Average phone & telecom debt: $500. Telecom debt from cell phone, internet, and cable bills. The FCC regulates billing practices. Early termination fees and equipment charges are the most common disputes.
Common Columbia Ultimate Violations
Collecting on debts discharged in bankruptcy
Failing to update credit reports after dispute
Adding unauthorized interest charges
Phone & Telecom Debt Dispute Strategies
1
File FCC complaint for billing disputes
2
Challenge early termination fees
3
Dispute equipment charges with proof of return
4
Validate collection amounts under FDCPA
5
File state AG complaint for deceptive practices
Tips Against Columbia Ultimate
If you filed bankruptcy, send them your discharge papers immediately
Columbia collects utility and telecom debts — check final statements
Demand they remove inaccurate entries from all three credit bureaus