You might qualify for $0 deposit
Many Texans qualify for deposit waivers and don't know it. Texas law protects you. And even if you don't qualify for waivers, you pick a plan and enroll. If that company requires a deposit, we let you check multiple other light companies because deposit rules vary by company.
Can't promise you'll get $0 deposit, but many people do. And if not? Prepaid is always available — no deposit, no credit check, lights on today.
Do any of these apply to you?
If you meet ANY of these conditions, you may qualify for $0 deposit on traditional plans. And even if you don't, we check multiple light companies because each has different credit thresholds. Many people find a $0 deposit option without qualifying for waivers.
12-Month Payment History
Paid your light bill on time for the past 12 months
Learn more
If you've had service with ANY Texas light company and paid on time for 12 consecutive months, you may qualify for no deposit — even if your credit isn't perfect.
What to do: Gather your last 12 months of light bills showing on-time payments.
Low-Income Assistance
Receive LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF, SSI, or other low-income assistance
Learn more
PUCT rules protect customers receiving government assistance. If you receive LIHEAP, SNAP (food stamps), TANF, SSI, or other low-income assistance programs, you may qualify for a waived or reduced deposit — no credit check needed.
What to do: Have documentation of your benefits ready when applying.
Senior Citizen (65+)
You're 65 years or older
Learn more
Texas recognizes that seniors often live on fixed incomes. Some light companys offer deposit waivers or reductions for customers 65 and older.
What to do: Have your ID ready to verify age when applying.
Domestic Violence Survivor
You're escaping an abusive situation
Learn more
PUCT requires light companys to work with domestic violence survivors. You may qualify for deposit waivers and other protections when leaving an abusive situation.
What to do: Documentation from a shelter, advocacy org, or law enforcement can help.
Active Military
You're currently serving in the military
Learn more
Active duty military personnel often qualify for deposit waivers. SCRA (Servicemembers Civil Relief Act) provides additional protections.
What to do: Have your military ID or orders ready.
Letter of Credit
You have a letter of credit from a previous light company
Learn more
If you had good payment history with a previous Texas light company, you can request a letter of credit. This proves your reliability and can waive deposits with new light companies.
What to do: Contact your previous light company and request a letter of credit.
What is a PUCT deposit waiver?
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) regulates the light market in Texas. They've established rules that protect customers from unfair deposit requirements.
Your rights under PUCT rules:
- Providers must accept 12 months of payment history as proof of creditworthiness
- Providers cannot require deposits from customers receiving certain assistance
- If you paid a deposit and then establish 12 months of on-time payments, you can get it refunded
- Deposits are limited to 1/6th of your estimated annual bill (usually $150-400)
Not all light companys follow these rules equally well. If you believe you qualify and are being denied, you can file a complaint with the PUCT.
Learn more about your Texas light bill rights →What if I don't qualify for a waiver?
Even if you don't qualify for deposit waivers, you still have options. Here's the honest breakdown:
1 We check multiple light companies for you
This is what makes us different. The same 600 credit score might get $0 deposit at Company A and $300 at Company B. You pick the plan you want and enroll. If that company requires a deposit, we let you check multiple other companies so you don't waste time calling around. Only Texas marketplace that does this.
2 Consider prepaid — guaranteed approval
Prepaid plans are guaranteed — no credit check, no deposit, no down payment. Rates are higher, but it gets your lights on today. Start with $40-75 on a monthly pay-as-you-go basis.
3 Build payment history
Start with prepaid, pay on time for 12 months, then switch to traditional with no deposit. Plus you can often get better rates.
4 Pay the deposit
If you can swing the deposit, traditional plans save $50-70/month. After 12 on-time payments, you get the deposit back. Do the math.
Common questions
Who qualifies for no deposit in Texas?
How do I prove I qualify?
What if the light company says I don't qualify?
Can I still get lights on if I don't qualify?
Ready to see your options?
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you affordable light companies that might waive your deposit — plus prepaid options that never need one. Everyone deserves a second chance.
Texas ZIP codes only. We'll show you no-deposit plans in your area.
Consumer Advocate
I help you get your lights on when other companies say no. If you've been denied or quoted a huge deposit, I know the workarounds.
View full profile