Created: 9/8/2009 5:53:14 PM 
JACKSONVILLE FL -- Lita Sherman is convinced she has paid the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) $2,800 for a bill that is not hers.
"I'm confused! If they know the person who owes the bill, why put it on me?" asked Sherman.
JEA spokesman Gerri Boyce says the utility's AcuRent service shows that Sherman and others lived in a house off Ft. Caroline Road, a charge Sherman denies.
But based on the report and verification of her social security number, JEA says Sherman will have to pay since the account holder does not have an active JEA account.
"If we can prove that you benefited from the service, we can hold you liable for the bill," says Boyce.
Sherman says she has since paid the bill in full, but would like a refund. JEA says she is not entitled to one.
JEA says when Sherman signed up for new service, she signed a payment agreement to pay off the other bill, and that was her chance to walk away.
But Sherman defaulted on that agreement and it lead to late fees and a security deposit.
The JEA says the message to consumers is if you are living with someone who has the utility account in their name, you may be held liable if they should default, or not pay the bill.
Also, if you should enter a payment agreement with the JEA, try to meet the terms. If you don't, it could lead to late fees and a security deposit in addition to the bill.
You also have the option of filing a complaint with the state's Public Service Commission.
©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
