If you got a utility shutoff notice, contact your utility immediately to ask about a payment plan, then apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance through your state. These steps are free.
- what this is
- Shutoff response guide
- who may qualify
- Anyone with a shutoff notice
- what you may receive
- Stopped shutoff / crisis aid
- where to check
- Utility + state LIHEAP
- cost
- Free
- deadline
- Urgent
- state
- All
- last checked
- 2026-04-30
- watch out for
- Anyone asking for payment to 'stop the shutoff'
Step 1: Call your utility
Ask about hardship plans, deferred payments, and protected status (medical, weather, etc.).
Step 2: Apply for LIHEAP crisis
State LIHEAP offices may have crisis funds for active shutoffs.
- program type
- Crisis assistance
- common benefit
- Stopped shutoff
- who it may help
- Anyone with active shutoff
- application cost
- Free
- availability
- Varies
- main documents
- Shutoff notice, ID, income
- risk warning
- Use official LIHEAP only
Anyone asking for payment to 'stop the shutoff'
FAQ
Many states require utilities to offer plans for qualifying customers — ask explicitly.
Related
How to Get Help Paying Utility Bills
LIHEAP and state programs may help with heating, cooling, and emergency energy costs.
Help Paying Rent: Where to Check First
Local emergency rental assistance, charities, and 211 are good starting points.
If you got a utility shutoff notice, contact your utility immediately to ask about a payment plan, then apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance through your state. These steps are free.
We link to the official source so you can verify eligibility, deadlines, and application steps before you apply. · Article last checked 2026-04-30.
Independent publisher. Claim What's Yours is not a government agency, law firm, tax preparer, settlement administrator, or benefits office. Always confirm eligibility, deadlines, and application details with the official source.