Seek assistance before utilities are disconnected

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) and the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA), encourage electric and natural gas utility customers with outstanding bills, to make payment arrangements with their provider or apply for financial assistance, before the moratorium on utility disconnections ends.

The annual winter moratorium, from Nov. 1 to April 15, prohibits all utility providers from disconnecting residential heating services for non-payment. Customers who are behind on their bills may be at risk of disconnection, if payment arrangements are not established by April 15.

Through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP), approximately 200,000 Wisconsin households, received nearly $160 million in assistance with monthly utility expenses, last fiscal year. So far this fiscal year, nearly 145,000 households have received $74 million in assistance and help remains available.

“We’re proud that WHEAP helps Wisconsin families keep the heat and lights on when they need it most,” said DOA secretary Kathy Blumenfeld.

To avoid disconnection, customers who have fallen behind on payments, are encouraged first to contact their utility to set up a payment plan. If customers are having difficulty paying their energy bills, they may be eligible for assistance from WHEAP.

To apply online, visit energybenefit.wi.gov; to apply by phone, call the statewide customer care center, at 800506-5596.

Utilities are required to offer Deferred Payment Agreements (DPA) to residential customers who cannot pay an outstanding bill in full. Municipal utilities are not required to offer DPAs to tenants, but many still do so.

If customers cannot reach an agreement with their utility, they can contact the PSC, by calling 608-266-2001.