The Fine Print

A postcard came in the mail, addressed to me OR CURRENT RESIDENT:

...XX High Speed Internet
   . . .
Plans as low as $24.99 per month

Then there is an asterisk *

* . . . $24.99 monthly pricing requires a 1 year service plan. Rates subject to change after one year. Modem lease required to use service, $4.00 per month.

Now we're at $28.99 per month, if my adding is correct.

* Shipping and handling fee of $12.99 applies.

Oh, plus a one-time fee of $12.99. Let's see, 12.99/12 = $1.08, so if we prorate that we're at $30.07 per month.

* Professional installation may be required depending on service area for $99 per visit.

It's cimbing...

* Additional charges and taxes apply.

Wha...?!

* Service level and features my vary by rate plan and service area and are subject to change without notice.

Emphasis mine.

* Shipping and handling and installation charges are not refundable. Uninterrupted service is not guaranteed. Additional terms apply...

So, let's see -- it's not really $24.99; it's at least $30.07 plus additional charges and taxes, and, if professional installation is required it prorates to at least $38.32 per month (plus additional charges and taxes, of course.)

And, uninterrupted service is not guaranteed. So, you agree that you may not even get what you are paying more than you'd bargained for.

My point isn't that this particular company is trying to slip something by us -- I'm sure that there are similar fine print qualifications on my own internet service contract, that I didn't even read. I didn't read it, because I needed/ wanted the service.

It's more to wonder: when did we begin accepting this practice as routine and acceptable? Not even worth notice?

Just sigh and sign.

Furthermore, much to my amusement, this fine print addition is copyright noticed: All Rights Reserved.

Well. If the company concerned wishes me to credit them, hey -- just drop me a note and I'll be happy to do so.

Wouldn't want to bend the rules by stealing your fine print copy. [Yes, I had to use a magnifying glass.]

Gosh no.

Comments

[PetMono]

For the last four months as I am paying my cell phone bill via credit card, before I pay I go to customer service and ask them to credit all charges on my text messaging. I don't text message as my bill shows but I get quite a bit for people/services i don't know. I am reminded that my contract includes text messaging.

Well, no need to go on. But I feel your pain. I've got to go pay my cell bill now.