Database Info

[Q] General Question about Verizon/Ebay

If I buy a NEW phone on ebay (example HTC Touch Pro or Blackberry Storm), and it is defective, could I go to a Verizon store and return or exchange it without a receipt (assuming I still have the box).
Does anyone know if this is possible?

Hi. Keep in mind I'm sure they track serial #'s / ESN's & such so even if they are nice enough to exchange it (which I've never had the gonads to try) you run the risk that the phone was reported stolen, is under contact on someone else's account or who knows what, you're standing there with your pants down. Then again I suppose they wouldn't let you activate the phone on your account if those were true.. (Sorry I've been in the GSM world too long where you move your SIM as needed.) Anyway I'd say you're taking some big chances there since they surely link phones with accounts or service it was purchased with. I'd love to hear of anyone who has succeeded in this.. It's not like you're buying a toaster & returning it to Kmart for a merchandise credit or something. lol
Bill

by the phone being on someone else's account, does that mean for example they bought the phone at the 2yr contract price only to turn it around and sell it on ebay for profit?
The ebay buyer did nothing wrong in that case, the ESN was clean and ebay purchased cells are easily activated.
thanks for responding.

Yeah that's what I meant but you are assuming best case scenario.. As I said who knows, the phones could have been stolen from a reseller or dealer (I do computer support for a sprint/nextel dealer & they've had many stolen even by employees who turn around & sell them on ebay. The store definitely figures it out eventually & they get reported as stolen & flagged. Maybe within days or weeks or months.) or who knows. That is one of biggest risks of buying off ebay. You may not know the history. Not trying to scare you just saying remember you'll be the one in the store holding stolen merchandise. Again, you risk the same trying to add the phone to your account so I guess they'll track you down either way. lol
As far as your original question, I wish I could say I knew but I don't. I assume there is virtually 0 chance of a return with refund and only a slight chance of an exchange assuming the phone is not flagged & you have a good story. Maybe someone else could chime in who has tried it. Again we are talking expensive phones normally bought with a contact linked to an account so easily traceable so don't be surprised if they scan it in & call you by the name of the guy who sold it to you. lol
Bill

It's just amazing that Verizon makes it so hard to upgrade your phone before your contract is up (even if you're willing to pay full price!!). The only way you can really do it is by buying a phone off of ebay and activating it yourself.

Yeah I'd imagine. That is one nice thing about GSM: Just move your SIM, assuming the phone isn't locked to another carrier which is usually pretty easy to get unlocked. I have bought about 50 phones off ebay (That would have been like 2 had I needed to call AT&T every time I wanted to switch! lol) & for the most part I've had pretty good luck with some duds. (Incompatible model missing 850 band, broken or more worn than expected) If you are in a pinch you might not have much choice but just make sure you buy from someone with high & good feedback & you should be OK. Better yet make sure they have a good return policy or even their own warranty. Not sure if the trick will work for you but I've bought 'Pay as you go' phones & put my SIM in when I needed a phone quickly. Maybe verizon has such a thing too but the prepaid phones are usually pretty awful. Of course there is a chance they'd refuse to add it to your account too. Buy yeah I wouldn't chance buying something on ebay hoping you can return to the local store if needed. I'd say buy new & hopefully sealed, not used (especially for expensive phones unless you want to risk it. Of course you can always try selling back on ebay if needed) from a good seller like I mentioned above & you should be fine. Btw the other thing to consider is go to an authorized Verizon dealer (vs a real Verizon store). You might find them much more likely to work with you on selling you a phone without a contact. I know they make big bucks signing up people but if you're willing to pay retail for a phone I'd imagine they won't turn you away especially if you suggest you'll be back when renewal time comes.
Bill

Ok, so believe it or not, I called Verizon and the rep told me that even if you don't have the original receipt, the verizon store uses the proof of purchase barcode to tell when the item was purchased. If your item is defective you can exchange it, and she even said in some cases they'll even let you put the money towards a new phone, although they prefer to have a receipt.
I'm shocked as I thought they would have a very strict return policy.
Also, any cell purchased in the last month is returnable until Jan 15, which means blackberry storms and htc touch pros and omnias bought on ebay can simply be returned to a verizon store if they are defective!

Wow! Did you get that in writing? lol Guess they have a very lenient return policy. Sounds like they do track them big time but instead of holding it against you they actually HELP you with the info. Geesh, if that really works I'd say they have some killer customer support policies! Makes me want to break a phone to try it & see. Then again I'm on ATT & they'd prolly laugh as they escorted me out the store. :|
Good luck with that, I'd love to hear follow up if you end up needing to try it but then again I'm sure you'd rather NOT have to try. Anyone else ever actually do this with any carrier?

U.S.: Blacklisting phones, blacklisted phones, and the shebang.

