Utility Bill Assistance Programs: Never Worry About Shutoff Again

Utility Bill Assistance: Programs That Help You Pay Your Energy Bills

Rising electricity, gas, and water bills can strain any household budget, and for low-income families, unaffordable utility costs can mean choosing between heat and food. Fortunately, there are federal, state, and local programs designed to help people pay their utility bills and keep essential services connected. This guide explains the major assistance programs available and how to access them.

LIHEAP: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

LIHEAP is the primary federal program that helps low-income households pay for home heating and cooling costs. Administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and distributed through state agencies, LIHEAP provides direct payments to energy providers on behalf of eligible households, as well as funding for energy-related home improvements.

LIHEAP has several components: the heating assistance component helps pay winter heating bills, the cooling assistance component helps pay summer cooling costs, and the crisis assistance component provides emergency help when service is about to be disconnected. Income eligibility is generally set at 150% of the federal poverty level or 60% of the state median income, whichever is higher, though states have some flexibility.

How to Apply for LIHEAP

LIHEAP is administered at the state and local level, so the application process varies. To apply, contact your state or local LIHEAP office. Many states allow online applications, while others require in-person visits to a community action agency or social services office.

You will typically need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, proof of income for all household members, a copy of your most recent utility bill, and your Social Security number. Apply early in the program year, as funding is limited and many programs run out before the season ends. Visit acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap for information on your state's program.

Utility Company Assistance Programs

Many electric, gas, and water utilities have their own customer assistance programs that provide discounts, payment plans, or emergency bill forgiveness for income-qualified customers. These programs go by various names—often called Customer Assistance Programs (CAP), Budget Billing, or Low-Income Rate Programs.

Contact your utility company directly to ask what assistance programs are available. Most utility companies have a dedicated phone line or web page for assistance programs. Qualifying for a utility assistance program can reduce your monthly bill by 10% to 50% or more depending on the program and your income level.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The Weatherization Assistance Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Energy, provides free energy efficiency improvements to income-eligible homeowners and renters. Services include adding insulation, sealing air leaks, upgrading heating and cooling systems, and installing energy-efficient appliances and lighting.

Weatherization improvements can reduce energy bills by an average of hundreds of dollars per year and make homes more comfortable. Eligible households must meet income guidelines similar to LIHEAP, generally at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Contact your state energy office or local community action agency to apply for weatherization services.

State and Local Energy Assistance Programs

Many states have supplemental energy assistance programs funded by state budgets, utility surcharges, or private donations. These programs can fill gaps left by federal funding and may have different eligibility requirements or serve different types of costs.

Examples include the Home Energy Assistance Program in various states, utility shutoff protections during extreme weather, and programs specifically for renters who pay utilities indirectly through their rent. Contact your state energy office, public utilities commission, or local community action agency to learn about state-specific programs.

Nonprofit and Charitable Utility Assistance

Several national organizations provide emergency utility assistance through local affiliates. The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, St. Vincent de Paul, and other faith-based and community organizations often have funds specifically for utility emergencies. These organizations typically provide one-time emergency assistance to prevent service shutoffs, regardless of income eligibility for government programs.

Call 211 to be connected to these local resources quickly. 211 operators can identify multiple assistance programs in your area and help you understand which ones you may qualify for.

Managing Your Energy Bills Long-Term

While assistance programs provide critical short-term relief, long-term energy bill management requires ongoing attention. Enroll in a utility budget billing program that spreads your annual costs into equal monthly payments, making bills more predictable. Take advantage of free energy audits offered by many utilities that identify where your home is losing energy and wasting money.

Simple measures like programmable thermostats, LED lighting, and energy-efficient appliances can reduce your bills significantly over time. If you qualify for weatherization services, these improvements can make a lasting difference in your monthly costs.

What to Do If Your Utilities Are About to Be Shut Off

If you receive a shutoff notice, act immediately. Contact your utility company as soon as possible—most utilities will work with customers who communicate proactively. Ask about a payment arrangement, request a delayed shutoff while you apply for assistance, and apply for LIHEAP or utility company assistance programs right away.

Contact 211 or your local community action agency for emergency utility assistance. Explain that you have a shutoff notice, as emergency funds are often prioritized for households in immediate crisis. In many states, there are also legal protections against utility shutoffs during extreme cold or heat, and for households with infants, elderly members, or people with certain medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

Utility assistance programs exist because access to heat, cooling, and electricity is not a luxury—it is a basic need. If you are struggling to pay your energy bills, reach out for help without delay. From federal LIHEAP funding to utility company programs to local emergency funds, there are multiple layers of support available to help you stay warm, cool, and connected.