Having trouble paying your energy bill in PA? These programs can help keep the heat on
A Pennsylvanian spends, on average, about $194 a month on electricity, according to industry firm Energy Sage. That adds up to over $2,000 per year.
For those who are struggling to pay their bills, the state has about $188 million to give. The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program assists families with paying their heating bills through a one-time payment sent directly to the provider.
The income limit to qualify for the program is 150% of the federal poverty limit, or $20,385 for an individual and $41,625 for a family of four. The grants range from $100 to $1,000, based on factors like income and household size.
The current income limits are:
- One-person household: $20,385
- Two-person household: $27,465
- Three-person household: $34,545
- Four-person household: $41,625
- Five-person household: $48,705
- Six-person household: $55,785
- Seven-person household: $62,865
- Eight-person household: $69,945
- Nine-person household: $77,025
- 10-person household: $84,105
How to get help paying energy bills in Centre County
Any Pennsylvania resident that meets income requirements can apply online for help by visiting dhs.pa.gov/compass or calling 1-866-550-4355.
Applicants will receive a notice if selected and be informed of how much aid they will receive. There’s usually a 30-day window between when the application is submitted and the notice is received.
Centre County residents can also apply in-person at the local assistance office, located at 2580 Park Center Blvd. and open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For LIHEAP related questions, call the office at 814-861-1955.
If you live outside Centre County, you can use this federal search tool to find a LIHEAP office near you and access help filling out your application.
Other programs in Pennsylvania to cover bills
There are a handful of programs in the state put in place to help with heating and other bills for families who are struggling to make ends meet. Here’s a list of some:
- The Pennsylvania Customer Assistance Program helps customers with keeping their electric service through debt forgiveness and percentage of income payment plans. You can learn more by calling 1-800-282-6816.
The Dollar Energy Fund is an emergency fund to help those who have experienced financial hardship by providing payment straight to the company to either keep or restore service. Find help by calling 1-800-683-7036.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program helps households who have faced financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic and are at risk for possible houselessness. It provides people assistance for rent or costs of utilities.
West Penn Power has multiple assistance programs for Pennsylvania residents. To find which one best suits you, enter your household information in their online tool.
