What to Do If You Receive a Bill for a Service You Never Ordered

An unexpected bill can trigger instant panic, but do not pay it out of fear. Your first step is to dispute the charge in writing — never just call, always create a paper trail. Request proof of the agreement or contract that supposedly authorized the service. If they cannot produce one, you have strong grounds to refuse payment.

This could be a clerical error, a subscription you forgot about, or an outright scam. Check your bank statements for any related charges. If the company persists after your written dispute, report them to your local consumer protection agency. Never give personal or financial information to a company that contacts you about a bill you do not recognize.