How to Receive Discounts on Your Utility Bills Through State Utility Assistance Programs

Many states offer Utility Discount Programs (UDP) and Energy Assistance Programs (EAP) to help low-income residents reduce their electric, gas, water, and sewer bills.

Eligible applicants can receive hundreds to thousands of dollars in savings on their utility expenses each year.
 

What Discounts Are Available?

Discounts vary by state and program but may include:

• Electric Bills: Savings of up to $500 per year

• Gas Bills: Seasonal discounts up to $300 per year

• Water & Sewer Bills: Reductions of $900 or more annually

• Lifeline Phone Service: Affordable phone plans through the Lifeline Assistance Program
   

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants typically need to:

• Meet income guidelines (varies by state)

• Have utility bills in their name

• Submit proof of income and identification

Life can be tough, but help is available—check what you qualify for here.
 

How to Apply?

Required Documents

Applicants generally need to provide:

• Most recent utility bills

• Government-issued photo ID

• Proof of income for all household members

• Social Security cards for all household members

• Service disconnection notice (if applicable)

1. Apply by Mail

Each state has its mailing address for applications. Check your state’s Department of Energy website for details.

2. Apply In-Person

Visit an Energy Assistance Center in your state:

• California:

  • Energy Assistance Center, 915 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814

  • Email: energyassistance@ca.gov

• Texas:

  • Texas Utility Assistance Program, 1111 West 6th St, Austin, TX 78703

  • Email: energyhelp@texas.gov

• New York:

  • NY Energy Support Office, 100 Church St, New York, NY 10007

  • Email: utilityaid@ny.gov

• Florida:

  • Florida Energy Assistance Division, 200 E Gaines St, Tallahassee, FL 32399

  • Email: assistance@floridaenergy.gov

• Illinois:

  • Illinois Energy Support Office, 555 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60661

  • Email: energyassistance@illinois.gov

Note: Many states offer online applications through their Department of Energy or Human Services websites.

Emergency Assistance

If your utility service has been disconnected or you need urgent heating or cooling assistance:

• Contact your state’s Energy Assistance Hotline

• Visit a local Energy Assistance Center (no appointment needed in emergencies)

Many programs offer assistance in multiple languages.

Some states require appointments for regular assistance, which can be scheduled by calling 211 or your state’s designated helpline.

For more details, visit your state's official Energy Assistance website or call your local Energy Assistance Center for guidance.

Previous article: Energy Bill Assistance Through Your March 12 Social Security Check

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