unauthorized withdrawl

I gave directv my checking account information to set up services. When I payed monthly bills I payed online or sent a check through the mail. I never set up automated account withdrawl. I recently cancelled services with them and have been indispute ever since. They withdrew $440 from my checking account without my consent or knowledge and overdrew my account. Are they allowed to do that?

[annjd]

Based on what you say here, you could file suit against them (or at least threaten to do so) in small claims court or in regular court; filing in small claims court is easier and requires no attorney...you could try to collect all of the costs and damages that you suffered due to their behavior... You may also report them to your local police dept for theft, and to the state attorney general's office.

I would advise that you double check your contract first. I have often found that people sign a contract and at the time are aware of the provision but after having the service for a year or however long, forget the stipulations of the contract. It is very likely that the contract mentions a termination fee and ways in which they will collect unpaid fees.