With spring here, utility companies are sending out shut-off notices, but we discovered some simple steps you can take to keep your service on.
State law prohibits utility companies from shutting off low-income customers during the winter, but with spring here, about 14,000 Equitable Gas customers are getting shut-off notices.
To find customers who are struggling, I went to a bus stop at Fifth & Smithfield streets in downtown Pittsburgh.
"I just got a gas bill for $197,” said Will Davis, of Pittsburgh’s North Side. He's on disability and is eight months behind on his gas bill. Davis said he's applied for assistance and is hoping it comes through.
"We understand that people may be struggling out there. That's why we want to work with them," said Scott Waitlevertch, a spokesman for Equitable Gas.
Waitlevertch said if you get a termination notice, the most important thing to do is to call your utility and work out a payment plan.
Notices are going out to 14,000 Equitable Gas customers, while that may sound like a lot, it's less than last year.
"Because of the lower gas prices, because of the milder winter, we've seen a 13 percent reduction in the number of customers that may be receiving termination notices," said Waitlevertch.
We asked our Facebook friends if they're struggling with utility bills, and how they feel about the shut-offs.
Donna Lineman wrote, "We are having a horrible time with our gas bill. I had two surgeries this year that have left me totally disabled and unable to work."
She could get a medical certification from a doctor or nurse practitioner that would stop the shut-off, although she would still be responsible for the bills.
Brittany Snyder wrote, "I think that if people can pay for cellphones or the internet, they should be able to pay their utility bills! Certain instances obviously, yes, you can feel bad for people, but most people have their priorities wrong."
To get a termination notice from Equitable Gas, you have to be at least $100 behind and some customers owe far more than that.
Again, there are assistance programs, but you have to call and ask for help. Click here to view some of the special programs available to Equitable Gas customers.
WPXI
