PSE&G Reminds Customers to Apply for Assistance in Paying Winter Heating Bills

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Nov 04, 2011, 02:00 ET

NEWARK, N.J., Nov. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- PSE&G is reminding customers that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now taking applications for the 2012 heating season. PSE&G heating customers typically receive about $300 toward their winter heating bills.

"We know there are many families who still are not aware of the Low Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the additional Emergency LIHEAP assistance that may be available to them," said Joseph A. Forline, PSE&G's vice president for customer operations. "We want to make sure those families struggling through this economic downturn take advantage of all the available assistance."

LIHEAP

PSE&G customers who meet the guidelines for LIHEAP may be eligible to receive an average of $300 toward their utility bill. To receive assistance, they must pay their heating costs directly, pay their landlord according to their usage, or have their heating included in their rent. They must meet income guidelines for a household of their size and show proof of last month's income. Those who recently lost their jobs or are working reduced hours may now qualify for assistance. Homeowners are also eligible and should apply.

To see if your household meets the state income guidelines and where to apply, visit www.pseg.com/help or call 1-800-510 3102 Monday – Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm. Applications also are available at the PSE&G's 16 walk-in Customer Service Centers listed on your bill. Remember, applications must be submitted by April 30, 2012.

UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND (USF)

Customers who apply for LIHEAP automatically are also screened for the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities' Universal Service Fund (USF), a program that can make electric and gas bills more affordable by providing from $5 to $150 per month toward their PSE&G bill.. This program considers income, the amount of electric and gas used and any other benefits customers may already be receiving on their utility bill. Applications for USF are the same application that is used for LIHEAP and are accepted year round.

OTHER PROGRAMS

PSE&G households that are not eligible for low income programs should visit www.pseg.com/help for other programs like the TRUE Grant. Seniors and disabled adults collecting Social Security Disability may be eligible for the New Jersey Lifeline program.

"These and other payment assistance programs are very helpful to our customers, and we hope all eligible households will take advantage of them," Forline said. "In addition, there are other ways PSE&G can help customers manage their bills, including spreading out payments to make things easier on your budget. What's important to remember is that if you find you're struggling with your bills, always give us call right away. We will work with you as best we can."

Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) is New Jersey's oldest and largest regulated gas and electric delivery utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state's population. PSE&G is the winner of the ReliabilityOne Award for superior electric system reliability. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) (NYSE: PEG), a diversified energy company (www.pseg.com).

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