Depending on where seniors or living in the country, their electric bills can be quite expensive. Since most seniors live on a fixed income, it is important that they strive to keep their monthly bills lower and more manageable. There will still be some seniors who struggle to pay their electric bills, making it important to turn to programs that provide electric bills assistance.
Those who live in warmer states, such as California and Nevada, for example, may struggle to pay their electric bills more than in some other states. This is due to the air conditioning running by means of electricity. The air conditioning can lead to huge electric bills, especially during the summer months. It is common for people to get $500 electric bills in the summer months in places like Florida.
Those who are struggling to pay their electric bills do have places they can turn to regarding getting assistance. There are programs that will provide electric bills assistance for seniors and others who are struggling. Simply shutting the air conditioning off is not an option for most people, because it would be too warm and lead to other issues for seniors. The answer lies in getting help paying the bill.
Where to Turn for Help
Seniors who are struggling to pay their electric bills should first contact the electric company. Inform them of the issue and see if there is anything they can do to help with the situation. Some electric providers have in-house programs that will help people who are struggling to pay their bills. They may also be able to refer you to programs in your area that can help you get the bills paid. Either way, since that is the place the money is owed to, it’s wise to contact them to inform them of your situation and see if there is anything they can do to help.
Here are additional programs and places to contact regarding electric bill assistance for seniors:
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – This program is provided by the federal government. They provide each of the 50 states with a block grant each year, which is to help people pay for their heating bills. Once the block grant money runs out in that state, there will be no more program funds until they receive the next grant. You have to re-apply to this program each year. If your heating or air conditioning is part of your electric bill, then you may be able to get help paying the bill through this program. To qualify for assistance through LIHEAP, you have to meet the low-income requirements and be responsible for paying the bill. To get more information and apply, click here.
Salvation Army – This organization will help people who need assistance paying for their electric bills. They have locations around the country. Contact your local Salvation Army to inquire about electric bill payment assistance for seniors. They will either be able to provide you with the assistance or possibly refer you to a local program that can help. They usually do not do a lot of verification when it comes to your income or financial status, which makes it easier and quicker to get the assistance you need. To get more information and find your local chapter, click here.
211 – This is a number that people in the U.S. can call when they need financial assistance. It is a free referral program provided by an organization called United Way. When you call, let them know that you need help paying the electric bill. They will search their database for programs that provide that type of assistance. Be sure to let them know you are a senior, as they may have programs that are special for that demographic. To get more information about the program, click here.
Housing Authority – Each state has a housing authority office, which is run by the government. They have access to programs that can help people who are struggling financially, especially when it is related to housing, and electricity in the home falls under that category. Find your state or local housing authority office and contact them to inquire about getting help with paying your electric bill. They may be able to provide you with programs they offer or give you referrals to other programs that will assist in getting the bill paid. Many cities and counties also have their own housing authority office. You can check to see if you have one close to where you live. Your state office may also be able to give you information about how to contact your local office. To find your state office and contact them, click here.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – This is a federally funded program that provides free weatherization services for seniors and others. Weatherization can help to reduce monthly electric bills, thus making them easier to pay. The process will help make the home more energy efficient. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Additional Options
There are several other places you can turn to for assistance paying the electric bill. One of them is to contact your city or county government offices. Some of them will have programs they have access to that people in the community can use. They should be able to refer you to some programs that will provide assistance to those in need. Some of the programs may be local and not part of a national system.
Churches are also an important place that you can turn to for help. There are many churches around the country, and they usually have a mission of helping people in the communities where they are located. You do not have to be religious or be a member of the church to reach out to them for assistance. Contact the churches in your area to see what type of programs they can refer you to that will help you pay the bill. They may also be able to help you directly, as they take up collections from their congregation.
