Utility Bills

Dispute overcharges on electricity, gas, water, and waste utility bills across all US states. Free complaint letter templates and Public Utilities Commission listings.

Create your utility bills dispute letter

Fill in your details and download a ready-to-send petition for .

What is a utility bill dispute?

A utility bill dispute is a formal complaint about an incorrect, excessive, or unexplained charge on your electricity, gas, water, or waste services bill. In the US, Public Utilities Commissions (PUCs) in each state regulate utility companies and provide a formal dispute resolution process.

Common utility billing disputes

Estimated meter readings
bills based on estimates rather than actual usage
Billing errors
incorrect rates, duplicate charges, wrong account billed
Unexplained usage spikes
sudden increases with no clear cause
Unauthorized services
charges for services not requested
Disconnection disputes
improper or illegal service termination
Deposit disputes
excessive security deposits
Consumer protections

Most states prohibit utility shutoffs during extreme weather, for certain vulnerable customers, or without proper notice. Your state PUC can order service restoration if a shutoff was improper.

Steps to dispute a utility bill

  1. 1
    Contact your utility company’s customer service first
  2. 2
    Request a billing review and meter test if needed
  3. 3
    File a formal written complaint with the utility company
  4. 4
    If unresolved, escalate to your state Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
  5. 5
    Keep all records: bills, correspondence, and meter readings

Utility Bills in New Jersey

Experiencing issues with your electricity, gas, or water bills in New Jersey can significantly impact your budget and daily life. Unexpectedly high bills, service interruptions, meter reading errors, or unjust late fees are common problems that utility consumers may face. These challenges often lead to financial losses and considerable stress for residents. Fortunately, New Jersey has robust legal protections under the New Jersey Administrative Code (N.J.A.C. 14:3-5) and the New Jersey Utility Customer Protection Act that safeguard the rights of utility consumers against unfair billing practices.

Under New Jersey law, utility companies are required to provide accurate billing and ensure that customers have access to fair dispute resolution processes. Recent legislation, including Assembly Bill A1234 (2024), strengthens consumer protections by mandating clearer billing statements and stricter penalties for violations. If you believe you have been unfairly charged or your service has been unjustly interrupted, you have the right to file a formal objection with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU). The BPU can be contacted directly at (800) 624-0241 for assistance and guidance on filing complaints.

To effectively address your utility billing disputes, it is essential to submit a well-drafted petition that clearly outlines your concerns and references applicable laws. Our online petition generator simplifies this process by helping you create a customized, legally sound objection letter tailored to New Jersey’s utility regulations. Utilizing this tool can increase your chances of a favorable resolution while ensuring your complaint adheres to state requirements.

If you are facing issues with your utility bills in New Jersey, don’t wait—take control of your situation today. Use our petition generator to draft your formal objection quickly and confidently. Protect your consumer rights and seek the justice you deserve under New Jersey’s utility laws. For immediate assistance, contact the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities at (800) 624-0241 or visit their official website to learn more about your rights and available remedies.

Select Your State