas, can be considered an admission of guilt.
If you are every pulled over by an officer while driving a motor vehicle, DO NOT APOLOGIZE to the officer.
An apology, in some areas, can be considered an admission of guilt.
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I checked out the first link, it's got some good info, but there are some things that you cannot combat. Like if they have reason to believe you are armed, which involves such things as being black for instance, they can search you. Also, they do like to use their little doggies. Had it happen once, but it turned out to be a waste of time for everyone involved. I'm not going to check out the second link, because the ACLU is a joke.
But on a lighter note, I think that you may be a we3d head, because you know how to get out of this stuff đ¤Ŗ
But on a lighter note, I think that you may be a we3d head, because you know how to get out of this stuff đ¤Ŗ
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They have the legal right to frisk the outside only if they have a basis to suspect you are armed.
You should clearly state you do no consent to any searches during this time.
If they reach inside your back pocket and take out your wallet to obtain your ID, they have violated your rights.
You should clearly state you do no consent to any searches during this time.
If they reach inside your back pocket and take out your wallet to obtain your ID, they have violated your rights.
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Also, I understand the perspective you have towards the ACLU, but they do have valid points from time to time.
-- ACLU
We all recognize the need for effective law enforcement, but we should also understand our own rights and responsibilities -- especially in our relationships with the police. Everyone, including minors, has the right to courteous and respectful police treatment.
If your rights are violated, don't try to deal with the situation at the scene. You can discuss the matter with an attorney afterwards, or file a complaint with the Internal Affairs or Civilian Complaint Board.
-- ACLU
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ACLU is a freaking joke and straps this country more then helping it...
I do take issue with a recent case where a female allowed an officer into their home because her husband was dealing drugs. The cops come in, searched, found the substances where they were TOLD they were. A judge threw out the case because the HUSBAND didn't consent to the search. His rights were "VIOLATED". Of course all the youngsters he pushed his "substances" on don't have the right to have this type of person taken off the streets. Remember, one party consented to the search and the police had ample evidence that he had the stuff. Yes, they could have got a search warrant, but assumed that since one party agreed to the entrance it would be okay. But our LO...
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I do take issue with a recent case where a female allowed an officer into their home because her husband was dealing drugs. The cops come in, searched, found the substances where they were TOLD they were. A judge threw out the case because the HUSBAND didn't consent to the search. His rights were "VIOLATED". Of course all the youngsters he pushed his "substances" on don't have the right to have this type of person taken off the streets. Remember, one party consented to the search and the police had ample evidence that he had the stuff. Yes, they could have got a search warrant, but assumed that since one party agreed to the entrance it would be okay. But our LO...
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Yes, we must continue regulating people's personal preferences.
Who cares if adults can make decisions for themselves regarding prescription drugs and alcohol, both of which are as equally deadly if not more.
Who cares if our prisons are filled with minor drug offenders due to prohibition-like laws while violent offenders and child molesters go free. Not to mention the drunk drivers continue to get their license and drive on the same roads as us.
I could go on, but I won't. I think you might wanna research more on the ACLU before jumping on the media bandwagon anytime some case comes up that you don't agree with.
Who cares if adults can make decisions for themselves regarding prescription drugs and alcohol, both of which are as equally deadly if not more.
Who cares if our prisons are filled with minor drug offenders due to prohibition-like laws while violent offenders and child molesters go free. Not to mention the drunk drivers continue to get their license and drive on the same roads as us.
I could go on, but I won't. I think you might wanna research more on the ACLU before jumping on the media bandwagon anytime some case comes up that you don't agree with.
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Every carrier has a 14 day trial period, but, if you talk on it you will be billed for your use with ALL carriers. The 14 day "trial period" is 14 days to out on the contract without a deact fee.
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I would love to know where Sprint advertises that they have a "FREE" trail period.
Almost every carrier has a 14 day trial period but no where is the word free. Am I reading something wrong??
Almost every carrier has a 14 day trial period but no where is the word free. Am I reading something wrong??
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Everybody wants everything for free....even if its just 5 min of service that was used....
If the sales rep wrote anything down saying 14 Day FREE Everything Trial, then you would have a case to be won...but I'm sure they didn't
Any carrier charges for minutes used, unless there is some kind of promo going on (which I've never heard of with the 14 Day Trial Period)
I'm not trying to be mean, but why would it be free? At least they refund activation fees now, those used to be a non-refundable 36.00 charge. (that may have only been in the affiliate markets tho)
If the sales rep wrote anything down saying 14 Day FREE Everything Trial, then you would have a case to be won...but I'm sure they didn't
Any carrier charges for minutes used, unless there is some kind of promo going on (which I've never heard of with the 14 Day Trial Period)
I'm not trying to be mean, but why would it be free? At least they refund activation fees now, those used to be a non-refundable 36.00 charge. (that may have only been in the affiliate markets tho)
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If you actually read the plan book, or the legally binding 2 year contract you sign when you get the phone. It states that you agree to pay the ENTIRE FIRST BILLED MONTH no matter when you return your phone. so even if you only kept it for 3 hours by contract you owe the first month. Most of the time Sprint-Nextel will only charge you for the usage, but you are under contract to pay the entire first month. It seems like neither you nor the employees have ever read what the material say.
I say shame on you. Its because of antics like that we now have warning labels on Coffee that remind us that it is hot, and warning on our soda reminding us that carbonation causes pressure, and warnings on our microwaves that remind us that they ar...
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I say shame on you. Its because of antics like that we now have warning labels on Coffee that remind us that it is hot, and warning on our soda reminding us that carbonation causes pressure, and warnings on our microwaves that remind us that they ar...
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1) always read the contract 2) the 14day policy is on the handset return only 3) you're responsible ALWAYS for the minutes used on your phone (you signed the contract) 4) is it Sprint or Nextel you have a problem with because they are still operational 2 different companies & finally 5) you're angry and upset and that doesn't make the other carriers better.
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