Most states as well as the companies that operate in them offer numerous programs to provide utility bill assistance to their customers. Many utility companies will offer some form of financial aid, there are various charities for those in need, tax breaks, and there are also programs that will provide free energy efficient products and upgrades. Or energy providers offer payment plans, financial help from Round up type programs, deposit assistance and more. This is all offered in an effort to help consumers save on or pay their utility bills, including heating, gas, electric, and light.
Select your state below to find ways to obtain assistance with your utility bill. Each company offers their own solutions so you can find additional ways to save electricity.
Often other forms of assistance are needed as well. For example, if you need housing, food, mortgage or credit card help, many of the energy companies match people who are behind or struggling with their bills to service providers who can help them. There are resources for employment, debts, energy conservation measures, and more. All of this will be combined with one time utility bill assistance.
It is free to request information for utility assistance. There are also no costs or fee to apply. There is no obligation beyond requesting info. All of the energy companies are will to work with customers to find some form of solution. It is always critical to apply early though, before disconnection occurs.
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There is also a federal program to provide utility bill assistance. It is run at the state and county level though and is often referred to as LIHEAP. It is for very low income families, the elderly, and disabled. LIHEAP is a federal government program that provides grants to states to help struggling with assistance on their their electric, heating and cooling utility bills.
Some background: LIHEAP is a Federally funded program that is administered by states and other organizations. Grantees typically come from low income households and are seeking assistance for their home utility and energy bills. It has been operating since 1982 and its official purpose is to assist struggling, primarily low-income households that pay a too high proportion of their household income reduce their utility bills that are paid for home energy needs.
The program will encourage conservation as well. Priority to be given to those with the highest home energy and assistance needs. This often means low income households with a too high energy burden and/or the presence of a vulnerable individual in the household, which may mean a disabled person, a young child, or frail older individual.
In addition to LIHEAP, another program available is the weatherization program, which over 5 million Amercans have taking advantage of. This too is free to sign up for. The conservation program can help people save over $300 per year in utility bill costs. Learn more about weatherization.
By: Jon McNamara
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