Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Delaware
Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Delaware
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is built for single moms in Delaware who need fast, accurate steps to keep the lights, heat, water, and internet working. Keep this page open while you call, apply, and follow up. You’ll find direct numbers, local offices, and links to state and federal programs. Use the quick actions and checklists to move fast, and always confirm details with the agency before you apply, because rules and funding change. For statewide navigation help anytime, call or text Delaware 211, reach the Delaware Public Service Commission (PSC) about utility rules, and keep the Division of the Public Advocate (DPA) on your list if you need to escalate a problem. (delaware211.org)
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call your utility’s payment center now and ask for a shutoff hold and a payment plan. For electric and gas, start with Delmarva Power Customer Care at 1-800-375-7117, Delaware Electric Cooperative at 1-855-332-9090, or Chesapeake Utilities (gas) emergencies at 1-800-427-2883. Ask about “medical certification,” “budget billing,” and “extended payment arrangements.” (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) using ASSIST Self-Service and, if needed, call Catholic Charities (LIHEAP intake) in your county for crisis processing. Bookmark the state’s LIHEAP page for program dates and updates. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- If you live in Wilmington and owe water/sewer, apply for the Utility Payment Assistance Program (UPAP) for up to $1,500 in help and call Wilmington Water Utility at 1-302-576-2620 to request a payment plan and shutoff hold. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Emergency navigation: Delaware 211 (dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-560-3372), live chat available; also reach HUD Delaware for housing counselors and emergency shelter routing via 1-833-FIND-BED (Housing Alliance Delaware). (delaware211.org)
- State energy help portal: DHSS LIHEAP/DEAP (state page), county intake through Catholic Charities. Use ASSIST to apply online 24/7. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Shutoff rules and complaints: Public Service Commission Consumer Assistance for regulated utilities and Division of the Public Advocate for free escalation support. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Weatherization and home energy fixes: DNREC Weatherization Assistance Program and Energize Delaware HEC2 to lower bills long-term. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
- Water and sewer county offices: Sussex County Billing & Collections (302-855-7871), Kent County Sewer Billing (302-744-2391), and city help like Wilmington UPAP. (sussexcountyde.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Delaware Today
Start with the most urgent step first. Delaware law now sets extra protections for disconnections during extreme heat and cold, requires more notice, and limits shutoff hours, but you still need to act. Read the new rules, then call your utility, and submit at least one application for help today. Review HB 62 shutoff protections, check PSC customer assistance, and keep the DPA handy if you need to escalate. (legis.delaware.gov)
- Call your utility and ask for a “payment arrangement” and a “medical certification hold.” For Delmarva Power, call Customer Care at 1-800-375-7117; for Delaware Electric Cooperative, call Member Services at 1-855-332-9090; for Chesapeake Utilities (gas), review Public Assistance Programs and call 1-800-427-2883 for emergencies. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Submit an application the same day. Use ASSIST for LIHEAP, and if you are a Delmarva Power customer, enroll in Energize Delaware HEC2 to qualify for the Delmarva Power Customer Relief Fund (one-time bill credit up to 300).IfyouarenotaDelmarvacustomer,checkthenew∗[DelawareEnergyFund](https://www.energizedelaware.org/delaware−energy−fund/)∗(one−timeupto300). If you are not a Delmarva customer, check the new *[Delaware Energy Fund](https://www.energizedelaware.org/delaware-energy-fund/)* (one-time up to 300). (energizedelaware.org)
- If water is at risk, ask about payment plans and apply for help. In Wilmington, apply to UPAP. For county sewer, call Kent County Sewer Billing at 1-302-744-2391 or Sussex County Billing at 1-302-855-7871 and request a plan. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the utility for a supervisor, then call DPA, file a complaint with the PSC if you’re with a regulated provider, and contact Delaware 211 to locate rapid local charity funds like The Salvation Army Good Neighbor program. (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Key Delaware Shutoff Protections You Can Use
