An aspect of cooperatives that set us apart from investor-owned utilities is the return of capital credits. Electric cooperatives, like Haywood EMC, provide electric service to our member-owners at the lowest possible cost without a profit motive. This business model allows for the return of margins (money left over after all operating expenses have been paid) to our members in the form of refund that we call capital credits.
Haywood EMC is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors authorized a general retirement of $759,000 and including this year’s estate retirements at an estimated amount of $300,000. That’s a total of more than $1 million that’s flowing back to our members and into the local economy in the eight counties we serve.
Who receives a capital credit refund?
The refund is derived from member-owner margins allocated during the years 1992 through 2017. If you had service with Haywood EMC in these years you are among those who will receive a refund. All capital credits prior to 1992 have been returned to the member-owners with valid addresses.
When to expect your capital credits
Checks are mailed in mid-November to members due a retirement of $200 or more. For amounts less than $200 or in the case of a delinquent account, the credit is applied to the member-owner’s electric bill in either October or November.
Unclaimed capital credits
Because unclaimed capital credits must be sent to the State Treasurer, it’s a good idea to make sure Haywood EMC has your up-to-date address if you should move off-system so future refunds make their way to you.
You can help us find former member-owners who may have an outstanding capital credits check by visiting haywoodemc.com/outstandingcapital-credits. If you recognize a name on the list, please ask that person to call the local Haywood EMC office to update their contact information.
Capital credits represent your ownership in Haywood EMC and are one of the most unique and rewarding benefits you enjoy as a member of an electric cooperative because it puts your money back where it belongs— with you.
