Iowa Electric Bill Assistance

Iowans struggling with paying their electric bill help can seek assistance from several different governmental and privately funded assistance programs.

Iowa’s share of federal LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) funds are managed through the Bureau of Energy Assistance. This program helps Iowans to pay their energy bills where they lack sufficient means. Applications are accepted at your local community action agency from November through April. Households needing assistance that have elderly or disabled members can apply in October as well. Income guidelines for this program follow 150% of the federal poverty level for your household size.

Another federally-funded program available to residents in Iowa is the Weatherization Assistance Program. This program can pay to provide your home with upgrades that will save you on energy costs.

If you live in rural Iowa, you can also benefit from the RECare program. The Rural Electric Cooperatives provide funds to help pay for heating bills of those in need.

Other Iowa electric companies have their own assistance programs. To find out what may be available through your utility company, ask. Their customer assistance department can help you find out what help they can provide.

There are two primary methods for obtaining electric bill assistance through Iowa aid agencies.

  1. Your local Department of Social Services office is the main gateway to receive government aid. This aid is provided either directly through DSS or through a community partner agency. In that case, DSS would provide the referral to the agency.
  2. The United Way provides publicly supported organizations with donations from individuals and corporations. These dollars go towards community aid organizations that meet with poor families and provide budget counseling. The easiest method to get started with a referral is to call United Way at 211. A representative can refer you to the closest aid organization and answer any initial questions that you have.
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