Embarq is an Ostrich for Consumers with problems and concerns Elizabeth City North Carolina

I'm completely insane right now about the lack of concern and care for Embarq customers. In Oct. 2008 I had a business account - and cancelled that account - choosing to get a toll free number in lieu of a local business number. The account was paid in full. In fact, the account was overpaid by $77.59. I received 30 days later a refund check from Embarq for the amount of $77.59 - as I had overpaid the account.

I am receiving harrassing and threatening phone calls from Embar's collection agency - RPM. The collector who called - is demanding immediate payment on the account - in the amount of $77.59. I told him his information is incorrect - and that amount is not outstanding with Embarq and in fact is a credit that was owed to me. He refused to take my suggestion to contact his client - and kept demanding immediate payment - or I would need to contact my attorney as I will be sued. I then told him - no money is owed - and unless litigation papers are in his hands to be filed today - he should not be threatening litigation. He became more threatening and absolutely refused to contact his client - Embarq. I hung up.

I then called Embarq - and asked for customer service. Of course, first step is to give them the number of the account you are calling about, which I did. Lo and behold - because the account is closed and paid in full - they couldn't bring anything up on that account - throughout their entire database - even though the account was inactivated in Oct. 2008. I told them what was occurring - and asked them to call their collection agency and to stop the threatening and harrassing phone calls. I was told "we have no control over our collection agency" and that I would have to deal with them directly. I informed the Embarq customer care representative that I received a refund check from Embarq, the account was overpaid, and the collection agency is trying to collect on a "credit" due to me - not an amount outstanding and due to Embarq. It was like talking to someone who has no concern of my situation. Completely frustrating.

It's amazing that neither Embarq nor the collection agency - RPM - is willing to make a phone inquiry to stop the senseless phone calls. I have all of my paperwork, naturally, and if this isn't nipped in the bud by someone - I will cancel my personal service with Embarq as well. How in the world can a company like Embarq - have no record of an account that was active in Oct. 2008 - is their database that obsolete? I am currently conducting my own investigation of RPM - and am finding much complaints from consumers relative to their tactics. I tell you - both companies better get their communications straightened out - consumer laws are in place to protect people from such insanity.

Nc investigator
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
U.S.A.