New Jersey energy aid applications open for Utility bills and heating costs
The short version
- The application period runs through June 30, 2027.
- If your household needs help with gas or electric bills, apply now at nj.gov/dca/dcaid.
- Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
New Jersey households can now apply for federal LIHEAP heating benefits and USF monthly credits. Applications for the state Utility aid program opened on October 1, giving residents a single way to apply for both programs at the same time. While USF delivers recurring monthly credits that help eligible households better afford natural gas and electric service, LIHEAP provides lump sum benefit aid with home heating costs.
The aid covers gas, electric, deliverable fuels, and help for those with energy costs included in their rent. LIHEAP also provides medically necessary cooling expenses, emergency aid funds when in danger of disconnection, and heating repair and replacement. The LIHEAP application period runs through June 30, 2027, with applications processed on a first-come, first-served basis while funding remains available.
Hertz-Shargel said that energy aid is an essential part of the work to make New Jersey more affordable. Beyond USF and LIHEAP, New Jersey also offers the Winter Termination Program through the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, which is a state agency and regulatory authority mandated to ensure safe, adequate and proper Utility services at reasonable rates.
That program provides protection against Utility service disconnections for qualifying households during the winter months, from November 15 through March 15. Residents can call their Utility company during the protection period and request to be enrolled. Income limits and program eligibility information is available at www.energyassistance.nj.gov, or residents can call 1-800-510-3102 for information about program eligibility, available aid, in-person help, and application status updates. If your household is having difficulty paying Utility bills, apply promptly before funds run out.