Okay here's the deal. I bought a "new" phone on ebay from a seller in U.S. shipped overseas to where I live. I bought this to use it in U.S. as well when I visit the country in a couple of months.
The seller agreed to include a printed sale receipt and a letter stating that he had sold this phone with this IMEI inside the box. I received the phone two weeks back and surprise, there was no receipt or sale letter inside. I was gutted.
Since then, I have tried to contact the seller at least ten times and he has not responded even once. He had responded to every single one of my emails in an hour before the purchase.
I am not going paranoid. Is there a chance the seller might be scamming me by reporting it stolen? How does it work in the US? Is it possible to report a phone stolen (to claim insurance) and get it blacklisted without the original phone box?
And, if it indeed had been blacklisted by all the networks in US and it fries my new sim, will having the original phone box be enough for a proof of purchase to "unblacklist" it? If so, how long does the process take considering I might be in US only for a few days at a time.
Thanks in advance!

I would just file a ticket with eBay, not because I necessarily believe they're trying to cheat you, but because they violated your agreement. Did you make sure the seller confirmed to you that the IMEI was good and would continue to be so - within eBay ?
There's always a chance they might be scamming you. The original box doesn't mean anything, to anyone, when it comes to reporting it stolen or an insurance claim or them bailing on a payment plan. Them not having it won't hurt them and won't help you. Lots of phones are stolen while still in the original packaging - and those phones do tend to get blacklisted. And like you have thought, they might be planning to report it stolen or stop paying for it (in which case, the carrier will blacklist).
Why not just buy a pre-paid SIM and use that in your normal phone while in the USA ? Or buy a cheap pre-paid phone while you are there if your current phone does not use SIM technology ? You can get one for $20 at places like WAL*MART and similar, which are all over the USA.
Not sure what you mean about "frying" a new SIM. It just wouldn't work if the IMEI was blacklisted, but it's not going to explode or anything. :silly:
If it's blacklisted, I wouldn't count on getting it "un-blacklisted". Carriers really don't like to do that, and you'd probably be looking at making multiple phone calls and facing the likelihood that they weren't going to do it no matter what you said. Normal reps tend to not even know what the IMEI blacklist is, you'd have to have your case brought to someone who did, and convince them to do it - which they usually flat-out will not. I've only really heard of success with having it "un-blacklisted" if you're a long-term customer with a retention/sob story, and it took multiple phone calls and a lot of time.

Thanks I actually did buy a GSM phone for use with a prepaid SIM in USA. I bought it mainly for 3G band inter-compatibility between that used in US and where I live.
Wouldn't opening a dispute with Ebay for this be a little too much? Also, if I open an Item Not As Described dispute, they would request me to get the phone checked with a local dealer and give them a report of exactly how it is not as described by the inspector right? The receipt being missing would be a minor thing that I am not sure they would even consider looking at.

I really don't know the process (but the stories I've heard didn't make the buyer do anything too complicated). Honestly, the sellers themselves have been screwed over because they'll often just take you on your word and people have been known to scam that way. *shrug*
It's up to you how worried you are and if you're prepared to take a loss. But if they're not responding to you, what else are you going to do it get eBay involved? Other than just sit on it and hope for the best - which might all turn out fine, might not.
Sent from my SGH-T999 using xda app-developers app

The seller is still being very dodgy. Is it true that the Social Security Number is printed on the phone bill when it is purchased from AT&T even if it was an outright purchase?
The seller is refusing to provide the original sales invoice on the grounds that it has his SSN and he would not want to disclose that. He is also refusing to provide a bill by himself saying that he does not know the IMEI of the phone he sold to me so he cannot take the liability of giving a bill for an IMEI he is not sure was sold by him! However, the phone is working fine otherwise.
Could someone clarify if this is right?

Nexus 5 Dead

Hi this is my first post but have been avid follower of the site and had multitude of devices. Never felt a real passion as i have today to start a thread, today my nexus 5 died.
I have had my nexus 5 for just other 2 weeks now and for no apparent reason decided to die on me. Battery was fully charged had the phone in my pocket , took out to check it and nothing. My first thought was that maybe i didn't plug it properly and it hadn't charged, so stuck it on charge and nothing not led, no charge icon. left it for about an hour and completely nothing at all, tried everything power and volume buttons. Did a search on Google and couldn't find hardly any info on this sort of situation apart form one forum where a few people have had this issue and seems to be with 32gb version and they needed replacements.
Surely this sort of thing shouldn't be happening, clueless to what it could be, i did unlock, root, and install omni custom rom last night but all was working fine this morning untill it died of course.
Really i just wanted to make people aware of the problem and hear if anyone else has had this issue, or if anyone could shed some light as to what may have caused it.
Whats really ticked me off is Google customer service, i was given an rma and went through the the steps in the email to realize that they would hold the amount for this replacement on my debit card. So basically im buying a new phone and getting a refund when they receive my faulty handset. So now i have no phone and im £350 short for at least 14 days. This is ludicrous im being put out through no fault of my own, not everyone has £350 lying around spare. I understand that Google are covering there arses in-case they don't get the faulty handset back but please you send my a faulty handset and im the one who has jump through hoops and be put out.
Forum with same problem
productforums.google.com/forum/#!msg/nexus/lI6A3fA8bvw/UdpnyaSL2Z4J

