The utility winter moratorium period ended on March 31. Many households have begun facing electric and/or natural gas disconnections that started at the beginning of April.It is not too late to apply to get help with outstanding winter heating bills.Families can still receive help paying these bills using funds available in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).Funds are available up to the benefit amount established for the individual household.

The money received is not a loan and does not have to be repaid. It is available to both qualified home owners and renters whose heating costs are not included in their rent. It is also available to renters whose heat is included in the rent, if the rent is not subsidized.

The Fuel Assistance Program can pay vendors directly for bills already paid in this current heating season for households who qualify for assistance by the April 30th deadline. The benefit can be used to pay an outstanding balance or serve as a credit on the client’s account for future deliveries if deliveries for this heating season have been paid.

Other programs to help individuals with their energy bills may also be available depending on their circumstances.

Anyone having difficulty paying their fuel or electric bill or have found themselves under or unemployed are encouraged to call their local SNHS outreach office in Hillsborough or Rockingham Counties.

Follow this LINK for more information about energy assistance programs and answers to the most frequently asked questions about the program.