When this problem arises
- Charges appear for services not ordered
- A promised rate differs from the bill
- Billing continues after a documented service cancellation
Potential legal protections
Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act addresses unfair or deceptive practices in covered consumer transactions. A private claim requires more than dissatisfaction: the conduct, reliance where required, and resulting loss must be assessed.
Evidence to preserve
- Service agreement and rate offer
- Itemized bills and payment records
- Complaint reference numbers and provider responses
What to do now
Identify the charge and billing period precisely and request an itemized explanation. Keep provider complaint records and seek advice on the appropriate regulatory or legal path before withholding payment.
Keep a dated timeline of contacts, payments, and events. Whether a claim is available and what relief may be appropriate depend on the documents, applicable law, and facts of your situation.
Read the consumer law overview →
Related consumer problems
- Bait-and-switch advertising
- False “free” or “no cost” offers
- Refusals to honor a warranty
- Defective and unsafe products
- Negative-option subscription traps
- Door-to-door sales pressure
Frequently asked questions
- Does this situation automatically mean I have a legal claim?
- Maryland’s Consumer Protection Act addresses unfair or deceptive practices in covered consumer transactions. A private claim requires more than dissatisfaction: the conduct, reliance where required, and resulting loss must be assessed.
- What should I include in my case evaluation?
- Describe what happened, when it happened, who was involved, and the loss or ongoing problem. Mention whether you have service agreement and rate offer, itemized bills and payment records, complaint reference numbers and provider responses. Keep the originals; do not include sensitive records in the initial form.
- Should I wait for the company to resolve my complaint?
- A complaint or negotiation does not necessarily extend legal deadlines. Court papers and notices may require an earlier response. Seek timely review while preserving correspondence and records of any promised resolution.