Telecom & Internet

Dispute phone, internet, and cable billing errors, contract violations, and service failures. File FCC complaints and state PUC appeals with free letter templates.

Create your telecom & internet dispute letter

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What is a telecom or internet dispute?

Telecom and internet disputes involve billing errors, unauthorized charges, contract violations, or service failures by phone, internet, or cable providers. The FCC and state Public Utilities Commissions provide formal complaint processes for consumers.

Common telecom disputes

Unauthorized charges (cramming)
charges for services never requested
Early termination fees
disputing ETF charges when company failed to deliver service
Internet speed disputes
service not delivering advertised speeds
Billing errors
incorrect plan charges, double billing, wrong rate
Robocall and spam
unwanted calls violating the TCPA
Porting issues
refusal to transfer your phone number
Where to file a telecom complaint

The FCC handles complaints against phone and internet providers. The FTC handles fraud and deceptive practices. Your state PUC handles local service disputes. The CFPB handles financial aspects of telecom billing.

Steps to dispute a telecom charge

  1. 1
    Contact your provider and request an itemized bill
  2. 2
    Document all contacts and reference numbers
  3. 3
    Send a formal written dispute via certified mail
  4. 4
    File a complaint with the FCC at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
  5. 5
    Consider small claims court for amounts under $10,000

Telecom & Internet in Montana

Experiencing issues with your telecom or internet service in Montana, such as unexpected charges, service outages, or misleading contracts, can be incredibly frustrating. Many consumers face challenges when providers fail to deliver promised services or resolve billing discrepancies. Fortunately, Montana residents have rights and dedicated agencies to help address these concerns. Understanding these protections is crucial for ensuring fair treatment and reliable service in the Big Sky Country.

While Montana does not have specific state laws solely governing telecom and internet service quality, the Montana Consumer Protection Act (MCA Title 30, Chapter 14, Part 1) prohibits unfair and deceptive trade practices. This act provides a broad framework for consumer protection. The Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act (MCDPA), effective October 1, 2024, and revised by Senate Bill 297 (2025) on May 8, 2025, further strengthens consumer data privacy, impacting how internet service providers handle personal information. These laws ensure that Montana consumers are protected from predatory practices and have control over their data.

For assistance with telecom and internet issues in Montana, the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) is the primary regulatory body. The PSC oversees privately-owned telecommunication companies and can help resolve disputes. You can contact the PSC at (406) 444-6199 or toll-free at (800) 646-6150. Their website, psc.mt.gov, offers consumer information and a request assistance form. Additionally, the Montana Department of Justice, Office of Consumer Protection (OCP), at (406) 444-4500, can address broader consumer complaints related to deceptive practices by telecom and internet providers.

To file a complaint regarding telecom or internet services in Montana, first gather all relevant documentation, including service agreements, billing statements, and records of communication with your provider. Next, attempt to resolve the issue directly with your service provider. If unsuccessful, file a formal complaint with the Montana Public Service Commission. Most complaints are resolved within 30 to 60 days. Finally, use the petition generator above to create a formal complaint letter in under two minutes, detailing your issue and seeking a fair resolution.

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