turning off utilities (free, house, how much, phone)

[christina0001]

How far in advance am I supposed to let the utility companies know that we are moving and to shut everything off? Dumb question, but I haven't had to do this before. We are moving out of state so we aren't just transferring things to another home.

[Racelady88]

I usually call them as soon as I have a closing date. I tell them I would like to turn utilities off the following day. They will ALWAYS let you call & delay the turn off if your closing does not happen on time. Make sure that you get a confirmation number.

[Paula Lynn]

If you know your move-out date, call in advance and schedule the turn-off for the specific date. At least that's what you can do in So. Cal.

[GreggB]

A 30 day Notice is Standard practice here in Wisconsin!

[Rapture]

When I moved, I did it all online. You can just go to the web sites of your utility companies and there should be a link about moving. You can choose a date on the calendar when you want stuff turned off.

What state are you moving to? Good luck with your move!

[hiknapster]

If you have cable, when you bring your equipment (digital boxes, modem) to the office they will cancel your service.

[da jammer]

when you cancel your utilities try and get some kind of confirmation number or code that you can use to verify that you indeed contacted them to shut off service then call back the next day and verify it. I had a friend that just recently moved and called in to transfer electric service. Oh they started up service at the new place just fine but neglected to cancel service at his previous addy. The new renters got a few months free ride because SO CAL Edison claimed they had no proof he canceled service at his previous house, just his word that he called in. I really wish I could believe in people when I talk to them on the phone but sadly it doesn't always work out.

[christina0001]

Thanks for the tips! We will know for sure what day we are moving early next week and I will call the utility companies right away - and I will be sure to get a confirmation number.

We are moving from New Jersey to Missouri. I feel like a pioneer. lol

[foma]

I would say ASAP. Call your company and ask how much time they need. I gave my company a week but they needed longer so I was charged a few days extra.

The more important thing to remember is just b'c you THINK everything is closed and complete, remember to DOUBLE CHECK after you've paid your last bill. I've heard horror stories of people's credit being affected b'c they company never closed their account even though they thought it was closed. Triple check if you have to!