Legal Question in Consumer Law in Virginia

Hidden Charges

I purchased 2 packages on 29 Oct 1999 for a cruise in October of this year. The receipt states that the amount due is 0.00. The receipt also states that "Payment - Full" and Confirmed. Today I get a phone call stating that I need to pay an additional $40.00 to cover a new airline surcharge. Apparently it's required for anyone flying after March of 2000. With the receipt stating that it's paid in full, do I need to pay the additional $40.00?


Asked on 7/21/00, 4:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Daniel Hawes Hawes & Associates

Re: Hidden Charges

Depends on your contract. If you agreed to terms (i.e., by signing a document that says you read and accept the terms printed somewhere else) that allows the seller to charge more for those things, then all your "paid in full" receipt indicates is that you were paid up as of that date. If there was no written contract, or if the terms of a written contract didn't say anything about that, then no, they can't charge you extra. That's breach of contract on their part. They know you either have to pay up or don't go, and it's going to be too much trouble to sue them. What you could do is show up for the cruise, all packed and ready to go, and see if they turn you away. Notice they didn't demand the money in writing? Maybe they know they can't really demand it, you know it never hurts to ask.

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Answered on 9/13/00, 8:54 am


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