Utility Assistance Programs



WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS?

Requirements vary, but in general these programs are available to low-income and disabled individuals and their families in Mahoning County.

To take advantage of these programs, apply in person at the MYCAP offices, 101 Federal Plaza East, Suite 200 in downtown Youngstown. Bring the following with you:

  • Social Security cards (for every member of your household)
  • A photo I.D.
  • Proof of your income for the past 12 months
  • Proof of ownership (if you're a homeowner)
  • A copy of your current gas and electric bills
  • Proof of alternate fuel use (if you heat your home with something other than gas or electricity)

IF YOU'RE HAVING TROUBLE PAYING YOUR HEATING BILLS…

…there are several programs that may help you.

The Regular HEAP Program (Home Energy Assistance Program) may help you pay part of your gas or electric bill, and may also help if you use bulk fuel (oil, propane, etc.).

Under this program, partial payments are sent directly to the utility company and will show up as a credit on your December, January and February bills. Remember that the HEAP program is not a guarantee against shutoff. You must still pay the amount due on each month's bill to maintain service.

The Percentage of Income Plan (PIP) may also help you if you meet income guidelines. It allows you to maintain your gas or electric service by paying between 10 and 15 percent of your total monthly household income.

IF YOU'RE FACING A SHUTOFF OF GAS OR ELECRICAL SERVICE…

The Emergency HEAP program can provide up to $175 to you if you're a qualified low-income customer. This payment must be used to help you avoid a shutoff of gas or electric service, to restore your service, or to pay a security deposit. It can also help if you use bulk fuel to heat your home.

Only one emergency payment may be used per heating season (generally November 1 through March 31). When applying for Emergency HEAP, be sure to bring your shutoff notice in addition to the items listed above.

For more information email: jellis@my-cap.org