Mobile phone contract quandrary

[myojo]

I entered into an 18 month contract with '3' seven months ago, on the proviso that after 6 months I would receive a cheque for �160 (I took 2 phones). On going into the shop to enquire as to where my money was, I was told I should have sent off a slip within 6 months of purchase. The 6 months has expired and they say I'm too late. I told them just to cancel the phones, however I will still be liable for �60 every month until Apr 2007! How easy is it to get out of these contracts? Can I just cancel the direct debit?

[Madgirl2]

Unfortunately the contract regarding the cashback offer is with the retailer not with 3. Therefore if you cancel your direct debit, 3 are entitled (and will) pursue you for payment through debt collectors etc. I used to be a troubleshooter for cashback offers with a mobile operator so I know the process. The retailer will argue that the terms and conditions of your cashback offer would have been provided to you at the point of sale so if you failed to adhere to these then you do not get your cashback. Your situation is typical of many I have seen and most people do not get their money if they are outwith the timescales. If I were you I would NOT cancel your direct debit as you will be pursued aggressively for breach of your 3 contract. It ain't worth the stress or adverse credit information. If you're unhappy with the retailer's conduct you should write to that particular retailer's executive office and complain. If it's not part of a large chain of retailers then your only option is to go to Trading Standards with your grievance. Good luck!

[THECORBYLOON]

There are many contracts giving money back. folk are tempted by the "�100 cashback" but companies are not daft enough to gie it back immediately, they insist on the likes of vouchers or bills being sent back at various points during the contract.

If it's an 18-month contract, which many are now, you may get money back after the first three months but have to wait another 12 or 15 to complete the cashback.

The companies rely on the fact that folk forget about the deal near the end of the contract or send in the vouchers outwith the specified period. In the meantime you're paying the full rate so the company is happy.