Portfolio Recovery Associates Utility Debt in Mobile, AL

Portfolio Recovery Associates is collecting utility debt in Mobile. Average: $800. Alabama SOL: 6 years. Garnishment: 25% of disposable earnings.

Known Portfolio Recovery Associates Violations

  • • Filing lawsuits on time-barred debt
  • • Adding unauthorized fees to original balance
  • • Calling outside permitted hours

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

  • • PRA buys debt for pennies — never pay full amount without negotiating
  • • Request the original signed agreement — PRA rarely has it
  • • Document every call with date, time, and representative name
  • • Utilities must offer payment plans in most states
  • • Estimated billing can be challenged with actual meter reads
  • • Many states ban winter disconnection for heat