Sprint PCS won't turn service off

For three months I have been trying to contact a Sprint representative to clear up my account. The facts are as follows:

Dec. 27, 1999: I ordered a Srint PCS phone over the internet.

Jan. 11, 2000: I received the phone. I charged the phone battery.

Jan. 12, 2000: I tried to use the phone in my neighborhood. The signal strength was too low for service. I decided to return the phone and cancel service. I called 1-888-211-4727 . The line was so busy that a recorded message suggested that I call again later.

Jan 13, 2000: I called the same number, and eventually reached a "customer advocate". I asked her to cancel my service, and requested a "return kit" for the instrument.

Jan. 21, 2000 I received the return kit.

Jan. 24, 2000 I returned the instrument. UPS Tracking number RS32443.

Feb. 10, 2000 (Approximate date) I received a bill for service for January, and called 1-888-211-4727. I talked to someone named Carola. I explained the problem, and she said that she would make sure the service had been canceled, and that my account would be closed. She told me that I would eventually receive credit on my credit card for the initial charges for the phone and taxes ($139.41).

Feb 21, 2000 (Approximate date) I received a second bill stating that I was late with payment of the first bill. I sent a letter explaining the situation. I sent it using the envelope enclosed with the bill.

Mar. 13.2000 I received a third bill, stating that I owe $102.78. I have written a second letter in response.


I must emphasize that I have not made a single call with this phone. I did not have any signal at my home. I returned the phone. Sprint owes me $139.41. I do not owe them a damned penny. I am concerned that they will ruin my credit rating since I have no intention of paying anything for services not rendered.

If the Rip Off report doesn't help, I will try the CPUC complaint process.