You could pay the same amount for electricity next winter that you pay this summer if you participate in MEA’s Budget Billing program. More than 4,000 residential MEA members now participate in this program, which helps people budget their energy expenses. You can find out more about Budget Billing in the following set of questions and answers. If you have a question that we don’t cover here call one of our customer service representatives; they will be happy to help you. You can sign up any time between April 1 and May 31.
Budget Billing is a method of paying electric utility bills in 12 equal payments. This plan allows members to budget for electrical payments in advance, eliminating higher payments in the winter, when extreme cold weather conditions can drive expenses up.
Who is eligible for Budget Billing?
Any residential member in good standing whose home has had continuous electrical service for 12 months is eligible to participate.
Who should use Budget Billing?
The program is most beneficial to MEA members who use electric heating or who have bills which vary from month to month or season to season.
Is Budget Billing mandatory?
No. Budget Billing is by individual choice for the member’s convenience only, and may be discontinued by either the member or MEA at any time.
Will Budget Billing save me money?
No. You will continue to pay for the exact kilowatt-hours used during the year. You will probably pay more than you’re used to during the summer months and less during the winter months.
How will my payment be determined?
Your Budget Billing payment will be determined by your previous 12 months’ total consumption and any anticipated rate changes.
Will my payment stay the same all year?
Each June, your Budget Billing amount will be recalculated to ensure accuracy. If your usage has changed during this time frame, please call us and we will adjust your monthly budget amount accordingly.
What if I pay too much during the year?
Your monthly payment will be determined as closely as possible to come out even by our “true up” month of June. Any credit accrued by this time will automatically be applied to future bills until exhausted.
What if I pay too little during the year?
All amounts owed MEA by our “true up” month of June will automatically be rolled over to the next program year, and “spread” over the next 12 months’ Budget Billing payments. You won’t have to “catch up” all at once.
Can I pay by credit card or electronic bank draft?
You can arrange to have MEA automatically charge your bill to your credit card if you have VISA or MasterCard, or deduct the payment from your checking account.
Will my meter be read each month?
Yes. Your meter will continue to be read on a monthly basis, whenever possible. You will continue to receive a monthly bill as you have in the past. The bill will indicate your current kilowatt-hour consumption and your current Budget Billing amount.
When may I sign up for Budget Billing?
You can sign up for Budget Billing April 1 through May 31 – just give us a call.