• Is the electric supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio?
• Is the price fixed or variable? Factors affecting variable rates should be clearly explained.
• Are there sign-up fees or fees to switch back to your local utility company?
• What’s the agreement length, will it renew automatically and is there a cancellation fee?
• When will service from the electric supplier begin and charges appear on the bill?
• Will you receive one bill or two, one from the supplier and one from the utility company?
• Who should you contact for billing issues?
• Does the supplier offer a budget billing plan?
• What happens if you move before the agreement expires?
• Does the supplier offer a choice of energy sources, such as renewable energy?
Be sure you get a written agreement, detailing the supplier’s contact information, prices, switching fees and other charges, billing cycle and other terms and conditions. Don’t sign anything until you’ve read and understood everything.
Once enrolled, the supplier will notify your local electric utility company and a confirmation notice will be mailed. You have seven days from the postmarked date on the confirmation notice to cancel your contract without penalties.
Get more information about choosing electric suppliers at www.pickocc.org. And, check electric suppliers out with your BBB by visiting www.bbb.org.
John North is president and CEO of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.
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