Trying to establish local service with Verizon in Tampa is like getting a security clearance. I can’t establish service under a new account on an existing line without faxing copies of identification papers, even after a successful credit check. I wasted fifty minutes of cell air time, mostly on hold, waiting for someone at Verizon to even take my call. Their useless voice activated voice menu was easily confused.

Contrast that with Tampa Electric, where someone took my call within five minutes. The usual information was taken. While you have to request it explicitly, a credit check can be performed to determine if the approximately $200 deposit can be waived. My credit was good enough for Tampa Electric — and I know it’s pretty good — but it wasn’t enough for Verizon? My Tampa Electric service will be activate on the 14th. Who wants to bet Verizon will not have even processed my documents by then?

Verizon, you are teh suck!