Lower Utility Bills
One of the most important bills to keep up on are your utility bills; do everything you can to lower utility bills, rather than face having the lights turned off. You need these services to function, and not having them may provide a health risk to your family. If you fall behind on your utility bills, you'll eventually receive a notice informing you to pay by a specified date or your power will be shut off.
The number of utility notices vary by state. You can learn how many by checking with your state Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The final notice you receive will outline the outstanding balance you owe, when it must be paid by and your right to appeal this decision.
Can't Lower Utility Bills? Try These Agencies...
There are a surprising number of agencies designed to help people gain control over their utility bills, though their qualification requirements can be very different. For example, some agencies provide assistance only for low income households, while others offer seasonal help only (such as keeping the heater on in February in Chicago). The services are geared towards keeping the power on, and rarely include water or waste assistance. If you have a cell phone, don't bother fighting it; your health is at stake when the power goes off, and this should remain your highest priority.
If you are having trouble with utilities, contact your PUC and ask about their assistance programs. Also, if you are a low income household, you may be able to qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Call the National Energy Assistance Referral project at 886.674.6327 to find out if you qualify.
Because of the public health concern and emotional trauma of losing power, many local churches and charities are designed to help out those in need. Contact a few and ask if they can help; chances are, they'll at least be able to refer you to someone.
Most utility companies are willing to lower utility bills temporarily, provided you agree to pay your past-due bills over a period of time. In fact, utility companies are required by law to work with people in this type of situation (though they aren't required to accept a proposal that doesn't make financial sense for them).
In conclusion, your local PUC can help steer you in the right direction. Contact them as soon as it appears you'll fall behind on your utility bills; the earlier you speak with them, the better.
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