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State Disconnection Policies

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View a table of state seasonal termination protections only.

NOTE: These policies may not apply to all utilities in your state. In general, municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives are not regulated and the policies do not apply to them. Check with your PUC/PSC contacts and/ or websites below to see if the state policy applies to your utility and read the Consumer FAQs or Bill of Rights for more information. If you have a dispute with your utility, you should try and resolve it with the utility first before calling your PUC/PSC.

Alabama
State Alabama
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F or below
Seasonal Policy Ban for special circumstances such as extreme weather or life-threatening situation.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-392-8050
Complaint form www.psc.state.al.us/Complaints/ComplaintForm.htm
 
Alaska
State Alaska
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No disconnect for seriously ill, disabled.
Other Delay disconnect for 15 days if household member is seriously ill, age 65 or older, disabled, or dependent on life support system.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer is on a payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 907-276-6222 (Anchorage); 800-390-2782
TTY: 907-276-4533
Email: rca.mail@alaska.gov
Complaint form http://rca.alaska.gov/RCAWeb/ForConsumers/SubmitInformalComplaint.aspx
 
Arizona
State Arizona
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below
Seasonal Policy Temperature based
Other Utilities advised not to terminate residential service when the customer has an inability to pay and where weather will be especially dangerous to health (usually 32° F or below for winter and triple digits for summer) as determined by the Commission. There are also rules prohibiting disconnection of service for certain medical reasons.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 602-542-4251or 800-222-7000 (Phoenix area)
520-628-6550 or 800-535-0148 (Tucson area)
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.azcc.gov/divisions/utilities/cons/index.asp
Complaint form www.cc.state.az.us/divisions/utilities/forms/ComplaintForm.pdf
 
Arkansas
State Arkansas
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1 - March 31 (temperature-based)
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below
95° F and above (elderly and disabled)
Seasonal Policy Gas and electric service cannot be disconnected if forecast predicts a temperature of 32 or lower during the next 24 hours. No disconnect for elderly or disabled when temperature is >95, or medical emergency. No disconnect if customer agrees to deferred or extended payment agreement. The Public Service Commission has amended the state’s cold weather rule to ban winter natural gas disconnections of certain income-eligible households provided they make a minimum payment, about 50 percent of their bill. The amendment is effective December 1 through March 31. If households make the required payment, the remainder of their bill is deferred until April, after which they have seven months to pay off the balance. Qualified customers are those who receive benefits from LIHEAP, Food Stamps, WIC, Medicaid or Transition Employment Assistance. To qualify, customers must notify their natural-gas supplier that they are eligible and provide written proof to the utility within two weeks. If fraud, misuse or failure to make monthly payments occur, the utility can suspend the customer’s service until all bills are paid in full.
Other Utilities must honor a physician's certificate in prescribed form that a customer/permanent resident has a serious medical condition and stating that suspension of service would result in substantial risk of death or grave impairment. Certificate can be given by telephone by doctor, nurse, R.N., or public or private agency providing mental health care services, but must be confirmed within 7 days by a physician's writing.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to a payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 501-682-1718 or 800-482-1164
TTY: 800-682-2698
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.apscservices.info/consumer_faq.asp
 
California
State California
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Other Customer who provides certification from licensed physician and surgeon that service termination will be lifethreatening and who is unable to pay in normal period shall be permitted to amortize over a period not to exceed 12 months.
Deferred Payments Customers unable to make payment may be eligible for amortization agreements not to exceed 12 months.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 415-703-4973 or 800-649-7570
TTY: 800-229-6846
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/CEC/a_index.htm
Complaint form https://ia.cpuc.ca.gov/cimsapp/
 
Colorado
State Colorado
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Temperature No special seasonal protections
Other Customer with a medical certificate could postpone disconnection for up to 90 days and only once during a 12 month period. Certification of licensed doctor or health practitioner is required.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 303-894-2070 (Denver) or 800-456-0858
Complaint form www.dora.state.co.us/pls/real/CCTS_oWEB.complaint_form
 
Connecticut
State Connecticut
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1 - May 1
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Low-income "hardship" policy - customers are entitled to have gas heat and electric service turned on between 11/1 and 5/1, even if they owe the utility company money, except if gas heat service was provided during prior winter based on "hardship" and service was turned off between 4/15 and 10/31, then, to get service turned on, customer must pay the lesser of $100, minimum payments due under payment agreement, or 20% of debt to gas company when gas was shut off. Customers must apply for "hardship" protection at the utility every fall. Gas and electric utility service must be provided year-round if a lack of service is life-threatening, regardless of debt to the utility.
Other No disconnect for 15 days for illness certified by a physician, certification can be renewed.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to payment
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-382-4586 (Connecticut), 860-827-2622 (outside Connecticut)
TTY: 860-827-2837
Email: dpuc.information@po.state.ct.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights Rights of Utility Customers
Complaint form www.dpuc.state.ct.us/CAIUI.NSF/RevWebIntake?OpenForm
 
