Utility Collection Scammers Expected, Mendham Government Warns

MENDHAM TOWNSHIP, NJ — Mendham Township officials are telling residents to be on the lookout for PSE&G utility scammers as the recent payment moratorium ends and collections begin.

An official announcement by the Township aims to protect customers from disconnections of their electric and gas service as the winter moratorium ends on March 15. But that means the utility may come collecting at homes, so resident should make sure the person at their door is really from PSE&G.

Because PSE&G is resuming collections, Mendham Township told residents it anticipates an increase in utility scam attempts.

Mendham Township issued a notice that explained, "The pandemic created financial hardships on many families in our community." Officials said that more people are eligible for payment assistance than ever before because limits on income to qualify were raised. There is even a balance forgiveness program, the Township's notification said.

Residents behind on their Public Service Electric & Gas bill should contact PSE&G here to set up a Deferred Payment Arrangement to prevent disconnection.

Payment options are out there, but that may not deter scammers, so officials said residents should be vigilant. A notice reminded residents, "Don't become a victim. It's important to know PSE&G will not call and demand immediate payment and threaten disconnection on the same day."

Utility customers are urged to be very careful about identifying PSE&G employees who call or visit their residences.

If anyone comes to your door looking like, or claiming to be, a PSE&G employee, ask for ID," Township officials said.

They advised that all PSE&G employees must carry ID and present it when requested. Residents who are not convinced that someone actually represents PSE&G should call the PSE&G number on their bill. When they call, a customer service representative will verify if a collections agent has been dispatched to their locations, the notice explained.

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