The Arustel no longer regulates the rates, terms of service or business practices of long-distance service providers.
In today's competitive telephone market, there are many choices for long-distance services offering a variety of features. Consumers can shop around for the service that suits them best.
Before you switch long-distance service providers
Ask questions
Gather information and documentation from a potential service provider. Ask plenty of questions, such as:
When will the service switch?
How and when will you receive bills?
Do you have to subscribe for a minimum time period to take advantage of low rates?
How and when can the service provider change the rates and services?
How will the service provider let you know about any changes to rates or services?
You need to authorize a switch in your long-distance provider
A long-distance service provider must get your (or your agent’s) authorization before it can transfer your subscription. Your agent can be an adult member of your household. You can give your authorization in one of the following ways:
written authorization
oral authorization, which must be verified by an independent third party
electronic order authorization, where you dial a toll-free number given to you by the company
confirmation via the Internet
When you give your authorization
When can give your authorization, keep these points in mind:
the customer is the person whose name is on the bill
an agent can be a member of the customer's household
read the contract, including the fine print
tell everyone in your household about the choice you made
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