Hi,
I have signed up with a company that advertises itself on TV, for a contract of 300-something dollars (~Jun-2004). Now, by about Oct-Nov I couldn't pay my membership fees (I am a student and had not had a chance to work at that time) so, I called them and told them that I want to cancel my account. They offered me a "one-year membership", namely, "if you pay $60.05 now, we'll keep your account in good standing until June 2006". I agreed and have been charged that amount. Nevertheless, a few days ago I received a letter from a collection agency, stating that I owe this company 200-something dollars and that if I do not pay it - I'm screwed up. I called up the collection agency, found out the situation, and then called up the originating company. The representative told me that "we are going to call them [the collection agency] today and clear it out". I was much satisfied, but as I called the collection agency the day after, to make sure that it is through, I was told that it is not possible to "clear it out", once it's forwarded to them. I had to make a settlement to avoid screwing up my credit history, but I do feel violated - the company told me I can pay $60.05, they chraged it, and they told me I'll be OK until June. Suddenly, I have to come up with $200-something, not counting that my history may become screwed up, *and*! They closed my account! I'm plain outraged!
Is there a way to deal with this? I've already paid the settlement to avoid bad credit history, but this is just not right. If I call this company again, would it be legal to tape the conversation without their consent so that I can use it later (I could hook up the phone to the computer) or I'd have to notify them of this fact? Should I still file a dispute with the collection agency?
I mean, I avoided bad credit history, but I do want my money back, because I don't believe that money was taken right. They can keep the transaction fee, but I want my $200 back! Anyone, if you know something about such situations, please answer me!

Thank you,
Ivan

I do have a way of helping you even though your situation is pre-existing I honestly believe my company could give you a hand with your current situation.

The reason companies get away with basically screwing the little guy is because they have attorney's and we don't.

I completely know how you feel I have felt that way too. I had ordered a part for my car and was very specific on what part it was. The company sent the wrong part and kept my money, almost $200.00. I could not afford to call an attorney because it could have cost me upwards of 250.00 per hour just for consultation and action. More than the part but I felt my rights were violated! So what I did was contact my Pre-paid Legal Services Law Firm (one of the six titles that is included with my membership is UNLIMITED phone consultation)which I joined a few months back. My attorney with this law firm is writing a letter on my behalf at no charge to me. (also included in the membership) It's great to have the power just to not be taken advantage of.

My membership has paid for itself over and over again and even at that it wasn't expensive to join, less than a bottle of water a day!

And now I found a great way to meet people and share this information. It is also a wonderful source of income.

Please look at my website and see if it is something that can help you out.
View the movie it explains everything pretty quickly. Leveling the Playing Field