Struggling to pay your monthly electric bill in Florida? You’re not alone. Many families face financial hardship and have trouble affording basic necessities like electricity. The good news is that there are programs and resources in Florida to help you pay your electric bill and keep the lights on. This guide will walk you through the main options to find bill assistance if you live in Florida.
Check if You Qualify for LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federal program that provides help for low-income households to pay energy bills. LIHEAP offers grants, crisis assistance, and weatherization services. To qualify for LIHEAP in Florida, your household income must be below 150% of the federal poverty level. For example, the 2021 limit for a family of 4 was $39,750 annually or $3,312.50 monthly. You can apply for LIHEAP through your local county government office or community assistance agency. The LIHEAP program in Florida can help you:
- Get a monthly discount on your electric bill
- Receive emergency financial aid if your service is shut off
- Repair broken heating and cooling equipment
- Improve insulation and weatherize your home
So if money is tight, see if you meet the income criteria for LIHEAP to lower your electricity costs.
Look Into FPUC and Utility Company Programs
Many electric companies in Florida have assistance programs and funds to help customers pay their bills. Florida Public Utilities Company (FPUC), which serves areas like West Palm Beach, has an Energy Assistance program It partners with community organizations that provide monthly bill discounts, emergency financial aid, and access to food, medical care, and housing services.
Other major electric providers like Florida Power & Light (FPL), Duke Energy, and Tampa Electric have similar assistance programs When you call your electric company, ask about available payment plans, extensions, and bill help for low income families They can check if you qualify for any special assistance funds and programs.
Search Local Energy Assistance Agencies
Each county and city in Florida has community assistance agencies and nonprofit organizations. These local groups administer electric bill help programs, distribute aid from LIHEAP and utility companies, and offer extra services
- Emergency bill payment assistance
- Free budgeting and money management classes
- Help applying for food stamps, housing, healthcare
- Job search assistance
To find an agency near you, call 2-1-1 or search online for “energy assistance” and your county. Local churches and charities like United Way may also provide utility bill help for struggling families.
Check for Elderly Assistance Programs
In Florida, elderly residents can get extra help paying utility bills. The Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program (EHEAP) gives emergency aid to low income seniors age 60+. With EHEAP funds, seniors can pay past-due electric and heating bills. Call the Florida Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337 to learn more about EHEAP eligibility and how to apply.
See If You Qualify for State Welfare Programs
If you meet low income criteria, welfare programs like Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) can help pay electric bills. TCA provides monthly cash aid to pregnant women and families with children under 18. You can use TCA grants to cover housing, utility costs, food, healthcare and more. Apply for TCA benefits through your local Department of Children and Families office.
Use Payment Plans and Billing Options
Before your electric service gets disconnected, call your provider immediately to set up a payment plan. They may give you extra time to pay your bill or arrange installment payments. Ask about budget billing to get a fixed monthly amount based on your usage. And have your bill sent paperless and set up auto-pay deductions to avoid late fees. Using billing and payment options can help avoid service interruptions.
Know Your Rights and Avoid Scams
Florida has laws that protect utility customers from unfair disconnections. Your electric company must provide written notice before shutting off service. And they can’t disconnect you for nonpayment on weekends, holidays, or extreme weather days. Beware of scams where someone calls threatening to shut off your power immediately unless you pay. Always call your electric provider directly using the number on your bill if you get a suspicious call.
Keep these tips in mind when looking for electric bill assistance in Florida. Reach out right away if you are struggling to make payments. You can find programs to help lower your monthly costs and avoid disconnection. With some research and making calls, you can find an electric bill assistance program that meets your needs.
Help with electric bills can be tricky to get
FAQ
How can I get help paying my electric bill in Florida?
What if I can’t pay my FPL bill?
What is the Florida financial hardship program?
What is the Leap Program in Florida?
Are there other utility bill assistance programs in Florida?
There are a number of other utility bill assistance programs in Florida as well. In a weather-related crisis, families or individuals that have a home emergency that was caused by a specific weather disaster, such as a windstorm, hurricane, flooding, etc., can work with LIHEAP and the Mid-Florida Community Services to obtain assistance.
How can I get help with energy bills in Florida?
For help with energy bills in Florida, click here for LIHEAP and weatherization. Florida community action agencies can also help with energy bills. They are often a source for government grants, information on free energy conservation measures, disabled or elderly assistance (from the government and non-profits) and more.
Does Florida Power & Light pay energy bills?
Federal government funds and grants can be used to pay energy bills for Florida Power and Light customers. Currently the program can pay for up to one month’s worth of utility bills, reconnection fees, and other financial assistance. There is a toll free number for people to call to get customer service.
How do I get help paying my FPL electric bill?
There are a number of assistance programs offered, only some of which are listed above. Call Florida Power and Light at 1 (888) 988-8249 or 1-800-226-3545 for information. Find help paying FPL electric bills.
How do I get help with my electric bill in Clay County?
For assistance with your electric bill in Clay County, you can call 850-222-2043 or 850-891-4968. Clay County Utility offers help to the disabled and seniors through programs like Golden Opportunities. Another option is Lend a Hand, which is available for low income customers facing a crisis. Those who qualify may be provided a grant for their electric bills.
How can low income customers get financial assistance in Florida?
Low income customers in Florida may be able to receive financial assistance from local electric, gas, and utility companies. Find how to get help, including grants or other financial aid, to pay utility bills or a deposit. There are also discounts for seniors, payment plans, deferral programs, and other resources.
