We know there are times when you need to delay or make arrangements for your payment, we just ask that you let us know so we can help you set up a payment arrangement.
If you are having problems paying your electric bills, please call us before your bill becomes delinquent. We can typically work out a payment arrangement/extension that works for both the customer and the Utility. There are also several outside agencies that offer assistance with paying your bills. For more information regarding payment assistance please visit: Low Income Assistance Page
Customer Rights
A disconnect notice for nonpayment of electric energy shall include a statement advising the customer of their rights to a hearing procedure if the customer disputes the billing.
Any customer disputing a billing shall first have an informal conference with a customer service representative (CSR). The CSR shall have authority to arrange for deferred payments. Factors considered by the CSR shall include the size of the amount due, the schedule of payments to satisfy the amount due, agreement to keep future billings paid on a current basis, and the customer’s past credit history with the Utility.
- Arrangements for deferred payments are not available to customers who have not complied with previous arrangements, or to customers who have had repetitive account credit problems.
Customers not satisfied with the outcome of the informal conference, may appeal to a customer service supervisor. A customer must appeal within 72 hours of the informal conference stating the reasons for the customer appeal. Lewis County PUD shall arrange a hearing within 3 working days of receiving the appeal and the hearing shall take place during regular office hours. The customer may, at their own expense, be represented by counsel. Our representative will hear the customer’s statements and the employee’s statement from appropriate employees. After the hearing, we will provide the customer with a written decision. The decision shall be delivered to the customer’s residence or place of business, or the decision may be delivered to the customer by registered mail.
Failure to accept the decision when delivered, or failure to make payments as required will result in immediate disconnection of service. Failure to attend the hearing shall negate the request for hearing and demonstrate acceptance of the billing.