Quick Answer
What's the cheapest no-deposit lights in Texas?
The cheapest no-deposit option depends on whether you qualify for a traditional plan. With a strong credit history (650+), traditional plans with $0 deposit cost $95-115/month for 1000 kWh. Without a credit check, pay-as-you-go lights cost $145-175/month for the same usage but start at only $40-75. Over 12 months, traditional plans cost $300-400 less. Worth trying first.
How We Rank "Cheapest"
Most people look at startup cost. That's a mistake. The real question is: what will this cost me over 12 months?
Our Ranking Methodology
We rank by total first-year cost (startup + 12 months of bills) for average usage (1000 kWh/month). This shows the true cost, not just what you pay day one.
Example: Payless Power costs $60 to start but $1,900/year in bills. TXU Traditional costs $200 deposit but $1,300/year in bills. After 12 months, TXU is $400 cheaper even with the deposit.
Ranked by Total First-Year Cost
Based on February 2026 rates for 1000 kWh/month usage in Houston (CenterPoint TDSP area). Your actual costs will vary by ZIP code and usage.
| Rank | Light Company / Type | Startup Cost | Monthly Cost | Year 1 Total | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TXU Traditional (Good Credit) | $0-75 deposit | $95-115 | $1,140-1,455 | Credit 650+ |
| 2 | Reliant Traditional (Good Credit) | $0-100 deposit | $100-120 | $1,200-1,540 | Credit 650+ |
| 3 | Frontier Traditional (Autopay) | $0 (w/autopay) | $100-120 | $1,200-1,440 | Credit 620+, autopay |
| 4 | Payless Power | $40-60 | $165-185 | $2,020-2,280 | No credit check, 7-day service |
Key Insight
Traditional plans with deposits are $500-700 cheaper over 12 months than prepaid plans, even after paying a $200 deposit. If you can qualify (credit 650+), they're worth it.
When Each Option Makes Sense
Choose Traditional Plans If:
- ✓ You have credit score 650+ (likely $0 deposit or low deposit)
- ✓ You can afford a $75-200 deposit if required (get it back in 12 months)
- ✓ You want the lowest monthly bills ($40-60/month cheaper than prepaid)
- ✓ You're staying 12+ months (deposit refund after 12 months on-time payments)
Choose Prepaid Plans If:
- • You need lights today without a credit check
- • You can't afford a $200 deposit right now
- • You need lights TODAY and can't wait for credit approval
- • You're staying less than 6 months (temporary housing)
How to Find YOUR Cheapest Option
- Enter your ZIP code below: Rates vary by area and transmission company
- Try a traditional plan first: Even with challenged credit, you might qualify with a low deposit or payment plan
- If deposit is required, check multiple companies: Deposit rules vary wildly. One company might want $400, another $0 for the same person.
- If all require big deposits, choose prepaid: Start with $40-75, no credit check, same-day service
Pro Tip: The Deposit Recapture Strategy
We automatically check 6+ companies when one requires a deposit. Many people with challenged credit still find a $0 deposit traditional plan this way. Try traditional first. You can always fall back to prepaid if needed.
Find Your Cheapest No-Deposit Option
Enter your ZIP code to see current rates from all no-deposit light companies in your area, ranked by total cost.
Texas ZIP codes only. We'll show you no-deposit plans in your area.
No credit check to browse. Powered by Compare Power (PUCT License BR190020).
Consumer Advocate
I make sure light companies treat you right. When you don't know your rights, they take advantage. I fix that.
View full profileLast updated:
