ST. PAUL – As a stretch of bitter-cold temperatures hits the region, Rep. Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, is reminding residents that heating assistance is available to those who are struggling to pay their bills.
“Nobody should have to choose between putting food on their table or paying their heating bill but, unfortunately, economic uncertainty and restrictions placed on our state over the last several months have caused more people to face difficult financial circumstances,” Demuth said. “Anyone who is having problems paying their heating bill is encouraged to see if they qualify for assistance that is available through the state, even if it is just a short-term tool to help stay afloat until things get back on track. In the meantime, it is very important to work with your utility company to see if an agreeable payment plan can be set up to avoid falling too far behind on your bill.”
The state’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program, Demuth said, serves both renters and homeowners, providing financial assistance to pay past due energy bills to avoid disconnection, to purchase emergency full, or to repair or replace a homeowner’s malfunctioning furnace.
Eligibility guidelines apply and are based on the household’s past three months of income. The EAP is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The application period is open until May 31 and you can visit www.mn.gov/commerce/eap.jsp to determine eligibility or to learn more about the EAP.
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