Help: AT&T problem

[superstar]

How do I get back on good terms with my cell phone carrier? (AT&T)?

I have been with AT&T for the past 4 years and last year I was really bad on my payments. My phone got disconnected a bunch of times, but I eventually paid to get my account up to date. Right now I want to upgrade my phone, but I cannot get any of the cool online or in-store discounted prices because of my negative history with them. They said If I want the phone I have to pay full price for it, with an additional contract!

How do I get on good terms with them so I can get the sale price? I tried talking to them and begging them, saying Ive been a loyal customer for 4 years, but they wouldn't have it!

[irina]

Pay them what they want, because your history with them will stay on their computer system forever. You will have to bite the bullet and deal with it for a while. Eventually, after you build up a good payment history with them, then they will trust you with better phones and better options, and you will be eligible for better rates.

You could try switching to another carrier, however you will most likely face the same experience. No matter what company you try to do business with, once you are in the system, all companies track your performance records/credit rating and they base their decisions about you accordingly.

So, like I said, just stick to it, be patient, and make sure you pay the bills on time, every time. It will all work out sooner or later.

[lizabert]

Hey! I actually work for the "collections" department for the company for a few years! We did make changes whenever AT&T took over. The new policy is that we will not allow upgrades until the customers are about out of contract if they are habitually disconnected: like 4 times in a year. Unfortunately, even with manager approval, this cannot be overridden. A person can be late with payments, just do not go so far to have their phone turned off. It's not good business cents for customers or AT&T.

So- pay on time every time and you will be able to upgrade with proven track history within 4-6 months.

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