Utility Assistance Might Be Available!
CAP - Customer Assistance Program
Jump to CAP enrollment information by utility provider
CAP, Customer Assistance Programs, are designed to help low-income residential customers maintain utility service. CAPs can help lower your monthly utility bill, and may also reduce or remove the amount you already owe. The company works with you to determine what you can pay based on your household income. (For more information on CAP, see the Act 201: Responsible Utility Customer Protection Act brochure)
Utility companies that are regulated by the PUC are required to provide CAP programs, though unregulated utilities might also offer assistance programs. Many of the utility providers offer a variety of assistance programs, including hardship grants and payment plans.
CAP is a great way to lower your overall monthly expenses to ensure that you can more comfortably afford your rent. CAP is also an avenue to ensure that your household expenses vs income are sustainable, a requirement to qualify for some rental assistance programs.
To qualify for CAP a household must be at or below 150% FPL.
CAP Enrollment Information by Utility Provider
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Duquesne Light has an online enrollment form.
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PENELEC, West Penn Power, Penn Power, and Met-Ed: To enroll, contact Dollar Energy Fund: 1-888-282-6816 or apply online.
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PECO Electric has an online enrollment form.
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People's Gas has an online enrollment form.
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Columbia Gas, to apply call (800) 537-7431 or apply online.
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PWSA offers CAP and other programs that can help you afford your bill.
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Use the online form here to apply for CAP
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Apply for a Hardship Grant by calling (866) 762-2348 (learn more)
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Learn about other programs PWSA provides by visiting their website.
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ALCOSAN: Call Dollar Energy Fund, (888) 282-6816
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LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps families living on low incomes pay their heating bills in the form of a cash grant. LIHEAP only accepts applications once or twice a year typically in the late fall or early winter.
Households in immediate danger of being without heat can also qualify for crisis grants. The cash grant is a one-time payment sent directly to the utility company/fuel provider to be credited on your bill. These grants range from $300 to $1,000 based on household size, income, and fuel type. Remember: This is a grant and does not have to be repaid. (More information on LIHEAP)
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To see if applications are being accepted, visit COMPASS