Insist that all offers from communications providers be sent to you in writing, then read and understand the offer before signing.

Keep records of the name and phone number of any marketing representative who sells you a phone-service package.

Be aware that your local phone company may bill for legitimate services from other providers. But read your monthly phone bill thoroughly and question unexplained charges via the phone number at the top of the bill.

Red flags might include unfamiliar company names or logos and/or general terms such as miscellaneous charges and credits, minimum-use fees, activation fees, member fees or voice mail.

Responding to sweepstakes, dating-service or adult-entertainment offers, or certain credit-card offers or filling out contest entry forms, can lead to unethical providers using your phone number to sign you up for unauthorized service. Avoid supposedly «free» services such as no-cost Web sites or Internet yellow-pages listings.

Be especially wary of telemarketing offers that ask you to enter codes, leave your name, or answer «yes» to prompts.

Renters should question extra fees for services such as «maintenance of inside wire services» that should be handled by landlords if legitimate.

Consider getting a block on your phone for all 900 numbers. Be aware that all 900 calls cost money, even if you’re calling to claim a «free» prize.

Be patient but persistent in demanding that unordered products and services be removed from your bill. If one representative doesn’t offer assistance, contact another.

Don’t be intimidated by representatives who imply that you don’t know what you’re talking about. Ask them to define terms that are unfamiliar to you.

Request that your local-service provider discontinue third-party billing; several already offer that option.

To confirm which long-distance network is on record as your provider, call toll-free (700) 555–4141.

To resolve problems, start with the company from whom the charge originated. If you get no satisfaction, call the carrier who sent the bill.

Follow up any related phone conversation with a letter, sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. Keep a copy for your files.

Complaints about nontelephone-related services on your phone bill can be filed with the Federal Trade Commission by calling (800) 292–9555 or www.ftc.gov.

To issue complaints about in-state telephone-related services on your bill, contact the Michigan Public Service Commission, utility complaints department, at (800) 292–9555 or www.michigan.gov/mpsc.

To issue complaints about out-of-state or international telephone services, contact the Federal Communications Commission at (888) CALL-FCC or fccinfo@fcc.gov

Michiganians can discuss disputes with SBC by calling (800) 292–9555 or with AT&T by calling (800) 222–0300 or a 24-hour hotline at (800) 585–5345.

Sources: SBC Communications Inc., AT&T AND FCC