Wrong utility bill?

Question

I am having a disagreement with the gas company over a utility bill. I know they are overcharging me (by about $100) but they refuse to remove the charge. I could simply pay the bill and sue the company for the payment (and I would win) but this relates to an investment property in another state and its easier just to pay the bill than file the suit in the other state.

I can't simply refuse to pay the bill as I know that eventually this will affect my credit and they'll turn off the gas, and I'll just end up paying the bill plus interest down the road.

So, I can't ignore the bill, they won't remove the charge, and I essentially can't sue the company for the bill. Is there any other option available. I am positive I don't owe this money, but what can I do?

Answer 1

If you have a dispute, utilities are overseen by a government agency in most states.  They are usually called something like the "Public Utilities Commission".  This information should be on your bill.  There is also a dispute procedure you can follow.

It would involve something like sending in the disputed amount to the Commission as a "deposit".  They then investigate and either send the money to the utility or return it to you if you are correct.  During this dispute you are not considered late or delinquent(since you did pay the bill), and the Gas company can not take any action against you for it.

Answer 2

Nothing.  Pay the bill and write it off.

Answer 3

Besides filing a complaint against them I would take an ad out in their local paper about utility companies treatment of you.

Answer 4

Contact the Better Business Beau for the city that the gas company is located in ( you can find them by doing a search for the BBB on line). They will be able to help you as they act as a middle man between you and the gas company. Just be sure to respond to everything that the BBB sends you so that they can help you the best they can. You might also wish to contact the Federal Trade Commission. They might be able to help in this mater as well. Best of luck.