Heating Cost Relief Could be Just a Phone Call Away
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-03-23 12:23:49.180201-05:00
Deadline to Apply Extended to April 30, 2007
We've changed the clocks back already-spring must be around the corner. But if you're a New Jersey resident who is having trouble covering winter's high heating costs, you still have time to apply for assistance through the LiHEAP and NJ SHARES program.
As you may already know, energy costs keep increasing, leaving many families wondering how to cope with higher bills. According to an October study from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, energy costs are soaring at a rate of 47.5% a year. The increase affects millions of American families struggling to keep warm each winter.
LiHEAP, which stands for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, was established to help qualifying families and individuals meet their home energy costs. Whether you own or rent a home, you might be able to apply for assistance through LiHEAP. All it takes is a simple phone call or visit to the program's website to begin the application process.
For 2007, the maximum qualifying monthly income for a 2-person household was $1,925. The amount of the LiHEAP benefit is determined by income, household size, fuel type and heating region. According to LiHEAP's 2007 Fact Sheet, an eligible household that heats with natural gas or electricity may have its benefits directly forwarded to its utility company. Otherwise, in most cases, eligible households directly responsible to a fuel supplier for payment of home heating costs receive a two-party check in the name of the applicant and the fuel supplier.
When applying, you might need to provide copies of your utility bills, proof of household income and other documents, but it could be well worth your time. Most families who qualify receive hundreds of dollars in relief.
To begin the application process, contact the New Jersey LiHEAP office at 1-800-510-3102, or visit their Web site, before April 30.
If you are over the LiHEAP income level for assistance and have a financial emergency, help may be available through NJ SHARES (1-866-657-4273). NJ SHARES stands for the New Jersey Statewide Heating Assistance and Referral for Energy Services. It is a non-profit organization established in 1998 by New Jersey's leading energy companies and non-profit organizations. NJ SHARES provides assistance to New Jersey residents who have fallen behind on their utility bills due to a temporary financial crisis.
Thanks to programs like LiHEAP and NJ SHARES, families can find solutions to meet high energy costs.
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