Are you behind on your bills? It happens to most families at some point. What you do about it can make a big difference in not only your stress level, but also your future financial condition.
Instead of fretting about the water bill and hoping you’ll magically come up with enough money in the nick of time, call the water company and ask for an extension. You obviously don’t want to make this a habit, but if you hit a particularly rough period, it’s good to know that most utility companies are willing to work with you a bit.
You can either ask for another week or so within which to pay your bill, or you can see about other payment arrangements. Many companies are willing to let you pay a portion of the bill and spread the rest of the amount out over the next couple of months. It will simply be added to your regular bill.
It is much better to make payment arrangements than to risk a shut off, or in fact, experience a shut off. You will not only have to wait to have your service reinstated, but there is also usually a reconnection fee. This fee may range between ten and fifty dollars, so it makes sense to take care of the problem before things go too far.
If you’re having trouble, call and speak to someone in the financial or billing department and ask about an extension or other arrangements. Do not wait until the day the shut off is to take place. Make provisions in advance and be sure to pay the amount or the remainder by the agreed upon date.
Many companies will be happy to work with you. They want their money and they also want to keep you as customer. Don’t make yourself sick with worry and don’t put yourself at risk of going without utilities, even for a short time. Contact the company and see what your options are.