An estimated 205 million Americans are at risk of utility disconnection. Here’s how you can get help
Now many are faced with the difficult decision of what basic need to fulfill.
“The poor are not falling massively behind due to Covid; it is the non-low-income folks,” he said. “You can’t live in your own house without utilities.”
Below are resources for those who may be at risk for utility disconnection gathered by CNN’s Impact Your World.
Energy
Harak suggests contacting your gas, oil, or electric company about budget billing programs or alternative payment options, especially for vulnerable customers like those with disabilities or the elderly.
“Many states have certain protections against termination for vulnerable populations,” said Harak.
You may be eligible for a payment plan for your utility bills or an AMP (Arrearage Management Program) that will give you both a payment plan and bill credits for timely payments.
Water
Long before the pandemic, water affordability was an ongoing issue in America.
“There are many Americans that don’t have to imagine a day without water — they’re already experiencing it.”
With the lack of shut-off moratoriums in most states that cover water, millions more are at immediate risk of losing what Lewis-Patrick calls a “basic human right.”
There are no federal water bill assistance programs, but if you are having difficulty paying your water bill during this time, you first should contact your local water department. While direct financial aid is not common, they may offer you a plan that will help you pay the water bill’s balance over time in some form of installment program.
You may also be eligible to receive additional assistance on your water bill from one of the following programs:
- Low-Income Payment Program (LIPP) is a good option for low-income families. Along with cash grants, the program offers installment plans that may include a 20% discount on total monthly bills.
- The H2O Help to Others Program offers emergency aid, grants, and other discounts to help those at risk of water shut-off. This program also educates customers on good water spending habits.
- Customer Assistance Programs (CAPS) use bill discounts, special rate structures, and more to help financially strained customers maintain water service.
Charity utility assistance programs
