If you need help paying your Montana utilities, there are many programs and organizations that may be able to help you! From government programs that help improve the weatherization of your home to nonprofits that will pay your past-due balance, there are many resources available to you!
In this article, we’ll guide you through the various options available to Montanans to get the assistance they need to pay their utility bills. From state programs to community resources, we’ll explore the avenues that can help you keep your utilities connected.
Government Help for Montana Utilities
When times get tough and you find yourself struggling to cover your bills, it’s reassuring to know that there are government assistance programs that offer relief for Montana utilities.
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the various avenues available to residents of the Treasure State to get help with their utility expenses. From state-run initiatives to federal assistance programs, Montana offers a range of resources to ensure that you can keep the lights on, the water flowing, and your home warm during challenging times.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers financial aid for home energy expenses to low income residents. This program helps with energy bills, emergencies, and minor energy-related home repairs. It’s one of the most reliable programs to get help with Montana utilities.
Eligibility is determined based on income, household size, and energy needs. Both renters and homeowners may be eligible as long as they meet income guidelines. If you receive SNAP, SSI or TANF benefits, you are automatically eligible for LIHEAP!
You can apply for LIHEAP between October 1 and April 30 of each year. You will need to work with your local eligibility office or Tribal LIHEAP office in order to complete your application.
Weatherization Assistance Program
If you’re eligible for LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program), you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that you could also qualify for weatherization assistance. This additional program is designed to help lower the cost of your Montana utilities by enhancing the energy efficiency of your home.
Through this program, weatherization experts evaluate your home and make improvements that will help keep it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
One of the key ways they do this is by adding insulation to your home. Insulation acts as a barrier, preventing the escape of warm or cool air, depending on the season. This means your heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard, which can significantly reduce your energy bills.
In addition to insulation, weatherization may involve sealing drafts and air leaks, repairing or replacing inefficient windows and doors, and improving the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.
These upgrades not only save you money but also make your home more comfortable year-round. It’s a win-win situation for eligible low-income households, as you get to enjoy a more energy-efficient and comfortable living space while reducing your monthly energy expenses.
To find out if you qualify for LIHEAP and weatherization assistance, you will need to apply with your nearest eligibility office or Tribal LIHEAP office. Applications for the Weatherization Assistance Program in Montana are accepted year-round.
Corporate Help for Montana Utilities
Your utility company isn’t just your service provider; it can also be a valuable partner in times of need. Whether you’re facing financial challenges or experiencing difficulties with your utility bills, many Montana utility companies offer assistance programs designed to help their customers.
The exact help they provide varies, but may include:
- Budget Billing: Offering budget billing options allows customers to spread their annual energy costs evenly throughout the year, making it easier for them to budget and avoid seasonal spikes in their bills.
- Payment Assistance Programs: Utility companies can establish payment assistance programs for low-income customers, helping them with bill payments during challenging times. These programs may include subsidies or flexible payment plans.
- Energy Audits: Providing free or low-cost home energy audits can help customers identify areas where they can reduce energy consumption. These audits may recommend improvements like sealing leaks, upgrading HVAC systems, or adding solar panels.
- Senior and Disability Discounts: Utility companies can offer special discounts and tailored assistance programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These discounts may include reduced rates, waived fees, or priority service to ensure that vulnerable populations can access essential utility services without excessive financial burdens. This support helps seniors and those with disabilities maintain their independence and comfort while managing their utility bills effectively.
Choose your company from the list below to discover how they may be able to help you:
Nonprofits that Help with Montana Utilities
There are many nonprofits, charities and other organizations that also provide financial help with Montana utilities. If you are facing disconnection or need help paying your bill, please reach out to one of these agencies for help.
Energy Share of Montana is a statewide nonprofit. This organization provides energy assistance to people who don’t qualify for LIHEAP or who have already received it.
In some cases, Energy Share may also be able to help you repair your furnace or replace your refrigerator in emergencies. This is determined on a case-by-case basis and you have to meet strict guidelines in order to receive assistance.
To get help from Energy Share, you’ll need to contact the distributing agency nearest you. In most cases, that’s going to be your Community Action Council.
Hope Rescue Mission
Hope Rescue Mission in Missoula provides supportive services for the local community. They may be able to help with your Montana utilities, rent and other needs. They also have supportive services for people experiencing homelessness.
For utility assistance, you’ll need to visit their Drop-In Center during business hours. They provide assistance with short-term needs like utility payments, fuel and food gift cards, clothing, help getting IDs and more.
HRDC Community Action Agency
The HRDC Community Action Agency offers a General Relief fund that can provide rent and utility assistance to low income households in Yellowstone County.
In order to get help, you must meet these requirements:
- You must be a resident of Yellowstone County and have lived there at least 90 days.
- You must have no income.
- You must be receiving food stamps.
- You must have a disability that is medically verified.
- You must be waiting for approval of your open SSI or SSDI claim.
If you are eligible, you can download the application from their website.
Relief Recap
If you need help with your Montana utilities, there are many government, corporate and nonprofit assistance programs available that can help you pay your bills. You just need to reach out to the providers on this list for assistance as soon as possible.
Nicole Thelin
Nicole is the founder and lead researcher of Low Income Relief. After a personal experience with poverty and homelessness following her husband's sudden medical discharge from the U.S. Army, Nicole discovered the life-changing impact of community resources. This experience ignited her passion for empowering others to navigate similar crises. Nicole launched her writing career at age 16, working for various newspapers and publications. Her commitment to in-depth research and accessible content has been recognized by Google for Publishers and other industry leaders. For over 20 years, she has applied her investigative skills to uncover the most helpful, up-to-date information on benefits programs and community resources, ensuring Low Income Relief maintains the most extensive resource databases available.