Help with rising energy bills: See if your state offers relief
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If your electric bills have been climbing higher each month, you’re not alone.
Across the country, millions of households are struggling to keep up with record-high utility costs, especially during summer heatwaves.
For seniors and others on fixed incomes, these expenses can be more than just stressful—they can also put health and safety at risk.
The good news is that several states are stepping up with new programs, some offering hundreds or even thousands of dollars in assistance.
Depending on where you live, you could save as much as $2,400 this year by tapping into these resources.
Utility costs are going up due to a mix of rising fuel prices, inflation, and increased demand during extreme weather.
Power companies are also investing in updating aging infrastructure, which adds to the costs passed on to customers.
The Energy Information Administration projects that the average household will spend around $784 on electricity from June through September this year—the highest in over a decade.
For families already on tight budgets, those numbers can feel overwhelming.
While federal help through LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is available nationwide, certain states are going further with their own initiatives.
Through the Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) program, eligible New Jersey residents automatically receive $175 in utility bill credits spread over the summer.
No applications are needed—the credits appear on bills for those already enrolled in the state’s Winter Termination Program.
The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) in Texas provides up to $2,400 annually for households at or below 50% of the federal poverty line, and up to $2,200 for those slightly above.
In addition to monthly assistance, CEAP covers urgent needs like AC repairs during heat emergencies.
Local community action agencies manage applications and eligibility checks.
Georgia Power customers meeting income requirements (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level) can qualify for a $33.50 discount each month, which adds up to $402 per year.
This discount applies to specific parts of the bill, including metered service and fuel cost recovery.
Southern California Edison’s Energy Assistance Fund offers up to $200, or $300 for all-electric households, in emergency relief.
PG&E customers facing disconnection can access the REACH program for a one-time credit of up to $300.
These programs are run by utility companies in partnership with nonprofits.
Even if you don’t live in one of these states, help may still be available.
Seventeen states and Washington, DC have rules preventing summer shut-offs, meaning utility companies cannot disconnect service during extreme heat if bills are overdue.
Every state also offers LIHEAP, which includes bill payment support and crisis assistance for urgent needs.
Financial aid isn’t the only option. Small steps can reduce bills, too:
Staying cool and comfortable during the summer doesn’t have to come at the cost of financial stress.
With a mix of state programs, federal assistance, and simple energy-saving habits, many households can find some relief from rising bills.
The key is knowing what resources are available and taking advantage of them—because a little support can go a long way in keeping families safe and secure.
Read next: Unlock $200 savings this summer: Experts reveal 4 surprising perks of the “vampire solution” for your energy bills
Rising utility costs affect nearly everyone, but assistance programs can make a real difference for families who qualify. Do you think more states should expand guaranteed energy relief, or should the focus be on encouraging conservation at home? Let us know below!
Across the country, millions of households are struggling to keep up with record-high utility costs, especially during summer heatwaves.
For seniors and others on fixed incomes, these expenses can be more than just stressful—they can also put health and safety at risk.
The good news is that several states are stepping up with new programs, some offering hundreds or even thousands of dollars in assistance.
Depending on where you live, you could save as much as $2,400 this year by tapping into these resources.
Energy assistance programs can provide financial relief during peak summer months. Image Source: Pexels / eric anada.
Why energy bills are rising
Utility costs are going up due to a mix of rising fuel prices, inflation, and increased demand during extreme weather.
Power companies are also investing in updating aging infrastructure, which adds to the costs passed on to customers.
The Energy Information Administration projects that the average household will spend around $784 on electricity from June through September this year—the highest in over a decade.
For families already on tight budgets, those numbers can feel overwhelming.
Also read: Could you be saving $175 on your summer energy bills without even applying?
States leading the way with assistance
While federal help through LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is available nationwide, certain states are going further with their own initiatives.
New Jersey: Automatic credits
Through the Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) program, eligible New Jersey residents automatically receive $175 in utility bill credits spread over the summer.
No applications are needed—the credits appear on bills for those already enrolled in the state’s Winter Termination Program.
Texas: Large-scale support
The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) in Texas provides up to $2,400 annually for households at or below 50% of the federal poverty line, and up to $2,200 for those slightly above.
In addition to monthly assistance, CEAP covers urgent needs like AC repairs during heat emergencies.
Local community action agencies manage applications and eligibility checks.
Also read: Cut $235 off your energy bills with these 6 simple tricks—plus, the “layering” hack that saves $140 instantly!
Georgia: Monthly savings
Georgia Power customers meeting income requirements (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level) can qualify for a $33.50 discount each month, which adds up to $402 per year.
This discount applies to specific parts of the bill, including metered service and fuel cost recovery.
California: Emergency one-time aid
Southern California Edison’s Energy Assistance Fund offers up to $200, or $300 for all-electric households, in emergency relief.
PG&E customers facing disconnection can access the REACH program for a one-time credit of up to $300.
These programs are run by utility companies in partnership with nonprofits.
Also read: Heating bills surge to 12-year high—some states warn of shut-offs ahead
Other protections nationwide
Even if you don’t live in one of these states, help may still be available.
Seventeen states and Washington, DC have rules preventing summer shut-offs, meaning utility companies cannot disconnect service during extreme heat if bills are overdue.
Every state also offers LIHEAP, which includes bill payment support and crisis assistance for urgent needs.
Also read: Protect your wallet: Millions of Americans could face sky-high energy bills—avoid a $727 shock
Simple ways to save at home
Financial aid isn’t the only option. Small steps can reduce bills, too:
- Keep curtains closed during the day to block sunlight.
- Replace or clean AC filters often to improve efficiency.
- Set ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cooler air downward.
- Avoid ovens and dryers during peak heat hours.
- Wear light clothing and switch to breathable bedding.
- Drink plenty of water to stay cool naturally.
Also read: This simple trick could slash your energy bill by $38 every month—Find out how!
How to apply
- Start with LIHEAP through Benefits.gov or your local community action agency.
- Check your utility company’s website for special assistance programs.
- Contact your state’s public utility commission or human services office for additional resources.
Staying cool and comfortable during the summer doesn’t have to come at the cost of financial stress.
With a mix of state programs, federal assistance, and simple energy-saving habits, many households can find some relief from rising bills.
The key is knowing what resources are available and taking advantage of them—because a little support can go a long way in keeping families safe and secure.
Read next: Unlock $200 savings this summer: Experts reveal 4 surprising perks of the “vampire solution” for your energy bills
Rising utility costs affect nearly everyone, but assistance programs can make a real difference for families who qualify. Do you think more states should expand guaranteed energy relief, or should the focus be on encouraging conservation at home? Let us know below!
