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Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help for Urgent Needs

  • Facing a shutoff notice today?: Call your utility company immediately. Ask for a deferred payment plan or mention a medical emergency if applicable. Then, contact your local HEAT office or dial 2-1-1 for crisis assistance.
  • Need food and basic supplies right now?: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the Utah Food Bank to find a food pantry near you.
  • Experiencing domestic violence and need safe housing?: Call the Utah Domestic Violence Coalition LINKLine at 1-800-897-LINK (5465) or dial 9-8-8 for immediate support and resources.

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah: Your Comprehensive Guide

Being a single mother in Utah means balancing countless responsibilities, and sometimes, keeping up with utility bills can feel overwhelming. This guide is here to help you navigate the resources available to ensure your family stays safe, warm, and connected. We will break down programs, eligibility, and how to apply, focusing on practical, real-world steps.


Understanding Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines for 2025

Many assistance programs use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) as a key factor to determine if you qualify. Your household income must be at or below a certain percentage of these guidelines. It is important to know your household size and your total annual income to see where you stand.

2025 Federal Poverty Level Guidelines (Effective January 15, 2025) – 48 Contiguous States and District of Columbia:

Household Size

Annual Income (100% FPL)

135% FPL (Lifeline)

150% FPL (HEAT/LIHWAP)

185% FPL (Emergency Aid)

1 person

$15,650

$21,127

$23,475

$28,952

2 people

$21,150

$28,552

$31,725

$39,127

3 people

$26,650

$35,977

$39,975

$49,292

4 people

$32,150

$43,402

$48,225

$59,477

5 people

$37,650

$50,827

$56,475

$69,652

Note: These figures are for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPLs, but Utah uses the standard guidelines.

Essential Utility Assistance Programs in Utah

Utah offers several key programs to help with energy, water, phone, and internet bills. Knowing which programs are available and how to access them is your first step.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Known as HEAT in Utah

The Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) Program is Utah’s version of the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It helps low-income households with heating and cooling costs, and provides emergency assistance to prevent shutoffs [1][2].

Eligibility Rules:

  • Income Limit: Your total household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. See the table above for specific amounts based on your household size [1][3].
  • Residency: You must be a Utah resident, and at least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen [1][2].
  • Responsibility for Bills: You must be responsible for paying your home’s heating or cooling costs, either directly or as part of your rent [1][2].
  • Priority Groups: Households with elderly members (age 60 and over), individuals with disabilities, or children under the age of six often receive priority processing and additional benefits [1][3].

How to Apply:

  1. Gather Required Documents: Before applying, collect these documents for all household members [1][2]:
    • Photo ID: For the primary applicant.
    • Social Security Numbers: For everyone in your household.
    • Proof of Income: For all income received by all household members in the month prior to your application (e.g., pay stubs, Social Security statements, unemployment benefits, child support).
    • Recent Utility Bills: Copies of your power and heat bills.
    • Proof of Residency: Such as a lease agreement or a utility bill in your name.
    • Proof of Disability: If applicable.
    • Medical Expenses: Proof of any eligible medical expenses you paid.
    • Child Support/Alimony: Proof of child support or alimony you paid.
  2. When to Apply:
    • If your household includes an elderly person (60+), a person with a disability, or a child under six, you can apply year-round, typically starting October 1st [1][3].
    • For all other households, applications are processed starting November 1st [1][3].
    • The program year runs from October 1st to September 30th, or until federal funds run out [1].
  3. Submit Your Application:

Benefit Levels:

  • Standard Assistance: Benefits typically range from a minimum of $190 to a maximum of $850 for heating and cooling costs [3][4].
  • Crisis Assistance: If you are facing an immediate energy emergency, like a shutoff notice, you may qualify for up to $2,000 in crisis assistance [3][4].
  • Additional Benefits: Households with an elderly member, a disabled member, or a child under six may receive an additional $150 in benefits [5].
  • Direct Payments: Payments are usually made directly to your utility company [4].

Example: Maria, a single mother of two children under 5, received a shutoff notice for her gas bill. Her household income is below 150% FPL. She contacted her local HEAT office, provided her documents, and qualified for crisis assistance. The program paid her past-due amount directly to the gas company, preventing the shutoff and giving her peace of mind.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact Your Utility Company: Even if HEAT cannot fully cover your bill, your utility company may offer a deferred payment plan or budget billing.
  • Explore Charitable Assistance: Many local charities and religious organizations offer one-time utility assistance. Dial 2-1-1 for local referrals.
  • Apply for Moratorium Protection: If it’s winter (November 15 to March 15) and you have a shutoff notice, you may qualify for Moratorium Protection through your local HEAT office [6]. This temporarily prevents disconnection if you meet certain criteria and agree to a payment plan.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps low-income households pay their water and wastewater bills [7][8]. In Utah, this program is often coordinated with HEAT.

