LPEA members are regularly targeted in aggressive scams. These scams either threaten disconnect if payment is not received immediately over the phone, or they attempt to get your bank account details by claiming you have overpaid your bill. This is not how we conduct business, and you should never give out your personal information over the phone. If payment is required on your account, we will always direct you to our secure pay-by-phone system.
If you are in danger of being disconnected for non-payment, this is what will happen:
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3 weeks before disconnect, you'll receive a disconnect notice in the mail.
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2 weeks before disconnect, you'll receive an LPEA robocall advising you to call us.
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1 day before disconnect, you'll receive an LPEA robocall advising you to call us.
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Day of disconnect at 7:00 a.m., you'll receive a final LPEA robocall advising you to call us.
“These calls happen more frequently during non-business hours, like in the evenings or Friday through Sunday. Scammers use threats and urgency to pressure you into giving them your bank account number or loading a pre-paid credit or debit card,” said Aubrey Gillespie, LPEA Member Service Manager. “Just know that LPEA will never call and demand immediate payment over the phone as they do.”
If you think you might be talking to a scammer, try to collect as much information as possible, hang up, and call the local authorities. If someone comes to your home claiming to be an employee of LPEA, saying they need to collect money or inspect your property, call us to verify they are an employee. If they are not, call local authorities* for assistance, and do not let the individual into your home.
LPEA Member Service Representatives can be reached at (970) 247-5786 Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., for clarification on any billing questions.
If you have any doubts about your utility bill, contact us at the number above.
*Pagosa Springs Police Department non-emergency dispatch (970) 731-2160
*Durango Police Department non-emergency dispatch (970) 375-4700