If you have been responsible for someone's account in the past, but no longer want to be, send a dated, written statement to the provider stating that you will no longer be responsible. If charges for those accounts show up on your bill, see the section above regarding billing disagreements. PUDs and other providers may provide a substantial discount on electrical service to senior citizens and low income families. Contact your provider to find out if it offers a discount. Most PUDs have funds to help low - income households with utility bills they cannot pay, especially during the winter months.
Different PUDs have different requirements for eligibility.
DSHS has programs for families with children called Additional Requirements for Emergent Needs and Additional Requirements which can help with utilities if they are about to be shut off. This program is only available one time per year. If you want more information regarding these programs, see our publications Consolidated Emergency Assistance and Additional Requirements. PUDs and other providers are required to provide you with written information about their services, about their policies and procedures about your rights as a utility consumer. This information includes explanations about the providers' credit and deposit requirements, rates and charges, metering and billing, payment arrangements, complaint procedures, among others.