Did you try going into recovery and just wipe everything and try again? Or can you at least get to the boot loader?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk

Was your pocket wet or was it humid out? My Nexus 4 was what u described
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app

Dragn4rce said:
Did you try going into recovery and just wipe everything and try again? Or can you at least get to the boot loader?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No cant get into bootloder can not do anything.
dicecuber said:
Was your pocket wet or was it humid out? My Nexus 4 was what u described
Sent from my Nexus 5 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no pocket was perfectly dry.
The phone has been on charge overnight now and still nothing, i notice that if its on charge or you push any buttons, there is clicking notice in the handset, but you have to hold the handset to your ear to hear it what is that.

dicecuber said:
Whats really ticked me off is Google customer service, i was given an rma and went through the the steps in the email to realize that they would hold the amount for this replacement on my debit card. So basically im buying a new phone and getting a refund when they receive my faulty handset. So now i have no phone and im £350 short for at least 14 days. This is ludicrous im being put out through no fault of my own, not everyone has £350 lying around spare. I understand that Google are covering there arses in-case they don't get the faulty handset back but please you send my a faulty handset and im the one who has jump through hoops and be put out.
Forum with same problem
productforums.google.com/forum/#!msg/nexus/lI6A3fA8bvw/UdpnyaSL2Z4J
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why does it tick you off? Why should Google be on the hook for $350? So many unscrupulous people out there, it's a normal business practice.
If you want to spare the $350, then send the phone into LG Warranty repair. They won't send you a loaner, but your phone will be repaired for no cost to you under their warranty.
Here is where you still complain its not fair because you won't have a phone then, and Google should still give you everything for free until you return your phone....

I think that it might be battery problem. And do use any cover on it? Because some covers can cover your power button and press it.
And also might be stuck power button.

PaisanNYC said:
Why does it tick you off? Why should Google be on the hook for $350? So many unscrupulous people out there, it's a normal business practice.
If you want to spare the $350, then send the phone into LG Warranty repair. They won't send you a loaner, but your phone will be repaired for no cost to you under their warranty.
Here is where you still complain its not fair because you won't have a phone then, and Google should still give you everything for free until you return your phone....[/QUOTE
Why does it tick me off! you my friend are either ignorant or stupid. It is my Statutory right here in the UK to be sold a product that is fit for purpose. From the sales of good act
1979F4048B
Repair or replacement of the goods
 
(1)If section 48A above applies, the buyer may require the seller—
(a)to repair the goods, or
(b)to replace the goods.
(2)If the buyer requires the seller to repair or replace the goods, the seller must—
(a)repair or, as the case may be, replace the goods within a reasonable time but without causing significant inconvenience to the buyer;
(b)bear any necessary costs incurred in doing so (including in particular the cost of any labour, materials or postage).
So trying to find £350 pound is a bit of an inconvenience for me, maybe not you as clearly that's nothing to you but for the normal working class id say that was a bit of inconvenience.
Why would i not complain im not a multi billion pound company who can afford to be £700 out of pocket with nothing to show for it. i haven't asked for anything for free all im asking for is to have what a paid for, a working phone.
Yea there are unscrupulous people out there but that's not all of us, i remember the day when company's looked after there customers because they were the ones that made them there profit.
Thanks for your 2 pence anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

burton900 said:
PaisanNYC said:
Why does it tick you off? Why should Google be on the hook for $350? So many unscrupulous people out there, it's a normal business practice.
If you want to spare the $350, then send the phone into LG Warranty repair. They won't send you a loaner, but your phone will be repaired for no cost to you under their warranty.
Here is where you still complain its not fair because you won't have a phone then, and Google should still give you everything for free until you return your phone....[/QUOTE
Why does it tick me off! you my friend are either ignorant or stupid. It is my Statutory right here in the UK to be sold a product that is fit for purpose. From the sales of good act
1979F4048B
Repair or replacement of the goods
 
(1)If section 48A above applies, the buyer may require the seller—
(a)to repair the goods, or
(b)to replace the goods.
(2)If the buyer requires the seller to repair or replace the goods, the seller must—
(a)repair or, as the case may be, replace the goods within a reasonable time but without causing significant inconvenience to the buyer;
(b)bear any necessary costs incurred in doing so (including in particular the cost of any labour, materials or postage).
So trying to find £350 pound is a bit of an inconvenience for me, maybe not you as clearly that's nothing to you but for the normal working class id say that was a bit of inconvenience.
Why would i not complain im not a multi billion pound company who can afford to be £700 out of pocket with nothing to show for it. i haven't asked for anything for free all im asking for is to have what a paid for, a working phone.
Yea there are unscrupulous people out there but that's not all of us, i remember the day when company's looked after there customers because they were the ones that made them there profit.
Thanks for your 2 pence anyway.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to mention (I believe) it's technically illegal under the Sale of Goods act as it applies to faulty goods too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

