Q: What is PAMS?
A: PAMS (which stands for Prepaid Account Management System) allows the consumer to monitor their electric consumption and purchase electricity on a “pay as you go” basis. Instead of paying a large monthly electric bill at the end of each month, they can make smaller purchases throughout the month.

Q: What are the benefits of offering prepaid service?
A: First, deposits are not required. An initial payment will be credited to the consumer's account and used to pay their daily usage charges. Second, their electric service is disconnected, they can re-establish service without paying an additional deposit. As an added benefit, they currently have a deposit it can be applied directly to their account for future purchases.

Q: How does the enrollment process work?
A: Anyone with an existing account wishing to enroll in the prepaid program can do so by calling the customer service department and answering a few questions or by visiting your existing website (if available). New consumers will be asked to complete an enrollment form.

Q: How much is my initial payment if I am a current member?
A: If you are already a member in good standing, you will be required to establish your PAMS account with a minimum payment. If your service has been disconnected for non-payment, you will be required to pay the past due balance and reconnection fee. A customer service representative will be happy to discuss your particular account with you.

Q: How does the program work once an initial payment is made?
A: Your initial payment will be posted to your account to establish a credit balance assuming there were no outstanding charges or fees. Your meter is read every night and the usage will be calculated by subtracting your last reading from your current reading. This usage will then be rated and a usage charge will be applied to you current balance. For example, if you make an initial payment of $100.00 and used $8.00 of electricity on your first day, your new credit balance is now $92.00.

Q: How can I track my electric usage and credit balance to avoid disconnection of service?
A: PAMS makes it easy and convenient to monitor both usage and credit balance through our online system at www.myusage.com or by calling a toll-free number and following the instructions provided. When enrollment in the program occurs, member will be asked to provide up to two contact numbers and an email address to which calls or notices will be sent regarding credit balance, applied payments, need for payment to avoid disconnection, and electric consumption. This ensures all members can monitor usage easily and efficiently.

Q: What payment options are available?
A: All existing payment methods of the participating utility are supported by PAMS.

Q: If I decide to no longer participate in this program, am I eligible to change back to the regular billing option?
A: Yes – you may return to standard billing at any time but you may be required to pay a deposit.

Q: Will I still get a monthly electric bill?
A: No – Because you are paying for service before you use it, you will not have a bill to pay at the end of the month.