How to Receive Assistance to Pay a Utility Bill

The federal and local government has created programs that assist low income families and individuals with their utility programs. From time to time, some may experience financial hardship, and need the extra help. These programs usually provide a one time payment towards your utility accounts for each season that you qualify for the assistance. By contacting your local community action agencies or city officials, you can receive the financial help that you need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Social security cards for everybody in the household
• Proof of past 30 days income
• Copies of your heating and electric bills

1. Contact your local community action agency, township, or city building to inquire about the LIHEAP program. LIHEAP is a program that assists low income families with their utility bills.

2. Gather information about the LIHEAP program and ask about income guidelines. Look through your paystubs and financial documents to see if you meet the income guidelines.

3. Make an appointment to visit the nearest agency that assists individuals and families with their utility bills. Be sure to bring proof of your past 30 days income, proof of social security cards for each person in the household, and a copy of your heating and electric bill.

4. Do not feel ashamed or guilty about asking for assistance. Local and federal governments create programs like this to assist families and individuals who have low income or are experiencing financial hardships.

5. Continue to pay what you are able to on your utility bill until your account has been credited with the utility assistance funds. You usually will get a letter to let you know if you have been approved, and then the money is deposited into your utility accounts.

Tips & Warnings

• The LIHEAP program usually begins in September and ends in May.
• Try contacting your local township or churches for bill assistance.
• Sometimes LIHEAP funds run out quickly. If the agency is out of LIHEAP funds, ask if there are other programs that can give you assistance.

[genehoffpauir]

on 3/9/2009 Our area is a somewhat seasonal tourist destination. You are either rich, or you are the working poor. Most jobs consist of cleaning motel rooms, restaurant, or working for a show theater, or other tourist attraction. A lot of people receive energy assistance. This is a great article for those who don't know about assistance available. 5*