Electricity Bills · Quick Reference
Reference Number vs Consumer Number: The Difference
When you check your electricity bill online or call your DISCO, you will be asked for either a 'reference number' or a 'consumer number'. Most people think these are the same thing, but on some DISCO bills they are different numbers used for different purposes. Here is the clear breakdown.
Reference Number vs Consumer Number
Reference Number
- ✓14 digits in most DISCOs
- ✓Used for online bill lookup
- ✓Used for payments (JazzCash, bank)
- ✓Unique to your billing account
- ✓Can change if your meter is replaced
- ✓Labelled 'Ref. No.' or '14-digit Reference No.'
Consumer Number
- ✓Usually 10 to 12 digits
- ✓Identifies you as a registered consumer
- ✓Used for account-level queries
- ✓Stays the same even if meter changes
- ✓Needed for some complaint processes
- ✓Labelled 'Consumer No.' or 'Account No.'
What Different DISCOs Call These Numbers
Naming conventions are inconsistent across DISCOs, which is where most of the confusion comes from.
LESCO
Uses 'Reference No.' (14 digits). This is the primary number for bill checking online. They also have a separate 'Consumer No.' for office visits.
MEPCO
Uses '14-digit Reference No.' prominently. Also has an account-level consumer number. The 14-digit reference is what you send to 8009 via SMS.
IESCO
Uses 'Consumer No.' prominently on the bill. The consumer number on IESCO bills works as the reference number for online lookups.
FESCO, GEPCO, PESCO, HESCO, SEPCO, QESCO, TESCO, HAZECO
Each has its own labelling. As a general rule, use whatever 10 to 14-digit number is in the top section of your bill when asked for a reference or consumer number in a bill inquiry.
When in Doubt, Use Both
If you are ever unsure which number to use, try the longer number first (typically 14 digits) in online portals. For phone inquiries with the 118 helpline, just tell the agent 'I have the number from my bill' and read it to them — they will tell you what it is.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Why does my bill show two different account numbers?
Some DISCOs print both a reference number and a consumer number because they serve different administrative purposes. The reference number is billing-cycle-specific, while the consumer number is permanent to your account.
If my meter is replaced, does my reference number change?
Yes, typically the reference number changes when the physical meter is replaced, as it is often linked to the meter ID. Your consumer number should remain the same. Your DISCO will issue a new bill with the updated reference number after a meter change.
Which number do I use for JazzCash payments?
Use the reference number printed at the top of your bill. When you select your DISCO in JazzCash, the field is labelled 'Consumer/Reference Number' — enter the 14-digit number from your bill.