Discounted utility bills from Universal Service Fund in New Jersey

Low income families in New Jersey can receive financial assistance and cash grants on their utility and gas bills from the Universal Service Fund (USF). This program will limit how much a customer needs to pay towards their utility bills, and will cap their bill at no more than 6% of their total household income. Credits will be provided to qualified low income customers, senior citizens, and the disabled from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Not that both renters as well as homeowners can sign up for financial assistance and credits. While certain income conditions need to be met, the fact is that every year tens of thousands of people who are low income, unemployed, or who are faced with a hardship receive financial aid.

Each and every month qualified customers will receive a credit on their monthly utility and gas bill. In total, almost $2000 in annual relief can be provided to customers who are qualified for the program. So your bill will be in effect lowered by about $2000 over the course of the year.

Most participants in the New Jersey Universal Service Fund (USF) are also signed up for the federal government low income energy assistance program (LIHEAP) so they are not mutually exclusive, and customers can benefit from both of them.

Keep in mind that bills that result from heating oil or propane are not eligible for USF benefits or credits. However, any expenses or monthly bills that you may have for electric and/or gas utility service could potentially be eligible for a USF benefit, and LIHEAP will often cover oil, propane, firewood, and other heating sources for the low income.

To get more information, or apply, the process is quick and simple. You can apply at your at your local New Jersey LIHEAP/USF application agency, which is usually a community action agency, local human services agency, or the Salvation Army.