Tag Archives: energy assistance

Having Trouble Paying Your Energy Bill?

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There are a variety of energy assistance resources available to low-income households. You can get help paying in emergent situations like a 24 hour disconnect notice or more long-term assistance like a monthly discount on your energy bill or cost-saving education.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that provides energy assistance for eligible low-income households. There are several portions of the program ranging from one-time financial assistance for an energy bill, to free weatherization upgrades, to budget counseling. In 2020, funding for this program was expanded under the congressional CARES Act, which aims to assist those affected by COVID-19.

California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program: Save 20-35% every month on your electric or natural gas bill. If you are already enrolled in other public assistance programs, such as Medicaid, WIC, Food Stamps/SNAP, TANF, or SSI, you likely also qualify for the CARE program. To apply, contact your utility company.

Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program: If you are low income, but don’t qualify for CARE and your household has 3 or more people, you may be eligible for FERA. Those who qualify for FERA discounts receive an 18% discount on their electricity bill. This program is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Contact your utility company for information.

Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program: Those who qualify for CARE also meet the income guidelines for ESA. Qualifying households can receive free weatherization services and amenities such as energy-efficient appliances, low-flow showerheads, insulation, door repairs, and more.

For more information, call 211 or visit the California Department of Community Services & Development website at www.csd.ca.gov/Pages/LIHEAPProgram.aspx.

California Residents Can Get Help to Pay or Reduce Energy Costs

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As the weather changes, you probably see your energy bill changing too. If you’re one of many low-income California households struggling to cover energy costs, you may be eligible for assistance.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is funded by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and provides energy assistance to qualified individuals. Eligible low-income persons can receive financial assistance to offset the costs of heating and/or cooling, and/or have their homes weatherized to make them more energy efficient. To qualify for this program, you must be a resident of the state of California, need financial assistance for home energy costs, and have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below 60 percent of the State Median Income.

To apply, call toll free 1-866-675-6623 or find the energy service provider in your community on the California Community Services & Development site – www.csd.ca.gov.

For more information about this program, visit www.csd.ca.gov/Pages/Assistance-PayingMyEnergyBills.aspx.

This article was previously published in our monthly newsletter, California Mobile Home News. If you would like access to more helpful information like this on a monthly basis, as well as additional resources for mobile home owners, contact us about becoming a MHET member!

You May Be Eligible for Energy Assistance Based on Medical Needs

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If you require electricity to power your medical equipment or have a medical condition that requires your home maintain a specific temperature, you may be eligible for assistance with your energy bill under the Medical Baseline program. Eligible medical conditions include a compromised immune system, Multiple Sclerosis, or paraplegia. Eligible medical equipment includes breather machines (IPPB), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), motorized wheelchairs, and respirators. If you have any of the above conditions, require electronic medical equipment, or think you may have a similar condition or device requirements, check with your utility provider to find out if you qualify for their Medical Baseline program.

SCE customers can find more information at www.sce.com/residential/assistance/medical-baseline or by calling 1-800-655-4555.

For SDGE customers, check www.sdge.com/residential/pay-bill/get-payment-bill-assistance/health-senior-support/qualifiying-based-medical-need or call 1-866-463-0070.

This article was previously published in our monthly newsletter, California Mobile Home News. If you would like access to more helpful information like this on a monthly basis, as well as additional resources for mobile home owners, contact us about becoming a MHET member!