Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1 assistance program

Donations to the Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1 program allow the utility company, as well as local social service agencies, to help struggling low income customers. The resource was created to help households that are facing a short term, one time crisis. The assistance was not intended to address long term needs, but energy bill help from Financial Support Plus 1 can also be combined with other resources, such as LIHEAP.

Social service agencies as well as Austin Energy collect donations from the community to pay for this service. 100% of what is contributed is used to keep it operating, with all of the money going to low income, the working poor, or even seniors that need help in paying their utility bills. Not only will 100% of the donations be used to pay for the service, but the donor can get a tax contribution from both the state of Texas as well as federal government.

Contribute to Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1 in one of 4 ways. Donations are needed, but of course, the program is voluntary. In addition, the social service agencies will ensure the money goes to assist with electric or utility bills of the most deserving customers. The ways to donate include in person donations at the main office; set up a donation online; or main in a check or money order either with a monthly utility bill or on its own. If any of those options do not work for the individual, they can still call customer support (see the number below) to discuss other options.

Anyone that needs short term financial help to pay their utility bills can apply for assistance from Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1. Note the applications are processed by social service agencies, such as the Salvation Army, community action in Austin, or other local charities.

 

 

The funds can be used to postpone a disconnection of utility service. Or donations can help pay say the air conditioning bill during the hot summer for some that is medically ill. Another effective use is for an at risk senior citizen who needs power for a critical reason. The Social Service agencies that accept applications can also help the customer sign up for other aid, in addition to Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1.

Eligibility is based on many factors, one being income. In order to receive money from the Plus 1 donation program, the emergency needs to be short term and not caused by the applicant. Any assistance for utility bills will also require be focused on individuals with a payment history in the past that was mostly done on time, and consistent. In addition, the applicant needs to be a City of Austin utility customer.

The customer service team at City of Austin Utilities can be reached at (512) 494-9400. They can discuss how to make a donation, or give referrals to a social service agency. So the customer support team is an effective resource.