Utilities are the services your home needs: electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash, and internet. Your lease says which ones you pay.
Electricity: usually one local company for your area. In some states you can choose the company that sells you electricity, while the local company still delivers it. This differs by state.
Natural gas: used for heating, hot water or cooking in some homes. Not every home has gas.
Water and sewer: usually the city or a local water district.
Trash and recycling: the city, a private company, or included in rent or HOA dues.
Internet: you choose; see the guide on home internet.
Ask the landlord: "Which utilities do I pay, and which companies serve this address?" Apartments may give you a list.
Call or go online one to two weeks before you move in.
Give the exact address with the apartment number, and your move-in date.
You may need: ID, the lease, and an SSN for a credit check.
Without an SSN or credit, the company may ask for a deposit, often a few hundred dollars, sometimes based on past bills at that address. Ask if they accept a letter of credit history from a past utility, or reduce the deposit with auto-pay. The deposit is often returned after a period of on-time payment.
Note the account number and confirmation number.
Send proof to the landlord if they ask (some require electricity in your name on move-in day).
Transferring and stopping
When you move, call to stop service at the old home on your move-out date, and start at the new one. Many companies can transfer it in one call.
If you forget to stop, you pay for the next tenant's use.
Electricity is higher in hot places in summer (air conditioning) and in cold places with electric heat in winter.
Ask the landlord or utility for the average monthly bill at that address.
Many companies offer budget billing (the same amount each month) and payment plans.
If you cannot pay, call before the due date. Many states have rules that limit shut-offs in extreme heat or cold, and there are help programs such as LIHEAP for low-income households.
Moving in without electricity in your name and finding the power off.
Paying a "utility setup company" that calls you. Contact the utility directly.
Scam calls saying your power will be cut in one hour unless you pay by gift card. Real utilities do not do this. Hang up and call the number on your bill.