Payless Power is the best electricity company for no-deposit electricity plans. It’s one of the few prepaid energy companies that offers fixed electricity rates for better bill predictability. Payless Power scored 4 out of 5 in our review.
Enrolling in a prepaid plan means paying for electricity upfront instead of receiving a bill at the end of the cycle. You fund an energy account for the electricity you plan on using, and the provider pulls from your account balance as you use energy. You can add more funds when needed. You’ll need to track your electricity usage and monitor your account every day to avoid a power disconnection.
Payless Power typically offers the cheapest prepaid rates in Texas. A no-deposit plan may suit you if you want to avoid a credit check or large upfront payment.
Payless Power offers prepaid energy plans with no credit check or deposit required.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- No credit check or deposit for prepaid plans
- Offers prepaid and postpaid plans
- Predictable monthly bills
Cons
- Pricier rates than the Texas average
- Limited plan options
- Prepaid plans require tracking usage and funds
Payless Power Electricity Plans
Payless Power offers two prepaid and four postpaid fixed-rate plans. While its prepaid plans come in six- or 12-month terms, its postpaid plans have six- to 36-month contracts.
Prepaid plans require you to pay in advance for electricity rather than receiving a monthly bill for your usage. These plans offer the flexibility to prepay for the energy you will use and don’t require a credit check or deposit. However, prepaid plans typically have higher rates than postpaid plans. You risk electric service disconnection if your account balance drops to zero.
Postpaid plans use the traditional billing method of charging you at the end of your billing cycle.
Payless is known for its prepaid plans, so if you want to avoid a deposit, you have a six- or 12-month option. Prepaid electricity plans work best for those avoiding credit checks or deposits and wanting to monitor energy use closely while paying as you go.
2 Payless No-Deposit
| Plan Name | Plan Length | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Payless Power - 6 Month - prepaid | 6 Months | 17.7 ¢/kWh |
| Payless Power - 12 Month - prepaid | 12 Months | 18.2 ¢/kWh |
- *Rates as of 12/18/2024 at 10:39 AM. Based on 1000 kWh in Oncor zone. Enter your zip code above for rates in your area.
Call Payless Power for no-deposit plans directly at 833-734-2511.
Payless Power energy rates have dropped significantly in the last year and may drop further as temperatures decrease.
Our Thoughts on Payless Power
We like Payless Power’s electricity bill predictability and specialty offering. Payless Power stands out as a dependable prepaid provider because it is the only electric company we know of that provides no-deposit energy plans with fixed rates and multiple contract options.
You won’t have to worry about overspending on energy because you can only use as much as you have funds for. The predictable bills benefit those on fixed incomes or strict budgets. Unlike many no-deposit lights companies, Payless doesn’t offer month-to-month energy plans.
However, Payless Power’s prepaid plan rates are approximately 9.3% more expensive than the average electric rate in Texas, which was 14.8 cents per kWh in August 2024, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Prepaid plans also necessitate close usage tracking to prevent disconnection.
A traditional fixed-rate plan might save you more money over time and won’t require regularly adding funds to your account. We recommend comparing all your options before signing up for a prepaid plan. Providers typically refund deposits after 12 months of on-time payments, so it may be worth paying a deposit to secure a lower rate.
Payless Power is a reputable provider that earned 4 out of 5 stars in our review methodology. A prepaid plan may suit your needs if you don’t have funds for a deposit or want to avoid a credit check.
How does Payless Power score in our review?
The provider scored a 4 out of 5 in our Payless Power review. Here’s how Payless compares to the dozens of Texas electricity companies we reviewed.
| Rating category | Payless Power rating (out of 5) | Average rating (top 25 providers) |
| Our overall rating | 4.0 | 4.2 |
| Plan offerings | 3.2 | 4.1 |
| Customer satisfaction | 4.3 | 4.4 |
| Bill predictability | 5.0 | 4.1 |
| Payless Power rates and monthly pricing | 4.0 | 4.1 |
Plan Offerings
Payless Power scored 3.2 out of 5 for plan offerings, its lowest-rated category. Payless offers only two plans, a prepaid and a postpaid plan. Its prepaid plans offer two-term lengths, while its postpaid plan has six-term length options. Payless doesn’t offer variable rates, 100% renewable energy, bill credits, or time-of-use discounts. However, Payless is an excellent choice if you need no-deposit energy.
Customer Satisfaction
Payless earned 4.3 out of 5 for customer satisfaction, slightly below the 4.4 out of 5 average. This score is based on customer survey responses, a strong online reputation, and nearly 20 years of business experience.
Bill Predictability
We rated Payless Power 5 out of 5 for bill predictability, the only category exceeding the average. Unlike most prepaid providers, Payless has fixed rates without gimmicks. Its rates don’t vary much across usage levels, which ensures more predictable monthly energy bills.
Payless Power Rates and Monthly Pricing
Payless Power scored 4 out of 5 stars for rates and monthly pricing, which is near average among the providers we’ve reviewed. Payless Power’s electricity rates range from 13.7 to 16 cents per kWh. Its rates for prepaid plans are slightly higher than Texas’ average of 14.8 cents, according to the EIA. However, its postpaid plans cost well below the Texas average.
Compare Payless Power rank to The Competition
Payless Power ranks No. 18 out of 25 Texas electricity providers we reviewed. Popular providers, like TXU Energy and Gexa Energy, received higher rankings and ratings than Payless because they offer better customer service and more plan option variety. However, Payless is our pick for no-deposit plans.
| Factor | Payless Power | TXU | Gexa |
| Our overall rating (out of 5) | 4 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
| Number of plans available | 2 | 10 | 17 |
| Top 12-month plan | 12 Month – Prepaid | Simple Rate 12 | Energy Saver 12 |
| Best feature | Bill predictability | Customer satisfaction | Plan options |
Where is Payless Power Available?
