MN
Maria N

1 reviews | Active since May 2019

16 Jan 2020, 17:39

Does ABSA pay Telkom R202 for a returned debit order?

I just want to know from FNB: If my debit order with Telkom is returned, does ABSA charge Telkom R202, to in return charge me, the customer.

My debit order was returned and even though I made a manual payment on the same day, I was charged R202 extra on my Telkom bill. For a R149.00 bill. I read the Telkom T&C's and it only states BILLING 6.5 that a service may be interrupted until full payment was received and re-connection fees may apply. My service was never cut off. No re-connection fees apply.I asked Telkom what gives them the right to deduct this amount as it is not in T&C's. After a month's back and forth with Telkom, I got two answers.

1) They said I agreed in my contract that I will pay R202.00 if a debit order is returned. Since it was an online contract I have no written copy that I am aware of. I even went to a Telkom office to ask for one - where I was told there might be a voice recording of such contract. I demanded a copy of this contract which until now Telkom was not able to supply. I then started threatening with the Small Claims Court because of this mystery amount being added to my bill, without any agreement or warning or information that such a possibility exist, at the time the deal was being made.

2) Then Telkom changed their story and told me the banks charge this amount for a debit order that has been returned.

What baffles me is: I have Vodacom and Cell C accounts and when I am late with a payment, I just get a message reminding me to pay. NO extra charge. In the past, if any debit order was returned, and if there was a minimal charge (definately not R202) it was so indicated on my BANK STATEMENT and NOT on the bill off the company. This R202 is reflected on my Telkom bill and not on my ABSA bank statement.

So, is Telkom telling the truth in this regard or not? Do they deduct R202 from me to pay ABSA in return? Clarification will be highly appreciated.

Best regards

0
Replies (2)
MN
Maria N's update16 Jan 2020, 17:40
Reviewer Update
Apologies, the first sentence should read "I just want to know from ABSA: If my debit order with Telkom is returned, does ABSA charge Telkom R202, to in return charge me, the customer. "
Absa
Absa's reply17 Jan 2020, 11:52
Official
Dear Maria Thank you for bringing this unfortunate matter/incident to my attention and please accept my sincere apology . I will review and provide you with my specific contact details as well as your unique complaint reference number, an expected timeframe for further feedback/resolution via email.  I look forward to being of service to you.  RegardsPravesh Bejay