Title: Utility Services | FTC Consumer Information
Headings: Utility Services
Utility Services
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What You Should Know About Getting Utility Services
Paying a Deposit
What If Your Spouse Has a Lousy Payment History?
What If You're Denied Utility Service?
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How You Can Lower Your Utility Bills
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If You Have Problems Paying Your Utility Bills

Content: Your ability to keep your use to a minimum to help prevent getting a really high bill later. Consider doing an energy audit. An audit involves finding out where you’re wasting energy and how well your heating and cooling systems work. The Department of Energy offers a do-it-yourself energy audit tool to help you do this. Your state consumer protection agency also may offer tips for conserving energy. Visit the website or call the number for the agency in your state. ﻿
If You Have Problems Paying Your Utility Bills
Your essential expenses — like rent or mortgage and utilities — should be top-of-mind as you work out a budget to manage your money efficiently. If you are behind in your utility payments, contact the utility company immediately to see if they can work out a payment arrangement with you until you can be current on your bill. Often, companies are willing to keep your services on if you pay a portion of the overdue bill and catch up your payments. If you make payment arrangements, keep in mind: