Electric Bills Assistance for Women

Electric bills can vary throughout the year. One month it may be no big deal to pay while another it can be completely budget-busting. I think we all have made the mistake of going into the energy tiers where the cost per watt is so high your bill skyrockets. Unfortunately, if you can’t pay, you are probably living in fear of losing the lights, heat, or cooling that is essential for daily life. However, you don’t have to worry. If you are a woman in the U.S. and need emergency help paying for your electricity, here is where you can turn.

Contact Your Utility Provider

While you may be nervous to contact your utility provider, It is best to reach out to them when you are having trouble. In many cases, they will be able to work with you to keep your utilities on. Whether they offer you a payment arrangement or just give you extra time, a simple call can help to quell your fears about losing electricity. Further, some providers have programs to help reduce the ups and downs throughout the year so that your bill will be more steady and predictable. Before searching for alternate services, call your provider to see if they can help. If they can’t, there are other places you can turn.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP is a government program which helps to pay heating or cooling bills for those in need. It will come to the rescue in cases of an energy crisis, such as utility shut-offs. It can also help you to make low-cost home improvements that will make your home more energy-efficient thus lowering your utility bills.

The program has eligibility requirements in place which vary depending on where you live. Learn more here. There are local offices across the nation so you can call or go in and speak to someone in your area. FInd your local office here.

Unfortunately, LIHEAP funds can run out each year and benefits can’t be given out until Congress allots more funds to the program. Being so, it’s important to apply as soon as possible if you need help.

Learn more about the program, in general, here.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army also may be able to help you. It has centers across the nation which provide help for families and individuals who are at risk of having their electricity shut off. Along with electricity bills, the Salvation Army will help to pay water, natural gas, propane, and fuel oil bills. Find a Salvation Army center near you here.

Local Churches and Charities

Search for local churches and charities in your area that help those in need. Many have emergency support programs for people who are in a rough patch. You may be able to get cash assistance to pay your electric bill, along with food, shelter, counseling, and more. Some of the widespread organizations include the Episcopal Church, the Jewish Federation of North America, Lutheran Social Services, the United Methodist Church, and Catholic Charities. Search online in your local area for help near you.

United Way Worldwide

United Way Worldwide has a 2-1-1 program which provides a wide range of services including utility assistance. There are over a thousand agencies in local communities across the country. Find your local office here. In addition, to providing utility assistance, United Way has partnered with the Department of Energy Office of Weatherization and Intergovernmental Programs to support local weatherization assistance programs (WAP). So you may be able to get assistance in weatherizing your home. Additional services include food, nutrition programs, housing aid, shelter, emergency information, job training, education opportunities, healthcare, vaccinations, and more.

As you can see, there are multiple ways to get help with paying your utility bills. If you are in a tough situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to these organizations for support. They may be able to help you in those times that ends just don’t meet. Further, many of them offer additional channels of assistance which can help you to take the next step in your life whether that be higher education or a new career. Find the support you need, when you need it.