Harris & Harris Utility Debt in San Jose, CA

Harris & Harris is collecting utility debt in San Jose. Average: $800. California SOL: 4 years. Garnishment: 25% or amount exceeding 40x min wage.

Known Harris & Harris Violations

  • • Threatening arrest or criminal prosecution for civil debt
  • • Adding unauthorized collection fees
  • • Failing to provide proper mini-Miranda warning

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

  • • Harris & Harris collects government and municipal debts — verify with the issuing agency
  • • Parking tickets and municipal fines have specific appeal processes
  • • No collector can threaten arrest for consumer debt — report this immediately
  • • Utilities must offer payment plans in most states
  • • Estimated billing can be challenged with actual meter reads
  • • Many states ban winter disconnection for heat