Posted on August 3, 2020
THIS IS IMPORTANT FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES
COVID UTILITY PROTECTION ENDS SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
Protection can continue until October 31, 2020, if families call to get coded for HARDSHIP or WINTER protection.
The PURA (Public Utilities Regulatory Authority) July 21, 2020 ruling agrees to extend protection through October 31, 2020 for families who are coded as Hardship customers. On November 1, Hardship customers are protected from utility shutoff by the winter protection moratorium, which is effective through May 1.
Families can use information below to get Hardship or Winter Protection
To get Hardship or Winter Protection:
- Call your utility company
- Ask to be coded “Hardship” or “Winter” protection
Companies must offer a payment plan you can afford. Ask about:
- Below Budget Worksheet (payment of $50 or $75 per month regardless of back bill)
- New Start (affordable monthly payment/entire back balance forgiven if 12 months of consistent payments)
- Matching Payment Programs (affordable monthly payment as low as $75.00 – balance reduction)
- Energy Assistance (payment toward back heat bill – you can also call your local Community Action Agency)
- Operation Fuel (financial assistance for unpaid back bills for qualified customers)
FAMILIES SHOULD CALL NOW TO EXTEND UTILITY PROTECTION AND GET A PAYMENT PLAN
- United Illuminating: 800-722-5584
- Eversource: 800-286-2000
- Connecticut Natural Gas: 860-727-3000
- Southern Connecticut Gas: 800-659-8299
For help or more information:
- Bonnie Roswig, Center for Children’s Advocacy: 860-566-0836 or broswig@cca-ct.org
- United Way: 211 InfoLine
- Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA): 800-382-4586
