INDIANAPOLIS — When the temperatures drop, bills pop.
That is why assistance programs are available to help out. One option is the federally funded Energy Assistance Program. It's a one-time annual benefit now accepting applicants.
Income eligibility is based on a person's last three months of income.
For a two-person household, income cannot exceed $9,727 in three months. Annually, that works out to $38,911.
Indiana's moratorium law says that from Dec. 1 through Mar. 15, a regulated utility company cannot turn off residential utility service if the customer is eligible and has applied to the Energy Assistance Program.
If you make more money than that, Lydia Waston with United Way of Central Indiana said there is the Winter Assistance Fund.
"We're in our first two weeks" Watson said. "We have given out shy of $40,000."
Waston said they, too, look at your last three months of income.
For a two-person household, applicants must make more money than the EAP requirement, but less than $11,091 in three months. Annually, that works out to $44,365.
"Applicants do need to live in Marion County, or they can be serviced by Citizens Energy Group or AES," Watson added.
To apply online, you will need your ID, bills and proof of income.
While the Winter Assistance Fund is typically one-time benefit, you can upload more than one bill in the application.
"We try to help pay for both, so you don't have to choose between which utility you want assistance with. We'll help with the AES and the Citizens bill," Watson said.