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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Alaska

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Alaska

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, no‑nonsense hub for Alaska single moms who need help keeping heat, power, water, and internet/phone working. Every program and number below is official or community‑run, with links you can click right where you need them.


(health.alaska.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These Five at Hand

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Alaska Today

Start with your provider. State rules require notice and a chance to make a payment plan. Ask for a “deferred payment agreement” with one‑third down, the rest over up to 12 months, and immediate stop on disconnection once you sign. Use RCA consumer protections, point to 3 AAC 52.445 (deferred payment), and quote 3 AAC 52.450 (notice rules). (rca.alaska.gov)

If someone in your home is seriously ill, elderly, has a disability, or uses life‑support equipment, tell the utility and your doctor immediately. Alaska rules extend notice to 30 days and require a last 3‑day personal contact attempt. Show the utility 3 AAC 52.450(c)(2) and ask for their medical‑alert program, such as Chugach Med‑Electric Alert or AWWU Life Support Alert. (law.cornell.edu)

If the provider refuses reasonable terms or violates notice rules, open a complaint with the RCA today. Call 1-800-390-2782 and file online with RCA Consumer Protection, then call 2‑1‑1 for emergency funds via Alaska 2‑1‑1 while your case is reviewed. If your heat or lights are off, tell the RCA it’s urgent. (rca.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a legal advocate to intervene. Start with Alaska Legal Services’ utility complaint guide, contact the state Consumer Protection Unit, or call your local domestic violence/sexual assault program through ANDVSA’s directory if safety is a factor. (alaskalawhelp.org)

The Big Three Programs Most Single Moms Use First

Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP/HAP)

Apply every season starting October 1. Benefits go as a credit to your vendor—fuel oil, wood, propane, natural gas, or electric heat—and there’s a crisis track all year for disconnections and fuel run‑outs. Read the rules and apply through Heating Assistance Program (HAP), check the FAQ for 45‑day processing & IVR status line, and see Client Resources (expedited criteria). (health.alaska.gov)

Eligibility for FY2025 is 150% of the federal poverty level, with monthly income limits such as 2,350foronepersonand2,350 for one person and 4,875 for four. Crisis benefits are year‑round; standard applications close April 30. Confirm income and dates on HAP’s FY2025 page, see income table, and note LIHEAP FY2025 benefit ranges 350to350 to 6,125. (health.alaska.gov)

Important: expedited processing is only for a 48‑hour shutoff window, out‑of‑fuel, or life‑support equipment needs. Attach the disconnect notice, or have your fuel vendor email “Expedited Heating Request” to the HAP vendor inbox. Read the expedite section in Client Resources, start at HAP main page, and keep paying what you can while waiting. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your Tribal program if you’re AI/AN (they process your LIHEAP instead of the state) or call a regional nonprofit. Try Tanana Chiefs Conference Energy Assistance, Bristol Bay Native Association LIHEAP, and your local housing authority via HUD’s Alaska utility help page. (tananachiefs.org)

Power Cost Equalization (PCE)

PCE lowers electric charges for residential customers in 190+ rural communities by crediting part of your rate on the first block of monthly usage. The residential cap is 500 kWh per month by law, and credits show up straight on your bill through your local utility. Read the statute cap in AS 42.45.110, learn how PCE is administered at AEA’s PCE page, and save the portal contact if your utility needs help at PCE web portal. (touchngo.com)

You don’t apply as a household—your utility applies PCE if your community is eligible. Ask your utility’s customer service if PCE appears on your bill, and request a usage read if the credit looks low. Check the PCE updates and RCA contact numbers listed at AEA PCE announcements, review RCA consumer info, and call 1-800-390-2782 if credits are missing. (pce.akenergyauthority.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your tribal or city office which billing period PCE gets applied and whether your account is set up as “residential” (not commercial). If a utility isn’t complying, cite the law above and open a complaint with RCA Consumer Protection. (rca.alaska.gov)

Weatherization (free energy‑saving repairs)

Weatherization can cut your heating load and keep your home safer, at no cost if you qualify. Apply through a local provider; homeowners and renters can qualify. Start with AHFC Weatherization providers list, call Interior Weatherization for Fairbanks, or reach Alaska Community Development Corporation for Mat‑Su/Kenai/Prince William Sound. (ahfc.us)

Providers prioritize homes never weatherized since 2008 and higher‑need households, which often include single moms with young kids. Use the provider list again at AHFC Weatherization providers, reach AHFC’s Energy & Rural Development line at AHFC contacts, and ask about wait times in your area. (ahfc.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 to check for one‑time utility grants while you wait, and ask local housing authorities in your region (for example, Cook Inlet Housing Authority weatherization) about any open home repair slots. (alaska211.org)

Quick‑Glance Table — Which Program Fits Your Situation?

