How to Get Help Paying Your Light Bill

Consumers occasionally require assistance in paying utility bills. But help is available, from small personal loans to city-sponsored utility assistance programs.

Things You'll Need

• Financial statement

Instructions

1. Contact your city light company and request information about payment-assistant programs. Request low-income assistance if applicable, or provide financial statements to demonstrate temporary financial hardship. Make a copy of the required documents and provide them to the city electric utility.

2. Ask about a Universal Service Fund, which are set up in most cities to help consumers offset the cost of living. The fund can be accessed for long-term, as well as short-term, payment assistance. Because each fund is independently funded by donations and other city and state contributions, contact a like-fund in your city to request an application.

3. Consider a small pay-day loan to cover the cost of your electric bill. Pay-day loans are subject to fees and interest.

4. Ask about a repayment plan in writing, explaining your financial situation. Agree to a specific monthly payment and consistently pay that amount. If your financial standing continues to weaken, work with the electric utility to adjust accordingly. You may be able to hold payment for 30 to 60 days until a payment can be made.

Tips & Warnings

• Work with your city light company to find the payment assistant program that is right for you.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish