It is a start. Next, they have to address the exorbitant data cost and lackluster data speeds for internet connectivity.
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts after two years under new CRTC code of conduct
By: Madhavi Acharya-Tom Yew Personal Finance writer,
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts without fees after two years, under the new wireless code unveiled Monday by the CRTC.
The wireless code also caps charges for extra data at $50 per month and charges for international data roaming at $100 per month to prevent bill shock, the CRTC said in a release.
The new rules by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission will apply to new contracts for cellphones and other personal mobile devices starting Dec. 2.
“Every day, Canadians rely on wireless devices while in their homes, at their jobs, at school or travelling abroad,” Jean-Pierre Blais, chair of the CRTC, said in a release. “The wireless code will contribute to a more dynamic marketplace by making it possible for Canadians to discuss their needs with service providers at least every two years.”
The CRTC said that, among other things, individual and small business consumers will be able to:
The wireless code will apply to all service providers in Canada, in particular where customers pay a monthly bill after using their services and, where applicable, to pre-paid wireless services, the CRTC said.
“The wireless code is a tool that will empower consumers and help them make informed choices about the service options that best meet their needs. To make the most of this tool, consumers also have a responsibility to educate themselves,” Blais said.
The CRTC’s public consultation on the wireless code attracted over 5,000 participants, including individual Canadians, who shared their views on an online discussion forum, in writing and at the public hearing held in mid-February.
from the star:
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts after two years under new CRTC code of conduct | Toronto Star
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts after two years under new CRTC code of conduct
By: Madhavi Acharya-Tom Yew Personal Finance writer,
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts without fees after two years, under the new wireless code unveiled Monday by the CRTC.
The wireless code also caps charges for extra data at $50 per month and charges for international data roaming at $100 per month to prevent bill shock, the CRTC said in a release.
The new rules by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission will apply to new contracts for cellphones and other personal mobile devices starting Dec. 2.
“Every day, Canadians rely on wireless devices while in their homes, at their jobs, at school or travelling abroad,” Jean-Pierre Blais, chair of the CRTC, said in a release. “The wireless code will contribute to a more dynamic marketplace by making it possible for Canadians to discuss their needs with service providers at least every two years.”
The CRTC said that, among other things, individual and small business consumers will be able to:
- Terminate their wireless contracts after two years without cancellation fees, even if they have signed on for a longer term
- Have their cellphones unlocked after 90 days, or immediately if they paid for the device in full
- Return their cellphones within 15 days and specific usage limits, if they are unhappy with their service
- Accept or decline changes to the key terms of a fixed-term contract and receive a contract that is easy to read and understand.
The wireless code will apply to all service providers in Canada, in particular where customers pay a monthly bill after using their services and, where applicable, to pre-paid wireless services, the CRTC said.
“The wireless code is a tool that will empower consumers and help them make informed choices about the service options that best meet their needs. To make the most of this tool, consumers also have a responsibility to educate themselves,” Blais said.
The CRTC’s public consultation on the wireless code attracted over 5,000 participants, including individual Canadians, who shared their views on an online discussion forum, in writing and at the public hearing held in mid-February.
from the star:
Canadians can cancel their wireless contracts after two years under new CRTC code of conduct | Toronto Star