Verizon Reverses $2 Monthly Invoice Fee After Customer and AG Backlash
Verizon introduced a $2 monthly fee for wireless customers accessing online invoice copies beginning March 5. Following customer complaints and a formal warning from the California attorney general, the company will rescind the fee and issue refunds to affected subscribers.
1. Controversial Invoice Fee
Verizon announced a $2 monthly charge for wireless subscribers who access or download their monthly invoices online, effective March 5. The company said the fee was intended to offset rising paper billing costs and encourage digital consolidation.
2. Regulatory and Customer Backlash
Within days of the announcement, thousands of customer complaints emerged and the California attorney general issued a warning that the fee may violate state consumer protection laws. Other state officials indicated they were reviewing similar policies to determine if they breach regulations.
3. Policy Rollback and Refunds
Verizon plans to withdraw the $2 invoicing fee before it takes effect and will refund any customers who were charged. The company stated it will communicate the refund process directly to wireless account holders in the coming weeks.