Get a job
Why does it tick me off! you my friend are either ignorant or stupid. It is my Statutory right here in the UK to be sold a product that is fit for purpose. From the sales of good act
I see nothing wrong with googles policy.
Get a part time job maybe if you can't afford them freezing the $349 on your card for two weeks.
I felt for you when reading about your phone problem.
But after reading your whining posts about googles policy well thats life in the big city.

trsix said:
Why does it tick me off! you my friend are either ignorant or stupid. It is my Statutory right here in the UK to be sold a product that is fit for purpose. From the sales of good act
I see nothing wrong with googles policy.
Get a part time job maybe if you can't afford them freezing the $349 on your card for two weeks.
I felt for you when reading about your phone problem.
But after reading your whining posts about googles policy well thats life in the big city.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What Google could do is send a pre-paid bag out and NOT send a replacement phone and once they receive the faulty they then send a new one. OK, you're without a phone for a day or so but it would mean no one is out of pocket and Google don't lose out as they get the original back first. We do this at my company and it works just fine
I find it hard to believe you Americans think that Google's policy is fair? I work full time but would still find it an inconvenience that a device I bought in good faith died and I have to fund a replacement first before I can get the replacement. Not everyone has £350 available as disposable cash, I certainly don't as everything I earn is budgeted for and ear marked for bills, rent, etc. A shop wouldn't ask you to do this and neither should a mail order purchase.
I'm not bashing Google as a company, just their returns policy

I get what you are saying but I don't think you are understanding what is happening. If you want an RMA they hold the money on your card because they are sending you a brand new device. You are 100% able to send the phone in to LG for free to have it replaced under warranty because it is faulty. You have an option that does not cost you any money. You are taking the option that does.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

By the way they don't actually charge you any money for the replacement they simply authorize in case you don't send them back a phone. Also you can keep your phone on until you get the replacement and then you can send them back your faulty one.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app

$$$
EddyOS said:
What Google could do is send a pre-paid bag out and NOT send a replacement phone and once they receive the faulty they then send a new one. OK, you're without a phone for a day or so but it would mean no one is out of pocket and Google don't lose out as they get the original back first. We do this at my company and it works just fine
I find it hard to believe you Americans think that Google's policy is fair? I work full time but would still find it an inconvenience that a device I bought in good faith died and I have to fund a replacement first before I can get the replacement. Not everyone has £350 available as disposable cash, I certainly don't as everything I earn is budgeted for and ear marked for bills, rent, etc. A shop wouldn't ask you to do this and neither should a mail order purchase.
I'm not bashing Google as a company, just their returns policy
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If funds were that tight I wouldn't be buying a $349. Phone to start with.

trsix said:
If funds were that tight I wouldn't be buying a $349. Phone to start with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's just a piss poor response to a valid point. I can afford the phone, and I will be buying on on Friday as it happens, I was saying I don't have an ADDITIONAL £350 lying about. If it went wrong I'd expect it to be repaired/replaced at no cost within the warranty. I can live without a phone for a day or so so Google should provide the RMA package WITHOUT sending a new phone and once they receive the faulty one they send a new one. HTC do this. Everyone would be happy. Google could easily do this but choose not to and this is why I think their RMA procedure is poor.

2423485358
trsix said:
Why does it tick me off! you my friend are either ignorant or stupid. It is my Statutory right here in the UK to be sold a product that is fit for purpose. From the sales of good act
I see nothing wrong with googles policy.
Get a part time job maybe if you can't afford them freezing the $349 on your card for two weeks.
I felt for you when reading about your phone problem.
But after reading your whining posts about googles policy well that's life in the big city.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry im not a middle aged man, living at home with my parents, with nothing better to spend my money on. Im to busy living in the real world working and providing a good life for my family.What was the reason you commented on this post again? An let me remind you its £349 that's $570 to you.
I Agree that it would be better process to be able to send your device back for an exchange, not only would you not be out of pocket but would be a faster process. I think you would find that is a more normal business practice, at least here in UK. You don't have to re buy a product if you want an exchange it at any other mail order company Maybe this guy works for google and has so much spare cash because he is keeping hold everyone's money for 14 days.

