DirecTV Even when the technician can't establish service you're screwed!! Brunswick, Georgia

I initiated service with Directv via online at www.directv.com.  I input my information and scheduled a time for the technician to visit my apartment. As an "incentive", I did not have any upfront fees; however, I noticed later there was a "$25 hold" on my debit card for some mysterious equipment fee.

Eventually, my appointment day came; however, after 2 days of trying to establish service the technician was not able to do so.  He contacted his company to report he could not establish service and had me verify the same with the representative. She explained that my account will be canceled without any further billing from the company. I mentioned to her that I believe my account was charged $25 for some equipment fee. She transferred me to billing.  At that time, the gentleman mentioned that all my money will be returned due to the inability to establish service.

Needless to say, I received a surprise cancellation charge of $407 on my debit card a week later! First, I called my bank because the charge was pending and to ask them to cancel it.  They stated they could not do anything until the charge actually posts to the account and then I could file a claim; however, they stated I would need to contact Directv first. My next phone call was to Directv asking them why my account was charged the amount. The representative told me that I "canceled" services and that was the fee.  I explained to the representative what happened last week and the service could not be established. She put me on hold to review my account.  Upon returning to the phone, she agreed with my version of events and stated my money will be returned.  I asked how long reimbursement will take, she mentioned 6 to 8 weeks!  I told her I could not wait 6 to 8 weeks and I need the charge removed immediately.  She said because the account was activated on their end, I would have to wait. Even speaking the supervisor, I heard the same poppycock and was offered a mailing address to submit a written complaint. They also wouldn't remove my debit card from their files unless I replace it with another one!

Subsequently, I contacted my bank to initiate a dispute.  The bank reversed the charge in my favor and thus I had them cancel my debit card since Directv would not remove my card from their files.