credit check

[Tom Zingale]

We were thinking of signing up for the co-op but when we called Ferrell Gas  but they require for a full credit check to sign up.  This means they wanted my Social security, drivers license, DOB.  I cannot think of any other company that asks for such personal information just for a utility account.  Did anyone else have to give this info ?  Amerigas never asked for this type of information. 

thanks

[Sigrid Oseberg]

I believe you only need a credit check if you wish to pay monthly - I think that is standard practice. If you choose COD, you don't need a credit check

[Tom Zingale]

On Tuesday, January 8, 2013 3:53:47 PM UTC-8, Sigrid Oseberg wrote:

I believe you only need a credit check if you wish to pay monthly - I think that is standard practice. If you choose COD, you don't need a credit check

 Sigrid thanks for the response. COD is not great because there is no auto fill.  I would have to check the tank and call up. 

 In any case I think Ferrell should be more forgiving about personal information and give an alternative.   They might require a cash deposit or a credit card on file. or etc..  An alternative would give folks like us who are worried about identity fraud and identity information leaks a way to use their service.  A credit check and all this personal information does seem extreme just to make sure I am worthy of there service and will pay my bill.   We will call them and see if they can offer an alternative.

[Bonnie]

I had to provide the same information to Suburban a couple of years ago. When I was with Amerigas my account started so long ago I don't think it was a requirement to provide that info back then.

Bonnie Bedzin

[David Polzine]

Perhaps charging nearly double Ferrell's price offers Amerigas a bit of a cushion against those who don't pay? ;) 

On Tuesday, January 8, 2013 1:08:13 PM UTC-8, Tom Zingale wrote:

[Gary Domingos]

I had the same concerns, but did FAX my completed forms to the Oakhurst office after their assurance all personal info would be deleted/shredded after the credit check was run.
Their later email assured me they had done so, and I'm in the queue for a tank change and fill up.  They did lose my first email with forms attached which was a bit disturbing.
I believe a neighbor refused to provide ALL the info they wanted and she was able to set up her contract without SS# and other info.  

[Sigrid Oseberg]

Ferrellgas performed my credit check over the phone so I did not fax any info