Can I get my electricity bill deposit refunded when I move out?
Last updated: 2026-07-11 · Educational content; not legal advice.
Short answer
Yes. Under the ERC's Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers, your bill deposit is refundable when you permanently close your account, and it must be refunded within one (1) month of the termination of service, provided all your bills have been paid. Separately, the Magna Carta exempts residential consumers from paying a meter deposit, because utilities already recover meter costs through their rates. Request the refund in writing from your utility, settle any final bill, and if it is withheld beyond one month without basis, escalate to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
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Frequently asked
How soon must my bill deposit be returned?
Within one month of the termination of service, as long as all outstanding bills are paid, under the Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers.
Do I owe a meter deposit at all?
No. The Magna Carta exempts residential consumers from meter deposits because the utility already builds meter costs into its rates.
The utility won't return my deposit — what now?
Send a written demand, attach proof that your final bill is settled, and if it is still withheld past the one-month deadline, file with the ERC, which enforces the Magna Carta.
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