Utility bills
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
Call your utility company to request a payment arrangement or extension before the bill is overdue or service is disconnected.
Once power is off, representatives often cannot help unless full payment is made for reconnection.
- Some utility companies do not offer payment arrangements at all.
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- Contact your state's Public Utility Commission to negotiate payment arrangements or dispute shutoffs.2
If the account is in a former roommate's name, provide their contact info and start a new service under your own name.
This allows the utility to leave power on while chasing the previous occupant for the old balance.
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Use hot water bottles to retain and radiate heat efficiently during cold snaps without power.
They are affordable, last a long time, and clay versions retain and radiate heat efficiently.
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Contact the Salvation Army for emergency utility bill assistance.
- Assistance may be limited to once every few years.
- No religious or volunteer requirements are needed.
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Contact your electric company immediately to mention any governor-issued moratoriums on shutoffs.
Workers may process shutoffs automatically without knowing about the moratorium.
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Use free energy audits and grants to improve energy usage and reduce emissions.
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Monitor for bounced payments, as they can accumulate unnoticed for months until disconnection is imminent.
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