HB 62 (signed May 22, 2025; effective 60 days later) expanded consumer protections. Use these when you ask for a hold or when you dispute a shutoff. Read full details at the Delaware General Assembly bill page and confirm with the PSC. (legis.delaware.gov)
| Protection | What it means for you | Where it applies |
|---|---|---|
| No shutoffs outside 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Mon–Thu | Ask for a “time-window” compliance check if a shutoff is scheduled after hours | Regulated gas/electric and municipal electric |
| No shutoffs Dec 21–Jan 1 (except safety) | Demand a holiday-season hold if you get a notice then | Regulated gas/electric and municipal electric |
| Cold-weather rule (≤ 35°F at 8 a.m.) | Electric/gas may not disconnect on those days | Regulated gas/electric and municipal electric |
| Heat-index rule (forecast ≥ 90°F) | Electric may not disconnect on those days | Regulated electric and municipal electric |
| 14-day written notice during heating/cooling seasons | If you didn’t get proper notice, ask them to reset the clock | Regulated gas/electric and municipal electric |
| Medical certification (120 days, renewable with good-faith payment) | If you or your child has a serious condition, ask your doctor/NP/PA to fax a note | Regulated gas/electric; similar protections extended in HB 62 for municipal electric |
Use the bill text for exact language and cite it in your call. You can point to HB 62 text and to Title 26 §117 for older baseline law that still applies where not changed. (legiscan.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a regulated utility ignores these rules, ask for a supervisor and email the DPA. Then submit a written complaint to the PSC and include your shutoff notice and call notes. For municipal electric, cite HB 62 Section 2 which requires municipalities to adopt and enforce similar protections. (depsc.delaware.gov)
Program Overview and What You Can Get (At a Glance)
Use this table to target the program that fits your situation. Confirm current amounts and dates before applying since funding can change. See DHSS LIHEAP for state rules, LIHEAP Clearinghouse for 2025 amounts, and DNREC Weatherization for energy-efficiency work. (dhss.delaware.gov)
| Program | What it pays | Who runs it | When to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP (DEAP) Heating | Minimum ~100tomaximum 100 to maximum ~2,561 toward primary heat | DHSS/DSSC via Catholic Charities | Heating season: Oct 1–Apr 30 |
| LIHEAP Crisis | Up to ~$10,000 for shutoff/fuel emergencies (varies) | Catholic Charities | Year-round if crisis |
| LIHEAP Summer Cooling | Up to ~$1,000; may include a window A/C for medical need | DHSS/DSSC | May 1–Aug 31 |
| Weatherization Assistance (WAP) | Free energy fixes (air sealing, insulation, duct sealing) | DNREC | Year-round waitlist |
| Delmarva Power Customer Relief Fund | One-time bill credit up to $300; HEC2 required | Energize Delaware | Until funds run out |
| Delaware Energy Fund (non-Delmarva customers) | One-time bill credit up to $300; HEC2 or HPwES required | Energize Delaware | Until funds run out |
| Wilmington UPAP (water/sewer) | Up to $1,500 for 90+ day delinquent accounts | City of Wilmington | First-come, first-served |
According to the federal LIHEAP Clearinghouse (updated March 2025), Delaware’s 2025 LIHEAP benefits range widely, and program windows are set by season; these amounts vary by county and funding. Always call Catholic Charities in your county and confirm current availability before applying. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you miss a season or get waitlisted, ask about crisis eligibility, apply for Energize Delaware HEC2 to open up the relief funds, and have Delaware 211 search charity fuel funds like the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. (energizedelaware.org)
LIHEAP in Delaware (DEAP) — Energy Bill Help
Most important action: File your LIHEAP application on ASSIST and call your county Catholic Charities number to confirm documents and request crisis handling if you have a shutoff. Keep the state LIHEAP page open for program dates. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Eligibility (define early): LIHEAP helps with heating and cooling if your income is under 60% State Median Income (SMI), with crisis aid if you have a shutoff, a tank at or below 10%, or past-due bills. Apply via ASSIST, confirm with DHSS LIHEAP, and call Catholic Charities for intake and scheduling. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Required documents: Photo ID, Social Security cards (if available), proof of income for the past 30 days, recent utility bills, lease or proof you pay utilities, and any shutoff notices. Get the checklist from Catholic Charities Energy Assistance, verify with DHSS LIHEAP, and keep Delaware 211 as backup. (ccwilm.org)
