MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – Homeowners in our area came to News13 last month after they said they were overcharged by the same utility company just days apart.
They wanted us to warn other customers to always look closely at their bills, so News13 spoke with an expert on how you can protect your hard-earned cash.
“You need to be vigilant and make sure you’re being charged appropriately on that bill,” said Juliana Harris, the communications director of South Carolina’s Department of Consumer Affairs.
Harris said keeping a close tabs on your personal statements is one of the most important things anyone can do/
“We usually say it in reference to identity theft but you also want to do it just to make sure there’s no fraudulent charges or errors on those bills you receive,” said Harris.
Harris says you have to be your own advocate and regularly check to make sure the company is charging you the appropriate amounts.
“It’s very important the business may not know there’s an error or they may not care,” said Harris. She said if you do notice something wrong, contact the business directly to try to resolve it.
“You want to make sure you keep those records and keep detailed records of any conversations you may have with the business in reference to the overcharge,” said Harris.
That will help you if you have difficulty in the dispute process or need to escalated and file a complaint with consumer affairs.
Complaints can be filed online, or a hard copy can be requested and consumer affairs department can act as a mediator between the consumer and company if necessary.
“We have an 85% satisfaction rate for resolving consumer complaints so were very satisfied with that and try to be fair,” said Harris.
Harris also mentioned it’s important to remember you’re not locked into a utility provider and to always check the competition.
“Research, research, research, you want to shop around to make sure you’re getting the best deal,” said Harris.
If you have any questions about your utility bills, you’re encouraged to call South Carolina’s Department of Consumer Affairs toll-free at 1-800-922-1594.