joshnichols189 said:
I get what you are saying but I don't think you are understanding what is happening. If you want an RMA they hold the money on your card because they are sending you a brand new device. You are 100% able to send the phone in to LG for free to have it replaced under warranty because it is faulty. You have an option that does not cost you any money. You are taking the option that does.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i was unaware of this option and was never made aware of it otherwise i would have done so.
atticusmas said:
By the way they don't actually charge you any money for the replacement they simply authorize in case you don't send them back a phone. Also you can keep your phone on until you get the replacement and then you can send them back your faulty one.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im well aware of the technicality of how they hold the funds but it is as good as being charged as you have no access to that money. That was what i was trying to get at,
trsix said:
If funds were that tight I wouldn't be buying a $349. Phone to start with.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Is it not the point Google are trying to make by making available a high spec device at an affordable price.
2.Being able to spare £350 and being able to spare £700 is bit of a difference don't you think.
3,I think your missing point its not so much about being able to spare the cash as it is the fact you give a company your business and when things go wrong you expect to be treated as a valued customer. I never asked for a special treatment or the world for that matter, i just wanted an easy, inconvenient way of replacing faulty goods.

I experienced the same issue last night. Charged my phone up and it was fine. Put it in my pocket, took it out a couple hours later and it was off. Haven't been able to turn it on since. No water damage, and I've never dropped it. I'm going through the RMA process now.

joshnichols189 said:
I get what you are saying but I don't think you are understanding what is happening. If you want an RMA they hold the money on your card because they are sending you a brand new device. You are 100% able to send the phone in to LG for free to have it replaced under warranty because it is faulty. You have an option that does not cost you any money. You are taking the option that does.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is completely bull****. I spent two hours on the phone with LG, Google, and LG+Google support managers trying to get a repair on an *in warranty* nexus 4, (they stated that this same policy applies to the Nexus 5) instead of a RMA through Google. LG will NOT do in-warranty service, if you send a Nexus that was bought through google play to LG they treat it as an out-of-warranty repair no matter what. (Yes, I am very aware that this policy is illegal, I tried explaining that to the person they transferred me to in LG legal, they said to try my luck with small-claims). To get your money back after they bill you the out of warranty price for your in warranty repair you have either have to go to small-claims court or try to get your bank to reverse the charge. Its a total bull**** policy that is, in fact, illegal, but until someone actually sues them over it, nothing is going to change. I ended up just biting the bullet on the normal RMA since I've got a Nexus 5 anyway.
LG will not accept in-warranty repairs for Google Play purchased Nexus devices, they require you to go through Google, no exceptions. I really wish it weren't true, but a conference call with LG and Google Play support managers resulted in my beating my head against a wall on exactly this issue.

atticusmas said:
By the way they don't actually charge you any money for the replacement they simply authorize in case you don't send them back a phone. Also you can keep your phone on until you get the replacement and then you can send them back your faulty one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been a while since I used a debit card, but I remember my bank actually did prevent me from spending funds that were pre-authorized. Yes, the money was still mine, but it's set aside and I wasn't able to touch it until the preauth expired. Can be very inconvenient when cash is tight.

thread topic
This thread is soo off topic now.

50.00 deductible for 600.00 phone, should I be worried?

Today, while running with my son on a nature trail, a freak accident happened. The stroller hit a rock in such a way it launched my phone from a holding pouch into the air and onto the ground shattering the screen. (i run over 75 miles a month for the last two years, so never dreamed of this happening) I was devastated, especially since it's a month old and since i'm one NEXT i can't really afford an extra 200 bucks. I went onto the phoneclaim website and tried to file a claim, initially telling me my deductible was 199.99 but my g3 wasn't listed and it told me to call to file the claim.
So, I call the number, speak to someone. She asked me about the damage, and what accessories if any i was claiming. I told her just the phone, no accessories or sim card - since that stuff was in tact. After putting me on hold, she asked me about the color of the phone, repeated the LG G3, asked me to verify identity questions (which amounted to my street address) and said that my deductible was 50.00 which would be applied to my bill. Now, i said
"not that i'm complaining, but this is the 32gb white LG G3 we're talking about, correct? "
"she replies yes sir"
"I said not only did the at&t rep tell me 199.99 when i signed up for the insurance, but the website also told me 199.99 when i entered in my number"
"she said I wouldn't complain either sir, it states 50.00 here with 1-2 business days shipping"
So, what are the odds something bad is going to happen here?
Ie: the wrong phone replacement, not a phone at all, but like a battery or something... i dunno.
Just can't wrap my mind around everyone saying 199.99, then being told 50.00 for 600 phone. ....
should I be worried?

Did they send you a confirmation email? If not, call back with the case # and get them to email that to you.

Storm T said:
Did they send you a confirmation email? If not, call back with the case # and get them to email that to you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They did, but all it states is that the claim is been received and being processed and a tracking number will be provided once it ships.

I'd imagine you're good to go at $50 since she told you that.

Storm T said:
I'd imagine you're good to go at $50 since she told you that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's a good thing I went back to the site.
They had me for a replacement of the G3 VIGOR, not the G3 D850. When I called back, they asked me a ton more questions plus i have to sign an affidavit and send in a copy of my license. Then she told me an adjuster would call me and let me know if it would be replaced or not. She also said had i not called back i wouldn't have even gotten a new phone because the last person screwed up.
But, seriously... what am I paying insurance for if they will let me know about the replacement... i'm pretty sure we pay insurance for this exact issue.
I dunno, what a headache.