- Timelines: Crisis cases often move within several business days, while seasonal (non-crisis) can take 10–15 business days depending on volume. Call to confirm local processing times with Catholic Charities, check LIHEAP Clearinghouse for the active season dates, and keep DPA in mind if your utility won’t hold a shutoff during a pending case. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- How benefits are paid: LIHEAP pays your vendor directly. Confirm with your utility’s credit department after approval. Use Delmarva Power Bill Support tools, ask Delaware Electric Cooperative to note your pending LIHEAP, and update Chesapeake Utilities so they mark your account. (depsc.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Catholic Charities for a denial letter and appeal rights, re-apply for crisis help if your situation changes, and have Delaware 211 search local emergency funds like The Salvation Army and Lutheran Community Services. For regulated utilities, also loop in DPA. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) — Cut Bills for Good
Most important action: Call DNREC Weatherization at 302-504-6111 to get on the waitlist and ask about priority for households with children, seniors, or disabilities. Add a free HEC2 checkup to start saving right away, and explore Home Performance with ENERGY STAR rebates. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
- What WAP covers: Air sealing, insulation, duct sealing, pipe wrap, and basic health-and-safety fixes that improve efficiency. Confirm scope with DNREC, then layer in HEC2 and Assisted HPwES if you qualify for extra rebates. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
- Eligibility & wait times: Eligibility is income-based; households are prioritized by need and funding, and DNREC notes not all applicants can be served each program year. Reapply annually if you wait over 12 months. Keep checking your status with DNREC and ask Energize Delaware for interim energy kits and workshops. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If wait times are long, schedule HEC2 for free direct-install measures, ask about the summer bonus rebates, and request a utility home energy audit via Delmarva Power if offered. (energizedelaware.org)
New in 2025 — Delaware Energy Relief Funds
Most important action: Complete a HEC2 appointment and apply for the relief fund that matches your utility. If you’re a Delmarva Power customer, use the Customer Relief Fund (up to 300).Ifyou’renotwithDelmarva,usethenewstatewide∗[DelawareEnergyFund](https://www.energizedelaware.org/delaware−energy−fund/)∗(upto300). If you’re not with Delmarva, use the new statewide *[Delaware Energy Fund](https://www.energizedelaware.org/delaware-energy-fund/)* (up to 300). (energizedelaware.org)
- Delmarva Power Customer Relief Fund: One-time bill credit up to 300;incomepathwaysincludeLIHEAP−eligibleandupto350300; income pathways include LIHEAP-eligible and up to 350% of the Federal Poverty Level (some cases require a 250+ arrearage). Start at delmarva.com/ReliefDE; book HEC2; and watch Delmarva Bill Support for more options. (delawarepublic.org)
- Delaware Energy Fund (non‑Delmarva): One-time bill credit up to $300, for customers of municipal utilities or the co-op; you must complete HEC2 or Home Performance. Questions? Call Energize Delaware at 1-888-735-1510. (energizedelaware.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds run out, ask if Delmarva customers can switch to the Delaware Energy Fund when available, try LIHEAP crisis via Catholic Charities, and have Delaware 211 search for church-based emergency funds. (energizedelaware.org)
Utility‑Specific Help and Contacts
Most important action: Call your provider, ask for a “payment plan,” “budget billing,” and a “medical certification hold,” and request all late fees and deposits to be waived if you’re applying for aid. Use PSC Customer Assistance and DPA for regulated utilities and direction for municipal providers. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Delmarva Power (electric & natural gas in NCC): Call 1-800-375-7117 and visit Bill Support. This winter they provided fee waivers, longer payment plans, and temporary pause on disconnections; policies change, so always ask. Check the Customer Relief Fund and the Good Neighbor Energy Fund via Salvation Army. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC, rural Kent/Sussex): Call 1-855-332-9090 for payment arrangements and budget billing, and learn their I Can’t Pay My Bill policy and medical need sign-up. Ask about Operation Share (administered by The Salvation Army) and confirm eligibility. (delaware.coop)
- Chesapeake Utilities (natural gas): Review Public Assistance Programs for Delaware, then call customer care about payment plans. For gas leaks or odor, call 1-800-427-2883. Program SHARING grants are administered through Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army. (chpkgas.com)
- Artesian Water: Call Customer Service at 1-302-453-6930 (or 1-800-332-5114) for payment arrangement options and second-party shutoff notices. Review payment options and ask about referrals to Delaware 211 if you need financial aid. (artesianwater.com)
