Utility Deposit Refund Dispute

Summary

The user, a resident of Florida, is having a dispute with Lakeland Electric over a deposit refund. The user paid a deposit to get electricity service, which was not provided due to a past due bill of the property owner. The utility company is demanding a letter from the users bank, Chime, before processing the refund. The user is seeking advice on the legality of this requirement.

Full Conversation

I called Lakeland Electric to try to get service hooked up to an address that I'm supposed to have moved to. When I talked to the representative, she assured me that if I paid my deposit that I could have electricity turned on that same day. I paid my deposit and went to set up service they told me that they couldn't do it because the property owner had a past due bill. I asked them if they could send me back my money. The response I received was that I needed to get a letter from my online bank before they will refund my funds. Is that legal? I paid the deposit with the understanding that I was going to get my electricity turned on that day and I would have another $* service charged added to my 1st bill
What state are you located in? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding your rights as a utility customer.
Florida
What was the amount of the deposit you paid to Lakeland Electric?

In Florida, utility companies generally have the right to require a deposit before providing services. However, they must also provide refunds promptly if services aren't rendered.
$* plus a $*.* fee for using the automated system
What is the exact reason your bank gave for needing a letter before they can process the refund?
The bank didn't. Lakeland Electric said that
What is the exact wording of Lakeland Electric's policy regarding deposit refunds?
They told me that I have to get a letter to from my bank to receive a refund back to my debt card or wait up to 90 days for a paper check.
What is the name of your bank? This information will help me provide you with the most accurate advice.
Chime
What is the exact wording of the letter that Lakeland Electric is asking for from your bank?
Just that they will accept the refund. I told them that they would after I spoke with a Chime representative
What is the exact wording of the policy of Chime bank regarding refunds?
They accept them is all I know. I've had to have other things refunded and received no issues
What is the exact date when you paid the deposit to Lakeland Electric?
*/*
What is the current date? This will help me understand how long it's been since you paid the deposit.
*/*
What is the exact wording of the policy of Lakeland Electric regarding the refund process?
I don't know
Could you please provide me with the contact details or website of Lakeland Electric? This will help me find their refund policy.
Lakelandelectric.com
What is the exact wording of the policy of Lakeland Electric regarding the refund process?
I was not informed this
What is the exact wording of the policy of Chime bank regarding accepting refunds?
They accept refunds
What is the exact wording of the letter that Lakeland Electric is asking for from your bank?
They did not say except that they will accept it
What is the exact wording of the policy of Chime bank regarding the process of accepting refunds?