Utilities & Home Stability Help
Help paying electric, gas, water, and heating bills. LIHEAP and local utility programs can prevent shutoffs — many approve assistance within a week.
What this covers
Utility bill assistance, LIHEAP (heating/cooling assistance), weatherization, water bill assistance, utility shutoff prevention, and energy efficiency programs.
Does not cover: Home repairs, internet service (see Phone & Internet), or property taxes.
Who is this for?
Anyone struggling to pay utility bills or facing a shutoff notice. Most programs are income-based.
How help usually works
LIHEAP provides seasonal heating and cooling assistance. Utility companies have hardship programs. Community action agencies administer most utility assistance. Some programs pay directly to the utility company.
Best first steps
- If you have a shutoff notice, contact your utility company immediately — most have hardship programs.
- Apply for LIHEAP through your local community action agency (seasonal — usually October through May).
- Call 211 to find utility assistance programs in your area.
- Ask about budget billing or payment plans to prevent future shutoffs.
What to bring
Current utility bill, shutoff notice (if applicable), proof of income, household size documentation, and a photo ID.
Emergency vs. standard help
Emergency: Call your utility company about their crisis/hardship program to prevent shutoff. Standard: Apply for LIHEAP or ongoing assistance through community action agencies.
Example Utilities Resources
Enter your ZIP code above to see resources near you. Here are some examples: