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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Alabama

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Alabama

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built to help you act fast, avoid shutoffs, and stretch every dollar. It focuses on Alabama rules, programs, and real timelines so you know what to expect and how to get through the process.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These Numbers and Links Handy

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Alabama Today

Start with the fastest move: call your utility before the cut‑off crew arrives and set an arrangement. Use Alabama Power’s payment arrangement steps, Spire’s payment arrangement info, and your water utility’s plan, like Birmingham Water Works payment options. If they deny it, politely escalate to a supervisor, save names, and then file with APSC Consumer Services the same day. (alabamapower.com)

Know your rights under state rules: utilities must give at least five days’ written notice before shutoff, cannot disconnect after 3:30 p.m. the day before office closures, and cannot disconnect residential electric or gas when the day’s forecast is 32°F or below at your location. Read APSC Rule 770‑X‑1‑.12 and keep the APSC main site and document access portal handy. If life or health could be threatened, ask for a medical hold under the “special consideration” requirement in section (5) of the same rule. (law.cornell.edu)

For medical needs or language access: ask your utility about special‑needs options, Braille or large‑print bills, and alternate due dates tied to benefits checks; Alabama Power lists these options. If you use TTY or need relay, dial Alabama Relay 7‑1‑1; if you need help in Spanish, use ADECA’s Spanish LIHEAP page and text your ZIP to 898‑211 for Spanish‑enabled 2‑1‑1 chat. (alabamapower.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: file an APSC complaint, call 2‑1‑1 Connects Alabama for a same‑day referral to a charity that can pledge funds, and apply for LIHEAP crisis help. If you’re already disconnected, ask your utility’s supervisor what exact amount plus fee will trigger same‑day reconnection; Alabama Power’s reconnection fee schedule shows typical charges and cut‑off times. (psc.alabama.gov)

Alabama LIHEAP — Eligibility, Benefit Amounts, Documents, and Timing

First step: book an appointment with your Community Action Agency using the ADECA LIHEAP map. You can review the FY25 summarized eligibility to see monthly income limits and documents, and confirm your season dates in the State LIHEAP Manual. For a federal overview, keep ACF’s LIHEAP page ready. (adeca.alabama.gov)

  • Eligibility basics: Alabama uses 150% of the Federal Poverty Level with monthly income caps by household size. The official FY25 monthly maximums include 1 person 1,956;21,956; 2 2,644; 3 3,331;43,331; 4 4,019 (with higher limits for larger households shown on the ADECA handout). Bring Social Security cards for everyone, photo ID for the applicant, and the most recent heating/cooling bill in the head‑of‑household or spouse’s name. See the FY25 summary sheet for the full list and signature form. Also bookmark the full policy manual for definitions and exceptions. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Seasons and frequency: Alabama’s heating season runs Oct 1–Apr 30, and cooling May 1–Sep 30. Households can receive one Regular benefit per season and one Crisis benefit per season if eligible. This is written in section 3 of the policy manual. See also LIHEAP Clearinghouse (AL profile) for dates and context. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Payment timing: Approved payments are made directly to vendors, typically within 30 days of approval. If the agency doesn’t approve or deny your application within 15 days, you can request a hearing under state policy. These timelines are in the FY25 summary sheet and the policy manual’s hearing section. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Benefit amounts: Alabama sets benefits using a statewide chart that varies by income, household size, and fuel (propane, natural gas, electric, wood/coal/kerosene). For example, for a 1‑person home, Regular benefits range from 280–280–500 depending on fuel and income bracket; for 4 people, Regular amounts range roughly 310–310–530. Crisis payments can go up to 200% of the household’s Regular amount, with an optional extra $50 for high‑energy‑need households. See the Payment Assistance Chart (PY2025) and cross‑check statewide minimum/maximum amounts shown in the LIHEAP Clearinghouse AL page. Amounts can vary by county when local agencies use allowable adjustments. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Crisis definitions: LIHEAP crisis help is for health/safety risks, disaster impacts, or homes with a child under 18 when energy loss would harm the household. Agencies may require a simple medical note in edge cases, but medical proof is not always required. See policy section 3.2 and Appendix A of the policy manual. (adeca.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask the agency director for an internal conference and request a state fair hearing if needed; the hearing rights are in the policy manual. You can also call the state Energy Division at 1‑800‑392‑8098 on the ADECA Energy page and use 2‑1‑1 for emergency charity pledges. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Quick Table — LIHEAP Seasons, Who to Call, and Core Documents

