Managing debt
4 mins
Utility Bill Too Shocking? A Payment Plan Can Help
Author
Krista Fabbro
Published
Jan 14, 2025
Utilities make living life more comfortable but let's face it—they can be a real pain in the wallet. Sometimes you even get a utility bill that makes you wonder if you’ve been powering the whole neighbourhood.
If you're feeling the squeeze from high utility costs, setting up a payment plan can help smooth out those bill-paying bumps to make things feel a bit more manageable.
New to Utility Payment Plans? Here’s How They Work
Instead of getting hit with one big bill each month, payment plans let you spread out your utility bill into smaller payments. This lets you budget better because you know exactly how much you'll pay each month. And when the bill's more manageable, you're less likely to miss a payment. That means no more late fees.
How to Set Up a Payment Plan
First, take a good look at your bill. Figure out how much you owe and think about what you can realistically pay each month. Be honest with yourself here.
Next, pick up the phone and call your utility company. Don't be shy—they're used to these calls. Tell them you're having trouble paying your bill and ask about payment plans (they might call it a "budget billing" or "equal payment" plan). Ask a lot of questions about your options. If the plan they offer doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to speak up and ask for something that works better for you. Once you find a plan that works for you, make sure you get all the details so you know exactly how much you'll pay and when.
Canadian Utility Providers With Payment Plans
Most utility providers in Canada offer payment plans. Let's break it down:
Electricity & Gas
Big electricity and gas providers likely all have some kind of payment plan option:
BC Hydro (Equal Payment Plan)
Hydro One (Budget Billing)
Enmax (Easymax Equalized Payment Plan)
Direct Energy (Average Billing)
Fortis BC (Equal Payment Plan)
Many provinces also have special programs to lend a hand to Canadians who need extra help with their energy bills. If you're in Alberta, you might automatically get rebates if you're eligible under energy affordability programs. Ontario has a program specifically for low-income households struggling with energy costs. Don't assume you're not eligible—it's always worth checking what's available in your area.
Check out the Smart Article on Seven simple ways to reduce your energy bills right now.
Water
Water bills are often handled by your local city or town. But don't let that stop you! Even if they don't advertise it, a lot of municipalities offer payment plans. You just need to ask.
Keep Your Lights On & Your Stress Down
Your utility bill doesn’t have to be a monthly shock to your system. Payment plans are a simple way to take control of your expenses.
It's okay to ask for help. Pick up the phone, call your provider, and see what options are available. You’ll probably be surprised at how willing they are to work with you.
Scared you can’t afford your utility bill? MoneyUp Smart’s got your back. If you have questions about your MoneyUp Smart account, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us now.
