First Bill & Deposit Waiver

So I recently got my own apartment and signed up for utilities from COA for electricity and garbage. I started around the 24th. When my first bill would show up? Also, I signed up for paperless and autopay because I read that I could avoid the deposit that way, is that true? Also, I live on the third floor of a 4 story building, north facing windows, ~600 sq/ft, and keep it at 79 all the time, in a two-year-old building, any idea what kind of bill I might get? I am waiting for my first bill to see if I indeed have to pay a $200 deposit and how much the bill is before purchasing anything else for my new apartment.

### Billing Timeline 1. **First Bill Arrival**: Utility companies typically bill on a monthly cycle. Since you started service around the 24th, you can expect your first bill to arrive about 30 days later. It could be slightly delayed depending on the company’s billing cycle, but you should see it by the end of the following month. ### Deposit Waiver with Paperless and Autopay 2. **Avoiding the Deposit**: Many utility companies offer to waive the deposit if you sign up for paperless billing and autopay. This is likely true for COA, but it's a good idea to confirm directly with them or check their policy on their website or in the welcome information you received. ### Estimated Utility Bill 3. **Estimated Electricity Bill**: - **Electricity Usage**: For a 600 sq/ft apartment in a two-year-old building with north-facing windows and the thermostat set at 79°F, your energy usage should be relatively low. Newer buildings are typically better insulated and more energy-efficient. - **Factors to Consider**: Usage can vary depending on the efficiency of your appliances, the amount of sunlight your apartment gets, and whether you use energy-intensive devices (e.g., computers, TVs, etc.). - **Estimated Cost**: Based on average rates and usage, a rough estimate for your electricity bill might be around $50-$100 per month. However, this can vary widely depending on the actual usage and local rates. 4. **Garbage Service Cost**: Garbage service fees are usually fixed monthly rates. These can range from $20 to $40 depending on the service provider and your location. ### Summary - **First Bill**: Expect it at the end of the month following your service start date. - **Deposit**: Likely waived with paperless and autopay, but verify with COA. - **Estimated Cost**: Around $70-$140 per month combined for electricity and garbage service, but this is a rough estimate. ### Next Steps - **Check with COA**: Confirm the deposit waiver policy and the expected date for your first bill. - **Monitor Usage**: Once you receive your first bill, you’ll have a better idea of your typical usage and can adjust accordingly. If you need any further assistance or specific details about COA's policies, please let me know!