Frequently Asked Questions

Free comparison sites earn commissions from the plans they recommend. That's a conflict of interest. They're incentivized to steer you toward plans that pay them, not plans that save you the most.

We don't take commissions. Ever. You pay us $4.99 for an unbiased analysis. Our only incentive is to give you the best answer.

We also go deeper than standard sites. We simulate your bill across a realistic 12-month usage curve and detect "Gimmick Plans" that look cheap at 1,000 kWh but spike if you use slightly more or less.

Instantly. Within seconds of payment, your personalized report is generated and emailed to you. You can also view it immediately in your browser. No waiting, no delays.

Yes. We use Stripe, the same payment processor trusted by Amazon, Google, and millions of businesses worldwide. We never see or store your credit card number. It goes directly to Stripe's secure servers.

Great! Our report will confirm that. Many customers use GetCostWise for peace of mind. Knowing you're NOT overpaying is worth $4.99.

If you're already on the best plan for your usage, we'll tell you exactly that. No upselling, no tricks.

No. Our algorithms are designed strictly for standard residential meters. We do not currently analyze "Solar Buyback" plans or net metering credits. If you have solar panels, please do not purchase a report, as the results will not account for your surplus generation.

No. GetCostWise is an automated software tool, not a consulting firm. We do not offer manual bill auditing, account reviews, or personalized financial advice. Our service is designed to be a low-cost, self-service tool that empowers you to make your own decision instantly.

Never. If you buy the "Volatility Shield" (3 Credits) or "Landlord" (7 Credits) pack, your unused credits remain in your account forever. You can use one today and save the rest for when your contract expires in 12 or 24 months.

Because our reports are digital goods generated instantly upon request, all sales are final. You are purchasing our proprietary analysis of the current market data. We cannot "take back" the information once it has been delivered. Please ensure your zip code and usage profile are correct before running a report.

We cover the major deregulated zones managed by Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP North, AEP Central, and TNMP. This includes Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Waco, Corpus Christi, and much of West Texas.

We do not cover regulated co-ops or municipally owned utilities like Austin Energy, CPS Energy (San Antonio), or Garland Power & Light, as you do not have the power to choose your provider in those areas.

Yes. Here's how to do it yourself:

1. Get your usage history from Smart Meter Texas. You'll need your ESI ID from your electric bill.
2. Go to PowerToChoose.org and browse plans for your ZIP code.
3. For each plan that looks interesting, open the Energy Facts Label (EFL) and check the pricing at 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh, and 2,000 kWh. Watch for minimum usage fees and bill credits that disappear if you miss a threshold.
4. Compare your actual monthly usage against each plan's tier pricing to calculate your real annual cost.
5. Factor in the cancellation fee (ETF) in case you need to leave early.

This process works. It takes most people 2-3 hours and requires comfortable math with spreadsheets. Our report does the same analysis across every available plan in about 60 seconds for $4.99. Either way, you'll end up with a better plan than guessing.