Starting From $0
Help with utilities.
A shutoff notice, or bills that no longer fit the month.
What to do today
- Call the utility before the due date: ask for a payment plan AND their hardship fund in the same call.
- Apply for LIHEAP early in the season — funds run out.
- Many states restrict winter/medical shutoffs — ask the utility and 211 what protections apply to you.
Programs worth checking
You may qualify depending on income, household size, disability status, age, location, and other factors. Programs and rules change by state and year — the official link is the authority.
LIHEAP (energy bills)
OfficialHelp paying heating/cooling bills, crisis help at shutoff, and some weatherization. Seasonal funds — apply early.
Who may qualify: Income-qualified households. You may qualify depending on income, household size, disability status, age, location, and other factors. Programs and rules change by state and year — the official link is the authority.
Weatherization Assistance Program
OfficialFree home energy upgrades (insulation, sealing, furnace work) that cut bills permanently for income-qualified households.
Who may qualify: Income-qualified; priority for seniors, disability, kids. You may qualify depending on income, household size, disability status, age, location, and other factors. Programs and rules change by state and year — the official link is the authority.
Lifeline (phone/internet discount)
OfficialMonthly discount on phone or internet service for qualifying households — a working number is job-search infrastructure.
Who may qualify: Income-based or via SNAP/Medicaid/SSI enrollment. You may qualify depending on income, household size, disability status, age, location, and other factors. Programs and rules change by state and year — the official link is the authority.
Community action agencies
NonprofitCounty-level agencies bundling emergency funds, utility help, weatherization, job programs, childcare and more under one roof.
Who may qualify: Varies by program; the intake call sorts it.
211
OfficialOne free, confidential call or website connecting you to local help: food, rent, utilities, shelter, childcare, crisis support. Available across most of the United States, in many languages, usually 24/7.
Who may qualify: Everyone. No eligibility — it's a navigator, not a benefit.