This 92-year-old woman overpaid energy bills for a decade—don’t let this shocking mistake happen to you
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Imagine opening your monthly bill, paying it without question, and later discovering that you’ve been overcharged hundreds—or even thousands—of extra dollars for years.
That’s exactly what happened to a 92-year-old woman who unknowingly paid far more than she should have.
Her experience reveals just how easy it is for small details to drain thousands of dollars over time.
And it’s a reminder that this could happen to anyone if we don’t look closely at our bills.
For more than 11 years, this sharp and independent senior paid her National Grid energy bills without a second thought.
Like many of us, she trusted the numbers on the page and assumed the company had it right. But behind the scenes, a small oversight was quietly draining her bank account.
The culprit? A confusing coding system and a missed notification. When she switched her home from oil to gas heating, she didn’t realize she needed to inform the utility company.
As a result, she was billed at a higher “gas appliance” rate (code 120) instead of the more affordable “space heating” rate (code 140). The difference may sound minor, but over a decade, it added up to a significant overpayment.
“I thought it was outrageous, the bill I got,” she told CBS News. “We just look at the sum and we will pay the bill.” Her son, Christopher, who lives in Texas, added, “My mother has kept every single bill.” It was only after a careful review and some family sleuthing that they discovered the error.
Lawmakers and consumer advocates are sounding the alarm that thousands of customers could be in the same boat—overpaying for years due to confusing rate codes, missed notifications, or simple misunderstandings.
State Senator Mario Mattera and Suffolk County legislator Robert Trotta are pushing for legislation to protect customers from these costly errors. “God knows how many other people are paying the wrong rate for their gas,” Trotta said.
And while National Grid says it proactively reviews accounts to ensure customers are on the right rate, the reality is that mistakes can slip through the cracks.
The company doesn’t have to refund overpayments due to incorrect rate codes, but in this case, they’re working with the family to find a fair solution.
Source: CBS New York / TikTok
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend your afternoons poring over utility rate codes. But a little vigilance can go a long way. Here’s how to make sure you’re not overpaying:
Also read: She lost $57,000 in one day: How a phone scam targeted a woman in Oregon
Also read: How to lower your cable bill and save up to $240 a year
While you’re reviewing your bills, why not take a few extra steps to cut costs and stay cool? Here are some tried-and-true tips from The GrayVine community:
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
Our Long Island friend has a message for everyone: “We are looking at other things now, the codes,” she said.
Her experience is a powerful reminder that even the most diligent among us can fall victim to confusing systems and small oversights.
So, let’s turn this story into action. Take a few minutes this week to review your own utility bills—or help a friend or family member do the same. You might be surprised at what you find.
Read next: The city refuses to back down after a woman receives a shocking bill she says she didn’t cause
Have you ever discovered a billing mistake or overcharge? Do you have tips for keeping energy costs down, or questions about deciphering your utility bill?
That’s exactly what happened to a 92-year-old woman who unknowingly paid far more than she should have.
Her experience reveals just how easy it is for small details to drain thousands of dollars over time.
And it’s a reminder that this could happen to anyone if we don’t look closely at our bills.
For more than 11 years, this sharp and independent senior paid her National Grid energy bills without a second thought.
Like many of us, she trusted the numbers on the page and assumed the company had it right. But behind the scenes, a small oversight was quietly draining her bank account.
The culprit? A confusing coding system and a missed notification. When she switched her home from oil to gas heating, she didn’t realize she needed to inform the utility company.
As a result, she was billed at a higher “gas appliance” rate (code 120) instead of the more affordable “space heating” rate (code 140). The difference may sound minor, but over a decade, it added up to a significant overpayment.
“I thought it was outrageous, the bill I got,” she told CBS News. “We just look at the sum and we will pay the bill.” Her son, Christopher, who lives in Texas, added, “My mother has kept every single bill.” It was only after a careful review and some family sleuthing that they discovered the error.
Lawmakers and consumer advocates are sounding the alarm that thousands of customers could be in the same boat—overpaying for years due to confusing rate codes, missed notifications, or simple misunderstandings.
State Senator Mario Mattera and Suffolk County legislator Robert Trotta are pushing for legislation to protect customers from these costly errors. “God knows how many other people are paying the wrong rate for their gas,” Trotta said.
And while National Grid says it proactively reviews accounts to ensure customers are on the right rate, the reality is that mistakes can slip through the cracks.
The company doesn’t have to refund overpayments due to incorrect rate codes, but in this case, they’re working with the family to find a fair solution.
Source: CBS New York / TikTok
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend your afternoons poring over utility rate codes. But a little vigilance can go a long way. Here’s how to make sure you’re not overpaying:
1. Know Your Rate Code
Every utility bill has a rate code—usually a number or short phrase—that determines how much you pay per unit of energy. If you’ve made any changes to your home’s heating or appliances, double-check that your rate code matches your current setup.2. Review Your Bills Regularly
Don’t just look at the total. Scan for changes in rates, surcharges, or mysterious fees. If something looks off, call your utility company and ask for an explanation.3. Keep Records
Like our Long Island grandma, save your bills. Having a paper trail makes it easier to spot patterns, errors, or sudden increases.Also read: She lost $57,000 in one day: How a phone scam targeted a woman in Oregon
4. Ask for a Rate Review
Most utility companies will review your account if you request it. Ask them to confirm you’re on the most cost-effective rate for your usage and home setup.5. Stay Informed About Policy Changes
Utility rates and policies can change with little notice. Sign up for alerts or newsletters from your provider, and check in annually to see if you’re still on the best plan.6. Get Help If You Need It
If you’re unsure about your bill, reach out to a trusted family member, friend, or local senior advocacy group. Many communities offer free utility bill checkups for older adults.Also read: How to lower your cable bill and save up to $240 a year
While you’re reviewing your bills, why not take a few extra steps to cut costs and stay cool? Here are some tried-and-true tips from The GrayVine community:
- Close curtains during the day to block out heat.
- Change your AC filters regularly for maximum efficiency.
- Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down.
- Limit use of heat-generating appliances like ovens and dryers during the hottest hours.
- Wear lightweight, loose clothing indoors.
- Swap heavy blankets for sheets at night.
- Stay hydrated—drink water and use ice packs to cool down.
Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill
Our Long Island friend has a message for everyone: “We are looking at other things now, the codes,” she said.
Her experience is a powerful reminder that even the most diligent among us can fall victim to confusing systems and small oversights.
So, let’s turn this story into action. Take a few minutes this week to review your own utility bills—or help a friend or family member do the same. You might be surprised at what you find.
Read next: The city refuses to back down after a woman receives a shocking bill she says she didn’t cause
