Haverford, PA: (Jan-18-08) A class action lawsuit was filed against T-Mobile USA, alleging that the cellular services provider overcharged customers by not refunding billing overcharges. Records show that the case began in 2005 with one plaintiff, Michigan resident Chun Wing Wong, who claimed he was overcharged for Web and e-mail access based on usage even though he paid a flat monthly rate of $4.99 for unlimited access. After following the required protocols to obtain a refund, Wong sued T-Mobile for refusing to fully reimburse him, stating that he failed to complain within 60 days of the first incorrect bill. Following Wong's suit, several others filed, reaching about 350,000 people nationwide.
As part of a settlement reached, T-Mobile USA agreed to payout close to $2.2 million to resolve allegations. Under the deal, the company will reimburse class members with a net recovery of the full amount of un-refunded billing overcharges. Sources close to the case stated that counsel fees, which were also paid by T-Mobile as a condition of the settlement, totaled $1,097,808. [