When CUB helped pass historic consumer protections against alternative supplier rip-offs, the watchdog made it clear that the hard work was just beginning. “We look forward to working with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) and Attorney General (Kwame) Raoul to help enforce these new rules and build a better market…...
Take CUB’s Thermostat Quiz–you could win $100!
Do you bicker with your family over the thermostat setting? You’re not alone! Test your knowledge by taking our thermostat quiz. We’ll randomly select one quiz-taker to win $100 off their summer energy bills. The deadline to enter is midnight, July 31. Take the quiz now! Energy efficiency isn’t about…...
Natural gas prices continue rise into July
Most major Illinois gas utilities are again increasing their prices, the continued aftershock of the extreme cold that hit the country back in February. Temperatures are now warm and consumers are using less natural gas, but it is still important to factor these high prices into your usage. Most natural…...
CUB secures $411 refund for Chicago consumer with mixed meter issue
If you’ve ever called CUB, there’s a good chance you’ve spoken to Jantay Gray, one of the outstanding advocates who staff our Consumer Hotline (1-800-669-5556). Earlier this year, Jantay secured a $411 refund for Nicoletta, a Chicago consumer who submitted a complaint about a ComEd billing issue. “Last year, I…...
CUB releases new guide to help Illinois consumers shop phone market
The Citizens Utility Board announced that it has released a new “Guide to Phone Choices” to help Illinois consumers navigate their options in the telecom market. Visit CitizensUtilityBoard.org to order a free copy of the 16-page publication, which includes information about selecting cellphone, landline and VoIP service. The phone landscape…...
Study reveals October disconnection surge
Special consumer protections and a ninefold expansion in utility bill assistance in 2020 helped keep disconnections low during widespread economic stress caused by the pandemic, with the exception of October. In October 2020, disconnections doubled as utilities lifted their ban on shut offs, according to a new Tufts University study.…...
Sources – CUB’s Guide to Phone Choices
AARP, How to Use Zoom to Stay Connected During the Coronavirus, November 18, 2020: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2020/how-to-use-zoom/ ABT Electronics, Telephone Buying Guide: https://www.abt.com/learn/telephone-buying-guide AllConnect, Are you losing money by not bundling? Sales pros chime in!, May 4, 2020: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/bundles-really-better AT&T Business, What is VoIP and how does it work?: https://www.business.att.com/learn/tech-advice/what-is-voip-and-how-does-it-work-.html AT&T, AT&T…...
Ambit Energy: Too Good to Be True?
CUB fields numerous inquiries about energy companies in Illinois, and we’ve heard recent concerns about Ambit Energy. If you’re considering signing up for Ambit as your energy supplier or working as a consultant for Ambit, make sure you understand the terms of your contract. Ambit Energy is a company based…...
Chicago rental assistance deadline extended to June 15
The application period for the Chicago Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) has been extended through June 15. The program, administered through the City of Chicago’s Department of Housing, provides rental assistance to eligible community members who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. ERAP will provide funds of up to…...