Delaware
State Delaware
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15 - April 15
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below
105° F or above
Seasonal Policy Temperature based
Other No disconnect if termination will adversely afftect the occupant's health; must be certified by licensed physician or Christian Science practitioner.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 302-736-7500 or 800-282-8574
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://depsc.delaware.gov/faqs.shtml
Complaint form http://depsc.delaware.gov/frm_cmplnt.shtml
 
District of Columbia
State District of Columbia
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below
Seasonal Policy Temperature based
Other Termination may be postponed for up to 21 days (plus one renewal) with a physician's certificate or notice from a public health official stating that termination would be detrimental to the health/safety of a person.
Deferred Payments Customer must enter into a deferred payment plan if termination is postponed.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 202-626-5120
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.dcpsc.org/got.asp#A6
Complaint form www.dcpsc.org/consumerservices/uccmi/forms/util3.shtm
 
Florida
State Florida
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No special seasonal protections
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 850-413-6100
TTY: 800-955-8771
Complaint form www.psc.state.fl.us/consumers/complaints/index.aspx
 
Georgia
State Georgia
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15 - March 15 and summer months
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below or 98° and above
Seasonal Policy Total ban between November 15 and March 15 when the forecasted low temperature for a 24 hour period beginning at 8:00 A.M. on the date of the proposed disconnection is below 32 degrees. No disconnect if illness would be aggravated, need statement from doctor. Residential service will not be disconnected if at 8 A.M. on the scheduled disconnection day, a National Weather Service Heat Advisory or Excessive Heat Warning is in effect for the county of the scheduled disconnection.
Other Delay disconnect for 30 days with medical certification. If life support equipment is needed a "load limiter" is installed that allows enough electricity to run the equipment. Cannot disconnect unless a bill is at least 45 days overdue and proper notification has been sent.
Deferred Payments No disconnect during protection dates if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 404-656-4501or 800-282-5813
Email: gapsc@psc.state.ga.us
Complaint form http://crs.psc.state.ga.us/Consumer/Contact/utilityIndustry.aspx?type=Inquiry
 
Hawaii
State Hawaii
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No special protections
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 808-586-2800
Email: consumeradvocate@dcca.hawaii.gov
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://hawaii.gov/dcca/dca/faqs
Complaint form http://hawaii.gov/dcca/dca/complaint_form
 
Idaho
State Idaho
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1 - February 28
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Disconnect ban for households with children under 18, elderly age 62 or older, or infirm.
Other Delay disconnection for 30 days if detrimental to health of a household member, certified by a health professional. Cannot disconnect if a customer owes less than $75 or no more than last month's balance on Nov. 1.
Deferred Payments No disconnect (Nov-March) if customers agrees to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 208-334-0300 or 800-432-0369
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puc.idaho.gov/consumer/consumerfaq.htm
Complaint form www.puc.idaho.gov/comments-complaints/choose form.htm
 
Illinois
State Illinois
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1-March 31 and summer months
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F and below or 95° F and above
Seasonal Policy Total ban when <32. Utilities must offer payment plan of 10% down payment and equalized billing over the next 4 to 12 months. In summer months public utilities cannot turn off gas or electricity when it is the sole power source for the cooling if the forecast for the following 24 hours includes temperature at or above 95°F;  includes master-meter buildings.
Other LIHEAP beneficiaries with outstanding balances of less than $3,000 will pay the lesser value of $250 or 20 percent of their remaining balance to reactivate service. 30 day delay if physician certifies that disconnect would adversely affect the health of a household member. Customer is expected to enter into a payment plan.
Deferred Payments Utility cannot disconnect during protection dates unless it has offered a deferred payment plan and informed the customer of available energy assistance funds.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-524-0795 or 217-782-2024 (outside Illinois)
TTY: 800-858-9277
Complaint form www.icc.illinois.gov/consumer/complaint/
 
