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Disconnection Policies
At Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association (WH), our goal is to work with members to avoid service disconnection whenever possible. However, Minnesota law allows electric service to be disconnected when bills go unpaid. While assistance programs and legal protections may be available, they are not automatic and require timely action by the member.
If you are having difficulty paying your bill, contacting WH as early as possible is critical. Early communication gives us the best opportunity to review options that may help you maintain electric service.
If You’re Having Trouble Paying Your Bill
If you are unable to make a payment or anticipate falling behind, please contact WH’s Credit Department immediately at (763) 477-3000.
To avoid disconnection and remain eligible for protections under Minnesota law, members must:
- Contact WH before the payment deadline, and
- Enter into and consistently maintain a mutually acceptable payment arrangement
Financial assistance programs may be available for eligible members. Our team can help you understand your options and connect you with appropriate resources.
Minnesota Laws That May Affect Disconnection
Minnesota law provides certain protections during extreme conditions or qualifying circumstances. These protections do not prevent disconnection unless all requirements are met and maintained. Members must notify WH and comply with program requirements to remain eligible.
The Cold Weather Rule:
Minn. Stat. 216B.097
Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule protects eligible residential consumers from utility disconnection between October 1 and April 30. To qualify, members must meet household income thresholds, contact WH, declare an inability to pay the full amount owed, and enter into and maintain a mutually acceptable payment arrangement.
Failure to follow these steps or make agreed-upon payments may result in disconnection, even during the Cold Weather Rule period.
The Extreme Heat Law:
Minn. Stat. 216B.0975
A utility may not effect an involuntary disconnection of residential services in affected counties when an excessive heat watch, heat advisory, or excessive heat warning issued by the National Weather Service is in effect.
This law does not guarantee continued service if a member is already disconnected, and it does not eliminate outstanding balances, fees, or payment obligations. Reconnection may require payment of past due charges and applicable fees.
Military Disconnection Protection:
Minn. Stat. 325E.028
Minnesota law provides protection from disconnection if a member of your household is ordered to active military duty, including deployment or a permanent change in duty station. To be considered for military service personnel service protection, you must meet requirements as outlined in the statute, and enter into a payment arrangement with WH.
To receive protection, members must:
- Notify WH and provide required verification
- Enter into and maintain a payment arrangement with WH
Failure to meet or maintain these requirements may result in loss of protection and possible disconnection.
What to Expect If Disconnection Is Possible
Members with past-due balances who do not contact WH or who fail to make and keep payment arrangements may be subject to service disconnection and related fees.
Before disconnection occurs, WH provides multiple notices and opportunities to avoid service interruption. Members are notified in advance and given time to make payment or establish a payment arrangement.
Additional timelines and notice requirements apply during the Cold Weather Rule period (October 1–April 30). Disconnection occurs only after all required notices have been provided and deadlines have passed without payment or a maintained payment arrangement.
Reconnection may require:
- Payment of all outstanding charges
- A deposit equal to up to two months of service
- Additional reconnection or service fees
Unpaid balances may be referred to a collection agency.
Important: Protect Yourself from Utility Scams
Utility scams often target customers by creating fear or urgency. WH will never:
- Demand immediate payment by gift card, prepaid card, or cryptocurrency
- Threaten disconnection without providing written notice
- Ask for personal or banking information by unsolicited phone call or text
If someone contacts you claiming your power will be shut off immediately and pressures you to pay on the spot, it is likely a scam.
When in doubt, hang up and contact WH directly at (763) 477-3000 to verify your account status.