Ill father paying for EE phone contracts not in use

timcrouch

My father is seriously ill, and has dementia, and is sadly now in palliative care.

I've discovered he's paying two monthly phone contracts with EE - for a phone he doesn't have and I think hasn't had for years. 

What are his rights in this situation?  Am I able to ask EE for a refund?  It feels like they should know these contracts are completely dormant.

I'm very grateful for any help.   

Aylesbury_Duck

Yes, you can ask, but you may face a couple of hurdles.  Firstly, do you have Power of Attorney, that will allow you to deal with it on his behalf?  If not, you'll need to speak to EE to find out what they need to enable you to do so.

Secondly, I don't think there's any automatic right to a refund, although I'd hope that in the circumstances and if there's evidence of zero use they may exercise some goodwill.  Don't go in all guns blazing.  Once you have authorisation to deal with them on your father's behalf, stopping the contract should be straightforward although again, there may be early exit fees.  I doubt it, if you think he hasn't had the phone for years.

Good luck.

timcrouch

Thank you - that is helpful.  I certainly won't go in all guns blazing, I just hope for some reasonableness in what is ultimately a sad situation.  I do have Power of Attorney so this should make things a little easier.

Thanks again.