PG&E debt

sheila · #1 (**permalink**) 11-06-2008, 10:07 AM

We have a large amount outstanding to PG&E. Due to some family disasters we are unable to pay the full amount. I want to reach a settlement with the collection agency but they have told me PG&E never allows them to settle an account. Does anyone know if this is true?

Thanks

pants711 · #2 (**permalink**) 11-06-2008, 06:42 PM

I payed my balance in full ($300+) directly to PG&E a couple of months ago, from an account that was closed in 2004. Collection agencies (CAs) will often lie to you to try and scare you into giving them your money. Never believe anything they tell you!

I would call PG&E directly and ask them if you can settle with them, arrange a payment plan with their collection dept. instead of the CA. Tell them it is the only way they are going to get any money because you refuse to deal with CAs, period.

Tell them it is the only option because you have had bad experiences in the past w/CAs. Be firm. In this economy, I bet they will be eager to get any money they can. They will probably deal with you directly. Get it in writting that they are going to call off the CA first, than arrange payment.

If they tell you you have to settle w/the CA, make sure you send the CA a debt validation letter, certified mail, return receipt requested. DO NOT call them anymore! Correspond only in writting, so you have records of everything. If they cannot or will not validate the debt, then you will have some leverage.

I recommend that you search this site and others about dealing with CAs to get the whole picture. There is a lot to learn to protect yourself from their shady business practices.

I will try to answer any other questions you might have, if I can....

sheila · #3 (**permalink**) 11-10-2008, 11:24 AM

Thanks so much for your response. We did have an agreement with PG&E and were paying on time but they still turned it over to a CA.

pants711 · #4 (**permalink**) 11-10-2008, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sheila

Thanks so much for your response. We did have an agreement with PG&E and were paying on time but they still turned it over to a CA.

I recently got a letter from a CA trying to collect on my PG&E debt AFTER I had paid it in full to PG&E. I sent them a copy of the payment receipt along with a cease and desist letter.

If you are already paying PG&E, Send a letter to the CA saying they need to cease collection attempts immediately. Send them copies of any paperwork that proves that you are paying PG&E. Make sure that any personal information (other than Name and Address) is blacked out. Also, try to get someone from PG&E to send the CA a letter stating that you are paying directly and there has been some mistake.

PG&E is a big company and they are notorious for poor inter-office communication.

You don't want BOTH of these companies listing this debt collection on your credit report; it will kill your score!

Sponsors