Millions of veterans around the country live where there may be high electric bills. Areas that have temperature extremes, such as being very cold or hot, can cost people a lot of money each month. As the heater or air conditioner tries to keep the home feeling comfortable, the energy bill continues to climb. The good news is that there is electric bills assistance for veterans, and those programs can help ease the burden of getting the bill paid, and keeping the heating and cooling system running.
Electric bills can quickly rise when temperatures become cold or hot. Depending on the area of the country one lives in, they could get bills that run into the hundreds of dollars each month. Such large electric bills can be a serious burden on veterans who are already struggling to make ends meet. Add to that the fact that they can’t decide to opt out of paying the bill or using the service. Without it, some people will freeze or they can endure dangerous heat conditions. Plus, if the electric bills don’t get paid you will receive a disconnect notice, so you can’t go long past the due date still using the service without paying the bill. The electric bills assistance for veterans will help keep the unit running, but will make it easier for those who need help paying the bill.
Types of Electric Bills Assistance for Veterans
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – The government has a national program that helps to pay energy bills for those who have a financial need. LIHEAP offers one-time grants that pay your energy bill, if you qualify. The payment is made directly to your energy provider on your behalf. You will need to re-apply for the program every year. Funds for LIHEAP is limited, with grants typically being given out on a first come, first serve basis until the fund is depleted. To qualify for a LIHEAP grant to pay your electric bills, you have to be low income, be a citizen or legal immigrant, and you have to be the person who is responsible for paying the electric bill. The program funds are distributed at different places in each state, and each state has an application window. Some states pay winter energy bills only, while other states also offer bill payment assistance for summer bills. To apply, you first need to find your local LIHEAP administrator. Most offices will allow you to apply in person or online. To apply, click here.
Public Utilities Assistance – There is electric bills assistance for veterans in every state in the country. The names of the programs may vary by state, with some of them referring to the program as LIHEAP, while others refer to it as HEAP, among other names. You can use the government energy assistance website to find a program in your state. To apply, click here.
Utility Companies – Many utility companies have their own programs that provide electric bills assistance for veterans. To find out what type of programs they offer, call your electric provider and explain your financial situation. They may be able to provide bill paying assistance, tell you about local community bill paying programs, or help you by providing a bill payment arrangement that lowers your monthly bill each month. They can also help you with weatherization services, which can help keep your bill lower each month.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Veterans who have at least one minor dependent child may be able to get assistance through TANF. The program is federally funded, offered around the country, and provides those who qualify with a monthly cash grant. The cash grants can be used on living expenses, including paying energy bills. The amount you receive depends on the number of dependents in your family, as well as your monthly income. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. Most people are limited to receiving the cash funds for 60 months. You can apply in person at your local social services office. To apply, click here.
The electric bills assistance for veterans can be helpful during difficult financial times. In addition to these programs listed, you can also reach out to local charities and churches to see if they offer bill payment assistance for veterans. The programs can help keep your electric turned on, even if you have received a disconnect notice.