Alabama Electric Bill Assistance

Alabama residents are blessed to have several different sources of electric bill help. These programs can help those in need keep their lights on.

Alabama Power customers who also receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Aid for Families with Dependents (AFDC) may qualify to have their monthly service charge waived, lowering their electric bill.

Alabama residents can also benefit from the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program particularly targets those with the lowest income and the highest energy bills relative to their income. Recipients must not have household income greater than 150% of the federal poverty level, and preference is given to households with vulnerable members: the elderly, young children, and people with disabilities.

This program, which is managed by the state Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), can be applied for through your Community Action Agency or local non-profit organization. Jefferson County Committee for Economic Opportunity serves the Birmingham area while Mobile Community Action Agency serves Mobile. Montgomery residents can seek information about the LIHEAP program through the Montgomery Community Action Agency.

The Red Cross administers Project SHARE which helps the elderly, people with disabilities, and families with low incomes pay their power bills. This program is funded by electric companies and their customers.

Most local power companies in Alabama participate in Operation Warm. This program particularly targets those who don’t qualify for LIHEAP. Contact your power company for more information.

The Huntsville Assistance Program can help a limited number of people in the Huntsville area each week who are struggling with their electric bills. Other programs may be available in your community.

The Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fund may help you weatherize your house, lowering your energy bills long-term. The Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers this program.

Hopefully one or more of these electric bill assistance programs will be able to help you out of your crisis situation. Even if you do not meet the strict requirements for a bill adjustment, you may still qualify for cash assistance through a referral to one of the many community assistance organizations that have some funds earmarked for helping individuals and families avoid electricity disconnections due to nonpayment.

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