Do you struggle to pay your utility bills? CBS News reported that the cost of electricity has risen from 14 cents per kilowatt hour in 2019 to 18 cents per kilowatt hour, an increase of more than 28.5%. The average utility bill in the US was nearly $300 a month in 2024. So, how can you reduce your bills? Here are eight discounts your utility companies may offer if you ask.
1. Assistance Programs
If you receive Supplemental Security Income or Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children, you may be eligible for low-income assistance programs. There are also several federal programs that you can apply for assistance. HEARTWAP provides emergency heating system repair and replacement services to low-income households. WAP provides eligible households with full-scale home energy efficiency services. The program is funded by an annual grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, and administered by a network of local agencies.
2. Senior Discounts
Some utility companies offer discounts to individuals 60 years of age or older. Some companies offer a 5% discount for seniors. Many towns have discounts on water services for seniors as well.
3. Veteran Discounts
Many companies offer discounts for active and retired military. For example, if you live in a deregulated electricity state, you can choose your own provider. Then, you can choose a provider that offers a military discount, since many have been discontinued.
4. Paperless Billing Discounts
Ask your utility providers about any discounts for paperless billing. These can be a one-time discount or percentage off each month. Either way, it can help you keep more money in your pocket.
5. Energy Rebates
Did you recently upgrade to energy-efficient appliances or insulation? Many states will offer you a credit for doing so. But they don’t always advertise this fact unless you ask directly. These discounts include rebates for installing energy-efficient water heaters, HVAC systems, building insulation, appliances, weatherization, lighting, and other energy-efficient improvements.
Federal tax credits for energy efficiency expired at the end of 2016, but some programs are still active. If you installed solar panels, you can still receive a tax credit.
6. Loyalty Discounts
Some companies will offer loyalty discounts for long-time customers. It’s best to ask about this type of discount because it usually isn’t offered upfront. However, many companies value loyal customers. So, it’s possible that you’ll be able to get a discount or possibly a lower rate overall.
7. Hardship Discounts
If you can’t pay your utility bill, call your providers. They may offer you hardship assistance. You may be able to make adjusted monthly payments on your balance to avoid interruptions in service.
8. Budget Billing
Budget billing evens out your payments throughout the year based on past usage. This way, you won’t have big fluctuations in your bills in different seasons. If for any reason you underpay or overpay, you’ll receive a credit or additional utility bill.
Reducing Your Utility Bills
When it comes to utility bills, every dollar saved is helpful. Be proactive and call your providers to find ways to reduce your bills. You may be surprised at what you qualify for and how much you can save each month.
Have you received any other kind of discount on your bills? Let us know in the comments.
Read More
4 Reasons Teaching Kids to Garden Is a Great Low-Cost Educational Experience
Can You Really Budget Your Way Out of Poverty?
Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
Leave a Reply