How to Transfer Utility Bills from One Person to Another

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Transferring electricity, water, and other utility bills
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If you’re taking over billing responsibilities for a house or apartment, you’ll need to put the utilities in your name to avoid a lapse in service or any legal issues. While it may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to put utilities in your name, including transferring existing utilities and setting up new ones. Plus, learn how to transfer utilities to another person and get answers to common questions about changing utilities.

How to Change Utilities to Your Name

Contact your utility provider at least 2 weeks before the bill needs to be transferred. Provide any required documents, such as your ID and proof of address, either in person or online, and make your deposit, if necessary. Schedule the transfer for an appropriate date so you don’t experience a lapse in service.

Section 1 of 4:

Transferring an Existing Utility to Your Name

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  1. If you’re moving to a new home , try to handle the utility transfer at least 10 days or about 2 weeks before you arrive so you won’t run into billing issues with the previous tenant. If you’re declaring a name change or switching the bill from one member of the household to another, handle the transfer as soon as possible to avoid any paperwork mishaps or legal complications. [1]
    • If you fail to transfer the utility, the person named on the original bill remains liable for future payments. This situation can lead to legal issues if that person moves out or if your lease requires you to change the bill over.
    • Some landlords include utility services in your normal housing bill, meaning you won’t have to put them in your name.
  2. If necessary, acquire your utility provider’s contact information from your landlord or whoever paid the bill previously. Then, call the company or visit one of their local offices to request a bill transfer. Some utility providers may allow you to alter your billing information through their official website. [2]
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  3. To put a utility in your name, you’ll need to show the provider proof of your identity, such as your ID, driver’s license, or birth certificate . You’ll also likely need proof of your address , usually as a lease agreement or piece of mail. In some cases, the company may also request documents related to your employment status or credit history. [3]
    • If you’re declaring a name change, you’ll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate, and, for newlyweds taking their spouse’s last name, your marriage certificate.
  4. If you do not have a payment history with the utility company, they may require you to put down a deposit payment. Typically, the payment total depends on your credit score and track record with previous utility providers. [4]
    • You shouldn’t have to put down a new deposit if you’re simply declaring a name change. However, you may need to pay a processing fee.
  5. In some cases, the utility company will update your billing information on the spot. In other cases, you’ll have to schedule a specific service transfer date. To ensure that you don’t experience a lapse in service, make sure the transfer date is before the home’s service cut-off date. [5]
    • If you’re moving to a new place, call the utility company before you leave to make sure everything’s been transferred over successfully.
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Section 2 of 4:

Transferring Utilities to Another Person

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  1. Unless you take your name off the bill, it is your responsibility to contact the provider and transfer the utilities to the other person, as only the account holder can alter the information. Inform your provider that someone else will be taking over the payments and that you need to put their name on the bill. The company should inform you of any information or documentation they need to complete the transfer. [6]
    • The utility company will likely ask if the other person’s name is on the lease, and they may deny service if they aren’t. Landlords won’t allow you to put someone else’s name on the utility bill unless they’re included in the lease.
    • If you paid a deposit, the utility company may give it back once you switch the bill to someone else’s name. This isn’t always the case, however.
    • If you’re a landlord, be sure to inform your tenant of all utilities they’ll be responsible for before transferring them. Provide any contact information they may need to set up their utilities.
Section 3 of 4:

Setting Up a New Utility

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  1. When you’re ready to sign up for a new utility, search online to see what options are available in your area. Some services may be limited to a single provider. For others, however, you may get a choice between multiple companies and, in some cases, a government-run public option. [7]
    Eric Tyson, Bestselling Personal Finance Author

    When you move into a new rental, putting the electric, gas, water, and other utilities in your name is a key task. Contact each provider a few weeks beforehand to schedule account transfers for your move-in date. Confirm any security deposits and have your ID ready. Reading the meter yourself on move-in day provides proof if any usage disputes arise.

