Phone tax refunds still available - Wayne-Wilson News Leader, Fremont, NC

6 September 2007 — AT&T North Carolina, which provides DSL Internet service to North Carolina consumers, has agreed to improve its rebate program, Attorney General Roy Cooper announced this week.

“Some people who were entitled to rebates for Internet service had trouble getting their money,” said Cooper. “We’re glad that this company agreed to work with us to help North Carolina consumers get their rebates.”

Under the terms of the agreement, AT&T will provide rebates to eligible North Carolina consumers within 60 days of receiving the completed rebate form or within 60 days of submission for rebate claims submitted electronically. AT&T has agreed to investigate any complaints by North Carolinians who didn’t receive rebates and to provide rebates to eligible consumers in a reasonable period of time without requiring them to reapply. In addition, AT&T will keep detailed records of complaints by North Carolina consumers about the rebate process and provide training for its customer service representatives.

Since January of 2006, Cooper’s Consumer Protection Division has received 16 complaints from AT&T customers who experienced problems with their rebates for DSL Internet service. Those consumers have since gotten their rebates.

Problems receiving rebates are a common source of complaints to Cooper’s Consumer Protection Division. Cooper encourages consumers to follow these tips when applying for a rebate:

Follow the instructions on the rebate form carefully. If you have questions, call the company that administers the rebate program. Mistakes or misunderstandings can cause your rebate claim to be denied.
Make a copy of all paperwork before you mail in the rebate. Keep a copy of everything in case a problem arises. It’s also a good idea to send your rebate by certified mail or get delivery confirmation to verify that the company received it. If you submit your form online, print a copy for your records.
Contact the company if the rebate does not arrive within the time promised. Most manufacturers and rebate companies have websites and phone numbers to track your rebate.
If your rebate never arrives, file a complaint with Cooper’s Consumer Protection Division by calling toll-free 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or go online to www.ncdoj.gov to print a complaint form.

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