Situation First stop What you get How fast Where to apply
Heat bill or fuel tank HAP (LIHEAP) One‑time vendor credit; crisis option year‑round Standard up to 45 days; crisis if within 48 hours HAP page, Client Resources
Electric bill in rural town PCE (AEA) Per‑kWh credit on first 500 kWh Monthly on bill Ask your local utility; see AEA PCE
High energy use/unsafe home Weatherization (AHFC) Insulation, air‑sealing, repairs Waitlist varies Contact your regional provider list
Shutoff notice for power/gas RCA rules & payment plans 12‑month plan; 30‑day medical notice Same day if you sign Call your utility; cite 3 AAC 52.445
Water/sewer in Anchorage AWWU Coins Can Count One‑time bill help via Anchorage Health Dept. Varies by funds Call AHD 1-907-343-7770

(health.alaska.gov)

HAP (LIHEAP) in Alaska — Eligibility, Amounts, and How to Apply

Eligibility basics: Your household must have at least 200inout‑of‑pocketheatingcostsfortheyearandbeatorunder150200 in out‑of‑pocket heating costs for the year and be at or under 150% of the poverty line. Monthly income for FY2025 is 2,350 for one person and 4,875forfour;add4,875 for four; add 841 per extra person. See the full table on HAP’s FY2025 page, confirm on the DPA HAP hub, and note the season is Oct 1 to Apr 30. (health.alaska.gov)

Benefit amounts: Payments vary by fuel type, region, and heat need score. For FY2025, Alaska’s LIHEAP benefits range from about 350minimumupto350 minimum up to 6,125 for heating or crisis. Always call to confirm availability because amounts depend on funding. See state profile in LIHEAP Clearinghouse (03/18/2025), read HAP FAQ, and check your vendor on the approved vendors list. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

How to apply (step‑by‑step):

Timelines and reality check: Expect up to 45 calendar days to process non‑crisis cases, with funds reaching your vendor about a week after the Notice of Action. Staff shortages and backlogs have led to slower processing in some months—keep receipts and keep paying what you can. See HAP FAQ (45 days & NOA), read general backlog coverage from Anchorage Daily News (Jan/June 2025), and call your utility to set a payment plan until the credit posts. (health.alaska.gov)

Emergency criteria (expedite): If your disconnect date is within 48 hours, you’re out of deliverable fuel, or someone in the home uses prescribed life‑support equipment, ask for expedited processing and attach proof. See the expedite bullet points under Client Resources, use the vendor email subject “Expedited Heating Request,” and notify your utility you have an active application. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For Southcentral gas bills, Alaska 2‑1‑1 can route you to nonprofits using new donations (for example, ENSTAR’s 2025 funding routed through United Way). Call Alaska 2‑1‑1, see United Way/ENSTAR press release (Jan 28, 2025), and ask your gas/electric utility about hardship funds. (alaska211.org)

Water, Sewer, and Trash Help in Alaska

There’s no statewide water LIHWAP now, so most water help is local. In Anchorage, single‑family homes may qualify for Coins Can Count funds managed by the Anchorage Health Department; call 1-907-343-7770 to apply. Read AWWU Coins Can Count, see AWWU billing policies, and use the 24/7 pay IVR 1-866-650-2700 if needed. (awwu.biz)

Juneau residents should ask Utility Billing about payment plans as rates increased 5% on Aug 1, 2025; avoid shutoff fees by arranging plans early. Review CBJ utilities page, read the Aug 1, 2025 rate increase notice, and confirm payment rules at CBJ Payment Information. (juneau.org)

If your water/sewer is regulated and you face shutoff, ask for a payment plan and then call the RCA if refused. Use RCA consumer page, reach the DEC Drinking Water Program for system issues, and ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 for local emergency funds. (rca.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For rural village systems with outages/bad water, call your city/tribe and the state for help. The DEC Village Safe Water program supports rural systems, and EPA funds Alaska Native Villages water projects—report issues and ask for technical assistance. See DEC State Revolving Fund info, read EPA’s ANV water grants, and log complaints locally first. (rural.dec.alaska.gov)

Electric, Gas, and Propane — Your Options by Region

Use these as starting points. Always ask for a payment plan and any medical or hardship notes to be added to your account.