- Municipal water/sewer and electric: City programs and county offices often set their own payment plan rules. For Wilmington, see UPAP. For Kent County sewer, see Sewer Billing; for Sussex County, see Billing & Collections. For city electric programs and contacts, check Newark Utility Billing, Dover Customer Services, and Seaford Electric. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: For regulated utilities, escalate through DPA and then PSC. For municipal providers, cite the new HB 62 protections and ask City Hall or the utility board for their termination ordinance and appeal process. (legis.delaware.gov)
Water Bill Help — Wilmington, Counties, and Private Utilities
Most important action: If you’re in Wilmington and 90+ days behind, apply to UPAP for up to $1,500 and request a payment plan using Wilmington Water Utility contacts. For county sewer billing, call Kent County at 1-302-744-2391 or Sussex County Billing at 1-302-855-7871 and ask for “arrears payment plans.” (wilmingtondewater.gov)
- If you’re on Artesian Water, call to ask for a payment plan and second‑party notifications, and ask about community referrals (they refer to Delaware 211). If you’re under Tidewater Utilities areas, call their customer line (1-877-720-9272 via Ocean View information) and request arrangements. Confirm and keep notes. (artesianwater.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get a denial letter, ask for a supervisor review, and call DPA Water Consumer Information for regulated providers. For city systems, use City Hall’s finance department page and 311 to escalate. For charity funds, contact The Salvation Army on Monday mornings (funding is limited, first‑come). (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Internet/Phone Discounts You Can Still Use
Most important action: Enroll in Lifeline for a monthly phone or internet discount if you qualify (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or income-based). Call the Lifeline Support Center at 1-800-234-9473 and review the FCC Lifeline page for rules. Note that the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments on Feb 7, 2024 and wound down in 2024 without new funding. (lifelinesupport.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your internet provider about low‑income plans and student plans, use Delaware 211 to find community hotspots, and check local libraries for free Wi‑Fi and computer time. Keep USAC Lifeline contacts for support. (delaware211.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask inclusive screeners at Delaware 211 to prioritize affirming agencies, and request “privacy flags” when sharing sensitive info with DHSS LIHEAP and DNREC Weatherization. For housing‑safety issues, use HUD Delaware counselors and report discrimination via HUD Fair Housing links on that page. (delaware211.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your doctor/NP/PA for a medical certification letter to stop disconnections under HB 62 rules, use DPA if a utility refuses, and request accommodations like large‑print applications and TTY (7-1-1) through Delaware 211. Add WAP for safer, healthier home upgrades. (legis.delaware.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Ask HUD Delaware for Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing referrals and call 1-877-424-3838 if you risk homelessness. Combine LIHEAP with Energize Delaware HEC2 to cut bills, and use DPA to push back on unlawful shutoffs. (hud.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for LIHEAP regardless of landlord status if you pay utilities. Ask Delaware 211 for multilingual help and interpretation, and bring any ID and income proof you have. Use DNREC Weatherization even for rentals if the landlord agrees to access. (delaware211.org)
Tribal-specific resources: While Delaware has no tribal LIHEAP grantee, you can still use LIHEAP, HEC2, and city/county water offices like Sussex County Billing. If you have a tribal affiliation elsewhere, ask Delaware 211 to search for cross‑state tribal programs that may serve you. (sussexcountyde.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Ask Delaware Electric Cooperative for medical certification alerts and payment plans, use First State Community Action Agency for navigation, and apply for WAP early due to wait lists. Keep Delaware 211 on speed dial. (delaware.coop)
Single fathers: All programs listed here serve households, not only mothers. Apply through LIHEAP, ask DPA for advocacy, and use HEC2 to reduce usage and costs. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Language access: Request interpreter services through Delaware 211, ask DHSS for translated forms, and ask DNREC Weatherization or Energize Delaware to schedule calls with bilingual staff. Ask for large‑print applications and TTY access as needed. (delaware211.org)
Resources by Region
Use county and city resources first, then add statewide programs.