Indiana
State Indiana
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1 - March 15
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Prohibits utilities from disconnecting residential natural gas or electric service for nonpayment from December 1 to March 15 if the customer qualifies for public assistance, whether or not the customer receives the benefit.
Other Postpones disconnection for 20 days if the customer presents a medical statement from a licensed physician which states that disconnection would be a serious and immediate threat to the health or safety of a person in the household.
Deferred Payments No disconnect for financial hardship if the customer pays the lesser of $10 or 10% of the overdue bill, agrees to pay the remainder within three months and agrees to pay all undisputed future bills when due.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 317-232-2712 or 800-851-4268
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.in.gov/iurc/2331.htm
Complaint form www.in.gov/iurc/2331.htm
 
Iowa
State Iowa
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-April 1 ( MidAmerican Energy and Alliant Energy extended their moratorium until April 14, 2008)
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 20° F or below
Seasonal Policy No disconnect for all residential customers when <20° F. LIHEAP-certified customers have complete protection from Nov. 1 through March 31 regardless of temperature; utility must offer payment plan after moratorium. Those who notify their gas and electric utility that they are applying for LIHEAP certification through the local CAP agency may receive a 30 day stay from service disconnection during the moratorium.
Other 30 day delay if physician certifies that disconnect would adversely affect the health of a household member.
Deferred Payments Prohibited from disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 877-565-4450
Email: iubcustomer@iub.state.ia.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.state.ia.us/government/com/util/consumer_information/index.html
Complaint form www.state.ia.us/government/com/util/forms/CustServ/form_Complaints.html
 
Kansas
State Kansas
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1 - March 31
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 35° F or below
Seasonal Policy Ban when <35, to avoid disconnect when temperature is above 35 customers must make payment schedule, meet payments and apply for aid if eligible.
Other Delay disconnection for 20 days if the action would adversely affect the health of a household member. During the delay the customer is expected to agree to a payment plan.
Deferred Payments During the moratoria, customers must enter into negotiated payment plan, pay 1/12 of arrearage, 1/12 of current bill and disconnection, reconnection and deposit if applicable and apply for energy assistance funds.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 785-271-3140 (Topeka) or 800-662-0027
Email: public.affairs@kcc.ks.gov
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.kcc.ks.gov/pi/complaints.htm
 
Kentucky
State Kentucky
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Customers may negotiate a payment plan with the company for reconnection during the months of November through March if they are "income qualified" for certain public assistance programs and if they secure and present an official "Certificate of Need" from the state social services office.
Other Delay disconnect for 30 days with medical certification. Customer must negotiate a payment plan to maintain service after delay.
Deferred Payments Cannot disconnect if payment agreement is in effect.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 502-564-3940 or 800-772-4636
TTY: 800-648-6056
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://psc.ky.gov/Home/FAQ
Complaint form http://psc.ky.gov/cis/inquiry.aspx
 
Louisiana
State Louisiana
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Other Disconnection delayed for up to 63 days if detrimental to health or safety of household member. Customer must negotiate a payment plan before disconnect date.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 225-342-4404 (Baton Rouge) or 800-256-2397
TTY: 800-648-6056
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.lpsc.org/mainconsumerfaq.aspx
 
Maine
State Maine
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-April 15
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Not permitted if eligible customer (150% FPG) agrees to a special payment arrangement that allows the customer to pay less than the amount of each current bill during the winter months. Requires PUC approval.
Other 30 day delay, with renewals up to 90 days, if physician certifies that disconnect would adversely affect the health of a household member. Cannot disconnect if an overdue amount is less than $50, unless the overdue amount is more than 90 days old or the utility bills four times a year or less.
Deferred Payments Disconnect prohibited if customer agrees to a payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-452-4699
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.maine.gov/mpuc/consumer/faq.shtml
Complaint form www.maine.gov/mpuc/consumer/file_complaint.shtml
 
Maryland
State Maryland
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1 - March 31
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F or below or if the temperature exceeds 95 degrees for 24 of the next 72 hours
Seasonal Policy Utility must provide affidavit to the Commission that disconnect will not endanger the health of any household member.
Other Utility Service Protection Program payment plans for low-income customers (<150% FPG) provide shut-off protection year-round. If a household member has a serious medical condition, certified by a doctor, disconnection is delayed for 30 additional days. Customer is required to enter into a payment plan. Terminations are suspended for 55 days when people apply for federal energy assistance.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 410-767-8028 (Baltimore) or 800-492-0474
TTY: 800-735-2258
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://webapp.psc.state.md.us/Intranet/psc/faq_new.cfm
Complaint form http://webapp.psc.state.md.us/Intranet/info/complaintfront_new.cfm
 