Payless Power offers plans throughout most deregulated cities in Texas, except Lubbock. Here’s a breakdown of Payless’ service area by utility company.
- AEP Texas Central: Corpus Christi, McAllen, Victoria, Laredo, Harlingen
- AEP Texas North: Abilene, San Angelo, Vernon
- CenterPoint Energy: Houston, Katy, Beaumont
- Oncor Electric: Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Waco, Arlington, Temple, Round Rock, Midland, Odessa
- Texas-New Mexico Power: League City, Glen Rose, Pecos, Angleton
What Do Customers Say about Payless Power?
Payless Power’s 4.6-out-of-5-star rating on Google Reviews reflects thousands of 5-star ratings. Several positive reviews mention a simple enrollment and payment experience. “Payless Power came through for me in a very bad situation. Easy enrollment, simple payments and daily advice are a total plus for my busy life,” said Nica G.
Many customers appreciate Payless’s daily notifications. “I love being able to add money when I can. I get a daily text telling me how much I have left. I’m very happy with this company,” said Marianne H.
Negative reviews highlight expensive bills and dissatisfaction with usage fees. Some customers express concerns about pricing, with comments such as, “The rates are kinda high for a working-class family” and “I’m having to put money in every other day.”
Once you enroll, your price per kWh is fixed, but market rates change over time. Customers who sign up during a market spike mention feeling stuck paying an expensive rate.
Melanie G. shared in her 4-star review that she loves Payless Power except for its extra fees. Payless Power charges a $4.95 processing fee for payments less than $75 and a daily charge based on the terms of service (TOS). “They need to eliminate these fees because it might be the difference in someone having power,” Melanie said.
We recommend reviewing your chosen plan’s EFL and TOS before signing up so you’re aware of potential fees and restrictions.
What To Look For When Reading Payless Power’s Electricity Facts Label
The EFL is required by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). It includes details about your energy plan, such as energy charges, TDU fees and contract terms. Here’s an example of Payless Power’s 12-month prepaid plan.
- Average price per kWh: This is the estimated average cost based on set usage levels. This rate includes the base charge, energy charge and TDU delivery fees.
- Daily charge: The base charge is a flat fee providers charge regardless of usage. Payless charges a $1 daily fee. Typically, other providers charge a flat monthly fee of up to $9.95.
- Energy charge: The energy charge is how much you pay per kWh of energy used. We recommend comparing the energy charge to the average price per kWh to spot gimmicky plans.
- TDU delivery charges: These are energy delivery costs from your utility. Most TDUs charge a fee per kWh and a flat monthly charge.
- Type of product: This section includes the plan type, such as fixed or variable rates.
- Contract term: This section displays your contract length, which ranges from six to 36 months for Payless plans.
- Early termination fee: You’ll pay a fee when cancelling your plan before the contract ends. Payless ETFs are generally $99.
- Renewable content: This section shows the percentage of your usage offset with renewable power.
- Other disclosures: Other sections in the disclosure chart explain how your price may vary during the contract. Your energy charges remain steady for fixed-rate plans, but utility delivery fees can change.
What Is The Best Way To Contact Payless Power?
You can contact Payless Power via the phone number or website form below. Payless Power customer service hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Phone: Call 866-963-9353
- Website: Submit a form
- Outage reporting: Contact your local utility during a power outage. As an energy service provider, Payless can’t repair outages.
Moving with Payless Power
Payless Power does not offer service transfers, but you can create a new account for your updated address. The company recommends contacting its customer care team to set up a new account and begin power service based on when you need electricity.
Final Take: Payless Power’s Prepaid Plan Waives Credit Checks and Deposits
Payless Power stands out for its prepaid energy plans, offering a convenient way to avoid credit checks and deposits. You won’t find a better energy provider for no-deposit lights than Payless Power. While it may not rank as a top provider in our reviews, it serves a purpose if you’re looking for a prepaid plan.
You might find better rates and more options with providers like Gexa Energy or Reliant Energy. Review your energy needs and compare plans to find the best fit for your budget. Before choosing a plan, compare rates and contract terms to get the best deal on the best plan for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Payless Power charge me a cancellation fee?
Yes, Payless Power charges an early termination fee when you cancel your fixed-rate plan before the contract ends. Its ETFs range from $99 to $299 based on the length of your contract. You can avoid a cancellation fee if you’re moving outside the Payless service area.
Do the Payless Power rates shown include everything?
The rates shown on your EFL are average price estimates. Your actual cost is based on your usage, the energy charge and TDU fees. Advertised rates don’t account for potential discounts or additional fees, such as the payment processing fee.
Does Payless Power run a credit check?
Payless Power doesn’t run a credit check for prepaid plans.
What is the best Payless Power electricity plan?
The best plan for you depends on your budget and energy usage. Prepaid plans are best for those who want to avoid a credit check or a large deposit. However, we often recommend postpaid plans because they have more competitive rates — even when accounting for a large upfront deposit. Compare rates and review the EFL terms to determine the best fit for you.
How We Rate and Review Texas Electricity Companies
With dozens of providers and hundreds of plans available in the deregulated Texas market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. We created a comprehensive rating methodology to help Texans cut through the complexity and find the best electricity plan for their needs, whether they’re moving to Texas or looking to switch providers.
We’ve researched dozens of Texas electricity providers and scored them out of 5 stars based on cost, bill predictability, customer satisfaction, brand trust, and plan features. Here’s how those core factors weighed into our ratings:
- Plan features (33%)
- Customer satisfaction and brand trust (27%)
- Plan rates and pricing (20%)
- Energy bill predictability (20%)
