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Frequently Asked Questions

How is the deposit amount determined?

FPL's billing and deposit practices are governed by the Florida Public Service Commission. To ensure fairness to all customers, some customers are required to secure their accounts with a deposit. FPL uses a credit scoring system to determine whether a deposit is required in order to open an account. This credit scoring system considers items on your credit report and/or prior credit history and produces a score.

Customers who are asked to pay a deposit are required to provide a deposit equal to two month's expected electric use when the home is occupied. For example, if you occupy your home year-round and use an average of $100 of electricity per month, the deposit amount would be $200. Your new residence's anticipated electric use is determined by the property's prior energy usage history, which is standard utility practice.

When is the deposit due?

The initial deposit is due once the account has been opened and we have several convenient payment options available to make that payment.

Note: In some cases, you may be required to pay the deposit before connection of service.

Does the deposit earn interest?

Yes, your deposit begins to earn two percent interest once you have paid your electric bill in full for six months. The interest is credited to your account annually in June.

When is the deposit refunded?

Your deposit is refunded with any earned interest when the account is closed or after 23 months of consecutive service if you have not:

  • Paid after the past-due date of your regular bill more than once within the past 12 months.
  • Paid with a check that has been refused by a bank.
  • Had service disconnected for non-payment within the past 12 months.
  • Tampered with the electric meter.
  • Used electric service in a fraudulent or unauthorized manner.

Why was I billed a deposit adjustment?

If you've paid your bill late two or more times within a six-month period and there is a difference of $50 or more between the deposit FPL received for your account and the two months' average bill at your residence, a deposit adjustment may be required.  A review process is triggered automatically to determine whether an additional deposit is required. Several factors are taken in consideration including, the length of time you have been an FPL customer, your payment history, and the amount of your current deposit.

Is there an alternative to cash deposit?

Yes. There is an Unconditional Guarantee/Guarantor contract, which is a legal document involving the party requesting the deposit alternative (Guarantee) and the party providing a payment security if the Guarantee defaults in payment (Guarantor). Learn more about Guarantee/Guarantor contract.

In order to be eligible for this non-cash deposit option, the Guarantor must meet certain criteria.

If you have other questions, please visit our support page.