Verizon created two accounts in error while I ported a number last fall. These accounts should not exist and do not have associated services or existing phone numbers. I began receiving bills for both in the fall. I have spent many hours on the phone with customer support and have been told repeatedly I don't owe any of these amounts. Eventually the main balance was removed, but 9.99 in taxes was left on both accounts. Again, I was repeatedly told I didn't owe this and that it would be removed the next billing cycle.
Now, I have received notice that one of the accounts with 9.99 in charges was sent to collections.(If I knew this would be such a pain I would have paid to stop dealing with it months ago!! But they kept telling me it was going to be resolved). I have documentation in the form of text messages from Verizon customer support that I do not own any charges on this account number. Both Verizon and the collections agency say they are unable to withdraw the debt, they refer me to each other as the party with the power to resolve the issue.
Does anyone have experience with inaccurate charges sent to collections? How do I resolve this without it impacting my credit report? Is it best to dispute through the collection agency, or through Verizon, or pay the charge and try to get it removed if it shows up on my credit report next month? Does Verizon ever fix their own mistakes???
