How to Get Help With Paying My Utilities
A sudden illness or job loss can significantly affect the total income of your household. You may begin to find it difficult to keep current with your bills. If you get more than one to three months behind on your utility bills, they may terminate your service. It is best to seek help paying your utility bills as soon as possible.
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Instructions
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Visit your local Social Services Agency to find out what programs are available in your state. Each state has their own utilities assistance programs for those who meet certain financial qualifications.
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Make an appointment with the appropriate agency to fill out the paperwork to receive help in paying your utilities. Some agencies don't require an appointment. Your local Social Services Agency will give you this information when you stop in or call.
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Gather and bring all of the necessary documents to your appointment. These documents may include birth certificates for all individuals in the home, current utility bills, proof of income and proof of residency. Again, the Social Services Agency will be able to give you a list of the documents you will need when you visit or call.
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Submit your completed application to the case manager during your appointment. The case manager will review it, as well as all of the supporting documents you brought. If anything else is needed, you may be given a week or so to provide it. If everything is satisfactory, the case manager will submit the application. Once it is approved and processed, you will receive checks in the name of your utility suppliers.
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Contact your local church if the help you received from the Social Services Agency is not adequate. Many churches have benevolence funds set up to help members of the community when a need arises.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also contact your utility companies to inquire about assistance programs. The utility company may not be the agency accepting the applications, but they can send you in the right direction.
Don't wait too long to apply for assistance. Some programs have a cut off date for obtaining help with heating bills.
References
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