Identity Theft Utility Account

Summary

If a utility account was fraudulently opened in your name during a separation, you may not be responsible for the debt. In South Carolina, identity theft has no statute of limitations, so you can report it anytime. Inform the utility company in writing and provide supporting documents. If they still hold you responsible, consult a local attorney or the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs. Removal from your credit report is evidence but not legal absolution.

Full Conversation

Steohanie
I'm sorry, but it seems like there's a misunderstanding. Could you please provide more details about your legal issue so I can assist you better?
Stephanie
Hello Stephanie, it seems there might be a communication error. Could you please clarify your legal issue so I can assist you better?
During a separation from my estranged spouse they opened a utility acct in my name without my knowledge can I be held responsible for the debt
Hello Stephanie. This situation may be considered identity theft, which is illegal. Can you let me know which state you're in? The laws vary depending on the location.
I didn't find out about the acct until a few years later
Hello Stephanie. Not knowing about the account could potentially absolve you from responsibility. However, it's important to report the identity theft to local authorities. May I know in which state this incident occurred?
South Carolina
Hello Stephanie. In South Carolina:
- Unlawful use of another person's identifying information is considered identity theft.
- You should report this to your local law enforcement.
Please consult with a local attorney to understand your rights and responsibilities.
What if I learned of it a few years later and can't report it to local authirities
Hello Stephanie. Even if you discovered it years later, you can still report it. South Carolina has no statute of limitations for identity theft. However, it may be harder to investigate. It's recommended to consult with a local attorney.
What is the statute of limitations for ID theft in south carolina
In South Carolina, there is no statute of limitations for identity theft. This means you can report the crime no matter how much time has passed since it occurred.
The utity company is trying to make me responsible for the debt for an acct opened via the phone
Hello Stephanie. In South Carolina:
- Utility companies cannot hold you responsible for debts incurred due to identity theft.
- You should inform the utility company about the identity theft and provide any supporting documents.
- It's advisable to consult with a local attorney for specific advice.
I talked to the utility company today and they will not allow me to open my own acct without paying the debt I did not open.
Hello Stephanie. In South Carolina:
- You have the right to dispute fraudulent debts under the Fair Credit Billing Act.
- Inform the utility company in writing about the identity theft.
- If they continue to hold you responsible, it's best to seek help from a local attorney or consumer protection agency.
I contacted the utility company about the account and sent them the lease of the address that I was living at when the account was open and it had been removed from my credit report and now almost 4 years later they’re trying to collect the debt from me after I wasessentially absolved of the matter
Hello Stephanie. In South Carolina:
- If a debt is due to identity theft, you're not responsible.
- Document all communications with the utility company.
- Seek help from a local attorney or the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs if the company continues to pursue the debt.
Shofb't the removal of the acct from my credit report be evidence enough to be absolved of the matter
Hello Stephanie. In South Carolina:
- Removal of a debt from your credit report doesn't absolve you of legal responsibility.
- It's only one piece of evidence indicating the debt may not be yours.
- Legal absolution would likely require court involvement.
Consult a local attorney for advice.