Fuel Assistance application deadline is April 28

Friday, April 28 is the last day residents in Hillsborough and Rockingham Counties can apply for Fuel Assistance through Southern New Hampshire Services. That date marks the end of the 2016-2017 heating season.

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 28th 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 bills are encouraged to call their local SNHS outreach office.

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