Financial Management Systems Utility Debt in Bakersfield, CA
Financial Management Systems is collecting utility debt in Bakersfield. Average: $800. California SOL: 4 years. Garnishment: 25% or amount exceeding 40x min wage.
Known Financial Management Systems Violations
- • Adding unauthorized collection fees
- • Misrepresenting urgency of payment
- • Failing to provide proper validation notice
Dispute Strategies
- • File complaint with state Public Utility Commission
- • Request billing audit and meter verification
- • Apply for utility assistance programs (LIHEAP)
- • Dispute estimated vs actual billing
- • Challenge reconnection fees if disconnect was improper
Tips
- • FMS collects for government agencies — verify the debt with the original agency
- • Government debts may have offset provisions — understand your rights
- • Request a payment plan if the debt is valid — most agencies must offer one
- • Utilities must offer payment plans in most states
- • Estimated billing can be challenged with actual meter reads
- • Many states ban winter disconnection for heat