Missouri Code of State Regulations
Title 20 - DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND INSURANCE
Division 4240 - Public Service Commission
Chapter 13 - Service and Billing Practices for Residential Customers of Electric, Gas, Sewer, and Water Utilities
Section 20 CSR 4240-13.060 - Settlement Agreement and Payment Agreement

(1) When a utility and a customer arrive at a mutually satisfactory settlement of any dispute or the customer does not dispute liability to the utility but claims inability to pay the outstanding bill in full, a utility and the customer may enter into a settlement agreement. A settlement agreement which extends beyond ninety (90) days shall be in writing and mailed or otherwise delivered to the customer.

(2) Every payment agreement resulting from the customer's inability to pay the outstanding bill in full shall provide that service will not be discontinued if the customer pays the amount of the outstanding bill specified in the agreement and agrees to pay a reasonable portion of the remaining outstanding balance in installments until the bill is paid. For purposes of determining reasonableness, the parties shall consider the following: the size of the delinquent account, the customer's ability to pay, the customer's payment history, the time that the debt has been outstanding, the reasons why the debt has been outstanding, and any other relevant factors relating to the customer's service. Such a payment agreement shall not exceed twelve (12) months duration, unless the customer and utility agree to a longer period.

(3) If a customer fails to comply with the terms and conditions of a settlement agreement, a utility may discontinue service after notifying the customer in writing by personal service or first class mail in accordance with 4 CSR 240-13.050 -that the customer is in default of the settlement agreement; the nature of the default; that unless full payment of all balances due is made, the utility will discontinue service; and the date upon or after which service will be discontinued.