Customers who are struggling to keep up with their winter heating bills may qualify for assistance in Wisconsin or Michigan.Wisconsin
The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) provides assistance to more than 200,000 Wisconsin families annually. The benefit amount is determined by household size, income level, energy costs and other factors. An individual with an annual income of approximately $24,700 or less may qualify. Families of four that earn up to approximately $47,500 also may qualify for assistance.
Higher heating bills due to the harsh winter could lead to a higher demand for energy assistance. Those who may qualify for WHEAP assistance should apply early to receive funding while it’s still available.
Wisconsin residents are encouraged to call 866-HEATWIS (432-8947) or visit the website for more information:
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program
Michigan
The Michigan Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program assists low-income households, particularly those with the lowest incomes, that pay a high proportion of household income for home energy, primarily in meeting their immediate home energy needs.
Michigan customers can contact the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) at 517-636-4486 to obtain information about energy assistance and social service agencies.
Information and an online application also are available on the DHS website, which includes sections for Heat and Utility assistance as well as Energy and Weatherization assistance:
Michigan DHS Home Services
Other ways to manage energy bills
Those who do not qualify for WHEAP or the Michigan LIHEAP have some other options available to help manage their bills:
- Setting up a payment plan. You may qualify for a flexible payment plan to help you catch up on your bills. Payment plan information
- Switching to budget bill. You can even out your payments and avoid spikes that can occur during cold winters and hot summers. You pay the same each month, with semi-annual adjustments for actual usage. Budget bill information
- Saving energy. You can use energy more wisely going forward to keep more money available to pay bills and meet other needs. Energy-saving ideas
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