Texas Homeowners: Emergency Help for Your Electric Bill

Your First Call: Contacting Your Utility Provider

When a shutoff notice arrives, your first and most urgent step is to call your electricity provider directly. Do not wait. Many utilities offer options to prevent immediate disconnection.

• Request a Payment Extension: Ask for more time to pay your outstanding balance. Be ready to explain your situation.
• Set up a Deferred Payment Plan: This allows you to pay your past-due amount in installments over several months, alongside your regular bill. Your utility cannot refuse a reasonable deferred payment plan if you meet their criteria and have not defaulted on one in the last 12 months.
• Inquire About Critical Care Designation: If you or someone in your household relies on life-sustaining medical equipment, inform your utility. You may qualify for critical care status, which offers protection from shutoff for a period if certified by a physician.

Keep a record of who you spoke with, the date, and what was agreed upon. Follow up any phone agreements with written confirmation if possible.

Accessing Federal and State Assistance Programs

Several government-funded programs can help homeowners with energy costs. These are often administered at the state or local level.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP is a federal program providing funds to help low-income households with heating and cooling costs, bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance, and weatherization. In Texas, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) oversees LIHEAP. Eligibility depends on household income and size. Contact your local community action agency, which administers LIHEAP funds, to apply. They can guide you through the application process and required documentation.

Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF)

The Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is another federal program, administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), designed to help homeowners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. HAF can provide financial assistance for mortgage payments, utility payments, property taxes, and other housing-related costs. If you experienced a financial hardship after January 21, 2020, you may be eligible. Apply directly through the TDHCA HAF portal.

Community and Nonprofit Organizations

Many local organizations and charities offer direct financial assistance or referrals for utility bills. These groups often have specific eligibility requirements and limited funds, so contact them quickly.

• Dial 211: In Texas, you can dial 211 to connect with local resources. This service can provide information on community action agencies, churches, and other nonprofits that may offer utility bill assistance in your area.
• The Salvation Army: Many Salvation Army locations offer emergency utility assistance. Contact your local branch for details and application procedures.
• Local Churches and Charities: Check with churches and other community-based charities in your area. They often have funds or programs to help residents facing immediate financial crises.
• Utility-Specific Programs: Some Texas utility companies have their own charitable funds, often supported by customer donations, to help those in need. Ask your provider if they offer such a program.

These resources can be vital when facing a shutoff. Be prepared to provide proof of income, residency, and your shutoff notice.

Understanding Your Rights and Preventing Future Shutoffs

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) sets rules for retail electric providers. Your utility cannot disconnect service for non-payment on a holiday or weekend unless their employees are available to receive payments and reconnect service. They also cannot disconnect for a delinquent amount if you are awaiting the outcome of a payment arrangement or critical care status request.

• Do not ignore shutoff notices. They are serious and indicate an immediate threat to your service.
• Do not rely on verbal promises without documenting them.

To prevent future shutoffs, consider enrolling in average or budget billing plans, which spread out your estimated annual energy costs into consistent monthly payments. Also, explore energy efficiency upgrades for your home. Your utility may offer free energy audits or rebates for improvements that lower your usage.