Energy Assistance FAQ
What is it?
Energy Assistance is a program designed to assist low-income Homeowners & Renters with payments toward their home energy bill(s).
Who can apply?
Families, single people, and seniors who meet the eligibility guidelines.
When can I apply?
The Energy Assistance program begins on October 1st each year, and ends May 31st the following year.
How do I get an application?
Applications can be mailed to you by contacting our Energy Assistance office at 507-345-6822. The application is available on this website, CLICK HERE. You may also stop in our office to pick up an application. Locations
How is an Energy Assistance grant determined?
An energy grant is based on the cost to heat your home the previous heating season, household size and household income.
What are the eligibility guidelines?
Click Here
Will Energy Assistance pay my entire bill?
Your energy grant amount is based on the above information. Each household's grant amount is different and has no reflection on how much is owed to the utility company. Remember, this is an assistance program and it is not designed to pay all you heating related utility costs. You are responsible for your utility bills and will need to make monthly payments to maintain your service.
Do I need to wait for a disconnection or final notice to apply?
NO - If you feel you meet the eligibility guidelines for the Energy Assistance program, apply as soon as you can, this program has limited funding.
How long will it take?
Applications are processed on a first come first serve basis and are generally processed within 30-60 days, depending on the program funding and the information you provide. An incomplete application will delay processing.
Does Energy Assistance pay all my utility bills?
NO - Payments may be made to your heating and electric utilities only. This program does not make payments toward water, sewer, garbage, removal, or phone bills. However, if you are approved for the Energy Assistance program, you may be eligible for a discount on your phone service. When you received your approval letter from the Energy Assistance program contact your phone company and request an application for the Telephone Assistance Program.
Does Energy Assistance pay on my bill every month?
NO - The energy assistance grant amount is a one-time assistance, payable in 1 to 4 payments and deposited directly to your utility account.
How often can I apply for Energy Assistance?
One time per heating season, the season starts October 1st and ends May 31st the following year.
What if I need more assistance with my utility bills?
If you are in one of these situations - past due bill / final notice / disconnected / low or out of fuel - you may be eligible for the Energy Assistance Emergency Benefit fund. If you applied and received the Primary grant you could be eligible for this benefit. If the emergency Benefit funding is not available or you do not meet the requirements, we have a listing of other resources that you may contact to see if they can assist you.
Can the utility company shut me off in the winter?
YES - You can be shut off any time of the year if you owe on your bill. However, if you contact your utility company and apply for the Cold Weather Rule protection and you meet the payment requirements, you will be protected from disconnection of your service during October 15th and April 15th. You will need to make monthly payments for this protection.
What if I need help filling out the application?
Mn Valley Action Council has an Energy Assistance staff and Outreach program that may be able to assist you. Contact our office to request this service. Click Here
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