Winter and colder temperatures mean rising energy costs, but there are several programs available to residents struggling to afford their heating bills.

Whether it be state assistance, protection from service shutoff, payment plans or energy efficiency improvements, there is a program that can help almost everyone.

Direct Assistance:

• You may qualify for up to $530 to help pay your heating bill through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and potentially more from the Matching Payment Program. Apply online here or visit your local Community Action Agency. You can also find your closest CAA by calling 211.

Protection from Service Shut-Off:

• Winter Protection prevents gas or electric service from being shut off from November 1 through May 1 for customers facing financial hardship. You may also be eligible for Medical Protection if anyone in your home is seriously ill or has a life-threatening situation.

Financial Assistance and Payment Plans:

• The Matching Payment Program can lower the amount you owe on energy bills. For every dollar you pay, and every dollar you receive from the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), Eversource will subtract a dollar from the amount you owe.
• You may be eligible for a 10% or 50% discount off your electric bill per month based on your household income or receipt of a public assistance benefit if you have a financial hardship status on your account.
• Flexible Payment Plans of up to 18 months are available to help all residential customers with active accounts to help pay off past due amounts, regardless of their income.
• With Budget Billing, pay a fixed amount each month based on your average energy usage to avoid spikes in your bill during heating and cooling seasons.

Energy Efficiency:

• Eversource has energy efficiency programs, incentives, and money-saving tips to help you reduce your overall energy use during the colder months.

To learn more about these programs, and which one may be right for you, call 1-800-286-2828 or visit eversource.com/billhelp.

We encourage you to take advantage of these programs if you need help keeping your home warm this winter.