Electricity Deposits · Texas & Ohio
A deposit request doesn't have to stop your move. Compare your options, check what providers look at, and get help if your enrollment is stuck.
Some plans waive or reduce the deposit on a normal monthly bill. Availability depends on your address and provider.
See no-deposit plans →Prepaid plans typically don't require a deposit: you add funds up front and use them as you go.
Explore prepaid →A letter showing on-time payments with a past electric company may satisfy a new provider's credit check.
How to use your history →Under PUCT Substantive Rule 25.478, qualifying customers may establish satisfactory credit without a deposit—for example, residential customers age 65+ who are not delinquent on electric service, and victims of family violence with a Texas Council on Family Violence certification letter.
Check if you qualify →Some providers let you split a deposit into installments. Ask before you pay it all at once.
Learn more →Rules and availability vary by provider, utility and state. Options shown are general information, not a guarantee of approval.
If your provider asked for a deposit after you enrolled, don't cancel yet. Our team can review your options, from a no-deposit or prepaid plan to sending a letter of credit or requesting a waiver.
Why each Texas REP sets its own credit rules — and what can get you approved without one.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026The overview: how deposits are decided, avoided, refunded, and outgrown.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026Your FICO score is only one piece; here's what else providers review.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026Use your on-time record with a past provider to skip a new deposit.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026When and how Texas deposits get refunded or credited back.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026Who may qualify for a waiver and what proof providers ask for.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026How the specialty utility report differs from your bank-style score.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026Carry your on-time record with you so a new provider can see it.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026No credit file? Steps to build a record that helps with future deposits.
Read article → Guide · Oct 12, 2026Request your NCTUE report and dispute errors that trigger deposits.
Read article →Providers may review your credit, a specialty utility report like NCTUE, and your past electricity payment record. Each provider sets its own criteria.
Generally yes. Deposits are typically refunded or credited after a period of on-time payments or when you close your account in good standing. Interest and timing rules vary by state and provider.
No. A no-deposit plan is still billed monthly. Prepaid means you pay before you use power.
Ohio has its own deposit rules set by the utility and PUCO, and suppliers may differ. Check the terms at your address, or call us and we'll help.
We don't set deposit requirements; the provider does. We can help you compare plans with lower or no deposit and walk through your options.