Need Help Paying Your Utility Bills?

Income-eligible home owners and renters may apply for financial assistance programs to help pay their utility bills.

"There are a number of programs to help eligible residents, and it helps to stay informed," said Union County Freeholder Chairman Daniel P. Sullivan.  "If you have any questions, contact the Union County Department of Human Services at 908-558-2560.  Seniors age 60 and older can also call the County's Division on Aging toll free hotline at 888-280-8226."

The following programs serve eligible Union County households:

• NJSHARES:  Provides one-time assistance to individuals and families needing temporary help with energy bills. Eligible households must have a history of good faith payments of utility bills and not be eligible for welfare.  Call 1-866-657-4273 or visit www.njshares.org.

• Comfort Partners: Serves income eligible households by installing free energy efficiency equipment, and providing education about saving energy.  Call 1-888-773-8326.

• LIHEAP: Helps pay for heat (even if included in rent), and may cover certain medically necessary cooling costs.  Call 1-800-510-3102.

• Universal Service Fund: Helps neediest households by using a percentage of income formula. Benefits appear as a credit on the electric and/or gas bill.  First time participants may also qualify to earn forgiveness for pre- existing arrearages by making full, on-time payments for 12 months. Call 1-866-240-1347 or visit www.energyassistance.nj.gov.

• Winter Termination Program: Helps prevents residential gas and electric customers from having their gas or electric service disconnected during the winter months. Call 1-800-624-0241.

• Lifeline Program:  Offers a grant to seniors and the disabled who meet the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled eligibility requirements or who receive federal Supplemental Security Income. Includes customers whose utility bills are included in their rent. Benefits are provided for electricity and gas. For information call 1-800-792-9745.

• Telephone Assistance: Telephone assistance is generally available to persons who receive other forms of utility assistance, or who meet certain other criteria.  Contact your telephone company for more information.  Union County seniors age 60 and older may call the county's Division on Aging, toll-free at 888-280-8226.