Eligibility Rules:

  • Income Limit: Eligibility is generally aligned with HEAT, meaning your household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level [7][8].
  • Water Bills: You must be responsible for paying your household’s water and/or wastewater bills. This includes households where utility payments are part of the rent, provided you can show responsibility for water costs [7].
  • Priority: Priority is given to households facing shutoffs, those with a shutoff notice or a lien on their property due to unpaid water bills, and then to those needing help with current bills [8].

How to Apply:

  • Joint Application: In Utah, LIHWAP often uses a joint application with LIHEAP/HEAT. When you apply for HEAT, you may also be considered for LIHWAP if you indicate a need for water assistance [8][9].
  • Contact Local Agencies: The Utah Department of Workforce Services and Community Action Agencies administer LIHWAP. Contact your local Community Action Agency for specific application details.

Benefit Levels:

  • Water/Wastewater Bills: LIHWAP can help reduce your water or wastewater charges, or both. Benefits can be up to $2,000, depending on your past-due balance and household needs [7][8].
  • Arrearages and Fees: For priority households, the program aims to cover the exact amounts owed, including arrearages and fees, to restore services or prevent shutoff [8].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Contact Your Water Provider: Many water companies offer payment plans or extensions.
  • Local Assistance: Some cities, like South Salt Lake, have their own Utility Assistance Programs for water and sewer bills. Check with your city or county for local programs [10].
  • Charitable Organizations: Reach out to local charities or dial 2-1-1 for referrals to organizations that might offer water bill assistance.

Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – Phone and Internet Assistance

Staying connected is vital for job searches, school, and emergencies. The Lifeline program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provide discounts on phone and internet services.

Eligibility Rules:

  • Income Limit (Lifeline): Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Level. See the FPL table above for specific amounts [11][12].
  • Program Participation (Lifeline): You automatically qualify if you or someone in your household participates in programs like [11][12]:
    • Medicaid
    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
    • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • Income Limit (ACP): Your household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Program Participation (ACP): You automatically qualify if you or someone in your household participates in programs like [ACP website]:
    • Lifeline
    • SNAP
    • Medicaid
    • Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)
    • SSI
    • WIC
    • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
    • Free and Reduced Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program
    • Received a Federal Pell Grant in the current award year
  • One Per Household: Only one Lifeline or ACP benefit is allowed per household [11][13].

How to Apply:

  1. Check Eligibility:
  2. Choose a Provider: Once approved, find a phone or internet company in Utah that offers Lifeline or ACP discounts. Many providers participate [13].
  3. Apply with Provider: Contact your chosen provider to enroll in the program. You may need to provide proof of eligibility.

Benefit Levels:

  • Lifeline Discount: Up to $9.25 per month off your phone or internet bill [11][12].
  • Enhanced Tribal Lifeline: If you live on federally recognized Tribal lands, you could receive an additional discount of up to $25 per month, plus up to $100 off installation fees [11].
  • ACP Discount: Up to $30 per month off your internet service. If you live on qualifying Tribal lands, you can receive up to $75 per month off [ACP website].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Try Different Providers: Not all providers offer the same plans or have the same customer service. Shop around.
  • Combine Benefits: If eligible for both Lifeline and ACP, you can combine them for a larger discount on internet service.
  • Community Centers: Many community centers or libraries offer free internet access if you need temporary connectivity.

Emergency Assistance Program (Utah DWS)

Utah’s Emergency Assistance Program provides immediate, short-term financial help to families facing a crisis that could lead to homelessness or utility shutoff [14][15].

Eligibility Rules:

  • Crisis Event: You must be facing a crisis beyond your family’s control, such as a job loss, medical emergency, or natural disaster, that prevents you from paying your bills [14].
  • Dependent Child: Your household must include at least one dependent child under 18 years old [14].
  • Income Limit: Your total household income must be below 185% of the Standard Needs Budget (SNB). While the SNB can vary, a good estimate is 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. See the FPL table above for estimated amounts [14].
  • One-Time Assistance: This payment is generally available once in a 12-month period [14].

How to Apply:

Benefit Levels:

  • Utility Payments: Up to $300 per family for utility bills [14].
  • Other Assistance: Can also include payments for rent, security deposits, or mortgage, and referrals to legal services [14].

Example: Jessica, a single mom, lost her job unexpectedly. While she was actively looking for new work, she received a utility shutoff notice. She had a 10-year-old child. She applied for Emergency Assistance through DWS, explaining her job loss. She qualified for a one-time payment that covered her overdue utility bill, preventing disconnection while she found new employment.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Re-evaluate Eligibility: Ensure all documents clearly show your crisis and income.
  • Explore Other Programs: Emergency Assistance is very specific. If you don’t qualify, look into HEAT crisis assistance or local charitable organizations.
  • Legal Aid: If facing eviction or other legal issues due to the crisis, contact Utah Legal Services for free legal help [15].

Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)

The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps low- and middle-income families pay for child care while parents are working or in job training [16][17]. This support is crucial for single mothers to maintain employment and stability.

