Memphis, Tennessee, December 31, 2025
A family in Memphis is contesting nearly $1,000 utility bills from MLGW for a home that has been vacant since December. The utility’s billing errors are under scrutiny, as discrepancies and malfunctioning meters have affected bills. MLGW acknowledges these issues and is implementing assistance programs for impacted customers, including partnerships with TVA and MIFA to provide financial aid for delayed bills.
Memphis Family Challenges High MLGW Bills for Vacant Home
Memphis, Tennessee – A local family is disputing substantial utility bills from Memphis Light, Gas, and Water (MLGW) for a property that has been unoccupied since December 2024. Despite the home’s vacancy, the family received a bill nearing $1,000, prompting concerns about potential billing errors.
Details of the Dispute
The family reported that the residence has remained empty since December 2024. However, the utility bill issued for the period ending December 2025 amounted to nearly $1,000, a sum typically associated with occupied homes. This discrepancy has raised questions about the accuracy of MLGW’s billing system and the possibility of errors in meter readings or account management.
MLGW’s Response
In response to similar concerns, MLGW has acknowledged ongoing issues with delayed billing due to gas and water meter malfunctions. The utility has stated that it is not holding bills and is actively working to address these problems. MLGW has increased the number of employees dedicated to processing delayed bills and anticipates making permanent repairs to affected meters by the end of August 2023, with billing returning to normal by the end of September 2023.
Background on Billing Issues
MLGW has faced challenges with delayed billing in the past, primarily due to faulty gas and water meters. In February 2023, the utility announced a change to its billing process, stating that bills would no longer be delayed for accounts in exception status. Instead, bills would reflect estimated usage for services where the meter failed to report any usage. This change was prompted by a rise in delayed bills waiting to be processed in December 2022, with meter failures being the primary cause.
Assistance Programs for Affected Customers
To assist customers affected by billing issues, MLGW has partnered with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA) to offer financial assistance. In October 2023, MLGW received a $245,000 grant from TVA’s Community Care Fund, with MLGW matching the grant. Eligible customers could receive up to $400 in assistance to help pay delayed bills. Customers were notified of their eligibility and could apply through MIFA’s website or by contacting their help desk.
Conclusion
The Memphis family’s situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding MLGW’s billing practices, particularly for vacant properties. While the utility has acknowledged and is addressing these issues, affected customers are encouraged to reach out to MLGW and explore available assistance programs to resolve billing discrepancies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I receive an unusually high MLGW bill for a vacant property?
If you receive a high utility bill for a property that has been unoccupied, contact MLGW customer service immediately to report the issue and request an investigation into potential billing errors.
Are there assistance programs available for customers affected by billing issues?
Yes, MLGW has partnered with TVA and MIFA to offer financial assistance to eligible customers. In October 2023, MLGW received a $245,000 grant from TVA’s Community Care Fund, with MLGW matching the grant. Eligible customers could receive up to $400 in assistance to help pay delayed bills. Customers were notified of their eligibility and could apply through MIFA’s website or by contacting their help desk.
How can I apply for the Winter Moratorium program to prevent service disconnection?
MLGW’s Winter Moratorium program prevents service disconnections for registered customers during December, January, and February. To apply, download the application form from MLGW’s website, request one by phone at 901-544-6549, or visit any MLGW community office. Applications must be received by November 30, 2025.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Issue | Disputed high MLGW bills for a vacant property in Memphis, Tennessee. |
| MLGW’s Response | Acknowledgment of billing issues and implementation of assistance programs for affected customers. |
| Assistance Programs | Financial aid through partnerships with TVA and MIFA, including a $245,000 grant from TVA’s Community Care Fund, with MLGW matching the grant. Eligible customers could receive up to $400 in assistance. |
| Winter Moratorium Program | Prevents service disconnections for registered customers during December, January, and February. Applications must be received by November 30, 2025. |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
