Beginning May 4, 2009, Empire Electric's branch office in Monticello is moving from Unique Creations to the City of Monticello. A recent federal law is the driving force behind this change.

The "Red Flags" Rule was implemented to lessen the risk of identity theft and limits available services at Empire's branch offices. This change prompted Empire Electric to approach the City of Monticello and the City offered to receive payments for Empire members being served in the Monticello area.

The Federal Trade Commission issued the "Red Flags" Rule in 2007 which affects both financial institutions and creditors. As an electric cooperative, Empire is considered a creditor because it provides energy usage prior to receiving payment for services.

Severe security is inherent in the Red Flags Rule and restricts the services offered at Empire's branch offices in Monticello and Dove Creek. Both offices will only be accepting payments. Other transactions, like sets and disconnects, new member accounts or inquiries about an existing account will be handled by the main office in Cortez.

The Rule may seem invasive at first, until you consider that the F.T.C. estimates 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. Unfortunately, it has become a necessity to protect your identity.

1. You will be asked for identification which will then be verified. You will be required to give a social security number and (1) one U.S. Government issued photo ID, like a Driver's License, Passport or a State issued ID Card. You have the option of submitting (2) two U.S. Government issued photo IDs in lieu of your social security number and (1) one photo ID. If the account is under a business name the Tax Payer ID must be provided.
2. Your social security number will be verified using a third party credit reporting agency. The credit check will not add points to your credit score.

1. If you place a business call regarding your account, you may be asked to verify who you are with the last four digits of your social security number, or you may be given a pass code to access your account.
2. If you are a landlord, this is especially important as renters will not be able to access your account information. For those members who live out-of-town, notarized forms are available so handling your account will still be easy.

Legally, if Empire is unable to comply with the Red Flags Rule because an applicant does not provide adequate identification, service can be refused.

Please call Empire Electric's main office regarding transactions beyond making a payment to your account. You can call our main number at 970-565-4444 or Utah members call 800-709-3726 to make sure that your account information is current and accurate.