Eligibility Rules:

  • Parent/Guardian Status: You must be a parent, foster parent, or legal guardian of a child under 13 (or under 18 if the child has special needs) [16].
  • Child’s Status: Your child must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or authorized non-citizen. Your immigration status as a parent does not affect your child’s eligibility [16].
  • Work/Training Requirements:
    • Single Parents: You must work at least 15 hours per week [16].
    • Two-Parent Households: One parent must work 15+ hours/week, and the other must work 30+ hours/week.
  • Income Limit: Eligibility is capped at 85% of the State Median Income (SMI). For a family of three, this is roughly $5,574 per month or $66,888 per year [17].
  • Priority: Children with special needs, children experiencing homelessness, families with very low incomes, and families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) are prioritized for enrollment [17].

How to Apply:

  1. Apply Online: You can apply through the Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) myCase portal. This system also allows you to manage your child care benefits [8][18].
  2. Gather Documents: You will need proof of income, work/training schedules, and your child’s information.
  3. Choose a Provider: You can choose any participating child care provider (licensed center, in-home provider, or even a trusted informal caregiver like a grandparent or neighbor, as long as they meet basic program requirements) [16].

Benefit Levels:

  • Subsidies: CCAP provides subsidies directly to your child care provider, which lowers your out-of-pocket costs. For families receiving a subsidy, the monthly cost can be significantly reduced [16][17].
  • Reimbursement Rates: The state reimburses providers to offset costs. However, low reimbursement rates can sometimes make it challenging for providers to accept subsidies, potentially leading to higher fees for families [17].

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Check for Other Programs: If you are participating in the Family Employment Program (FEP), you may be eligible for FEP Child Care, which supports parents in work, training, or education programs [16].
  • Employer Benefits: Ask your employer if they offer any child care benefits or flexible spending accounts.
  • Community Resources: Dial 2-1-1 to find local organizations that might offer child care scholarships or support.

Your Rights as a Utility Customer in Utah

The Utah Public Service Commission (PSC) has rules in place to protect residential utility customers. Knowing your rights can help you navigate difficult situations with utility companies [7][19].

  • Right to Service: Utility companies must provide service if you are a qualified applicant [7][19].
  • Deferred Payment Plans: If you face a financial emergency, your utility company must offer you at least one 12-month deferred payment plan [7][19].
  • Security Deposits: If a security deposit is required, you have the right to pay it in three installments [7][19].
  • Shutoff Notice: Utility companies must provide written notice at least 10 days before disconnecting service for non-payment. Telephone companies must give 7 days notice [7][19].
  • Winter Shutoff Protection (Moratorium): From November 15th to March 15th, eligible households may be protected from energy utility shutoffs. To qualify, you usually need to have applied for HEAT, have a shutoff notice, and agree to a payment plan. Contact your local HEAT office for details [6][7].
  • Medical Emergencies: If a medical emergency in your home would be aggravated by a utility shutoff, a doctor’s statement can temporarily prevent disconnection (usually for 30 days). You may petition the PSC for an extension [7][19].
  • Information: Utility companies must advise you of sources of financial assistance and provide written information about your rights and responsibilities [7][19].

What to do if you have a problem:

  1. Contact Your Utility Company First: Call the number on your bill to try and resolve the issue directly [7][19].
  2. Contact the Utah Division of Public Utilities: If you cannot resolve the problem with the company, you can seek an informal review of the dispute by calling the Utah State Division of Public Utilities Complaint Office at 1-800-874-0904 (toll-free statewide) or 801-530-6652 (Salt Lake City) [19].
  3. Formal Complaint: If still unresolved, you can file a formal petition with the Public Service Commission.

Additional Support and Resources

Beyond direct utility assistance, many organizations in Utah offer help with other basic needs, financial stability, and specialized support.

Community Action Agencies (CAAs) in Utah

Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are local non-profit organizations that administer many state and federal programs, including HEAT and Weatherization. They are a great first stop for comprehensive support [20][21].

| Agency Name | Counties Served

Learn more:

  1. Utah | HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
  2. Self-Help Homes: Self-Help Housing in Utah | Low Income Home Building
  3. Housing Assistance & Resources | Utah 211
  4. Current time information in Salt Lake City, UT, US.
  5. Utah Community Action | Helping Families Thrive
  6. Moratorium (Shut Off Protection) – Utah Department of Workforce Services
  7. What are my rights and responsibilities as a Residential Utility Customer? – dpu.utah.gov
  8. Child Care Assistance – Workforce Services – Utah.gov
  9. LIHEAP | Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah
  10. Free Legal Resources – UTAH LEGAL HELP
  11. Current time information in Washington County, US.
  12. Resources for Utah’s Renters
  13. Family Services | Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah
  14. Current time information in Utah County, US.
  15. Utah Legal Services
  16. How to Get Help Paying for Child Care in Utah
  17. CHILD CARE & DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CCDBG) IN UTAH
  18. Child Care Assistance – Workforce Services – Utah.gov
  19. Consumer Rights – South Utah Valley Electric Service District
  20. Agencies and Organizations – Free Legal Services Organizations – Utah Courts
  21. Utah: Financial Assistance Resources for Families – ChildCare.gov

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