HOUSTON — Additional funds are now available for Texans who need help paying their utility bills.
Texas Utility Help received an additional $48 million in federal money to help support those who need help paying their energy bills. Those who qualify can get help with their past due utility payments for electricity, natural gas and propane, up to $2,400.
Qualified homeowners and renters can also request water and wastewater bill assistance. Texas Utility Help said all payments are issued directly to the utility company on the customer's behalf.
To qualify, your household incoming must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Also, at least one person inside the home must be a United States citizen or a qualified non-citizen, according to the website.
Those who qualify are advised to apply as soon as possible to get the maximum possible benefit. The total amount of future payments will depend on when the application is approved.
If you're approved in January, you will receive $765 in future payments. Meanwhile, those who are approved in March will get $595.
If you need information, you're asked to contact Texas Utility Help toll-free at 855-566-2057.