Season window Where to apply Key docs to bring Decision timeline
Heating: Oct 1–Apr 30 Your county’s Community Action Agency via the ADECA LIHEAP map Photo ID (applicant), SSNs for all, last month’s income for all, current utility bill in head‑of‑household/spouse’s name Agency should approve/deny within 15 days; payments to vendor typically within 30 days of approval
Cooling: May 1–Sep 30 Same as above Same as above Same as above

Reference: ADECA LIHEAP portal, FY25 summary, LIHEAP policy manual. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Table — Sample LIHEAP Regular Benefit Amounts (PY 2025, selected rows)

Household Income bracket (monthly) Electric Natural gas Propane
1 person 0–0–652 $440 $480 $500
1 person 653–653–1,305 $410 $450 $470
4 people 0–0–1,340 $470 $510 $530
4 people 1,341–1,341–2,681 $440 $480 $500
4 people 2,682–2,682–4,019 $350 $390 $410

Source: Appendix D Payment Assistance Chart in the Alabama LIHEAP Policy Manual (Feb 17, 2025); amounts can vary by fuel and final agency calculation. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Weatherization Assistance (cut your monthly bill for good)

Apply for weatherization as soon as your energy crisis is stable. Alabama’s Weatherization Assistance Program serves all 67 counties and typically uses 200% of FPL for income. Start at ADECA’s Weatherization page, call your local agency listed there, and read the April 24, 2025 grant news for current funding. You can also ask ADECA’s Energy Division how weatherization pairs with LIHEAP and cooling. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Expect an energy audit first; crews then tackle air sealing, insulation, and safety fixes, which can lower bills long‑term. These activities and priority groups are detailed on the state WAP page and recent ADECA news release. For year‑round help while waiting, use United Way 2‑1‑1 to find local nonprofits that offer window‑unit repair or small fixes. (adeca.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your CAA if you can stay on a waitlist and apply again next quarter; check ADECA’s Energy page for updates on IRA home energy rebates (under development); and use your utility’s low‑income efficiency tips like Alabama Power’s saving tips or Spire’s rebates/offers. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Water Bill Help (LIHWAP ended — here’s where to go now)

There is no ongoing federal LIHWAP for 2025; HHS confirms no funds are available. Start with city/utility funds such as Birmingham’s H2O Foundation, MAWSS Neighbors in Need, and check if your county Community Action Agency can still pledge toward water in crisis. For statewide guidance, see HHS LIHWAP status and call 2‑1‑1 Connects Alabama for local options. (acf.hhs.gov)

Many cities also coordinate one‑day events with nonprofits. Watch your city sites and partners like Mobile Community Action and United Way for pop‑ups. If you’re in Huntsville, ask about new city funds through Huntsville Housing Helps for rent and utility support at 50% AMI. (adeca.alabama.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your water utility if it participates in a local “neighbors‑in‑need” fund and if they will hold a shutoff once a charity pledges; use 2‑1‑1 to find churches with small emergency funds; and bring your disconnect notice and ID to your appointment as many programs require those. For broader policy context, read HHS’s LIHWAP summary pages which explain program close‑out timelines. (211connectsalabama.org)

Company‑Specific Help and Contacts (Electric, Gas, Water)

What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate to a supervisor with your confirmation numbers, then file with APSC for regulated utilities (investor‑owned electric/gas). For co‑ops and municipal utilities not under APSC, still try 2‑1‑1 and city hall for local hardship funds. The rule book links at LII for Alabama PSC help you cite your rights. (psc.alabama.gov)

Know Your Alabama Shutoff Rights (fast facts you can quote)

What to do if this doesn’t work: contact APSC Consumer Services, ask for a supervisor callback, and write down dates/times per APSC complaint guidelines. If you need relay or translation help, use Alabama Relay 7‑1‑1 and 2‑1‑1 text line. (psc.alabama.gov)

Alabama Programs and Typical Timelines

Table — What to Expect for Key Programs

Program Where to apply Typical response Notes
LIHEAP Regular County Community Action Agency via ADECA LIHEAP map Approval/denial within ~15 days; vendor paid within ~30 days of approval One Regular per season (heating and cooling)
LIHEAP Crisis Same CAA Often prioritized; amount limited to 200% of Regular benefit Extra $50 allowed for high‑energy need households
Weatherization Local WAP agency via ADECA WAP page Waitlists common; audit scheduled before work Uses 200% FPL; health/safety included
Water charity funds Local utility/charity Often same‑day pledge if slots available H2O (Birmingham) up to $500 once per 12 months; MAWSS programs vary by funding

References: ADECA LIHEAP, FY25 LIHEAP summary/manual, ADECA WAP, H2O info. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 2‑1‑1 to search for “utility assistance” and “crisis funds” in your ZIP, then ask agencies if they accept pledges by phone to hold shutoff, and call your utility with the pledge confirmation number and time. Keep APSC as the next escalation for regulated utilities. (211connectsalabama.org)