Massachusetts
State Massachusetts
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 15 (DPU has asked regulated utilities to extend shutoff protection to May 1)
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Disconnect not permitted for any customer who cannot pay an overdue charge because of financial hardship.
Other Utilities are prohibited from terminating service to low-income households where occupants present certification that a household member is seriously ill or is an infant under 12 months of age. Utilities need written approval to shut off services where all household residents are 65 years or older. If the elderly household is low-income and includes a minor, the protection against termination will apply.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 617-737-2836 or 877-886-5066
Email: DPUConsumer.Complaints@state.ma.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.mass.gov/
Complaint form www.mass.gov/
 
Michigan
State Michigan
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Winter Protection Plan for elderly 65 years or older, recipients of Medicaid, Food Stamps or Department of Human Services cash assistance, full time active military personnel or persons needing critical care or having a certified medical emergency. Households with income less than 150% of federal poverty guidelines must be enrolled in a payment plan.
Other Disconnection delay of 21 days with medical certificate if health of household member would be adversely affected. Certification may be renewed another 42 days. Due date for utility bills extended to 22 days. Limit on deposits.

Year-round protection from shut-off is available to all residential customers regardless of income with an initial down payment of 10 percent of a customer's total bill and a monthly budget plan.

Customers called to full-time active military service during a time of declared national or state emergency or war, may apply for shut-off protection for up to 90 days and may request extensions of this protection by reapplying.
Deferred Payments Low income customers must make monthly payments of at least 7% of their estimated annual bill, along with a portion of any past-due amount, November through March to avoid shut-off. Eligible senior citizens participating in Winter Protection are not required to make specific monthly payments between November 1 and March 31.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-292-9555
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.michigan.gov/documents/mpsc/FAQall011408_221482_7.pdf (gas)
www.michigan.gov/documents/mpsc/mpscelecfaq113007_216992_7.pdf (electric)
Complaint form www.michigan.gov/mpsc/0,1607,7-159-17054-42410--F,00.html
 
Minnesota
State Minnesota
Date-based yes
Protection Dates October 15-April 15
Temperature-based yes - summer disconnect protection
Temperature Utilities may not disconnect residential electricity service when an excessive heat watch, heat advisory, or excessive heat warning has been issued by the National Weather Service
Seasonal Policy Disconnect ban if customer declares inability to pay and income is <50% state median income and agrees to payment plan or if eligible customer pays 10% of income or the full amount of current bill (whichever is less) or if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan. Summer disconnent protection - a utility may not effect an involuntary disconnection of residential services in affected counties when an excessive heat watch, heat advisory, or excessive heat warning issued by the National Weather Service is in effect.
Other Disconnect ban if health of household member would be adversely affected, need medical certificate. Municipals, electric co-ops and public utilities cannot disconnect utility service to a household where a member of the household has been called into active duty if
(1)    the household income is below state median or is getting energy assistance and enters into a payment agreement where the customer pays 10% of monthly income toward the bill and remains “reasonably” current; or
(2)    the household income is above state median income and enters into a payment agreement “establishing a reasonable payment schedule that considers the financial resources of the household and the residential customer remains reasonably current w/ payments under the payment schedule.”
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782
TTY: 800-657-3782
Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puc.state.mn.us/PUC/consumers/shut-off-protection/index.html
Complaint form www.puc.state.mn.us/portal/groups/public/documents/pdf_files/011566.pdf
 
Mississippi
State Mississippi
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Prohibited for customers who can prove extreme financial difficulty or medical emergency and agree to payment plan.
Other If a customer demonstrates a medical emergency from December through March, the utility shall not terminate service without offering a levelized plan. A customer who agrees to a levelized billing plan will not be disconnected after April 1st.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line:
800-356-6428 (northern district); northern.district@psc.state.ms.us
800-356-6430 (central district); central.district@psc.state.ms.us
800-356-6429 (southern district); southern.district@psc.state.ms.us
800-637-7722 (Nettleton)
Complaint form www.psc.state.ms.us/
 
Missouri
State Missouri
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F or below
Seasonal Policy Prohibits the disconnection of heat-related service when the temperature is predicted to drop below 32 degrees during the following 24 hour period. A customer can have service restored by making an initial payment of 50% of his/her outstanding balance or $500, whichever is less, with the deferred balance to be paid in a Cold Weather Rule payment agreement plan. Prohibits the disconnection of registered elderly and disabled customers who meet certain income guidelines who make a minimum payment.
Other Disconnect shall be postponed for 21 days due to the medical condition of an occupant .Allows customers to extend payment of pre-existing arrears beyond 12 months.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-393-4211
TTY: 866-735-2460
Email: pscinfo@psc.mo.gov
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.psc.mo.gov/consumer-information/How_To_File_A_Complaint.pdf
Complaint form www.efis.psc.mo.gov/mpsc/complaintform.asp
 
