First Utility Debt Incorrectly Sold On

[Deleted User]

Hope this is the right forum.

I had a bill with First Utility a while back that was passed on to a company called Zinc. I paid the bill. Now, some time later, I'm being pursued by CRS.

Before I start making phone calls and getting passed around, who is my complaint definitely with? I reckon First Utility. Am I right?

Advice appreciated.

Raxiel

As I understand it, yes. Unless the Debt Collector is acting simply as an agent, then unless both First Utility* and the Debt collector informed you in writing of the transfer of the alleged debt the DC has no legal standing to demand the money - which is to say, they can ask you for it, but they can't take you to court (although some may try).

It sounds like you paid money to one debt collector who may not have passed the money on to FU and now they sent another? Or Zinc 'forgot' you'd paid them and sold the debt on a second time?

You'd probably be better seeking advice in a part of the forum that deals with credit and debt collectors.

*(And the original creditor must write their letter themselves, I know in the world of parking charges it's not unknown for debt collectors to fraudulently write both letters posing as the creditor in one)

[Deleted User]

Thanks for the response. I called FU and somebody somewhere really messed up the numbers, it seems...

sheff6107

Go back to First Utility.

And never pay debt collectors. Send a cheque to the original creditor marked 'in full and final settlement'. Pay a debt collector and you'll be marked down as a live fish and your details will be sold to all and sundry.