That sucks! I've replaced one that way before and I never had to give them a copy of my license? I'd sure be *****ing. Good luck!

Unfortunately this happened to me a week after I had my phone. The deductible was 165$ & they tried to give me an lg g2. Luckily I called back and had it fixed. It was a quick yet expensive lesson. And yes, I had to do the same with my license and an affidavit. Hope it goes well for you.
Sent from my LG-D850 using XDA Free mobile app

petros855 said:
Unfortunately this happened to me a week after I had my phone. The deductible was 165$ & they tried to give me an lg g2. Luckily I called back and had it fixed. It was a quick yet expensive lesson. And yes, I had to do the same with my license and an affidavit. Hope it goes well for you.
Sent from my LG-D850 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No such luck for me. I've had my claim denied twice now. I've filled out three affidavits, sent in various pics of the phone and barcodes, license etc. I've mad a trip to the AT&T store all to no avail.
The reasoning is all very vague, like telling me my time of occurrence and date of last usage don't match, or that they've even tried telling me i don't own a G3 lol.
Worst experience ever...
I'll end up trying to contact LG and see if i can just get them to replace the screen for the 200 bucks it will cost or whatever.
sigh.

st0nez0r said:
No such luck for me. I've had my claim denied twice now. I've filled out three affidavits, sent in various pics of the phone and barcodes, license etc. I've mad a trip to the AT&T store all to no avail.
The reasoning is all very vague, like telling me my time of occurrence and date of last usage don't match, or that they've even tried telling me i don't own a G3 lol.
Worst experience ever...
I'll end up trying to contact LG and see if i can just get them to replace the screen for the 200 bucks it will cost or whatever.
sigh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's weird that they say your " time of occurrence and date of last usage don't match"
Are you rooted and did you remove lots of apps like carrierIQ?
Do you think they are just BSing you?
Lol this makes me want to cancel my insurance...
Sent from my LG G3

Craleb said:
That's weird that they say your " time of occurrence and date of last usage don't match"
Are you rooted and did you remove lots of apps like carrierIQ?
Do you think they are just BSing you?
Lol this makes me want to cancel my insurance...
Sent from my LG G3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now that you mention it. I am rooted, i removed the bloat and carrierIQ the day I got the phone.
I might just have to send my phone to LG for a screen repair and call it a day. I'll keep you all updated when they deny my claim again tomorrow lol.

Insurance on anything that depreciates like a smart phone is a scam. I would never and have never gotten phone insurance. I keep one old phone at all times just in case this happens.

t1n0m3n said:
Insurance on anything that depreciates like a smart phone is a scam. I would never and have never gotten phone insurance. I keep one old phone at all times just in case this happens.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would normally agree. I've only ever gotten insurance once, and it was for this phone. I also kept my galaxy s3 just in case this very thing happened. But, since i'm on the next program, i'll be damned if i'm paying 600.00+ for a phone that i can't use, even if it means i have to fork out extra for a replacement.
All that said, they actually approved my claim after several denials - nothing ever changed with the paperwork.
Now i just have to keep my fingers crossed that i get a new g3 replacement (or damn near like new referb). I hope it's not a heap of junk replacement like i've read in other stories about asurion.
Now, i've actually heard great first hand things about square trade insurance, cheaper payments, cheaper deductible, and no questions asked claims. some folks my wife and I work with use it and had nothing but good things to say about them, which is where i'll be headed to after my replacement.

*Shrug* Whatever floats your boat. Cracked screen repair for the G3 is about $150 direct from LG. They are going to send the phone to LG to repair it. Probably at a volume discount. They probably make a ~$100 profit on the G3 every time someone uses their warranty. Every phone claim is a profit for the company. If it is not, then they deny the claim. This is why I call it a scam. You are paying them monthly for the privilege of maybe having to let them profit off of you.
---------- Post added at 04:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:08 PM ----------
st0nez0r said:
Now, i've actually heard great first hand things about square trade insurance, cheaper payments, cheaper deductible, and no questions asked claims. some folks my wife and I work with use it and had nothing but good things to say about them, which is where i'll be headed to after my replacement.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven't heard of this before, this looks like much less of a scam than the Assurian BS scam.
Interesting! Thanks for mentioning it.

