How to Read Your National Grid "Budget Plan" Statement To avoid the "True-Up" shock, you need to look past the "Total Amount Due" and focus on the Account Summary section of your bill. This is where the math behind the curtain is revealed. The Three Red Flags to Watch For 1. The Deferred Balance (The "Hidden Debt") • Where to find it: Usually located under the "Budget Billing Summary" section. • The Math: This is the difference between the cost of the energy you actually used and the budget payments you've made. • The Trap: If this number is a large positive balance halfway through your plan year, your monthly payment is likely too low. National Grid will eventually "catch up" by either spiking your monthly bill or sending a massive bill in Month 12. 2. Actual vs. Budget Comparison • Where to find it: Look for a line titled "Actual Charges Since Last Settlement." • The Math: Compare this to "Budget Charges Since Last Settlement." • The Trap: If your Actual Charges are consistently higher than your Budget Charges, you are effectively taking an interest-free loan from the utility company that must be repaid in full the moment you move out or cancel the plan. 3. The "Review Month" Notice • Where to find it: The "Important Messages" box on the first or second page. • The Warning: National Grid usually reviews these plans every 3, 6, or 9 months. If you see a message stating your "Budget amount has been adjusted," check your new amount immediately. If it has jumped more than 15%, it’s a sign that the 2026 rate hikes are outpacing your current payment plan. Quick Audit Checklist • [ ] Is my Deferred Balance over $200? (If yes, expect a payment hike soon). • [ ] Am I in "Month 11" of my plan? (Prepare for the Month 12 "Settlement" bill). • [ ] Did I just install a new appliance or heat pump? (The budget plan won't account for this increase until the next review). #nationalgrid #AffordableNY #AffordableLiving #NYS