{ Utilities and Other Extra’s Senior Advisory April, 2015

 You will be graduating soon.  It may becoming real that you will be on your own or have more responsibility.  Let’s try to think and plan ahead.  Decisions made with a little info can help you avoid many headaches and can save you money. 7 Weeks & Counting

 When you rent – always ask if any utilities are included.  This can make a big difference one way or the other.  Rent might be higher for a place, but it includes water, electric and garbage.  ASK QUESTIONS! Utilities

 Ask your landlord for a list of companies that serve your area.  Look in the local phone book.  There may be choices of different utility providers – or you may be limited to one.  You may need a deposit and/or credit to open your account with a utility company so be prepared – you may need a parent to be a co-signer. Electric/Gas/Water

 Depending on location – you may have wood heat, propane heat or electric heat. If you choose to move somewhere that is hot, youwill most likely have air conditioning (A/C).  Do some research on your area to see what the average heating and A/C bills are.  You may be shocked when the first bill of the winter/summer comes. Heat & A/C

 This may be your cell phone or a land line.  Discuss with roommates and decide. Phone

 This can be costly.  This could be shared between some or all of your roommates.  If you have a data plan on your cell phone, you could use your phone as a Wi-fi “hot spot” and potentially avoid this cost.  Be sure to check your limitations on your data plan if you choose not to have internet in your house or apartment because you are choosing to rely on your cell phone. Internet

 Will you have it?  Will you share the cost?  Who’s name will it go under?  Shop around. You can save money. Cable/Satellite TV

 Some companies will bundle your services.  AT&T – phone, cell, Direct TV & Internet  Comcast – cable, internet & phone  Research it and see what’s available in your area. Bundle

 This is another item that can be included in rent.  Most apartment rentals include garbage in the rent.  Most home rentals do not include garbage.  Just make sure you know if garbage is included and budget for it if it’s not. Garbage

 Again, these could be additional costs.  Because California is experiencing a drought, water is an expensive commodity in some locations. In fact, many cities are enforcing rations.  Check into water usage, restrictions, and cost before you move into an area.  Water can be a flat rate or by the amount used. These bills can be shocking if you don’t plan ahead and do your research. Water/Sewer

  Go through this expense website and do several different scenarios to see how much these things cost.  Before the next advisory class, ask your parents about their utility bills. Find out how much your parents pay, on average, for electricity, gas/propane, internet, phone, cell phones, cable, water, and garbage. Are we missing any other expenses?? Let’s Review with Reality Check