UTILITY CO. WROTE OFF OLD DEBT-NOW TRYING TO COLLECT ON NEW ACCOUNT UNDER SPOUSE'S NAME

by TERRY
(MICHIGAN)

According to SEMCO ENERGY, I owe app. $50.00 from an old rental. I was not aware of this until, I recently married and it appeared on the new bill which is in my spouse's name. The last bill stated the amount had been written off. I cannot recall the date I moved out, as it was over 5 yrs ago, but another person stayed in the apt. My rent and any other outstanding bills were paid at the time I left, but I cannot recall the arrangement with Semco. There are other factors, but do I have to pay, when there's a good chance I had moved out at the last billing, and I believe the rental place kept my deposit.

Comments for UTILITY CO. WROTE OFF OLD DEBT-NOW TRYING TO COLLECT ON NEW ACCOUNT UNDER SPOUSE'S NAME

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Apr 12, 2010
 old collection account
by: Gerri

Terry,

I don't have an easy answer for you on this one since it sounds like you aren't clear whether you actually owe this bill or not. It also sounds like the utility company, rather than a collection agency, is trying to collect from you. And unfortunately I don't know what your rights are if you are dealing directly with the utility company.

If you are dealing with a collection agency, instead of the utility company, please let me know in the comments section below. Either way, though, it sounds like it will be tough to prove you don't owe the balance. I am sorry I couldn't be of more help here.
Apr 16, 2010
 UTILITY COMPANY/ CLAIMS I OWE...
by: Anonymous

It is the utility company trying to collect. I found out some more info from old landlord. I vacated premised on 10/20/05. At that time, the landlord made me sign a "relinquish all rights" and that I was not entitled to my security deposit. On the utility bill: 10/27 to 11/16-the utility bill was in the apt. building's name. That is 7 days after I moved out. But company claims I owe from:10/20/05 through 11/18/05.
Also, according to paperwork I have, the landlord attempted to collect in court rent, etc from my ex, which included unpaid utility bill dated 12/07. Utility company claims I must not have called and had service taken out of my name. I understood the landlord charged me for any unpaid bills including rent, as I signed "I am caught up on all unpaid bills." Have copy.

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