Budget Plan

I got a letter today from Consumers Power today regarding their Budget Plan. In my area of Michigan, Consumers Power is the electric & gas company.

According to them my highest bill last year was $344 (I think I would remember that!) and they are estimating a monthly bill of $195 for the Budget Plan.

With their plan I would pay $195 every month until next May. Then they will balance the account and either credit me any extra or bill me for under payment.

I think I signed up for this one time many years ago. Since then I take the figure they give me ($195) round up ($220) and budget that amount into my checking account. The checking account that I don't write checks out of. Only automatic withdrawals come out of that account.

I look at Consumers Budget Plan like I look at taxes. I want my money during the year. Why let them use it during the summer when I use less energy/gas than in the winter?

I can see it being helpful to others though who can't/won't budget.

Do other utility companies offer this plan?


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