Comcast Sent Bill To Collection Agency

[oswald]

I discontinued my service with Comcast(Houston) on Jan. 23, 2008 also returning all equipment. I was informed that the final billing will be sent to me within the next 30 days. I received paper bill on Feb. 23, 2008 via mail for $106.00. I went to pay my bill on line, using Comcast payment service as I normally do, the following Monday but was unable to access it. I tried calling the 800 # but was put on hold "as usual for more than 30 mins" and disconnected.  On Feb 28, 2008, I received a collection notice from CMI for the $125.08. indicating that my account was "seriously past due". I telephone the billing dept, again on hold for 23 mins. but finally spoke with a representative. She indicated that since Jan 23,  to Feb 29, was over 30 days that is why the bill was sent to collection. And that I would have to deal with the collection agency.  

Are companies allow to use these types of scare tactics and surcharge additional amounts for a bill that is not even due yet?  I have tried to maintain an excellent credit standing and do not want this to affect my credit but it upsets me that Comcast can get away with this type of tactic. Is there a government agency that I can contact to report this abuse?

[Jean]

It sounds like you may have a legitimate dispute with this. You could file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission for violating the Fair Credit Billing Act and or Fair Credit Reporting Act. Send a copy of the complaint to Comcast and they may resolve this without further action, otherwise let the FTC do their thing.