I just got my Verizon Wireless Bill. There was an almost extra $20 in taxes and surcharges, which (of course) are never part of the advertised rate. In reviewing the bill, I noticed the following gem:
Verizon Wireless will begin assessing an “Administrative Charge” of $0.40 per line per month on October 1, 2005. This charge will help defray certain costs we incur, currently including: (i) fees and assessments on network facilities and services, (ii) charges we, or our agents, pay local telephone companies for delivering calls from our customers to their customers, and (iii) certain costs and charges associated with proceedings related to new cell site construction.
You know, when I was learning about business, the cost of doing business was built into the price you advertised and charged, not hidden as a fee. Next thing you know, everyone will be getting free service, and the entire bill will be surcharges and fees.
What happened to “Truth in Advertising”. Sigh.
