How to Get Help Paying Utility Bills

It's difficult to think about utility heating bills in the middle of a hot August, but being prepared for the rising cost ahead of winter is a smart thing to do. Getting prepared now is the key to having a warm winter and not having to worry about not being able to pay utility bills. The following eHow documents a few ways to get help paying utility bills.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. ~~Contact your electricity provider BEFORE electricity is cut off!~~
   
   At the first sign that you might not be able to pay your heating or electricity bill, contact the service provider and start a dialogue directly with the company. Most utility providers will work with you, whether it's to delay payment or forgo the late fee. Utility companies might help you set up a utility payment plan where identical payments are scheduled throughout the year. This type of budget plan for electricity works well in climates where either air conditioning or heating is used more than the other - spreading out the payments equalizes the cash flow out.
   
   Assistance is generally prioritized to homes with health compromised individuals (such as the very young or the very old) so make sure to mention if your household falls into that category.

2. ~~Look to National programs for utility bill assistance~~
   
   The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was designed to help low income families meet their heating or cooling needs. A link to the program is the 1st link in the resource section listed below.

3. ~~Investigate state-run programs for help with utility bills~~
   
   There are many different state-run programs designed specifically to assist low income or seniors in paying rising heating bills. Search your states local government site for programs operating within your area. For example, there is a nice program being run in Maryland to help low income households lower their energy costs by weatherizing their homes (see 2nd link in resources below)

Resources

• LIHEAP website
• Maryland Weatherization Assistance Program
• Additional resource to get assistance with utility bills
• How to bargain for anything
• How to get inexpensive health insurance
• Save money by using coupons
• Cash for Clunkers program requirements
• Get a first time home buyer tax credit of $8K!

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 8/21/2009 Good ideas for help for those in need. Electricity bills can be so high.

[joanhaines]

on 8/17/2009 The more people in need who know about this help, the better!