Managing utility bills during COVID-19 pandemic
In March, Gov. Jay Inslee signed a proclamation prohibiting utility service disconnects and late fees through May 31 for all energy, landline telephone, and water utilities. This protects customers from losing a vital service during the statewide stay home order.
Customers who need assistance paying their utility bills should reach out directly to their utility companies or contact the commission by phone at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or email at consumer@utc.wa.gov.
 UTC status
The UTC building remains closed to the public until further notice. Despite this closure, our staff is still working. If you need help, please call our main line at 360-664-1234 or find online services and contacts on our website: www.utc.wa.gov.
Our consumer protection team is still available and able to help. If you need information about a regulated utility or transportation company, call 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or visit www.utc.wa.gov/consumers.
To file a complaint against a regulated company, visit www.utc.wa.gov/complaints.
Sadly, times of tragedy also bring out fraudsters looking to benefit from anxiety and fear. Be on the lookout for COVID-19 scams tied to government aid, economic relief, and charities. The Department of Financial Institutions created a guide on what to look for with scammers.
With a few exceptions, charities and commercial fundraisers must register with the Washington Secretary of State (SOS) prior to fundraising in Washington. Always check with SOS before donating if you’re not sure about the charity or want more information. Learn more by visiting www.sos.wa.gov/givesmart.
Unemployment benefit scams are also at an all-time high in Washington state. If you think someone is using your personal information to file a false unemployment benefits claim, report the fraud to the Employment Security Department.
Agencies from across the state have worked together to combine all of Washington’s coronavirus resources and information on a new website: www.coronavirus.wa.gov.
Even during uncertain times, this time of year is still the busiest for people looking to move. If you’re moving within the state of Washington and planning to hire a moving company, here is some information you need to know:
- Always check with the commission to ensure the company has valid permits. You can call the commission at 1-888-333-WUTC (9882) or use the look up tool at utc.wa.gov/movingtips;
- All movers must wear cloth face coverings while performing the move;
- You can view a company’s complaint stats by visiting utc.wa.gov/complaintstats.
The UTC is taking comments on two issues before the commission. Visit www.utc.wa.gov/191024 for information about the Pacific Power General Rate Case, and www.utc.wa.gov/200112 to learn more about Puget Sound Energy’s proposed tariff revision to discontinue their hot water heater rental service. Submit comments at www.utc.wa.gov/comment.
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