The Electric Universal Service Program assists low-income electric customers with paying their electric bills. This enhanced program is funded by a small portion of all electric customers’ bills, similar to other energy assistance programs.
Because all utility rates are frozen, the costs of this program will not result in an increase in utility rates for any rate payers.
This program may help eligible electric customers in three ways:
1. Help to Pay Your Past Due Electric Bills
If you owe past due electric bills as of July 1, 2000, you may be eligible for help to pay them. Help may be available whether you have active electric service now or if you don’t have service and want to start.
2. Help to Pay Your Current Electric Bill
If you are eligible, assistance will be sent directly to your electric company to help pay ongoing bills. This benefit will be deducted from an estimate of your total annual bills and divided by 12. You will pay the remaining amount due in equal monthly payments.
3. Weatherization Services
Some electric customers may receive help to improve energy efficiency in their homes. Both homeowners and renters may be eligible.
Other Programs
Even if you receive help from the Maryland Energy Assistance Program or other financial aid, you should also apply for the Electric Universal Service Program. Eligible customers may receive help from more than one program. Only one application is needed.
Who is Eligible?
The Electric Universal Service Program is available to all eligible Maryland electric customers, including homeowners and renters. You may be eligible if your income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. Customers who live in subsidized housing where heat is included in the rent may also be eligible for help from the Electric Universal Service Program.
Income Eligibility Standards:
July 1, 2003 - June 30, 2004
Household
Size
|
Maximum Monthly
Income Standards
|
Maximum Yearly
Income Standards
|
|
1
|
$1,123
|
$13,470
|
|
2
|
$1,515
|
$18,180
|
|
3
|
$1,908
|
$22,890
|
|
4
|
$2,300
|
$27,600
|
|
5
|
$2,693
|
$32,310
|
|
6
|
$3,085
|
$37,020
|
|
Each additional person add:
|
$393
|
$4,710
|
The program is administered by the Department of Human Resources, Office of Home Energy Programs. To find out more about the program or to get an application, call toll-free at 1-800-352-1446 (TTY for people with hearing impairments: 1-800-925-4434) or visit the web site. Applications are also available at your local energy assistance office.
The Maryland Energy Assistance Program will still be available for customers who qualify. Eligibility is determined without regard to age, race, sex, color, disability, national origin, religious or political belief.
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