stephanie.k.sanders
06-19-2008, 11:42 AM
I had an account with a particular cell phone provider back in 2005 and at the time I was going through a divorce my now ex-husband had many bills so we filed for bankrupsey and added this cell phone provider to the bankrupsey. I called the cell phone company up after the bankrupsey to verify that the account was closed and I would no longer need their services. Once I confirmed the account was closed I gave the phone to a friend who had this cell phone service for him to put his line on. Months went by I thought everything was good until I got turned down for a loan due to an outstanding bill. I pulled my credit report and there was a $622.80 charge for this cell phone company under an account number that was different from the one I had previously. I immediatly called the company and asked what it was about they said that there service is considered a utility and that they can open another account for someone without notification or request from the consumer after a bankrupsey. I stated that I did not want the account and that I would not pay it as I did not even have the phone then. They argued and I hung up. I then sent letters to the company requesting documentation from them showing how they could charge me, I never received a reply. I disputed with every credit bureau with no luck of getting it off my report. Finally this year I contacted the Attorney Generals office and they sent a letter to the company. The cell phone company responded stating that I owed the charges and gave a brake down of the charges to include: $302.94 past due ballance, $116.98 Bankrupsey charge, and a $175 early cancellation charge. As I never opened the account I don't see how I owe them anything. I tried contacting Legal aid and found out I make to much for them to help me. I am trying to buy a house and can't get the loan because of this account on my credit report which now shows as a "charge off". It is frustrating to be told by someone that you will have to pay a lawyer to get something off your credit report that you never should have been charged. Is there any advice anyone can give me as to handle this in the cheapest manor that doesn't involve me paying this company money they are not owed? (Is there something that states they can open an account without my knowlege or approval when I file bankrupsey?)