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What is a switch hold?
A switch hold is put in place by a retail electric provider (REP) to prevent customers from switching companies before paying their bills or if they detect your meter has been tampered with.
You can remove a switch hold by paying any outstanding bills or submitting a New Occupant Statement (NOS) if you just moved in.
Navigating the Switch Hold Process
Are you in Texas, considering switching your electricity provider, but a switch hold is standing in your way?
Many Texans are in this predicament, unsure how to navigate the switch-hold process. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.
We’ll demystify the switchhold process and provide you with all the information you need to make a smooth transition.
Understanding the Switch Hold Conundrum
A switch hold is implemented by REPs in Texas to prevent customers from switching to another provider before settling their past-due bills.
It safeguards electricity companies, ensuring customers fulfill their financial obligations.
But what does this mean for you, and how can you navigate it?
How do you get a switch hold?
A switch hold prevents attempts to switch providers. If you cannot pay your electricity bill, your electric company may offer a deferred payment plan, enabling you to pay the outstanding balance in installments.
When you enter these agreements, the electric company can impose a switch hold on your meter to prevent you from changing providers to evade the due balance.
A switch hold may also be placed if your utility company detects meter tampering at your location.
Interfering with your Transmission and Distribution Utility meter is illegal and can result in a switch hold being applied.
Are You Facing a Switch Hold in Texas?
If a switch hold is placed on your address, you have a few different ways to deal with it.
Can I switch electricity companies with a switch hold?
You can switch electricity providers in Texas even if you have an outstanding balance, provided no switch hold is already in place.
If you already have a switch hold, you need to work with the electricity company to pay off your outstanding balance before the switch hold is removed.
Once it is removed, you can switch companies.
If your electricity is disconnected due to non-payment, contact your current provider and request a payment plan to pay off the outstanding balance gradually.
By agreeing to a payment plan, you acknowledge that a switch hold will be placed on your service address.
Do not enter a payment agreement with your electric company to avoid a switch hold. Instead, try to pay your bill in full if possible.
How to get electric service with a switch hold?
Lifting a switch hold requires settling any outstanding balance with your electricity company. After paying the balance in full, removing the switch hold may take up to 72 hours.
If your service has been disconnected due to non-payment, you must settle your outstanding balance with your current provider to restore your electricity.
Can I get prepaid electricity with a switch hold?
No, you cannot get prepaid electricity with a switch hold. A switch hold is typically implemented by the current electricity provider to restrict customers from switching to a new provider until certain conditions are met, such as clearing any outstanding balance or resolving specific issues.
As long as the switch hold is in place, you will not be able to enroll in a prepaid electricity plan. It is necessary to resolve the hold with your current provider before exploring prepaid electricity options.
What if I am a new occupant facing a switch hold?
You can have it removed by reaching out to the electricity company you want to establish services with and completing a New Occupant Statement (NOS).
The NOS must be accompanied by at least one of the following supporting documents:
– A copy of the signed lease
– A notarized affidavit from the landlord
– Closing documents
– Certificate of Occupancy; or
– A utility bill in the customer’s name, dated within the last two months, from a different address
Assistance Paying Your Energy Bill
If you find yourself struggling to manage your energy bills there are supportive programs available to lend you a hand.
Check out the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at acf.hhs.gov, a federal program that aids families in need with their energy costs. Or, visit benefits.gov to navigate various government benefits that might suit your specific situation.
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Assistance Paying Your Bill
Get help paying your electricity bill in Texas. Learn about Senate Bill 1976, Lifeline, Link-Up, and more.
Switch to Savings
If you’re ready to switch electricity providers in Texas, ComparePower is here to help.
Don’t let a switch hold stand in your way. Take action today.
Got questions or need help choosing the right energy plan?
Our team of local energy experts is here to help! Give us a call at 855-441-3030, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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