When your family faces financial challenges, the stress can affect every aspect of your life. Your worries could cause a decline in your health, distance in your relationships and a faltering job performance. When you cannot find a way to pay the next utility bill, you can find hope through programs designed to keep you afloat in your time of need.
LHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps those in need when utilities make up a high portion of the family budget. The federal government provides grants to each state to administer the LHEAP program. Depending on the rules of your state, you may be eligible for financial help to pay your bill, especially if your electricity is shut off. Some states also provide additional services through LHEAP, such as home weatherization, repairs that lower the cost of utilities in the home, and financial counseling. The rules depend on the funds available and the guidelines set by each state. To apply, you must have copies of recent electric bills, proof of income, a notice from the electric company threatening to shut off your service (if applicable), and a copy of your lease or other proof of residence. To find out apply in your local area, call the National Energy Assistance Referral office at 1-866-674-6327, email energyassistance@ncat.org, or call the LHEAP office in your state.
Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA)
Households of three or more people may qualify for reduced utility rates under the Family Electric Rate Assistance program. Availability and qualifications depend on your electric company. Part of your usage gets billed at a lower rate if you qualify. To find out if you do, contact your utility provider.
State and Local Assistance
Many states have programs designed to help families struggling to pay utility costs. Some provide direct financial assistance, while others provide much-needed services like weatherization to help your family keep heating costs down. In Alaska, for example, the Power Cost Equalization Program (PCE) provides financial assistance to needy families who pay a much higher utility rate than in other parts of the state. California offers the Low-Income Energy Efficiency (LIEE) Program, which pays for improvements that make your home more efficient to lower your utility costs. The types and amounts of assistance available vary widely by state.
Your Utility Company
Call your utility company to ask about discounts for low-income families in your area. If any members of your family have special needs, ask about assistance your company may provide for disabled customers. If your bills skyrocket during months of extreme cold or heat, ask if your utility company offers a plan that averages your bill over the course of a year, allowing you to ease the financial burden of higher bills by paying the same amount each month.
Tags: your family, your utility, each state, electric company, Electric Rate
