Setting Up Utilities and Internet in Your First U.S. Home

Common Utilities & Services:

• Electricity: Powers lights, appliances, and electronics. Usually provided by one main regional company (e.g., Con Edison in NYC, PG&E in parts of California).
• Natural Gas: Used for heating, hot water, stoves, or dryers in some homes. Also typically provided by a specific regional company (sometimes the same as electricity, sometimes separate).
• Water & Sewer: Provides clean water and handles wastewater disposal. Often managed by the city or municipal water department.
• Trash & Recycling Collection: Waste disposal services. Usually handled by the city/county sanitation department or a contracted private company. Check local schedules and sorting rules (recycling rules vary greatly).
• Internet Service Provider (ISP): Provides internet access via Cable, Fiber Optic, DSL, or Satellite. Multiple providers (e.g., Comcast/Xfinity, Spectrum, Verizon Fios, AT&T Fiber) might be available depending on your exact location. Compare speed, price, and contract terms.
• Mobile Phone Service: Major national carriers include AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Smaller carriers (MVNOs) often operate on the major networks but may offer cheaper plans (e.g., Mint Mobile, Google Fi, Cricket Wireless, Visible). Consider coverage in your specific area.
• Cable/Satellite TV (Optional): Often bundled with internet service.

How to Find Providers:

• Ask Your Landlord/Property Manager: This is often the easiest first step. They can usually tell you which companies service your specific address for electricity, gas, water, and trash, and sometimes recommend internet/cable providers.
• Check City/County Websites: Your local government's website usually lists providers for municipal services like water, sewer, and trash/recycling.
• Online Search / Comparison Tools:
  • Search for "[Utility type] provider [your city, state]" (e.g., "electricity provider Cresskill, NJ").
  • Use online comparison tools for internet service providers (ISPs) by entering your address (e.g., sites like BroadbandNow, HighSpeedInternet.com). Always confirm availability and pricing directly with the provider.
• Ask Neighbors: Once you move in, neighbors can be a good source for recommendations, especially for internet or cable services.

General Setup Process & Requirements:

1. Identify Providers: Determine which companies service your specific address for each utility you need.
2. Contact Providers (In Advance): Call the provider's customer service number or visit their website to initiate new service setup. Do this at least 1-2 weeks before your move-in date to schedule activation and avoid delays.
3. Provide Required Information: Be prepared to give:
   • Your full, exact U.S. service address.
   • Your desired service start date (usually your move-in date).
   • Your full name and contact information (phone number, email).
   • Identification: You may need to provide details from your Passport, Visa, Driver's License, or State ID.
   • Social Security Number (SSN): Many utility companies request an SSN for identity verification and a soft credit check (which doesn't usually impact your score).
     • No SSN? If you don't have an SSN yet (see SSN guide), inform the provider. They usually have alternative verification methods but are likely to require a security deposit.
   • Lease Agreement (Sometimes requested as proof of residency at the service address).
   • Payment information (for deposit or initial charges).
4. Pay Security Deposit (If Required): Newcomers without established U.S. credit history or an SSN are often required to pay a refundable security deposit for electricity, gas, and sometimes internet/phone services. The amount varies but might be $100-$300+ per service. This deposit is typically refunded (often as a bill credit) after a period of consistent on-time payments (e.g., 6-12 months).
5. Schedule Activation/Installation:
   • Some services (like electricity, water, sometimes gas) can often be activated remotely on your scheduled start date if the infrastructure is already in place.
   • Others, especially internet or cable TV, often require a technician to visit for installation or equipment setup. Schedule this appointment for on or shortly after your move-in date. Be aware technician appointments usually have a time window (e.g., 8 AM - 12 PM).
6. Confirm Service Start: On your move-in day or scheduled activation date, check that all essential services (electricity, water) are working correctly. Test internet connection once activated/installed. Contact the provider immediately if there are issues.