More Help is Now Available to Get Back on Track
Friday, October 22, 2021
The pandemic has doubled the number of people who are behind on their energy bill. If you are one of them, the State of New Jersey and PSE&G want to help you get back on track, together.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has designated this week as Utility Assistance Week to remind customers who have fallen behind on their bills to act quickly. The statewide suspension of utility shut-offs is expected to end on December 31, 2021.
There are now more payment assistance options available with income-eligibility limits that have more than doubled.In fact, a family of four earning up to $105,000 a year could be eligible for financial assistance. This will allow many more customers at various income levels, including those who are behind on their bill for the first time, to get the help they need.The State of New Jersey's Universal Service Fund (USF) and Fresh Start program both help to make energy bills more affordable by lowering the amount you have to pay for natural gas and electricity and providing forgiveness of past due energy bill balances.
To learn more about USF and the Fresh Start program, as well as other financial assistance options, go to pseg.com/helpnow.Recognizing the financial difficulties the pandemic has caused, PSE&G is offering more flexible payment options, including Deferred Payment Arrangements (DPAs). A DPA allows you to continue to pay your regular monthly bill, plus an amount toward your past-due balance. You can make a DPA with as little as $0 down and up to 12 months to pay, if you qualify. To set up a DPA, log into My Account or call us at 800-357-2262.
"The pandemic has inflicted financial hardship on many of our customers, some for the very first time and most are unaware that they may qualify for help," said PSE&G's Chief Customer Officer and vice president of Customer Care, Deborah Affonsa. "We want to spread the word and raise awareness about the new and expanded programs that can provide relief. Most importantly, we want our customers to know we are here to help and we care."