How to Get Help With Your Electric Bill
Need help with your electric bill? Learn about the various places you can get it.
If you’ve faced a sudden loss of income, you may find it difficult to pay your electricity bill. The good news is there are a number of ways you can cover it and keep your lights on during these times.
How to Get Emergency Help with Your Electric Bill
Here’s what you can do when you need help with your electric bill.
Contact the Utility Company
Call your utility company as soon as you realize you may not be able to pay your bill. They may be able to work with you to come up with an affordable payment plan. Chances are they’ll be understanding of your situation and ensure you’ll receive electricity even if you’re struggling with your payments. Be sure to jot down when you called them, who you spoke to, and what they agreed on – get an email confirmation if possible.
Ask About Utility Company Relief Programs
Many utility companies have created special programs for customers who need help with their electric bill.
JEA in Florida, for example, is crediting customer accounts during COVID, allowing them to save up to $25 per month on electricity. Tacoma Public Utilities in Washington is offering a similar emergency bill credit to customers in need.
It’s a good idea to visit your utility company’s website or give them a call to find out if they have any programs, similar to these, in place.
Research Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is a federal program that supports approximately 6 million low-income households each year with utility bills. If you qualify, LIHEAP can send money directly to your utility company to cover a portion of your bill. They can also help you improve the energy efficiency of your home by sealing doors or windows, installing insulation, or fixing a broken air conditioner or furnace. Since each state receives a different amount of government funding, your location, as well as your household size and income, will dictate whether you’re eligible.
Request Charity Aid
Charitable organizations can provide you with the temporary financial relief you need to keep your utilities running. These nonprofits have funds set aside to support people who are experiencing financial hardship, so don’t hesitate to contact them.
Salvation Army, Jewish Federation of North America, Catholic Charities, and Love Inc. are several examples of national organizations that have programs built to assist those facing shutoffs. You can contact these organizations directly to see how they can help you pay your bill on time.
Look into Short-Term Loan Options
Also known as a cash advance, a payday loan is a small-dollar loan that typically aligns with your income dates – meaning that you’ll pay back your loan when you get your next paycheck. It’ll likely come with a fee for every $100 borrowed up to a certain amount, which is determined by the regulations in your state.
For over 20 years, Advance America has proudly served the hardworking with personal loan options. Advance America combines a 5-star Trustpilot customer service rating with a simple application and instant approval decisions to make the process seamless. You can apply for a payday loan in-store and walk out the door with cash. In some states, you can also apply for a payday loan online and receive money in as soon as 24 hours within your application. A payday loan is a fast, convenient way to cover your electric bill.
Make an Effort to Reduce Your Electricity Bill
The lower your electricity bill is, the easier it’ll be for you to pay for it. So try to do what you can to reduce it as much as possible by washing and drying dishes by hand and make sure to clean your HVAC filters on a regular basis. Also, don’t forget to turn your lights off when you’re not using them. You can also plan to save towards longer-term energy efficient items like a programmable thermostat or insulating your home. By following these easy tips, you’ll find your electricity bill to be more affordable.
Advance America Can Help with Your Electric Bill
If you need quick funds to cover your electric bill, Advance America can help. We offer a range of personal loans, like payday loans, emergency loans and installment loans, that can get you money right away. Getting a loan is a quick and easy process, and you don’t need perfect credit to qualify. Once you fill out an application online or in-store, you could receive your money that same day if you get approved. Choose the loan that works for your situation to start meeting your short-term financial goals.