| Region | Top Contacts | Quick Links |
|---|---|---|
| Wilmington & New Castle County | UPAP (water/sewer), Delmarva Power (electric/gas), Catholic Charities NCC (LIHEAP) | Wilmington Water Contact, DPA, DNREC WAP |
| Kent County | Kent County Sewer Billing, City of Dover Customer Services, Catholic Charities Kent | DEC, Delaware 211, HEC2 |
| Sussex County | Sussex County Billing & Collections, Seaford Electric, Catholic Charities Sussex | DEC, DNREC WAP, First State CAA |
Reality Check: Expect Delays and Funding Gaps
- Funding can run out: Seasonal LIHEAP and local charity funds may close early. Apply early on ASSIST, follow up with Catholic Charities, and layer in HEC2 relief funds if you qualify. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Processing time: Crisis requests move faster than non‑crisis. Keep proof you applied, ask your utility to note your file, and loop in DPA if a regulated utility refuses a short hold. Check PSC consumer page for complaint steps. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Rules changed in 2025: Shutoff protections expanded under HB 62 — learn the cold/heat limits and notice rules to buy time. Ask to speak with a “credit specialist” and reference the new law. (legis.delaware.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to call: Call your provider before the due date. Use Delmarva Power, DEC, or Artesian Water to set a plan now. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Submitting incomplete LIHEAP applications: Missing pay stubs or IDs slow you down. Use Catholic Charities’ checklist, apply on ASSIST, and keep copies. (ccwilm.org)
- Not using new relief funds: If you’re a Delmarva customer, the Customer Relief Fund can stack with your payment plan. Non‑Delmarva customers can use the Delaware Energy Fund after HEC2. (energizedelaware.org)
- Ignoring medical certification: Ask your provider for their medical certification form; HB 62 recognizes doctor, PA, or NP notes. Keep HB 62 text and the PSC page handy. (legiscan.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Call | Second Step | Backup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shutoff notice (electric/gas) | Utility Billing | Apply on ASSIST (LIHEAP) | DPA |
| Delmarva bill credit | HEC2 | Customer Relief Fund | Delmarva Bill Support |
| Not Delmarva | HEC2 | Delaware Energy Fund | Delaware 211 |
| Water/sewer (Wilmington) | UPAP | Wilmington Water plan | DPA Water Info |
| Weatherization | DNREC WAP | HEC2 | HPwES |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID for you and any adult in the home (upload if applying via ASSIST); keep DHSS LIHEAP open for forms; ask Delaware 211 about document help. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Proof of income (past 30 days): pay stubs, child support, benefits letters; cross‑check with Catholic Charities and use DPA if a utility demands extra proof. (ccwilm.org)
- Utility bills with account numbers and any shutoff notices; if Delmarva Power, also schedule HEC2 to unlock the Customer Relief Fund. (energizedelaware.org)
- Lease or statement showing you’re responsible for utilities; ask DNREC WAP about landlord permission for weatherization. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
- Medical certification (if needed) signed by a doctor, NP, or PA to pause shutoff; cite HB 62 if staff seem unsure. (legiscan.com)
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask why in writing: Request a denial letter and appeal instructions. For LIHEAP, ask Catholic Charities about missing documentation and reapply via ASSIST. Keep DHSS LIHEAP open. (ccwilm.org)
- File a complaint if your service is threatened: For regulated utilities, contact DPA and then PSC. Add the HB 62 rules to your complaint if they violated notice or weather protections. (legis.delaware.gov)
- Find another fund: Ask Delaware 211 to search local funds (e.g., Salvation Army, Lutheran Community Services, West End Neighborhood House). If you’re a Delmarva customer, finish HEC2 to qualify for the Customer Relief Fund. (westendnh.org)
Real-World Examples