Resources by Region

Birmingham Metro (Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Blount, Cullman, Walker)

Start with your CAA for LIHEAP: Jefferson County is currently served by the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama (Region 10) call center 855‑287‑1730; for Birmingham Water help, call BWW Customer Care and apply through the H2O Foundation. Also program your phone with APSC hotline 1‑800‑392‑8050 for disputes. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Huntsville / North Alabama (Madison, Limestone, Morgan, Cullman, Lawrence)

Book LIHEAP via CAA Huntsville/Madison & Limestone call center 256‑907‑1550; for Decatur/Cullman/Lawrence/Morgan/Winston use CAPNA and their county lines. For utility arrangements, call Huntsville Utilities 256‑535‑1200 and save 2‑1‑1. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Montgomery / River Region (Montgomery, Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes)

Use Montgomery Community Action Committee call center 334‑230‑5259 for LIHEAP; check CAP of Middle Alabama for Autauga/Elmore; and keep ADECA LIHEAP bookmarked. For SNAP to free up cash, apply at MyDHR Food Assistance. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Mobile / Baldwin / Coastal Counties

Apply for LIHEAP through Mobile Community Action (251‑206‑6117) or CAA of South Alabama (877‑246‑7836). For water, call MAWSS 251‑694‑3100 and ask about Neighbors in Need. Keep Spire Alabama 1‑800‑292‑4008 for gas arrangements. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Tuscaloosa / West Alabama

Use Community Service Programs of West Alabama call center 833‑836‑7817 for LIHEAP, and check ADECA LIHEAP map for county‑specific numbers. Pair it with 2‑1‑1 at United Way Central Alabama’s 211 if slots fill. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Dothan / Wiregrass (Houston, Henry, Geneva, Coffee, Barbour)

Book with Southeast Alabama Community Action Partnership 844‑680‑2044; confirm documents using ADECA LIHEAP summary. Keep APSC hotline for regulated utility disputes. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Auburn / Opelika / Lee County

Apply through Alabama Council on Human Relations (Lee County) 334‑246‑5266; review LIHEAP policy manual for crisis rules. Pair with 2‑1‑1 for water/charity leads. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Diverse Communities: Extra Navigation Tips and Contacts

County Variations That Matter

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check

Funding runs out in peak months, some phone lines open and fill within minutes, and many agencies require exact documents (including proof for zero income). Expect to wait 10–15 business days for a Regular LIHEAP decision and up to 30 days for payment posting, as written in the FY25 summary sheet; call to confirm current availability before applying. If a shutoff is imminent, combine a utility payment plan with a same‑day charity pledge via 2‑1‑1 while your LIHEAP is processing, and keep APSC in your back pocket. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

  • Valid photo ID (applicant): driver’s license or state ID — see FY25 LIHEAP summary for acceptable IDs.
  • Social Security cards for everyone: every household member — confirm on the ADECA summary sheet.
  • Proof of income for last full month: pay stubs, SSI/SSDI, child support, unemployment — definitions in the policy manual.
  • Current utility bill: in the head‑of‑household or spouse’s name; account number visible — see state rules.
  • If zero income: complete the declaration form — included in the ADECA documents.
  • Medical statement (only if asked): for crisis based on health — see Appendix B in the policy manual. (adeca.alabama.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

Ask for a conference with your local agency director and request a state fair hearing within 45 days as allowed by the LIHEAP policy manual. Bring your denial letter, income proof, and a written timeline. Meanwhile, set a payment arrangement with your utility (Alabama Power guide or Spire arrangements) and get a charity pledge via 2‑1‑1 to hold the shutoff. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Tables You Can Use Quickly

Major Utility Contacts and Programs

Utility Customer service Program links
Alabama Power 1‑800‑245‑2244 Payment help, Reconnect fees, Scam alerts
Spire Alabama 1‑800‑292‑4008 Payment arrangements, DollarHelp, Contact us
Huntsville Utilities 1‑256‑535‑1200 How to pay, Contact, Scam notice
Birmingham Water Works 1‑205‑244‑4000 Payments, H2O help, Customer care
MAWSS (Mobile) 1‑251‑694‑3100 MAWSS home, Neighbors in Need, Live chat

References: utility sites linked above and APSC consumer page here for disputes. (psc.alabama.gov)

Top Community Action Contacts (selected)

