Q: Sewer company is assessing our taxes with no notice. We tried to open one but was told there was nothing to be opened.
Our county's water and sewer company is assessing our taxes in 3 days. We had no idea we had to pay sewer to another company. We called when we first moved in and was told they could not change the name because we were another utility area so we have been paying this other company for electric and water for 2 years. We just recieved something stating we owe 600 dollars for sewer charges. We called and was told they are going on our taxes this Friday. No notice this was happening just a bill for the amount saying it was due on the 23rd not the 13th
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A:
It sounds like you're dealing with a confusing and frustrating situation regarding the sewer charges being assessed to your taxes. First, check any documents or notices you might have received when you moved in. Sometimes, utility responsibilities can be listed in closing documents, lease agreements, or initial utility setup paperwork. If there was no clear notice or information about these charges, that could be important in disputing them.
Next, contact the water and sewer company immediately in writing to ask for clarification about these charges and why you were not informed earlier. Make sure to request copies of any bills, statements, or notifications they claim were sent to you. Keep a record of all your communications, including emails, letters, and notes from phone calls.
If they are not responsive or helpful, consider disputing the charges formally through their dispute resolution process, if available. Additionally, since they are adding this to your property taxes so quickly, you may want to speak to an attorney who is familiar with local tax laws and utility billing disputes to get more personalized guidance. They could help you understand if you have grounds to challenge the addition to your taxes and what steps you might need to take next.
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