The ultimate guide to transferring or canceling utilities

Direct Energy, May 14, 2025

4-minute read

The ultimate guide to transferring or canceling utilities

Direct Energy, May 14, 2025

4-minute read

Planning to move can be challenging. One important step is ensuring your essential utilities, like electricity, gas or water services, are ready when you arrive at your new home. Here we discuss how to transfer or cancel your utility services and how Direct Energy customers can enjoy a seamless transfer of service with just a few simple steps. 

young couple moving into new home needing transfer energy
young couple moving into new home needing transfer energy
young couple moving into new home needing transfer energy

Decide on your move date

Determining your move date is one of the first steps in ensuring a smooth transition. This date serves as the anchor for all your moving-related activities, including the transfer of your electricity or other utility services.

Your move-in day can vary depending on when your new home is ready and how far you have to travel. Giving yourself enough time to move your belongings is important, especially if you have to be out of your old home by a certain date or if you're moving long distance. Getting an idea of how long it will take to travel and determining whether you can be ready to move in by the date your new home is ready are both important to deciding the best move date.

Preparing to transfer or cancel your utilities

Confirm which utility services you need to transfer or cancel, like electricity, water, gas, internet or cable services. Begin by gathering billing information from each of your utility providers so you have all your account information together before it’s time to cancel or transfer. When preparing, check whether there will be any fees associated with canceling or transferring, which can be confirmed with your provider directly.

When to give notice to your electricity provider

It can be crucial to notify your electricity provider and other utility services well in advance. Ideally, you should inform them at least 30 days before your move date. This gives them ample time to process your request and can help ensure you don’t experience a service interruption. Also, be sure to have your account numbers and billing information handy before contacting your provider to help expedite the transfer process.

Transferring your electricity service

For a quick overview of how the transfer process often works with utilities and home services, check out our Transferring Your Service page. For Direct Energy customers, the transfer process is simple and can be completed in a few quick steps. Plus, when you transfer, you can count on no early termination fees, no deposit required and a seamless transition to your new home.

Ready to transfer your Direct Energy electricity services? Transfer with ease using your Online Account Manager.

Ensuring a smooth utility transfer when moving long distance

Moving long distances adds an extra layer of complexity. Here are some tips to ensure a hassle-free move:

  • Plan ahead: Start planning your move at least two months in advance. This should give you plenty of time to handle all the details.
  • Create a checklist: A moving checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you don't forget any important tasks.
  • Research new providers: Look up utility providers in your new area. Compare their services, rates and customer reviews to find the best options. Contact them early to schedule connections for the day before you move in.
  • Confirm everything: After scheduling disconnections and connections, get written confirmation from all providers.

 

A final checklist for before you move

Before saying goodbye to your old home, complete this final checklist. It can help ensure there are no billing errors and allow you to start off right in your new home.

  1. Take final meter readings for your electric, gas and water services: This allows you to double-check that you are only billed for utilities you used and can help avoid unnecessary complications. You can also contact your service provider directly to see if they can assist with this process to help ensure accuracy.
  2. Stop delivery of mail and newspaper: Contact your local post office and newspaper delivery service to stop delivery or forward your mail to your new address.
  3. Leave the house clean for the next occupants: Whether you just sold your home or are moving out of a rental, ensure that your old home is clean and ready for the next occupants.

 

Get the most out of your electricity plan with Direct Energy

Whether you're transferring or canceling your utility services, by using this guide, you can help ensure a seamless transition to your new home. For current Direct Energy customers, transferring your service is quick and easy and can provide a seamless transition of electricity services for your move.

If you're looking for a new electricity provider at your new address, consider shopping Direct Energy plans, and you can experience our commitment to providing excellent customer support and a seamless experience with helpful tools like the Online Account Manager, the Direct Energy mobile app, 24/7 customer support and much more.

Ready to switch to a Direct Energy electricity plan? Start shopping today!

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