Step 1: split the jump into use and price
Find the kWh and the total on this bill and on the same month a year ago. Divide each total by its kWh to get a price per kWh.
| Bill | kWh | Cents per kWh | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Same month last year | 800 | 15 | $130.00 |
| This month | 1,200 | 20 | $250.00 |
In this made-up case the total went from $130.00 to $250.00. At the old price, the extra use alone would have cost $190.00. The rest of the jump is the price. Splitting it this way tells you where to look next.
Step 2: if the kWh went up
- New or heavily used equipment. A space heater, a pool pump, a hot tub, an extra refrigerator, a home office or an electric vehicle charger can add hundreds of kWh. See what common appliances cost to run.
- Weather. A hot or cold month can double heating or cooling use. Compare the weather with the same month last year.
- A longer billing period. A 35 day bill covers more days than a 28 day bill.
- Something running that should not be. A stuck pool pump, a failing water heater element, an air conditioner low on refrigerant or a heating system in backup mode uses power all day. Walk through the house and listen.
- More people home. A guest, a student home from school or a work-from-home change shows up in the meter.
Step 3: if the price per kWh went up
- A rate change. Your utility may have raised rates, changed seasonal prices or moved you to a different rate plan. See how electric rates are set.
- A fuel adjustment. The fuel line can move from month to month. See the fuel adjustment charge.
- A plan that expired. In states with retail choice, a fixed-rate plan can end and roll to a higher variable price. Check your plan documents and see fixed versus variable plans.
- A time-of-use or tiered rate. Higher use at peak hours or above a tier threshold costs more per kWh.
Step 4: if neither explains it
Look for an estimated read on this bill or the last one. A catch-up bill after estimates can look like a jump. See estimated versus actual meter reads. Check the meter number and the service address on the bill. If everything else is right and the reading seems wrong, ask the utility for a meter test.
What to do next
- Call the utility with your two comparison numbers and ask what changed.
- Ask about budget billing and a payment arrangement if you cannot pay the full amount right away. See budget billing explained.
- Ask whether a cheaper rate plan would fit your usage.
- If you cannot pay, contact the utility before the due date and look for bill help programs in your state.
Do not ignore a past-due notice
A five-minute checklist before you call
| Item | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| This bill and the same month last year | Lets you separate use from price. |
| The reading type and dates | Shows whether an estimate or a long period is involved. |
| A note of new equipment or guests | Explains a real rise in use. |
| Your plan name and start date | Shows whether a promotional price ended. |
Write the answers down as you talk, along with the name of the person and the date, so you can follow up if the first call does not settle it. If you cannot pay, ask for a payment arrangement. If an unexpected deposit is demanded, see electric deposits explained.
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Why did my electric bill double?
Because you used more energy, the price per kWh rose or a past estimated read was corrected. Compare your kWh and your all-in price per kWh with the same month last year to find which.
How do I find my price per kWh?
Divide the total on your bill by the kWh used. That gives an all-in price that includes fixed charges and fees.
Can a utility make a mistake on a bill?
Yes. Misreads, wrong meter numbers, a wrong rate class or a billing system error can happen. If the usage looks impossible, ask for a meter check and a review.
What if I cannot pay a doubled bill?
Call the utility before the due date. Ask about a payment arrangement, budget billing and bill assistance programs. Do not wait for a shutoff notice.