Verizon is waiving voice and text fees for victims of Sandy.
The company announced today that victims of the storm in areas of New York and New Jersey that were heavily affected by storm damage will have voice and text fees from October 29 through November 16 waived.
According to a FAQ put together by the company, customers do not have to contact Verizon for the credit. It will be done automatically for customers in the following areas:
In New York: Bronx County, Kings County, Nassau County, New York County, Putnam County, Queens County, Richmond County, Rockland County, Suffolk County, and Westchester County
In New Jersey: Atlantic City, Bergen County, Burlington County, Camden County, Cape May County, Cumberland County, Essex County, Gloucester County, Hudson County, Hunterdon County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Morris County, Ocean County, Passaic County, Salem County, Somerset County, Sussex County, Union County, and Warren County.
Verizon customers impacted by the storm which live in other areas are being asked to call 1-800-922-0204 to request fee waivers. The company said these requests will be handled on a case by case basis.
Verizon is taking a huge step in differentiating its response from those of it’s competition. AT&T and Sprint have only gone as far as agreeing to waive late fees for victims who have not been able to pay their bills on time.
Verizon is still charging monthly access charges, though is waiving its late fees as well.