PSE&G Reminds Customers To Apply For Assistance In Paying Winter Heating Bills

NEWARK, N.J., Oct. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- PSE&G is reminding customers that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now open for applications for the 2013 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-Customer Solutions. "We want to make sure those families struggling through this challenging economy 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. This same application also helps recipients with medically necessary cooling. They must meet income guidelines for a household of their size and show proof of last month's income. A family of four with a monthly income under $3,842 may be eligible and should apply. Those who recently lost their jobs or are now working reduced hours may now qualify for assistance. Income eligible 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 211 or 1-800-510 3102. Phone representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Applications also are available at PSE&G's 16 walk-in Customer Service Centers listed on your bill. Remember, applications must be submitted by April 30.

UNIVERSAL SERVICE FUND (USF)

Customers who apply for LIHEAP are automatically 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

Moderate income households not eligible for low income programs should visit www.pseg.com/help to check their eligibility for programs like the TRUE Grant or NJ SHARES. 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 are often the hand up a family needs," 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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SOURCE Public Service Electric & Gas Company (PSE&G)