- Wilmington mom behind on water and electric: She applied to UPAP for a $1,500 water credit, set a 6‑month payment plan with Wilmington Water, filed LIHEAP on ASSIST, and used HEC2 to reduce electric use. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
- Rural Sussex renter with DEC power: She called DEC for a payment plan and asked about Operation Share, then applied for LIHEAP crisis with a shutoff notice. She also called Sussex County Billing to set a sewer plan. (delaware.coop)
- New Castle County mom with medical needs: Her child uses home medical equipment. She asked her pediatrician for a medical certification under HB 62, called Delmarva Power to flag the account, and added HEC2 to reduce usage. (legiscan.com)
County‑Specific Variations That Matter
- New Castle County: More customers are on Delmarva Power and Artesian Water, and Wilmington water has UPAP. Keep DPA in your corner for bill disputes. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
- Kent County: Many areas use DEC power and county sewer billing is handled by Kent County — ask for a plan early to avoid penalties. City of Dover Customer Services offers payment options and a medical certification program. (cityofdover.gov)
- Sussex County: Mix of DEC, municipal electric (e.g., Seaford), and county sewer billing via Sussex County; call early since many towns manage their own policies. (seafordde.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a municipal utility won’t help, cite HB 62 protections, ask for their local ordinance, and request a supervisor review. If you still can’t get help, file a written request with City Hall and ask Delaware 211 to identify a mediator or legal aid. (legis.delaware.gov)
Tables You Can Use Right Now
Program Timelines and Typical Waits
| Program | Apply Window | Typical Wait | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP Heating | Oct–Apr | 10–15 business days (crisis faster) | Apply on ASSIST; confirm with Catholic Charities |
| LIHEAP Cooling | May–Aug | 1–2 weeks | Flat benefit; ask about A/C unit if medically needed |
| LIHEAP Crisis | Year‑round | Several business days | Must show shutoff or fuel emergency |
| DNREC WAP | Year‑round | Months (priority lists) | Reapply annually if > 12 months |
| Relief Funds | Until funds run out | 1–2 weeks | Delmarva Relief, DE Energy Fund |
Main Utility Contacts (Save These)
| Utility | Customer Line | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Delmarva Power | 1-800-375-7117 | Bill Support |
| Delaware Electric Cooperative | 1-855-332-9090 | Member Services |
| Chesapeake Utilities (gas emergencies) | 1-800-427-2883 | Assistance & Contacts |
| Artesian Water | 1-302-453-6930 | Contact |
| Wilmington Water | 1-302-576-2620 | UPAP & Billing |
Where to Appeal or Learn the Rules
| Topic | Where to go | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Shutoff rules & complaints | PSC Consumer Assistance | Consumer page |
| Advocacy & mediation | Division of the Public Advocate | Utility bill help |
| State policy updates | General Assembly | HB 62 page |
Charity and Community Navigators
| Organization | Focus | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Catholic Charities | LIHEAP intake, emergency grants | Energy Assistance |
| Salvation Army | Good Neighbor, utility help (limited) | Wilmington Corps |
| Lutheran Community Services | Rent/utility stabilization (NCC) | LCS Housing Stability |
| West End Neighborhood House | HOSS navigation & referrals | HOSS info |
| First State Community Action | Sussex/Kent navigation | FSCAA |
Shutoff Rules Snapshot (Use in a Call)
| Situation | What to say | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Winter holiday | “HB 62 bars shutoffs Dec 21–Jan 1; please hold and set a plan.” | HB 62 text |
| Extreme cold (≤ 35°F) | “No shutoff today under cold-weather rule.” | HB 62 text |
| Extreme heat (≥ 90°F heat index) | “No shutoff today under heat rule.” | HB 62 text |
| Medical certification | “Doctor/NP/PA note provides 120‑day deferral.” | HB 62 text |
FAQs (Delaware‑Specific, 2025)
