Managing Summer Utility Bills
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If the summer heat is burning up your utility bills, there is help available, according to utility leaders. Ted Austin with Jackson Energy Authority said the number of requests for payment arrangements and assistance is on the rise this month. “There are options available,” Austin said. “We can offer flat-rate billing to help ease the spike in summer and winter costs,” added Austin. Jackson Energy Authority offers the payment plan to customers with a good payment history, after a personalized consultation. “We encourage customers to call us and visit us, especially if they think there will be a problem paying their bill,” Austin explained. Area Relief Ministries also reported a rise in assistance requests. Leaders of the non-profit, community agency said they are seeing a 20 percent rise in calls for the month of July. That number is only expected to increase. Leaders said they have the funds available to help most clients, if they qualify and call in time. Both agencies said communication is crucial. If you think you may need help this month, contact your utility provider as soon as possible. In most cases, a payment solution can be found.
