Understanding Your Utility Bill

Your monthly utility bill is based on how much energy you use during the billing period. If your home uses more electricity or gas—especially for heating or cooling—you may see changes in the total amount due from month to month.

To help explain this, the graph below shows heating degree days. A degree day measures how hot or cold the weather has been compared to a standard temperature of 65°F. The more extreme the outside temperature, the higher the number of degree days. When the weather is more extreme, heating or cooling systems work harder, which can lead to increased energy use. We’ve also included examples of utility bills below with helpful tips on where to find key information each month.

Need help managing your bill? We offer several resources to assist residents:

  • Level Billing — Provides a consistent monthly payment by averaging your usage over the past year, helping to avoid seasonal spikes. The program is recalculated each May, with enrollment open from May to July for eligible customers.
  • Auto Bank Draft – Sign-up for automatic payments in-person at City Hall.
  • Credit Card Draft – Set up automatic payments through our online portal.
  • Payment Plans for Past-Due Bills – Flexible arrangements are available to help customers catch up on overdue balances.
  • Old Balance Contracts for New Customers – New customers with an outstanding balance can set up a structured payment agreement to maintain service while paying off their balance.
  • Free Energy Audit – Learn more about this program here.

For additional support, local assistance programs are available:

  • SERVE, Inc. – (573) 642-6388
  • Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) – (573) 443-1100

For questions or concerns about your utility bill, please contact the Utilities Department at (573) 592-3111.

*The City of Fulton does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Commission.

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