If you are struggling to pay your utility bills, financial assistance may be available. Depending on where you live and your circumstances, programs can help with electricity, heating, cooling, and other essential household services.
In the U.S., the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help eligible households with heating or cooling bills and may provide emergency assistance during an energy crisis. Some states also provide help with electric bills. Eligibility and application procedures vary by state and territory.
Who May Qualify
Utility assistance programs may be available to:
- Low-income households
- Families with children
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
- Veterans
- Households facing an energy crisis
- People at risk of having utilities disconnected
- Households with high energy costs compared with income
- People receiving certain government benefits
Eligibility depends on the specific program, your income, household size, location, and other requirements.
Check What You May Qualify For
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Available programs vary by location, income, household, and other eligibility factors.
Types of Utility Assistance
Electricity Bill Assistance
Some programs can help eligible households with electricity costs. LIHEAP may provide electric bill assistance depending on the state or territory.
Heating and Cooling Assistance
LIHEAP can help qualifying households pay heating or cooling costs. Emergency services may also be available when a household is facing an energy crisis.
Utility Shutoff Assistance
If your electricity or natural gas has been disconnected or you have received a shutoff notice, contact your local assistance agency as soon as possible. State rules and available protections differ based on factors such as weather, age, disability, and utility provider.
Weatherization Assistance
The Weatherization Assistance Program can help eligible low-income households make energy-efficiency improvements that may reduce future heating and cooling costs.
Phone and Internet Assistance
The federal Lifeline program can help eligible low-income households reduce the cost of qualifying phone or internet service. Eligibility can be based on income or participation in certain federal assistance programs.
Local Emergency Assistance
Community organizations, local agencies, and nonprofit programs may offer additional help with utility bills, especially during financial emergencies.
How Utility Assistance Programs Typically Work
- Identify the bill you need help with. Determine whether you need assistance with electricity, gas, heating, cooling, phone, internet, or another service.
- Check programs in your area. Utility assistance is often administered at the state or local level.
- Review eligibility. Income, household size, location, and other circumstances may be considered.
- Gather your documents. You may need identification, proof of income, your utility bill, and information about your household.
- Apply through the appropriate agency. Follow the program's application instructions.
- Ask about emergency assistance. If your service has already been disconnected or you have a shutoff notice, explain the urgency when contacting the program.
Some programs can provide fairly quick support, while others may have waiting lists depending on local funding and demand.