If you have not paid your bill, service may be disconnected—either temporarily or permanently. It is best to let the utility company know your problem because most companies do not want to cut off your service, and they are willing to work out a plan for you to pay your bills.
However, you can expect quick action by the utility company if:
• You have a poor record of paying bills.
• Your bill is much larger than usual.
• You have lived in the area a short time.
• Their efforts to reach you by mail or phone have failed.
Some utility companies have programs to help low-income people pay their bills. In addition, some churches and community action programs have money to help people out of a one-time problem.
Once service is cut off, however, you must pay the entire bill, pay a substantial deposit (sometimes twice the amount of your average bill), and, in the case of phones and cable TV, reapply and pay installation charges after a permanent disconnection. For more information, contact your state Utilities Board or Public Service Commission.
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