Montana
State Montana
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-April 1
Temperature-based yes
Temperature Cannot disconnect any day when the temperature at 8 a.m. is below 32° F or if freezing temperatures are forcast for the next 24 hours for customers receiving public assistance or if household member is age 62 or older or disabled.
Seasonal Policy Prohibited for customers receiving public assistance or if household member is age 62 or older or disabled. PSC approval needed for shut-off.
Other Disconnection is delayed if detrimental to existing medical condition, written certification to utility can be renewed every 30 days as needed.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-646-615
Complaint form www.psc.mt.gov/Consumers/complaints
 
Nebraska
State Nebraska
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No disconnect for low-income natural gas customers with proof of eligibility for energy assistance.
Other To have service restored between November 1 and March 31, a ratepayer must make payment of one-fourth of the total arrearage plus the most recent bill and enter a payment plan with the remaining arrearage paid in installments over no less than three months or as agreed between the ratepayer and the utility. If a ratepayer defaults on the payment plan, the utility may disconnect service after providing the requisite notice. Termination would be postponed 30 days if adverse effect on a resident's illness or disability; certification by licensed physician required.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-526-0017
Complaint form http://psc.nebraska.gov/home/NPSC/forms/Complaint_Form.htm
 
Nevada
State Nevada
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 15° F or below and 105° F or above
Other Disconnection is delayed for 30 days, with one renewal, if medical emergency. Customer must pay bill in installments within the next 90 days. Elderly and handicapped must have 48 hours notice.
Deferred Payments Disconnection is delayed if customers agrees to pay bill in installments within the next 90 days.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-992-0900 Ext. 4-6101; 702-486-2600 (Vegas); 775-684-6100 (Reno)
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://pucweb1.state.nv.us/PUCN/ConsumerInfo/ConsumerFAQ.aspx
Complaint form http://pucweb1.state.nv.us/PUCN/ConsumerInfo/FileComplaintInstructions.aspx
 
New Hampshire
State New Hampshire
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy PUC approval is needed to shut-off elderly 65 or older. Disconnect is not allowed unless arrears are more than $125 for gas non-heating, $225 for electric non-heating and more than $450 for gas, electric and steam heating. During winter period, financial hardship customers can restore service with 10% down payment and an arrangement of 10% of the total due each month. Financial hardship customers can also maintain service during winter period with an arrangement of 10% of total due each month. Must allow customers to pay balance over next 6 months after winter moratorium.
Other Disconnection is delayed 60 days with certification of medical emergency, may be renewed every 60 days as necessary. Commission approval is required for disconnection to medical emergency customers.
Deferred Payments No disconnection if customer agrees to and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 603-271-1172 or 800-852-3793
Email: oca@oca.nh.gov
Complaint form www.puc.nh.gov/ConsumerAffairsForms/complaintfrm.aspx
 
New Jersey
State New Jersey
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 15
Temperature-based yes (summer)
Temperature 95o F and above
Seasonal Policy Ban on disconnection for customers receiving Lifeline, LIHEAP, TANF, SSI, PAAD or GA or households unable to pay overdue amounts because of unemployment, medical expenses, or recent death of spouse. Customers eligible for the Winter Termination Protection Program are placed on a budget plan and cannot be disconnected as long as they make good faith payments. During the heating season, a utility may not ask for a security deposit. "If a customer is eligible for the Winter Termination Program under 14:3-7.12A, and the high temperature is forecast to be 90o or more at any time during the following 48 hours, an electric utility shall not discontinue residential service to a customer for reasons of nonpayment of a delinquent account, failure to pay a cash security deposit or guarantee, or failure to comply with a deferred payment agreement."
Other Disconnection delayed for up to two months if physician certifies that health of household member would be adversely affected. Customer must enter into a payment plan.Cannot disconnect unless the customer owes more than $50 or more than three months of charges.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-624-0241
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.bpu.state.nj.us/bpu/assistance/rights/
Complaint form www.bpu.state.nj.us/bpu/assistance/complaints/inquiry.html
 
