Don't Let Billing Issues Shock Your Wallet

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Shocking Electricity Bill? Don’t Blame Your Usage Just Yet

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced that sinking feeling when you open your electricity bill and see a number way higher than expected.

Trust me, you’re not alone. Before blaming your AC for working overtime, let’s look at what might be happening.

Believe it or not, those high bills aren’t always due to excessive energy use.

Sometimes, billing and payment issues are the culprits.

Late Fees: The Snowball Effect

You missed a payment, thinking you’ll catch up next month.

But did you know that even one missed payment can trigger a chain reaction?

In Texas, Retail Electric Providers (REPs) can tack on a one-time late fee of up to 5% on overdue bills.

It might not seem like much, but trust me, those fees add up quickly.

Understanding Billing Cycles

Did you know your billing cycle doesn’t always align perfectly with the calendar month?

That’s because your electric billing cycle is the time between meter readings and can vary in length.

Weekends, holidays, and even meter accessibility can all impact when your meter gets read.

And here’s the kicker: a longer billing cycle means more usage on your bill, even if you didn’t use more electricity.

Billing Errors: When the Math Doesn’t Add Up

While billing mistakes are rare, they can happen.

Misread meters, incorrect rates, and even simple calculation errors can all lead to a higher-than-expected bill.

The good news is that Texas law requires REPs to correct overcharges within three billing cycles.

Here are two common types of errors to watch out for:

• Calculation Errors: Double-check the math on your bill. If your rate is 10 cents per kWh and you used 500 kWh, your usage charge should be $50.
• Changes to Charges: Watch for changes to fees from your Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU). These rates can change twice a year and impact your overall bill, even if your REP plan hasn’t changed.

How to Spot Billing Errors

Carefully review every charge. Your bill should include a clear breakdown of the following:

• Charges from your REP (energy usage, plan fees)
• Charges from the TDU (delivery charges, etc.)
• Any applicable taxes or additional fees

Verify that the rate per kWh you’re being charged matches the terms of your agreement with your REP.

Know Your Rights

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry. As a Texas electricity consumer, you have rights. Here’s a quick overview:

• Timely Bills: Your due date must be at least 16 days after the bill is issued.
• Payment Assistance: REPs must inform you about payment options and assistance programs.
• Average Billing and Deferred Payment Plans can help you manage seasonal bill spikes or pay off balances over time.

Take Action

If you suspect that billing issues are behind your high electricity bills, here’s what you can do:

• Review your bill carefully, checking for any unusual charges or discrepancies.
• Contact your electricity provider if something seems off.
• Explore your options. If you think your plan might be the problem, seeking a better rate and plan that fits your needs can help you control your energy costs.

Remember, you don’t have to face high electricity bills alone. We’re always here to help answer any questions you might have.

Understanding the common causes of billing issues and knowing your rights are the first steps to taking control of your energy costs and saying goodbye to bill shock.