If you are struggling to meet household expenses, assistance with utility bills may help. Listed below are several energy and telephone assistance programs that might be available in your community. The amount of assistance varies by program. Check with the agency that provides utility assistance in your area for information about eligibility and how to apply.
The best place to start looking for help with utilities is to call 2-1-1. They know current information about local utility assistance programs and can help with other housing needs.
Families often struggle with increased energy bills during the colder months. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible families meet home heating needs. This program has limited funds available, usually in the winter months.
If you have received a shut-off notice, or are worried about getting one, you should talk to the company where you pay your power bill. Most companies have assistance programs for emergency situations.
If your home is not energy efficient, there are Weatherization Assistance Programs. Eligible households can get free upgrades like improved insulation to help reduce future energy bills.
These resources may help income-eligible families reduce the cost of either landline or cell phone service.
The Washington Telephone Assistance Program (WTAP) provides low-income individuals a local, telephone landline for $8.00 a month. WTAP also pays for some or all of the connection fee.
Learn more about SafeLink Wireless, a government supported program that provides a free cell phone and airtime each month for income-eligible customers.
Lifeline & Link-Up are programs that provide discounts on basic monthly service and initial installation or activation fees for telephone service at the consumer’s primary residence.
Please Note: Families should carefully review ALL telephone program guidelines before applying.
If a telephone is not affordable, consider the Community Voice Mail (CVM) program. This free service can help you stay connected to a constant phone number even when your circumstances may be changing.
Requests for rental assistance, eviction prevention and emergency housing are increasing in this economic downturn. Programs and resources vary across the state. Here are several referrals to help Washington families with housing needs:
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