Escalating Cost of Utility Bills in Alabama
According to WBRC, it is estimated that the average household in Alabama will spend more each month on sewer, water, and electricity. This will be even more so for customers of Alabama Power, Birmingham Water Works, and Jefferson County Sewer. Another study published in the Huntsville Business Journal indicates that 41% of all Alabama households are behind in paying their utility bills. While inflation is certainly one factor that is contributing to this steady rise in utility prices in the state, there are many other factors at play as well. Utility prices in the state continue to rise to over 16% per kWh compared to the same period last year.
Alabama has received federal funds for energy assistance
According to the Energy Information Administration, Alabama home heating costs will rise 27% this year. The LIHEAP program gave the state of Alabama $98 million to help low-income families heat their homes this winter. That could mean remaining warm or paying for food or medicine for many.
For over 40 years, the LIHEAP program has assisted low-income families with house heating and cooling. It also helps eligible Alabama residents buy heating and cooling equipment and conduct small energy-related home repairs (weatherization).
Alabama Utility Assistance through LIHEAP
The Alabama utility assistance program is operated by the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It’s funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. With the help of LIHEAP, low-income families can get help with their home energy costs, which include heating and cooling their homes. They can also become more energy independent and less vulnerable to fluctuating energy costs. As part of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA)’s low-income home energy assistance program, local nonprofit organizations and community action agencies are contracted to assist low-income households throughout the state with their energy needs.
Low-income households are the target population, specifically those with the lowest incomes and those with the highest energy costs, based on family size, as well as those with the highest energy needs in relation to their incomes. It is also important to target low-income households that have members who are particularly vulnerable, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, and young children. The applicant’s household income can’t be more than 150% of the federal poverty level in order for them to get financial help.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must be a resident of Alabama and demonstrate the need for utility assistance. This can be documentation showing a disconnect or impending disconnect of your utilities due to non-payment. You are also automatically eligible if you participate in SNAP, SSI, TANF, or any other government benefit program.
Income eligibility
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,385 |
| 2 | $27,465 |
| 3 | $34,545 |
| 4 | $41,625 |
| 5 | $48,705 |
| 6 | $55,785 |
| 7 | $62,865 |
| 8 | $69,945 |
How to Apply
To Apply for Alabama LIHEAP call 334-242-4909
Additional Resources
Alabama Department of Human Resources
Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program
