This is a great program if you want to know how much your monthly electric bill will be, for those who are on a fixed income, or who travel. Budget Billing is not a way to save money. You should still monitor your energy usage. However, with this program you’ll know what your electric bill will be each month to help you plan accordingly.

There are no income guidelines and no extra charges. If you’ve been in your house for twelve months, May is the perfect month to sign up. To qualify, your account must be current, with a zero-balance.

How does Budget Billing Work?

Your unique Budget Billing amount is based on your location’s historical usage. The program works by estimating your yearly bill based on your past usage, and then dividing that estimated amount into equal monthly payments over a 12-month period.

Your actual energy usage is still calculated each month. We encourage you to review your monthly credit balance and usage throughout the year, and call customer service to discuss adjusting your budget amount. Paying too much or not enough, could have an adverse effect on your future budget bill amount. The goal is to have a zero balance after paying your May bill.

How does my bill change when I sign up for Budget Billing?

Your budget bill will have an "Account Budget Balance" section on the back, just below your account breakdown. This section shows your budget bill amount; payments on the account; your current (actual usage) charges; and any credit or balance variance.

When does my budget bill amount change?

Budget bill amounts are reviewed and recalculated in May. The annual May review takes into consideration the previous 12 months usage and any balance or credit on the account. A remaining balance or credit will be averaged out over the next 12 months budget payment.

What do I need to know before signing up for Budget Billing?

We recommend having 12 months of usage history prior to signing up for Budget Billing.

If you sign up for budget billing without 12 months of usage history, your budget amount will be based on the previous occupant’s usage.  Additionally, if there is no past usage for your location (for example, if you moved into a newly constructed home or building, or a previously vacant location), there is no usage history to base your budget amount on.  

You may sign up for Budget Billing at any time. The only requirement is your account must be current, with a zero-balance. However, we don’t recommend signing up for Budget Billing until you have at least 12 months of billing history. We believe a full 12 months of personal usage provides a better experience for our customers.

View the Budget Billing Brochure 

Call the PUD customer service department for help signing up at 360-426-8255 today!