Bolletta

Bolletta is the invoice issued by a provider to request payment for services delivered. In Italy the term is most commonly used for utility bills such as electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications. The bolletta is usually addressed to the account holder and can be delivered in print or electronically.

A bolletta typically includes identifying data of the provider and the recipient, the billing period, and a detailed breakdown of charges. It lists the consumption measured (for example, kilowatt-hours or cubic meters), unit prices, fixed charges, and any taxes or system charges. The document may also show subsidies, credits, or discounts, as well as the total amount due, the payment deadline, and accepted payment methods. A payment reference, barcode or QR code, and sometimes a comparison with previous periods are provided to facilitate processing. In the energy sector there are items such as oneri di sistema and, occasionally, a conguaglio (annual adjustment).

Types and issuance vary: bollette for electricity, gas, water, and telecoms may be issued separately or consolidated into a single bill. The move toward digitalization has increased the prevalence of bollette elettroniche, delivered via email, online portals, or mobile apps rather than paper.

Reading and handling: customers should verify personal data, contract details, and consumption trends, and check for errors. If discrepancies arise, they can contact the provider; in Italy the sector is regulated by ARERA, which establishes rules for tariffs and protections. Late payments may incur penalties or service interruptions according to contractual terms.