New Mexico
State New Mexico
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 15
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy A public regulated utility company shall not disconnect service to a residential customer for any billing cycle from November 15 through March 15 for nonpayment if the customer meets the qualifications for the low-income home energy assistance program and are current on their bills or if they have entered into a payment agreement with their provider and are current on payments under that agreement by Nov. 15. The utility company shall report the customer's need for assistance to the human services department and the department shall take immediate action to mitigate the problem.
Other No disconnect for seriously or chronically ill if certified by medical professional or if customer qualifies for assistance from Human Services, a charitable organization or Medicaid and if customer agrees to a payment plan. Investor-owned utilities have agreed not to disconnect customers during the moratorium if they are not current on their bills.
Deferred Payments The utility must attempt to make a payment plan with the customer before termination. Disconnection is prohibited if customers agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 888-427-5772
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.nmprc.state.nm.us/consumer-relations/faqs.html
Complaint form www.nmprc.state.nm.us/consumer-relations/file-complaint.html
 
New York
State New York
Date-based yes
Protection Dates two-week period encompassing Christmas and New Year's
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy 15 day shut-off protection
Other Prohibits disconnect if household has life support system; 30 day delay for certified medical condition, certificates may be renewed for 30 days or longer if a chronic condition exists. Prohibits disconnect if customer is blind, disabled, or 62 years or older and the remaining household members are 62 years or older, 18 years or under, or blind or disabled unless the utility contacts the household 72 hours prior to termination of service for the purpose of devising a pay plan. If a pay plan cannot be implemented the utility must delay termination for 15 days and request that social services assist in devising a plan. Between Nov 1-April 15, all customers must be notified 72 hours before disconnection to acertain if the health and safety of a resident will be compromised. Utility cannot disconnect if a customer will suffer a serious health or safety impairment .
Deferred Payments Utilities must offer payment plan suited to customer's financial situation.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-342-3355 (disconnect); 800-342-3377 (general complaint)
Email: web_questions@dps.state.ny.us
Complaint form www.dps.ny.gov/complaints.html
 
North Carolina
State North Carolina
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No disconnect for elderly, disabled, and customers who are eligible for the Energy Crisis Assistance Program.
Deferred Payments Disconnection is prohibited if customer agrees and adheres to a payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 866-380-9816 or 919-733-92773
 
North Dakota
State North Dakota
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Temperature  
Seasonal Policy No disconnect for customers who enter into a payment plan.
Other Utilities must delay disconnect for 30 days for customers who are age 65 or older, ill, or disabled.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 701-328-4076
TTY: 800-366-6888
Email: ndpsc@nd.gov
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.psc.state.nd.us/consinfo/youshouldknow/
Complaint form www.psc.state.nd.us/consinfo/youshouldknow/pud-3-filing-an-informal-complaint.pdf
 
Ohio
State Ohio
Date-based yes
Protection Dates October 17-April 13
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy The winter reconnect order is issued on an annual basis by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. The winter reconnect order allows residential customers who are disconnected or being threatened with disconnection the opportunity to pay no more than $175 to maintain their utility service. If the customer´s service has already been disconnected, the customer must pay a reconnect fee of no more than $36 to restore. Customers who utilize the Winter Reconnect Order must enter into an extended payment plan on their remaining balance. Customers requesting new natural gas or electric services, who have no previous balance with their utility, may establish service under the winter reconnect order by paying $175, rather than paying the required security deposit. Customers may utilize the winter reconnect order one time from mid October through mid April.
Other 30 day disconnect delay if dangerous to health or if medical or life support equipment is necessary — as certified by a medical professional. If the customer has been shutoff, and the form is submitted within twenty one days of the shutoff, service is restored. Medical certification may be renewed three times in 12 months.
Deferred Payments Disconnection is prohibited for Percentage of Income Plan (PIP) customers as long as they remain current with their PIPP payment.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-686-7826
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puco.ohio.gov/PUCO/Consumer/information.cfm?id=4084
Complaint form www.puc.state.oh.us/secure/PicForm/index.cfm?intype=question
 
Oklahoma
State Oklahoma
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-April 15
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F or below (daytime), 20° F or below (night), or heat index 101° F or higher
Seasonal Policy No disconnect if temperatures are 32° F or below during the day, 20° F or below at night or if the predicted heat index is 101° F or greater. 30 day delay and 30 day extension possible in case of life threatening condition. Commission may order a ban on all disconnections if severe weather or if dangerous to health of the customer.
Other Disconnection may be delayed for 30 days with medical doctor or osteopath certification of a life-threatening condition or for life support equipment, certificate may be renewed once. Customer is required to negotiate a payment plan. Disconnection may be delayed for 20 days if the customer has applied for financial assistance including SSI.
Deferred Payments No disconnection if a customer enters into a deferred payment plan.
Complaint form www.occeweb.com/Complaints/pucomplaints2.html
 