I just get a rubber tpu bumper case and a screen protector and forget the insurance

Hi st0nez0r,
We’re glad to hear that ultimately we were able to get this resolved and a replacement device is on its way to you! This is not a typical experience and we’d hate to lose a valued customer. While we understand that paperwork is never fun we have the affidavit process in place for your protection. This helps prevent fraudulent claims against your account and helps keep premiums from rising. We recognize the cost associated with replacing a device which is why it’s our goal to help our customers save money while also getting them reconnected quickly should they experience a covered loss. In addition to covering physical damage, we also cover liquid damage, loss and theft; where most do not.
While we do use both new and certified-like new devices, keep in mind, all replacements come with a 12 month limited warranty. Should you experience any warranty failure, we’ll replace the phone at no additional cost.
We appreciate you sharing your experience, as it helps us to improve the services that we offer. Please let us know if you have any other questions or if we can be of further assistance.
Thanks,
Asurion Social Media Team @AsurionCares
www.phoneclaim.com

AsurionCares said:
Hi st0nez0r,
We’re glad to hear that ultimately we were able to get this resolved and a replacement device is on its way to you! This is not a typical experience and we’d hate to lose a valued customer. While we understand that paperwork is never fun we have the affidavit process in place for your protection. This helps prevent fraudulent claims against your account and helps keep premiums from rising. We recognize the cost associated with replacing a device which is why it’s our goal to help our customers save money while also getting them reconnected quickly should they experience a covered loss. In addition to covering physical damage, we also cover liquid damage, loss and theft; where most do not.
While we do use both new and certified-like new devices, keep in mind, all replacements come with a 12 month limited warranty. Should you experience any warranty failure, we’ll replace the phone at no additional cost.
We appreciate you sharing your experience, as it helps us to improve the services that we offer. Please let us know if you have any other questions or if we can be of further assistance.
Thanks,
Asurion Social Media Team @AsurionCares
www.phoneclaim.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This was quite unexpected but appreciated.
Honestly, In terms of cellphones, dealing with Asurion was one of the worse experience I've ever had in the history of owning a cell phone. While I understand the need for paperwork and whatever various methods you use to combat insurance fraud,
beyond those measures is where I had the real problems:
Dealing with rude/obnoxious customer support representatives (just one, but one too many.)
The run around game. Sending me to an AT&T store to obtain info, then to be belittled by another rep for doing what I was initially asked to do. (referring to the same rep as above)
Lack of information and communication during the process. In some cases I didn't get a call or email explaining why my claims were initially canceled. I had to call back for that info.
The website is not all that great either. one example would be filling in your first/last name, phone number, email, and social just for an update. How about a tracking number process or something.
No option to contact/talk to support after paperwork is submitted for review. If you have questions/problems you can't speak to anyone during that process. You're greeted with a phone message stating your stuff is under review and that you'll be contacted. then hangs up on you. I guess this is in place so work can actually get accomplished without being overwhelmed by calls, but still...
In the end I did receive a brand new replacement device. The return process was also a snap.
I've learned my lesson at any rate. I invested the extra money in a spigen slim armor case and tempered glass protector.
Thanks for replying to this post.

I almost had a similar experience with Asurion, but ultimately a good one. It all started with initiating my claim over the phone, just to discover no record of my claim upon following-up. The follow-up rep offered to resubmit or direct me to the website, where I'd be able to print documents required and receive confirmation/ updates upon successful submission.
After downloading, printing and competing the affidavit, I was able to scan and upload, along with my ID. This took less than 15 minutes.
I had a brand new phone, shipped from AT&T within a couple days. I've been a wireless dealer, and the Asurion representative's explanation about hurdles preventing fraud are entirely valid. The $200 deductible + my first monthly premium is not a scam- they ate maximum money on my claim, particularly as my replacement was NOT refurbished. I'm still only paying AT&T for one phone. Asurion bought the majority of the other. My deductible will be used to minimize the loss, likely through repair and reuse for a future claim. Loss/theft is an even bigger loser. Their money is made from premium revenue that exceeds claims expenses.
While it sounds like they could tighten up their call centers, if Asurion has replaced your $600 phone, they've certainly not robbed you.
Sent from my LG-V410 using Tapatalk

This is why I never use the carrier insurance it sucks and the more the customer service... All my devices I always go with SquareTrade, only $5.00 a month and $75.00 deductible.

Help exchanging Pixel to Best Buy!

