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It will be easier if you have your social security number before setting up your utilities.
Verizon will also ask what long distance carrier you would like. You are not required to use the same company for local and long distance, or even to have long-distance service. There are many options, including Verizon, AT&T (1-800-222-0300), Credo, or internet-based VOIP services such as Vonage or Comcast. It is worth asking around or phoning these companies to find out who is offering the best long-distance package for you. Often, they have special plans which you will need to request, for example AT&T has an "International One Rate" plan which offers much cheaper calls than their normal plan. MCI and Sprint offer similar low-cost international plans. It is simple to change your long distance provider at a later date if you decide another company may offer you a better deal.
Verizon will also ask what long distance carrier you would like. You are not required to use the same company for local and long distance, or even to have long-distance service. There are many options, including Verizon, AT&T (1-800-222-0300), Credo, or internet-based VOIP services such as Vonage or Comcast. It is worth asking around or phoning these companies to find out who is offering the best long-distance package for you. Often, they have special plans which you will need to request, for example AT&T has an "International One Rate" plan which offers much cheaper calls than their normal plan. MCI and Sprint offer similar low-cost international plans. It is simple to change your long distance provider at a later date if you decide another company may offer you a better deal.
Mobile phone service is available from a variety of carriers. Be aware that there may be steep penalties for terminating a long-term service contract, so choose carefully. Some plans do not require a contract.
Electricity
The electricity supply industry in Pennsylvania is deregulated. There are now a number of companies from which you can choose. To help you make the choice, the PA Public Utilities Commision provides information.
PECO Energy (1-800-494-4000) is the largest local supplier. To set up an account, you will need your social security number and identification, and you will need to Fax this information to the company. If you do not yet have a social security number, it may be possible to Fax a notarized copy of your tenancy agreement.
Natural Gas
The local gas company, is the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), at 215-235-1000. In some areas, narural gas service is also available from PECO Energy. If you live in Coventry House, you do not need to set up an account for natural gas.
Broadband Internet and TV
If you are renting an apartment in Philadelphia, broadband or tv service may be included in your rental agreement. All cable-based broadband, television, and telephone service in Philadelphia is provided by Comcast. DSL connections are available from several providers, such as Verizon, which also offers fiber-optic FIOS digital tv service in some areas.
Wireless internet service is available throughout the Fox Chase Cancer Center campus. Philadelphia is the first city in the country to introduce city-wide wireless service. The Wireless Philadelphia project is not free, except in public spaces such as Love Park, Washington Square and other Center City locations. This service is still in the process of installation, and is not yet available in all areas. Many coffee shops, bookstores, and other businesses provide free wireless internet service. Another option is a wireless modem available from a mobile telephone service. Phone modem service is expensive, but provides service over a wider area.
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