- How do I get help fast if my power is due to be cut today? Call your provider and request a same‑day payment arrangement and a medical hold if applicable, then submit LIHEAP via ASSIST and book HEC2 if you’re a Delmarva customer to unlock the Relief Fund. If refused, call DPA. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- What documents do I need for LIHEAP? Photo ID, Social Security documents if available, 30 days of income, your utility bill, and any shutoff notice. Use Catholic Charities’ checklist and apply on ASSIST. (ccwilm.org)
- How much does LIHEAP pay? For 2025, Delaware heating benefits range roughly 100–100–2,561; crisis can go higher; cooling up to ~$1,000. Seasons vary. Confirm at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse and DHSS LIHEAP. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
- Is there help for municipal water bills? Yes. Wilmington’s UPAP offers up to $1,500. Counties offer payment plans through Kent and Sussex billing offices. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
- What changed with shutoff rules in 2025? HB 62 added weather protections, more notice, and limited shutoff hours. Read the bill at the General Assembly and use the PSC consumer page. (legis.delaware.gov)
- Is there still internet discount help? The federal ACP stopped new signups in 2024 and wound down; apply for Lifeline via the FCC page or call 1-800-234-9473. (fcc.gov)
- Who can help me if my utility won’t offer a plan? Contact DPA for advocacy, then file with the PSC if regulated. For municipal utilities, ask City Hall for their appeal process and cite HB 62. (depsc.delaware.gov)
- Where do I get longer‑term help to cut high bills? Start with DNREC WAP, schedule HEC2, and consider Home Performance with ENERGY STAR rebates. (dnrec.delaware.gov)
- Who handles gas emergencies? For leaks/odor call Chesapeake Utilities at 1-800-427-2883; for electric downed lines call Delmarva emergency numbers listed by county. (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
- What if I’m homeless or at risk? Call Housing Alliance Delaware at 1-833-FIND‑BED, dial Delaware 211 for shelter listings, and ask about utility debt negotiations once housed. (hud.gov)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
Para frenar un corte hoy, llame a su compañía de servicios, pida un “plan de pago” y una pausa médica, y luego solicite LIHEAP (ayuda de energía) en ASSIST. Si es cliente de Delmarva Power, programe HEC2 para calificar al Fondo de Alivio (hasta 300).ParafacturasdeaguaenWilmington,use∗[UPAP](https://www.wilmingtondewater.gov/195/Utility−Payment−Assistance−Program−UPAP)∗(hasta300). Para facturas de agua en Wilmington, use *[UPAP](https://www.wilmingtondewater.gov/195/Utility-Payment-Assistance-Program-UPAP)* (hasta 1,500). En casos de clima extremo, la ley HB 62 protege contra cortes. Para ayuda general llame Delaware 211, y para quejas comuníquese con PSC o DPA. (legis.delaware.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Delaware DHSS LIHEAP (DEAP)
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse (Delaware profile)
- DNREC Weatherization Assistance Program
- Delaware Public Service Commission — Consumer Assistance
- Division of the Public Advocate — Utility Bill Assistance
- Energize Delaware — HEC2, Relief Funds
- Wilmington Water — UPAP
- Delaware 211 — Statewide Navigation
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information for Delaware residents and is not legal advice. Confirm current program availability, amounts, and rules with each agency before applying. When funding is limited, approvals are not guaranteed. For consumer protection and formal complaints, use the PSC consumer page and Division of the Public Advocate; for crisis navigation call Delaware 211. (depsc.delaware.gov)
Notes on sources and currency: Key program data (benefit ranges, dates, and new laws) reflect updates available through September 2025. Verify current availability before you apply, as some funds (like relief credits) are first‑come and subject to change. For example, the Delmarva Power Customer Relief Fund and the Delaware Energy Fund are active while funds last; shutoff protections under HB 62 took effect 60 days after May 22, 2025; and Lifeline remains available, while the ACP is wound down. (energizedelaware.org)
🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
