How can I be charged for a Utility Bill that is not in my name?

I was living in an apartment complex with my parents. They were the two main people responsible, but because I was 18 years old I was required to be on the lease. My parents got evicted for non-payment and still owe money. So now their eviction and what they owe is on my credit. Part of the money they still owe are utility bills. I have found the bills that we are being charged for and NONE of the bills are in my name. They are in both my parents name.

How can I be charged for a bill that is not in my name? How am I supposed to know a bill needs to be paid if - I - don't receive a bill? I live in WA state and I dont know who I can speak to about this. I don't have money for a lawyer. Should I dispute this with the credit agency OR the Corporate office of the apartments that are charging me?

If your name is not on the contract with the utility company they can not hold you responsible for the debt.

Call the utility.

As stated by another, your name is not on the utility bill, so legally you shouldn't be held accountable for that bill. However, the people who are billing you might be going after you because it's easier. I would write a letter to the company who is billing you and explain the situation. Make sure it makes legal sense and have it delivered certified mail so they can't say they didn't get it. It would be smart to take notes on all discussion including name, number and reference number for the calls. It may take a while, so be diligent and hopefully you will come out on top. Another very important thing to remember is to make sure you follow up and get that company to give you a letter on their letterhead releasing you from the obligation. Somewhere it should state you were not the correct party to bill, not just forgiving the debt.That way you can use those letters as proof for credit issues if they pop up later. Good luck and God Bless.