Many older adults find it a challenge to keep up with winter home heating bills. If you or an older loved one are struggling to pay your utility bills, there are programs to assist. Here are just a few.
Winter protections from shutoff. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) and state law require all regulated gas and electric companies, and municipal electric utilities, to provide shutoff protection for seniors, age 65 and older, during the heating season (November 1 through March 31). You will need to call your gas and or electric company to let them know you are age 65 or older to avoid a shut off during the heating season if you are unable to pay your bill.
When the heating season is over, your account will be placed on a payment plan and payment must begin immediately. Consumers Energy and DTE Energy have programs that help customers manage energy payments with extended time to pay.
Medically frail customers with an energy bill that is subject to shutoff may also qualify for shut off protections under a Medical Emergency or Critical Care shutoff protection program. To see if you qualify for either of the programs, contact your utility.
Partial payment options may be available for income-eligible DTE Energy or Consumers Energy customers who receive a shutoff notice and are unable to pay the full amount of a bill. Low-income customers of all ages may be able to make partial payments during the heating season to avoid a shut off. Contact your utility company for details.
Budget billing plans available through your utility company take the seasonal ups and downs out of your energy bills. They allow you to pay the same amount each month based on your past year’s utility bills. Call your utility to find out more.
If you’re having trouble resolving issues with your utility company, Michigan Public Service Commission staff may be able to assist. Call them toll free at 800-292-9555.
State Emergency Relief (SER) funds help may be available in paying your utility bills from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) all year long. SER is also available for fuel oil, wood or propane. You do not have to be a client of DHHS to apply for SER. Call your local DHHS office for assistance.
Income-eligible households may receive free energy conservation materials such as caulking, weather-stripping, insulation, and other services. This will help reduce energy waste and lower utility bills. Services are administered by local community action agencies and nonprofit organizations. Call DHHS at 517-241-4871 to find a local weatherization program contractor or visit the website at www.michigan.gov/weatherization.
The Home Heating Tax Credit is a way the State of Michigan helps you pay some of your heating expenses if you are a qualified Michigan homeowner or renter. You should complete the Home Heating Credit Claim MI-1040CR-7 to see if you qualify for the credit. The deadline for submitting this form is September 30, 2020. You can call 211 for form assistance.
Elder Law of Michigan also helps seniors with accessing utility assistance and tax credits through their MiCAFE network. The MiCAFE Network assists seniors to apply for, or connect with Homestead Property Tax Credit, Home Heating Credit, and State Emergency Relief program and other community programs. Call 877-664-2233, to start the application process and find the nearest MiCAFE Network site near you.
Eligible wartime veterans and their families can apply for temporary assistance for emergencies or hardships that includes energy assistance through the Michigan Veteran’s Trust Fund. Call 800-642-4838 or visit www.michiganveterans.com.
Many states, counties and cities offer additional programs to assist older adult with winter heating costs. The Area Agency on Aging is a good source of information about these and other community programs in southwest Michigan. If you have an older relative or other loved one who lives in another part of the country, you can find the Area Agency on Aging serving that community by visiting www.eldercare.acl.gov
When heating costs soar, often additional financial or other pressures arise for older adults and caregivers. Area Aging on Aging staff can answer questions on a wide range of issues and connect you to community resources and services to assist. The team of experts can be reached on the Info-Line for Aging and Disability at 800-654-2810.