Region Counties LIHEAP contact
Region 10 — CAA of Northeast Alabama Blount, Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, Jefferson, Marshall, St. Clair Call center 855‑287‑1730; website
Region 11 — Mobile Community Action Mobile, Washington Call center 251‑206‑6117; website
Region 15 — CAA of South Alabama Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Marengo, Monroe, Wilcox Call center 877‑246‑7836; website
Region 16 — CAP of North Alabama Cullman, Lawrence, Marion, Morgan, Winston County lines listed; website
Region 17 — CSP of West Alabama Bibb, Choctaw, Dallas, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Perry, Sumter, Tuscaloosa Call center 833‑836‑7817; website

Source: ADECA LIHEAP page and agency list. (adeca.alabama.gov)

Documents to Bring — Side‑by‑Side

Item Why it matters Where it’s listed
Photo ID (applicant) Identity verification FY25 summary sheet
SSNs for all Confirms household members FY25 summary sheet
Last month’s income Sets benefit and eligibility Policy manual
Current utility bill Routes payment to vendor FY25 summary sheet

FAQs (Alabama‑specific)

  1. How fast can Crisis LIHEAP stop a shutoff: Crisis awards are designed to resolve urgent energy risks and can go up to 200% of your Regular amount, with an extra $50 for high‑energy need homes. Processing speed depends on your local agency; if your case isn’t acted on within 15 days, request a hearing per the policy manual. Start at ADECA LIHEAP and call your agency’s crisis line. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  2. What income counts for LIHEAP: Alabama uses gross household income for the prior month. See countable vs. non‑countable income in the policy manual, and check the monthly caps on the FY25 summary. If you have $0 income, complete the zero‑income declaration in ADECA documents. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  3. Can LIHEAP help if my bill isn’t in my name: Generally, the bill must be in the head‑of‑household or spouse’s name according to the FY25 summary. Call your utility customer service to update the name first, then book your appointment via ADECA LIHEAP. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  4. What if the weather is freezing: Utilities cannot disconnect residential electric or gas when the daily forecast is 32°F or below for your location. This is in Rule 770‑X‑1‑.12(e). Use APSC Consumer Services for enforcement. (law.cornell.edu)
  5. Does Alabama still have federal water aid: Federal LIHWAP ended; no new federal water benefits are available. Use local programs like H2O Foundation, MAWSS Neighbors in Need, and call 2‑1‑1. See HHS LIHWAP status for confirmation. (acf.hhs.gov)
  6. Can I apply if I’m a green card holder or my kids are U.S. citizens but I’m not: The manual explains qualified alien and mixed‑status household rules. Check definitions and proof examples in the policy manual, and apply through ADECA LIHEAP. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  7. What about internet discounts: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024 due to lack of funding. Review FCC’s ACP page and USAC updates; Lifeline remains for voice/broadband discounts. Ask 2‑1‑1 for low‑income ISP plans. (fcc.gov)
  8. How do I report a utility refusing lawful options: Document calls and file with APSC, citing Rule 770‑X‑1‑.12. Keep APSC Consumer Services number handy. (psc.alabama.gov)
  9. What are the LIHEAP benefit ranges for 2025: Alabama shows Regular minimums and maximums by season and fuel; Clearinghouse lists heating 280–280–580 and cooling 320–320–520, with winter crisis up to 1,100andsummercrisisupto1,100 and summer crisis up to 90. Verify with your agency and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse (AL). (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  10. How do I get large‑print bills or TTY: Ask your utility about accessible billing under “special needs,” and use Alabama Relay (7‑1‑1). For Spanish LIHEAP info, try ADECA en Español; for referrals, text your ZIP to 898‑211 per United Way 2‑1‑1 instructions. (alabamarelay.com)

“What to Do if This Doesn’t Work” — Troubleshooting Paths

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 is informational and not legal advice. Always verify current program funding and rules before you apply. Use official sites such as ADECA, APSC, and ACF LIHEAP, and call to confirm availability in your county. If you’re facing an immediate health or safety emergency, call 911 and ask the utility for a medical hold while you secure documentation. (adeca.alabama.gov)

What changed recently worth noting

  • According to ADECA (updated Feb 17, 2025), Alabama’s LIHEAP manual and eligibility summary were revised and the PY2025 Payment Assistance Chart is in effect. Verify details at LIHEAP Documents. (adeca.alabama.gov)
  • Alabama’s federal LIHWAP has ended; HHS notes no funding is available. Confirm status here: HHS LIHWAP. (acf.hhs.gov)
  • Alabama Power’s charitable trust added targeted emergency funds in early 2025 on top of its annual energy assistance support distributed via CAAs and Project SHARE; call your CAA to ask if funds are open. (alabamapower.com)

Remember to call to confirm current availability before applying; amounts and timelines can change based on funding and season.

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