How to Get Help With Utility Bills in Arkansas
Low-income individuals who experience difficulties paying for their utilities may qualify for utility bill assistance through their state health and human service agencies. All states participate in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program -- or LIHEAP -- block grant program and receive funds to help their low-income residents pay for their heating and cooling costs. In Arkansas, residents can find utility bill assistance by contacting their local community action agencies, completing an application for assistance and submitting proof of income and residency. Residents who qualify for LIHEAP assistance will receive a one-time annual subsidy paid directly to their utility service providers.
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Things You'll Need
- Proof of residency
- Proof of income for each household member
- Social Security number and birth date for each household members
Instructions
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Contact the Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association. You need to apply for utility bill assistance through this national nonprofit group. It offers an interactive map (see "Resources") to find your local group.
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Apply for help through the local Community Action Agency serving your county's residents. Many of the local chapters require residents to apply in person, while others accept telephone applications. You need to provide proof of income for each member of your household. You will also need to bring a driver's license or other valid proof of residency.
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Visit your local Department of Human Service agency if you currently receive government assistance. If you receive government assistance, you may automatically qualify for LIHEAP assistance. LIHEAP eligibility is limited to individuals within 125 to 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
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Apply for weatherization services through your local community action agency. If you qualify for weatherization assistance, the community action agency subcontracts with local groups that provide weatherization services to help you reduce your future utility bills.
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Tips & Warnings
The federal LIHEAP program is a block grant program, and the federal government provides each state with annual funding. In Arkansas, although community action agencies can keep their programs open all year long, they typically disburse funds as they are available. As such, each local community action agency may limit its application process to certain months.
References
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Help With Your Utility Bills -- Arkansas
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Administration for Children and Families
- Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association: About ACAAA
- National Center for Appropriate Technology: LIHEAP 2011 State Plans
- Arkansas Department of Human Services: Support Services