Oregon
State Oregon
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Other A medical certificate will prevent disconnection up to 6 months for non-chronic condition, up to 12 months for chronic condition and requires the customer to set up a payment plan.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customers enters into a deferred payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-522-2404
TTY: 711
email: puc.consumer@state.or.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puc.state.or.us/PUC/consumer/questions_answers.shtml
Complaint form http://apps.puc.state.or.us/consumer/complaint.asp
 
Pennsylvania
State Pennsylvania
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No termination of utility service between protection dates for customers at or below 250% of the Federal poverty level (150% of the Federal poverty level for customers of one specific municipal gas utility). If a household is shut off prior to December 1, the utility must attempt to contact the customer and attempt to negotiate an agreement regarding payment of any arrearages and restoration of service.
Other 30 day disconnect delay with medical certificate, may be renewed 2 times. Customer is required to negotiate a payment plan. No utility shall terminate or refuse to restore service if health of household member would be adversely affected, need medical certificate.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer agrees to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-692-7380
TTY: 711
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puc.state.pa.us/general/consumer_ed/pdf/Act201.pdf
Complaint form www.puc.state.pa.us/general/onlineforms/pdf/official_complaint_form_final.pdf (formal)
www.puc.state.pa.us/general/informal_complaint.aspx (informal)
 
Rhode Island
State Rhode Island
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-April 30
Temperature-based yes
Temperature Heat advisory or excessive heat warning
Seasonal Policy Disconnect ban for those who are elderly, handicapped or seriously ill, households with a child under 2 years old, those who are receiving unemployment compensation, federal heating assistance or who qualify as a financial hardship (75% or less of state median income) or if arrears are less than $500 for primary source of heat or less than $200 if not primary heat source. No termination if National Weather Service issues a heat advisory or excessive heat warning.
Other 21 day disconnect delay if household member is certified as seriously ill. Customer may request an extension. All residential customers can have power restored with a down payment.
Deferred Payments Utilities are required to offer payment plans to customers in danger of disconnection. Emergency termination rule, effective until January 2, 2011 - NGrid customers with a shutoff or shutoff notice who owe less than $1,000 pay 20 percent of their arrears and agree to pay the rest over a 18-month period; those owing $1,000 to $2,499 pay 15 percent down and the rest over a 24-month period and those owing $2,500 pay 10 percent over 36 months.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 401-780-9700
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.ripuc.org/consumerinfo/Billing_FAQ.pdf
Complaint form www.ripuc.org/consumerinfo/filecomplaint.html
 
South Carolina
State South Carolina
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes: December 1-March 31
Temperature Disconnection is suspended when the average forecasted temperature is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below for a 45-hour period.
Seasonal Policy 30 day shut-off delay for seriously ill with medical certificate, can be renewed up to 3 times during the winter protection period.
Deferred Payments Disconnect is prevented if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan..
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-922-1531or 803-737-5230
Complaint form www.psc.sc.gov/consumer/info1.asp
 
South Dakota
State South Dakota
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Additional notice of 30 days.
Other 30 day disconnect delay if physician, public health official or social service official certifies a medical emergency.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-332-1782
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.puc.sd.gov/commission/Publication/n&ebro.pdf
 
Tennessee
State Tennessee
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy 30 day disconnect delay if physician, public health official or social service official certifies that a household member's health would be adversely affected. Certificates may be renewed 3 times.
Deferred Payments Utilities are required to offer a payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-342-8359 or 615-741-2904 x 192
TTY: 888-276-0677
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.state.tn.us/tra/consumerfiles/CSDhowtofileacomplaint.html
Complaint form www.state.tn.us/tra/complnt.html
 
Texas
State Texas
Date-based no
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 32° F or below or during heat advisory for all residential customers
Other Disconnection will be delayed if detrimental to the health of a resident, must have physician certification.
Deferred Payments Utilities are required to offer a deferred payment plan. No disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 888-782-8477 (electric); 515-463-7164 (gas)
Email: GasComplaints@rrc.state.tx.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.rrc.state.tx.us/compliance/complaints/index.php
 
Utah
State Utah
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 15
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Must have a termination notice and have been refused utility service; appliied for HEAT and Red Cross energy assistance and make a good faith effort to pay utility bill on a consistent basis during moratorium. Also,must meet at least 1 of the following criteria: have an income <150% FPG, medical emergency or becomes unemployed or income is cut by 50% or more.
Other 30 day disconnect delay if detrimental to health, must have physician certification.
Deferred Payments New, continuing, or reconnection of service shall be provided if the customer enters into a written deferred payment plan to pay all past-due amounts.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-874-0904
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.publicutilities.utah.gov/faqs.html
Complaint form www.publicutilities.utah.gov/complain.html
 
