Title: What you need to know before the energy moratorium starts Nov. 1
Headings: Utility companies can't shut off your heat starting Nov. 1. But if you skip payments, you'll get a big bill in April.
Utility companies can't shut off your heat starting Nov. 1. But if you skip payments, you'll get a big bill in April.
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Content: For other households, disconnection can occur immediately, which for many, means a loss of heat and electricity. That's why it's important to work out a repayment plan before the moratorium ends. Failing to pay in time can also result in disconnection after the energy moratorium is over. It can also ruin credit because energy companies are allowed to report nonpayment to credit agencies – and often do. Along with applying for energy assistance, there are other options that can prevent that from happening: Deferred payment agreement: This is an agreement worked out between the resident and the utility, often to address what is owed at a date worked out between the two parties. Utility companies are required to offer this type of relief, as well as budget billing, for any home that remains disconnected due to non-payment, according to state law. Budget billing agreement: During this process, utility companies such as We Energies total or estimate a year's energy costs, divide it by 12 and multiply it by the current rate of electricity.