[BC] Cancelling AOL

[James Kuzman]

I tried for nine months to cancel AOL:

1) Tried the "90 days free" just to see if the service/software had 
improved.  It had not.  IP stack and software inter-action nightmares a plenty

2) Within 30 days, called to canel.  Was told I could not cancel 
before the 90 day trial was up.  Call back in 60 days.

3) Called back in 60 days.  AOL offered to extend the service at a 
reduced cost.  No thank you.  Please cancel - no problem - done deal?

4) 2 months later, I'm still getting my credit card hit for 
service.  Called back.  Whoops, sorry, we'll cancel you this time if 
you're sure.  Yes, I'm sure.  Please cancel.  Done deal?

5) 2 months later, still getting billed.  Called the credit card 
company to dispute.  They said it happens all the time with AOL - 
cancel the card - don't give AOL the new number.  Did that, had to 
give out the new number to the services that I actually wanted to 
auto-debit from the card (small pain in the a**).

6) Next month, received a reminder from AOL.  They can't hit the 
credit card. No kidding...

7) Following month, a bill shows up for 2 months of service since 
they can't hit the credit card.  Called.  Explained and 
complained.  Sorry about that - can you give us the new credit 
card?  We can't cancel without a valid card.  I refused.

8) Next month, a bill shows up for 3 months with the "we'll turn you 
over to collection" threat.  Called.  Explained.  Complained.  HAD to 
give them a new, valid number after escalation of the call through 
managers, supervisors, etc.  Had to REALLY haggle to get them to 
waive the 3 months charges they could not get from the cancelled card.

All in all, I lost about $150 to them, and used the service for all 
of two weeks.  NEVER AGAIN.

Jim Kuzman