  2. For utility companies that rely primarily on city infrastructure, such as water providers, go with the company that has the lowest annual rates in your area. For companies that provide their own infrastructure, such as internet service providers, pick the company with the best service options. [8]
    • When comparing prices, keep in mind that some companies charge a flat monthly rate while others bill you based on how much you use their service.
  3. Once you’ve chosen a utility provider, go to one of their local offices to talk with a company representative. Make sure to bring documents that prove your identity, such as your birth certificate or driver’s license, and billing address, such as your lease paperwork. [9]
    • Some companies may require additional documents to verify your credit history or employment status .
    • Depending on the company, it may not always be necessary to visit the office in person. Some allow you to upload your documentation online.
  4. Some utilities, especially those that bill you based on use, may only have a single, standardized service option. Others allow you to select from a variety of packages that vary in cost. If this is the case, choose the one that best fits your needs. If you have any questions, ask the representative for details. [10]
    • At this time, the company representative may require you to create an online billing account.
  5. When you sign up for a new utility, you’ll likely be required to make a deposit payment to protect the company if you fail to pay your bill. The deposit varies from person to person and depends on your payment history with previous utility companies and your credit score. [11]
    • The company may also require additional deposit payments if they have to lend you equipment.
  6. After making your deposit, choose the day you want your utility service to start. In some cases, you may also have to schedule a time when the company can come to your home and install any necessary equipment. If you’re moving to a new house or apartment, try to schedule the utility service so it starts one or two days before you arrive. [12]
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Section 4 of 4:

Transferring Utility FAQs

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  1. There are several reasons someone might need to change the name on their utility bill, including a name change due to marriage or divorce, changing the account holder, removing someone from the account, and moving to a new location. [13] Some may even be the victims of fraud and need to stop payments while they get to the bottom of the situation.
  2. In many cases, the landlord will include some utilities in the rent while tenants will be required to pay for others. Generally, tenants pay for utilities like electricity, gas, water, TV, and internet. Landlords often handle sewage, trash, and recycling, as well as the Homeowners Association. However, this varies from location to location and contract to contract. [14]
    • The laws regarding renters and utilities vary by state, county, and city.
  3. In most cases, adding a second person (or more) to the bill is simple. Start by checking your online account or contacting your utility company to find out how to do so. Most companies allow anyone living in the residence to be responsible for utilities, such as electricity and gas. [15]
    • Some companies may require you and the other person to visit their office to confirm your identities. Bring any required documentation and be prepared to answer their questions about why you want to add a second person to the bill.
  4. Yes, as long as you do it legally, there’s nothing wrong with paying someone else’s bill. To do so, either give them the money directly or pay the bill from your bank account. Do not, however, use someone else’s bank account or sign a check using the other person’s name, as this is considered identity fraud. [16]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    How do I transfer a utility bill to another name?
    Community Answer
    You can't. The person you are trying to transfer it to has to call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer, providing proof of identity.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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    Not Helpful 10 Helpful 47
  • Question
    What if a bill is put into my name without permission?
    NATHANIEL WHORTON
    Community Answer
    The person be sued for fraud for using someone else's name, likeness, or other personal attributes without permission for an exploitative purpose.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 22
  • Question
    Is it possible my tenant switched the CMP account from her name to mine without my knowledge or permission?
    Donagan
    Top Answerer
    It's not impossible, but neither is it likely. Utility companies typically require a written application from the new party before such a switch would be made.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 5
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/info/tips/renters_homeowners_final.pdf?rev=f976251113564111a5483b7783d3d9bf
      2. ↑ https://www.psc.state.md.us/frequently-asked-questions/start-stop-or-transfer-service-5/
      3. ↑ http://dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0220-utility-services
      5. ↑ https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-transfer-utility-services-when-you-move/
      6. ↑ https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fin/supp_info/utility-billing/common-questions-on-utility-services.html
      7. ↑ https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/guide-to-establishing-utility-services
      8. ↑ https://www.move.org/how-to-set-up-utilities-when-moving/
      9. ↑ http://dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf
      1. ↑ https://www.move.org/how-to-set-up-utilities-when-moving/
      2. ↑ https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/getting-utility-services-why-your-credit-matters
      3. ↑ https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/guide-to-establishing-utility-services
      4. ↑ https://psc.mo.gov/CMSInternetData/ConsumerInformation/Changing%20Utility%20Service%20When%20Moving.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.help4tn.org/node/447/renters-rights-tennessee-utilities-help4tn-blog
      6. ↑ https://www.michigan.gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mpsc/consumer/info/tips/renters_homeowners_final.pdf?rev=f976251113564111a5483b7783d3d9bf
      7. ↑ https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/identity-theft/identity-theft-and-identity-fraud

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To put a utility bill in your name, call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer. Then, provide the company with proof of your identity, such as your driver’s license, and proof of your billing address, such as your lease agreement. If the company requires it, make a deposit payment for liability purposes and schedule a bill transfer date. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down!

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