A utility bill is a monthly statement of the amount a household owes for any one or more of the basic services that generally keep a home operable and comfortable. These services include electricity, water, gas, sewage, trash, and recycling. Depending on how you define utilities, you could also add TV, internet, phone, and streaming services to that list. A utility bill lists the customer’s name, address, and account number. It also states the amount owed and the due date, as well as guidance on how to pay. Utility bills typically give information about your usage of the service, too. For example, a water bill would list the amount of water you used during the billing period and may show how that amount has changed over the last several months. Utility bills can also be handy as proof of residence for licensing and passport needs. The cost of utilities varies widely depending on the service, provider, location, and usage. Below are a few examples of utility bills and their average costs:

• Electric bill: In 2022, the average electric bill among U.S. residences was $137 per month, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
• Water bill: The average monthly water bill in the U.S. is $70.
• Gas bill: The average monthly gas bill in the U.S. is $72.

Utility bills can certainly add up, so it’s help...