Back to Insights

How to Transfer Your Texas Electricity Service When Moving (And Why You Might Want to Switch Instead)

June 21, 2026Get Electricity StaffElectricity Guide

How to Transfer Your Texas Electricity Service When Moving (And Why You Might Want to Switch Instead)

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a long to-do list: packing, hiring movers, forwarding mail, and setting up utilities. If you are moving within the deregulated Texas energy market, managing your electricity service is one of the most important tasks to address.

When you move, you have two primary paths: transfer your current electricity plan to your new address, or cancel your plan and shop for a new provider.

In this guide, we will outline exactly how to handle both options, explain the legal consumer protections that shield you from cancellation fees, and help you determine which choice will save you the most money.

Option 1: Transferring Your Existing Electricity Plan

If you love your current electricity provider, have locked in a low rate, and are moving to an area served by the same Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) or provider, transferring your service is straightforward.

How to Transfer Your Service:

  1. Contact Your Provider: Reach out to your current retail electric provider (REP) at least 7 to 14 days before your move.
  2. Provide Details: Give them your current account number, the date you want to stop service at your old address, your new address, and the date you want power connected there.
  3. Confirm the Transfer: The provider will coordinate with the new TDU (e.g., Oncor, CenterPoint) to ensure a seamless transition of power with no interruption.

A Word of Caution:

Before transferring your plan, keep in mind that every property has a unique energy footprint. A plan that worked perfectly for a 1,000 sq ft apartment might become extremely expensive in a 2,500 sq ft home due to usage tiers and rate structures (such as tiered rates or usage credits). Always check if your current contract details fit the estimated usage profile of your new home.

Option 2: Canceling Your Plan Penalty-Free (The Move-Out Waiver)

If you want to shop around for a better rate, or if you are moving to a part of Texas served by a different utility (or a co-op/municipal utility like CPS or Austin Energy), you can cancel your contract. Many consumers worry they will be hit with a heavy Early Termination Fee (ETF)—which can range from $150 to $300+—for canceling their contract early.

Fortunately, Texas consumer protection rules are on your side:

[!IMPORTANT] The Move-Out Exemption: Under Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) regulations, retail electric providers are legally prohibited from charging early termination fees if you are moving out of your home.

How to Cancel Without Penalty:

  1. Notify Your Provider: Call your provider to schedule a "Move-Out" date.
  2. Request the Move-Out Waiver: Explicitly state that you are canceling because you are moving out of the premise.
  3. Provide Forwarding Info: You will need to provide a forwarding address for your final bill and deposit refund (if applicable).
  4. Provide Verification: Most providers ask for proof of your move. Below is an interactive reference grid of acceptable documentation formats and pro-tips to ensure your cancellation fee is successfully waived:

Transfer vs. Switch: Which is Better?

Unless you have locked in an incredibly low rate that fits your new home's consumption profile, moving is the absolute best time to switch to a new plan. Here is why:

  • Zero Switching Cost: The move-out waiver lets you break a bad or mediocre contract with zero fees.
  • Customized Savings: You can select a plan tailored specifically to your new home's size and heating/cooling efficiency.
  • Introductory Offers: You can take advantage of new-customer promotions from competing providers in your new zip code.

Let GetElectricity Make Your Move Simple

Shopping for a new home is stressful enough. GetElectricity simplifies your electricity setup:

  1. Enter Your New Zip Code: We list the most competitive plans available in your new area.
  2. Establish New Connections: During signup, select "Moving In" and specify your connection date. We handle the coordination with the TDU and provider, ensuring your lights are on when you walk through the door.
  3. Coordinate Terminations: We guide you through the process of canceling your old contract, ensuring you utilize the move-out exemption properly.

Keep control of your energy budget. Compare rates for your new home on GetElectricity today.