Changing Utilities

[TheOtherHalf]

Because my ma in Law in getting so frail and forgetful and putting bills in cupboards and not paying them, we decided we would get them delivered to our home address but still in her name, so that we could pay them. BT were fine with this, but when we phoned EON we were told we have to have power of attorney to do this. My OH argued like mad with the young man who said it was more than his jobs worth to do this, and that BT shouldnt have done it. All we want to do is pay the bills instead of them being hidden away and not paid..
Does anyone know what the correct procedure is for this please

[zzxxee]

I would put it in writing about what your going to do, get mum in law to sign and send it

[dzug2]

The correct procedure is either for your mil to authorise it or get her to give you power of attorney

BT are in breach of the Data Protection Act

[TheOtherHalf]

Thanks for your answers. My MIL is nearly blind so cannot see to write or sign anything and by the time a power of attorney comes through, which weill probably cost a fortune, the bills could be well overdue, even though we are trying to keep an eye on things.
We are thinking it will probably be easier to wait until she pops her clogs which could be soon and save all the hassle.

[bednobs]

the POA costs £150 if you fill the forms in yourselves.
If she is willing, it may make a lot of sense to do it now anyway

[lcg]

you could also just redirect her mail to your address if she is agreeable....x

[lucca]

Is MIL mentally able to agree to any of these plans/ideas? She certainly needs to be in order to give PoA.