Utility Check

Is My PG&E Bill Correct? How to Verify

Last updated: January 2026

While PG&E billing errors are relatively rare thanks to SmartMeter automation, they do occur. Knowing how to verify your bill helps you catch mistakes and ensure you're only paying for electricity you actually used.

Verify Meter Reading

Start by checking your meter reading:

  1. Find the "previous" and "current" readings on your bill
  2. The difference should equal your usage in kWh
  3. Check if the reading was actual or estimated
  4. Compare to your typical usage for this time of year

Check Rate Application

Verify your rates are applied correctly:

  • Confirm you're on the correct rate plan
  • Check that baseline allowance matches your territory
  • Verify TOU periods are calculated correctly
  • Ensure any discounts (CARE, FERA, Medical Baseline) are applied

Common Billing Issues

  1. Wrong rate plan applied
  2. Missing CARE/FERA discount
  3. Incorrect baseline territory
  4. Estimated read significantly off from actual
  5. CCA charges applied when you opted out
  6. Duplicate charges or adjustments

If you find an error, contact PG&E customer service or upload your bill for independent verification.

Quick PG&E Bill Check

Enter your bill details below to see if your rate appears typical for PG&E customers.

Quick Bill Sanity Check

No upload required. Enter two numbers from your bill to see if it falls within typical ranges for PG&E.

Most utility bills are calculated correctly.

This quick check helps you understand if your bill stands out from typical ranges. It cannot determine accuracy without a full bill review.

The "Total Amount Due" on your bill

Usually labeled "Total kWh" or "Usage"

Disclaimer: This tool provides a rough estimate based on typical residential rates. It does not account for fixed charges, demand charges, time-of-use pricing, taxes, fees, or other bill components. Results are for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. We cannot determine billing accuracy without reviewing your full bill.

Want a Definitive Answer?

The sanity check above provides context, but it can't verify your actual bill. Upload your PG&E bill for a complete verification of billing math, rate application, and usage patterns.

One-time $19.99 · Read-only analysis · No account access required

More About PG&E Billing

Why Is My PG&E Bill So High?

Common reasons for unexpectedly high PG&E bills and how to investigate.

PG&E Bill Explained

A complete breakdown of every charge on your PG&E bill.

PG&E Estimated Meter Read

What happens when PG&E estimates your meter reading.

Tools & Resources

Electricity Rates by State

Compare CA rates to the national average

How Utility Check Works

Verify your PG&E bill in 3 steps

Pricing

One-time bill review starting at $19.99

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I dispute a PG&E bill?

Contact PG&E customer service at 1-800-743-5000 to dispute a bill. Have your account number and specific concerns ready. You can also file a complaint with the California Public Utilities Commission if PG&E doesn't resolve the issue.

Can I get a refund if PG&E overcharged me?

Yes, if PG&E confirms a billing error, they will credit your account for the overcharge. For significant overcharges, you may be able to request a refund check instead of a credit.

How long does PG&E keep billing records?

PG&E maintains billing records for at least 3 years. You can access your billing history through your online account or request records from customer service.