Stop Electric Shutoff: Apply for Your Medical Baseline Discount
If you or a household member needs electricity for life-sustaining medical equipment or has specific medical conditions, your electric utility likely offers a Medical Baseline Discount Program. This program can reduce your bill and, critically, offer protections against immediate power shutoff. Act fast.
Based on federal consumer protection law and HUD/CFPB public guidance · Last reviewed July 2026
The Direct Answer
Contact your electric utility company immediately to request an application for their Medical Baseline Discount Program. Explain that you have a medical necessity for electricity and are at risk of shutoff. Many utilities cannot disconnect service for a period if a medical emergency exists and they have been notified.
These programs provide eligible homeowners with an increased baseline allowance of electricity at the lowest rate, or a monthly bill credit, to cover the higher energy use associated with certain medical conditions or equipment. This is not a loan, and HomeLeafs earns nothing if you borrow money.
Do not ignore any shutoff notices from your utility. Contact them directly using the number on your bill. Third-party calls or texts claiming to be your utility and demanding immediate payment are usually scams.
Immediate Action: Call Your Electric Utility Now
If you have received a shutoff notice or are struggling to pay your bill, your first step is to call your electric utility. Use the phone number printed directly on your bill, not one from an internet search that might lead to scams.
State Your Medical Need Clearly
Explain that someone in your household has a medical condition or uses medical equipment that requires electricity. Request information about their Medical Baseline Discount Program.
Ask for Shutoff Protection
Inquire about any medical emergency shutoff protections. Many utilities have rules against disconnecting service for a specified period if a medical professional certifies that a shutoff would be life-threatening. You will likely need a doctor's note or form to confirm this.
Request the Application
Ask them to mail, email, or direct you to the exact online application form for the Medical Baseline Discount. Do not wait for it to arrive; ask what immediate steps you can take to start the process and protect your service.
Understanding How Medical Baseline Programs Work
Medical Baseline Discount Programs, also known as Medical Baseline Allowances or Life Support Programs, are designed to help homeowners facing higher electricity costs due to specific medical needs. These programs typically provide either:
An increased amount of electricity usage billed at the lowest rate. This means you get more power before your bill moves to higher-priced tiers.
A monthly bill credit that directly reduces the amount you owe.
The goal is to offset the additional energy consumption from medical equipment like oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, dialysis machines, or from conditions requiring temperature control (e.g., severe asthma, multiple sclerosis). Eligibility varies by state and utility, but generally requires certification from a medical professional.
Applying for the Discount: What You'll Need
The application process requires specific documentation to verify your medical need. Gather these items to expedite your application:
Utility Account Information
Your account number and service address.
Medical Professional Certification
A form signed by a licensed doctor, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner. This form confirms the medical condition, the need for specific electrical equipment, or the necessity for specific environmental conditions (like continuous air conditioning). Your utility will provide the exact form to be completed.
List of Medical Equipment
Be prepared to list all electricity-dependent medical devices used in your home.
Proof of Residency
Sometimes, utilities require proof that the person with the medical condition resides at the service address.
Once you submit your application, follow up regularly with your utility to confirm its receipt and processing status. Keep copies of everything you send.
Protecting Your Power While Your Application is Processed
Applying for the Medical Baseline Discount does not automatically stop a shutoff if you have an overdue balance. However, notifying your utility of a medical emergency can trigger temporary protections. Here’s how to reinforce those protections:
Do Not Rely on Verbal Promises Alone
While your initial call is critical, follow up any verbal agreements with written communication, even if it's just an email confirming your conversation and next steps.
Submit Medical Certification Promptly
Get the required medical certification from your doctor as quickly as possible. The sooner your utility receives this, the stronger your protection against shutoff.
Negotiate a Payment Plan
If you owe a significant amount, ask your utility about setting up a payment arrangement. Even a small payment can show good faith while your medical discount application is pending. This may keep your power on.
Contact Your State's Public Utilities Commission (PUC)
If your utility is unresponsive or threatening shutoff despite a verified medical emergency, contact your state's PUC. They regulate utilities and can intervene in specific cases.
Need Help With Your Electric Bill?
If medical baseline discounts aren't enough, explore other assistance programs. HomeLeafs offers resources to help homeowners find and apply for utility aid.
Call your utility anyway and explain the situation. They may offer a temporary hold on shutoff while you obtain the necessary medical certification. Ask for the specific form your doctor needs to fill out.
Can the medical baseline discount apply to a past bill?
Medical baseline discounts are typically applied to current and future billing periods once you are approved. They generally do not retroactively reduce past due amounts. Focus on getting approved to lower future costs and negotiate a payment plan for any current debt.
What medical conditions typically qualify for this discount?
Common qualifying conditions include those requiring life support equipment (e.g., respirators, dialysis machines), conditions made worse by temperature extremes (e.g., multiple sclerosis, severe asthma), or conditions requiring specialized medical refrigeration. The exact list varies by utility and state; your medical professional will certify your specific need.
How long does the medical baseline discount last?
The discount is usually not permanent. Utilities often require periodic re-certification (e.g., every 1-5 years) from your medical professional to ensure the need still exists. Pay attention to any notices from your utility about re-certification deadlines to avoid losing your discount.