When paying your utility bills, you might notice a small mistake on your final bill. The error could be the result of a clerical error, or maybe you accidentally paid the bill twice. Whatever the reason, correcting and disputing an incorrectly paid bill is a fairly simple process.
A bill is something that’s paid. You simply send a check or money order; or, of course, a credit card (which has its own set of complications). So, when a bill arrives, and you think it’s incorrect—it appears to be late or double-billed, for example—it’s a simple matter to dispute. The most applicable laws are those governing consumer debt collection, but the same rules for disputes apply to commercial bills.
The following are the tips that will help you dispute an incorrect bill.
Knowing your specific contract terms as well as billing rates.
Knowing the specific terms of your contract as well as billing rates is one of the legal tips for disputing an incorrect bill. Understanding your contract terms and billing rates will also make you aware of your rights and remedies. For example, you may have the right to reimburse unauthorized charges.
Check the amount you owe each month.
Before you can dispute an unbalanced bill, you need to determine how much you owe each month. The easiest way is to contact the company to see if your bill is correct. Remember, keep a list of any charges you are asked to dispute while you’re calling. After talking to the company, don’t assume your bill is correct.
Call the customer service line on your bill immediately when you notice an error.
You should do something as soon as you spot an inaccurate bill. You should contact the customer service number on your bill if you’re calling your water or electricity provider. You’ll want to have the number handy, and you should have it memorized because you’re likely to be asked to provide it if you’re disputing the bill.
Take note of the time of your call and the name of any representatives you speak with.
When calling a company’s customer service line, it may seem intuitive to state your account number, account type, and the representative with whom you speak. However, getting the representative’s name and the time of your call is equally important, and it’s a mistake many people make when they call customer service. Doing so creates a paper trail that may help you hold the company accountable for your error since many companies treat customer service lines like trouble lines.
If no representative can assist you, courteously ask to have a moment with the manager instead.
If a service representative cannot answer your question, there are some simple rules to follow when calling back. First, dial *72 after confirming the representative cannot help you. This will cancel your call and allow you to place another call while still on the line. Second, tell the representative you would like to speak to a manager and hang up. This will ensure that when a manager picks up, you won’t have to repeat the problem and may get a more knowledgeable response.
The bill can be issued by an individual or corporation, individual, corporation, or organization. They cannot be issued directly to a hospital. When paying your electricity bills, you probably give it little attention until you receive the first bill, which is higher than expected. The overwhelming majority of consumers don’t know that according to their state’s utility deregulation laws, they’re entitled to dispute their bill at any time.