I always do check my bank statements, and this month, I'm especially glad I did since I discovered I paid the heating oil company TWICE for my oil tank fill-up last month.
One would think they would call and tell me so, but no, I discovered I'd paid $424 twice, once when i left the delivery driver a blank check and again two days later, without thinking ,when they mailed me the receipt that should have been left in the door.
When I called she said they just applied it as a credit. Umm, you mean you don't bother to inform the customer, or ask the customer what their wishes are? It makes me distrustful of them; how do I know they wouldn't have just pocketed the extra cash?
I told her I wanted a refund; I don't always buy oil from them so I'd rather have my cash back.
Glad I checked my bank statement
October 22nd, 2013 at 12:31 pm
October 22nd, 2013 at 01:05 pm 1382443521
Also, with utilities, some people do 'pay ahead', causing credits on their accounts to be used at later dates when their cashflow is different.
I wouldn't consider their actions untrustworthy. While it stinks, it's also not their responsibility to confirm the intention for every payment that comes through their office. Refusal of payments (if they had just sent it back to you) could also lead to problems for the business. Not sure of the legalities of that one.
October 22nd, 2013 at 01:06 pm 1382443570
October 22nd, 2013 at 01:50 pm 1382446204
I am one that always is one payment ahead on my utilities (gas, electric, water/sewer) just because I like to feel that should unemployment befall us, things are current and I have small breathing room. My payments are reflected as credits on the statement.
October 22nd, 2013 at 11:40 pm 1382481641
October 23rd, 2013 at 12:27 am 1382484451
I see what you are saying too. I just am guessing they may have a more automated deposit system then you are envisioning.