Thursday, December 7, 2017
As the winter weather approaches and temperatures begin to drop, some citizens may find it challenging to pay increased utility costs. Fortunately, there are several ways customers can protect themselves from a utility disconnection.
The Low Income Heating Assistance Program, managed by local energy assistance offices, is one way to prevent a disconnection. Sign-ups for this program are underway, and those who qualify will be protected from a utility disconnection between Dec. 1, 2017, and March 15, 2018.
To contact local energy assistance offices by county, visit www.incap.org/energyinfo.html or call (800) 382-9895.
Those who have concerns about paying bills on time should always contact utility providers. Open communication with providers will make solutions more attainable and allow time to work out a payment-plan agreement, rather than letting a balance continue to increase. In addition, utility providers may have information about other avenues for assistance in paying energy bills.
If you do receive a phone call demanding payment, keep in mind that utility companies must provide advance notice before disconnecting service. For more information on utility service disconnection, click here.