Really hope someone has info on this. I purchased this phone online through best buys website on black friday to take advantage of the $10 a month. I know there was a lot of debating on here about if this deal was like the Verizon deal with the bill credits or just a flat out $10 a month. I saw multiple posts on here saying after people received their phone from best buy they were able to call Verizon and pay off the $240 meaning it was a straight $10 a month deal.
So I am having some issues with my phone and need to exchange it for another one. It took forever but I figured out that a best buy an hour away from me has one in stock. I was able to get in touch with their mobile department inside that store and he confirmed they have one and can set it aside for me since I am exchanging. I did not want to go to my local best buy and have them order one and take the chance that it came with 7.1.1 already installed because I would be screwed and not be able to unlock the bootloader
Before we got off the phone he mentioned something about processing the return when I got there so I asked what he meant.. I asked if they had to process the return and do the entire order over again and he said yes... so then I asked how that would work since I bought the phone during the $10 black friday deal. He was not sure and put me on hold. Then he came back and took my name and phone number and said he had to call Verizon and ask them how to proceed... *
Now I am VERY worried about exchanging it. What if somehow since they are messing with my plan that I end up with the Verizon bill credits compared to the straight $10 a month deal where I can pay it off anytime I want.. No one at any best buy I've talked with even knew the difference about their deal to begin with so trying to explain this all to someone and correct it after the fact would be nearly impossible.. They would simply tell me I was wrong and the payments were through Verizon and that their deal was the exact same
So does anyone have any info on how the exchange should work? I don't understand why i can't simply go in and they swap it out.. not messing up anything with my contract..*
Also if they have to activate it in the store then I don't even wanna do it because I need to take the SIM card out... skip through setup assistant and the software update.. the unlock the bootloader before installing the 7.1.1 upgrade. What a MESS!*

I bought an iPhone 7 at Best Buy, tried to port from a Verizon MVNO to Verizon, and then ended up returning the phone for a Pixel, so I've seen some of their workings first-hand. In the end their mistakes worked in my favor, but it all literally took hours, so I'd recommend planning on being patient until they can resolve your issue to your satisfaction. I would just go in and be very clear that I wanted to exchange the phone for a working device and keep the same outstanding device payment as I currently have. If after talking to a few people they couldn't help me do that, I'd try a second store, since I've seen different service at various stores. I figure they can eventually be able to help you, but based on my Best Buy phone experiences, I'd just expect to be patient and plan on possibly being there for a couple hours.

Just to address your last paragraph, I don't believe Best Buy will sell you a phone unactivated. I purchase phones on a weekly basis; sometimes from Best Buy, sometimes from other retailers, and mostly from Verizon. Only Verizon corporate stores would let me walk out with an unopened box. I'm a VZW "Red Carpet" customer that they would just scan the UPCs of the MEID and SIM on the outside of the box, and send me away. The whole transaction takes less than 5 minutes. On the other hand, BB takes a good 20 minutes to go through the agreement and activation.

quangtran1 said:
Just to address your last paragraph, I don't believe Best Buy will sell you a phone unactivated. I purchase phones on a weekly basis; sometimes from Best Buy, sometimes from other retailers, and mostly from Verizon. Only Verizon corporate stores would let me walk out with an unopened box. I'm a VZW "Red Carpet" customer that they would just scan the UPCs of the MEID and SIM on the outside of the box, and send me away. The whole transaction takes less than 5 minutes. On the other hand, BB takes a good 20 minutes to go through the agreement and activation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Weekly basis? Do you sell them or something? PM me and teach me your tricks!!!

Don't forget you have 30 day (or is it 20 now) buyer remorse. You can return the phone and get your money back.

Colchiro said:
Don't forget you have 30 day (or is it 20 now) buyer remorse. You can return the phone and get your money back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
14 days

I remember when it was 30..... (Does that make me old?)

Colchiro said:
I remember when it was 30..... (Does that make me old?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"vintage"? :silly:

quangtran1 said:
Just to address your last paragraph, I don't believe Best Buy will sell you a phone unactivated. I purchase phones on a weekly basis; sometimes from Best Buy, sometimes from other retailers, and mostly from Verizon. Only Verizon corporate stores would let me walk out with an unopened box. I'm a VZW "Red Carpet" customer that they would just scan the UPCs of the MEID and SIM on the outside of the box, and send me away. The whole transaction takes less than 5 minutes. On the other hand, BB takes a good 20 minutes to go through the agreement and activation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought two iPhone 7's after Black Friday when Best Buy had them on sale for $1 with two year contract. One for my son, and one for resale since I was due for an upgrade on my line which had my new Pixel on it which was purchased through Google.
Both phones left the store unopened and obviously unactivated. Came with the SIM card on the little credit card still not punched out.

aholeinthewor1d said:
Weekly basis? Do you sell them or something? PM me and teach me your tricks!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rarely that I sell them, mostly I use them for different coding projects, then I give them to employees. Or I sell them back to carriers on the device recycling program. Old phones that aren't worth much, I save those to trade in for new phones when they run specials. For example, Verizon right now would give $200 for an iPhone 4 if you get the Pixel.
---------- Post added at 09:58 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:52 PM ----------
bwthor20 said:
I bought two iPhone 7's after Black Friday when Best Buy had them on sale for $1 with two year contract. One for my son, and one for resale since I was due for an upgrade on my line which had my new Pixel on it which was purchased through Google.
Both phones left the store unopened and obviously unactivated. Came with the SIM card on the little credit card still not punched out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
????
For new phones, SIM cards don't normally come on those cardboard business cards any more. Apple, Samsung, LG, etc, their phones come with SIMs already in the phones. The ICCID is on the box. The clerk scans both the MEID and ICCID before they open the box.