Vermont
State Vermont
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-March 31
Temperature-based yes
Temperature 10° F or below or 32° F or below for elderly
Seasonal Policy No disconnect if temperature is less than 10° F or less than 32° F for households with elderly age 62 or older.
Other 30 day disconnect delay if household member's health would be adversely affected, physician certificate can be renewed twice. Cannot disconnect if a customer owes less than $50, provided that this exception may not be used for more than two billing cycles in one calendar year.
Deferred Payments No disconnect if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-622-4496
TTY: 800-734-8390
Email: consumer@state.vt.us
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://publicservice.vermont.gov/consumer/cons_rights.html
Complaint form http://publicservice.vermont.gov/contact/file-complaint.html
 
Virginia
State Virginia
Date-based no
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy No state-mandated policies. Terms and conditions concerning disconnection shall be set forth in each local distribution company's tariff approved by the State Corporation Commission.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-552-7945
Email: sccinfo@scc.virginia.gov?subject=WebInquiry
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.scc.virginia.gov/pue/elec/faq.aspx (electric)
www.scc.virginia.gov/pue/gas/faq.aspx (gas)
Complaint form www.scc.virginia.gov/pue/complaint.aspx
 
Washington
State Washington
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 15-March 15
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Protection for hardship customers (<150% FPG) who qualify  or apply for energy assistance and enter payment plan.
Other Disconnection is delayed for 30 days if a medical emergency exists. Need written certification from doctor, can recertify twice within 120 days; pay 10% of delinquent balance and agree to pay balance within 120 days
Deferred Payments Disconnection is prohibited if customer agrees and adheres to a monthly payment during the winter period. The utility may not require payment of more than seven percent of the customer's monthly income. In addition, the customer must pay one-twelfth of any billings from the date application is made through March 15th. If the customer does not pay the past-due bill by the following October 15th, the customer will not be eligible for protections under this section until the past-due bill is paid.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 888-333-9882
Email: consumer@utc.wa.gov
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.wutc.wa.gov/
 
West Virginia
State West Virginia
Date-based yes
Protection Dates December 1-February 28
Temperature-based no
Seasonal Policy Disconnections during protection dates are considered detrimental to the health of the customer's household and are prohibited.
Other Disconnection is delayed 30 days if the health of a household member is adversely affected, certified by a physician and can be renewed every 30 days if illness persists. Renewals not needed if physician certifies that condition is permanent.
Deferred Payments Service cannot be disconnected if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-642-8544
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights www.psc.state.wv.us/psccons.htm
 
Wisconsin
State Wisconsin
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-April 15
Temperature-based yes
Seasonal Policy No disconnect during extreme weather unless last resort after all other legal means of collection have been attempted and only if : 1) income is >250% FPG; health and safety would not be endangered due to presence of elderly, small children, or mentally disabled; and utility has an approved winter disconnection plan on file. (As of 09/2008 no utility has an approved winter disconnection plan on file.) Prohibited when heat advisory from the National Weather Service is in effect.
Other 21 day delay if physician, social services, public health or law enforcement officer certifies to medical or protective services (elderly, infants, disabled etc.) emergency. Customer must agree to payment plan.
Deferred Payments Protection for customers entering payment plans; special notice and links to assistance agencies.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 800-225-7729
TTY: 608-267-1479
Consumer FAQ/ Bill of Rights http://psc.wi.gov/thelibrary/publications/general/consumer02trifold.pdf
Complaint form http://psc.wi.gov/apps40/complaint/consumer/FileComplaint.aspx
 
Wyoming
State Wyoming
Date-based yes
Protection Dates November 1-April 30
Temperature-based yes
Temperature Disconnection only if above freezing.
Seasonal Policy Temperature-based restrictions if unable to pay and has exhausted available assistance or is actively seeking assistance, or can pay, but only in installments.
Other 15 day disconnect delay if physician certifies that a household member is disabled or seriously ill. 30 day delay if a household member is on life support equipment, customer must enter into payment plan.
Deferred Payments Disconnections are prohibited if customer agrees and adheres to payment plan.
PUC/PSC Contacts Consumer line: 888-570-9905
Email: wpsc_complaints@state.wy.us

Page last updated: February 17, 2012