If you are struggling to pay your electric bill, local assistance may be available. Government programs, community organizations, utility companies, churches, and nonprofits may help eligible households with electricity and other energy costs.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is one of the main programs to check. Depending on where you live, it may provide help with energy bills, crisis assistance, or weatherization. Eligibility and available funding vary by state.
Who May Qualify
Electric bill assistance may be available for:
- Low-income households
- Families with children
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
- Veterans
- Households facing financial hardship
- People with a utility shutoff notice
- Households experiencing an energy emergency
Requirements vary by program and location.
Check What You May Qualify For
If your electric bill is becoming difficult to afford, you may have assistance options available in your area. OpenGrants Network helps you discover legitimate assistance programs that may match your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
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Programs vary based on your eligibility, household, and location.
Types of Help Available
Depending on your area, you may find:
- Electric bill assistance
- LIHEAP energy assistance
- Emergency utility assistance
- Shutoff prevention
- Heating and cooling assistance
- Utility payment plans
- Energy discounts
- Weatherization assistance
- Local nonprofit assistance
- Community and church assistance
LIHEAP offices are administered locally, so the application process and available assistance can differ from one state to another.
How to Find Help With Your Light Bill
- Check your state's LIHEAP or energy assistance program.
- Contact your utility company and ask about payment plans or hardship programs.
- Search for local community action agencies and nonprofits.
- If you have a shutoff notice, ask specifically about emergency assistance.
- Gather your current utility bill, identification, income information, and household documents.
- Apply as soon as possible.
USAGov recommends contacting your state's LIHEAP office to determine eligibility and apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get help with my electric bill near me?
Start with your local LIHEAP office, community action agency, utility company, and local nonprofit organizations.
Can LIHEAP help pay my electric bill?
Depending on your state and eligibility, LIHEAP may help with energy costs, including electric bills in some areas.
Can I get emergency help if my electricity is about to be shut off?
Possibly. Some LIHEAP and local programs offer crisis assistance, but requirements and available funding vary.
Can seniors get help paying their electric bills?
Yes. Seniors may qualify for energy assistance based on income, household circumstances, and local program requirements.
Can disabled people get utility assistance?
Some programs consider disability when determining eligibility or providing additional protections during utility emergencies. Rules vary by state.
What documents do I need?
Programs commonly request identification, proof of income, household information, and a current utility bill or shutoff notice.
Can my electric company help if I cannot pay?
Many utility companies offer payment plans, hardship programs, discounts, or other assistance options for qualifying customers.
What if my power has already been disconnected?
Contact your local energy assistance agency and utility company immediately. Some programs specifically provide crisis assistance for households experiencing an energy emergency.
Can churches or nonprofits help with electric bills?
Some local charities, churches, and community organizations provide utility assistance or referrals when funding is available.
How do I find utility assistance near me?
Search for your state's LIHEAP office or local community action agency. The LIHEAP Clearinghouse also provides a state and local office search tool.
Additional Resources
Useful places to check include:
LIHEAP offices
Community Action Agencies
Your electric utility company
Local government agencies
Churches and charitable organizations
Community assistance programs
Weatherization programs
The federal LIHEAP Clearinghouse provides a free referral service at 1-866-674-6327 and can help you locate energy assistance resources in your state.