Anchorage and Eagle River

Ask Chugach Electric for a payment plan and enroll in Med‑Electric if someone in the home uses electrically powered medical equipment. Visit Chugach billing & payments, call Chugach contacts, and review Med‑Electric Alert. (chugachelectric.com)

For water/sewer, ask AWWU about Coins Can Count (AH D determines eligibility) and Life Support Alert to delay shutoff when medically necessary. See AWWU Coins Can Count, AWWU Life Support Alert, and AWWU office hours/contacts. (awwu.biz)

If your gas bill is past due, call 2‑1‑1 for nonprofit funds (including 2025 ENSTAR donations routed through United Way) and ask ENSTAR about payment arrangements. Start with Alaska 2‑1‑1, check United Way/ENSTAR funding note, and confirm any shutoff rules using RCA consumer page. (alaska211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For Anchorage families, check emergency assistance with Catholic Social Services, and use Alaska 2‑1‑1 to find church‑based funds. If the utility refuses a plan, file with RCA Consumer Protection. (cssalaska.org)

Mat‑Su Borough (Palmer/Wasilla/Big Lake)

MEA offers payment options; ask for a deferred plan and note any medical needs. Read MEA rate updates, see current rates (3Q 2025), and call customer service from the MEA site. (mea.coop)

For weatherization, apply with Alaska CDC and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for short‑term utility grants. If you use propane/fuel oil, add HAP and ask vendors to email “Expedited Heating Request” when you’re out of fuel. Use HAP Client Resources, HAP main page, and Alaska 2‑1‑1. (alaskacdc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If MEA won’t offer a fair plan, cite the state deferred payment rule and call the RCA. Use 3 AAC 52.445 and RCA Consumer Protection to open a complaint. (regulations.justia.com)

Kenai Peninsula (Kenai/Soldotna/Homer/Seward)

Ask your utility (HEA for most electric customers) about payment plans and the latest rates. Review HEA rate schedule (Jan 1, 2025), check AWWU if you own Anchorage‑area properties, and call the Kenai faith‑based clearinghouse. Use AWWU Coins Can Count and Love INC Kenai Peninsula. (homerelectric.com)

If you heat with deliverable fuel, use HAP and ask your vendor to flag “Expedited Heating Request” when your tank is empty. Go to HAP Client Resources (expedite), and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 to search for extra one‑time grants. If refused a plan, file with RCA. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city or tribe if you’re in a PCE‑eligible off‑road system with local credits. Verify PCE at AEA’s PCE hub and use RCA for any billing disputes. (akenergyauthority.org)

Fairbanks North Star Borough (Fairbanks/North Pole)

For electric bills, GVEA’s Benevolent Fund can provide up to $750 once per lifetime if you’re at risk of disconnect and meet hardship proof. Read the GVEA Benevolent Fund FAQ, see GVEA financial assistance page, and set a payment plan first to pause disconnection. (gvea.com)

For natural gas bills, Interior Gas Utility lists local agencies that can help with arrears (Salvation Army and Tribal programs). See IGU payment assistance page, add HAP if you heat with gas, and call Tanana Chiefs Conference Energy Assistance if you’re AI/AN in eligible communities. (interiorgas.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Interior Weatherization to reduce your heating load and apply for HAP again next season. Use Interior Weatherization, call DPA HAP line, and keep the RCA consumer number if a provider won’t work with you. (interiorwx.org)

Juneau (City & Borough of Juneau)

Budget for utility rate increases passed in June 2025 and effective Aug 1, 2025, and request a plan before fees add up. Read CBJ utilities page, review rate increase details & schedule, and confirm payment policies at CBJ Payment Information. (juneau.org)

Ask about weatherization at RurAL CAP or THRHA in Southeast. Start with AHFC providers list, check THRHA LIHEAP notices, and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for one‑time water/sewer help. (ahfc.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the RCA rules to get a payment plan and the DPA HAP if you heat with electric. See RCA consumer rules and HAP. (rca.alaska.gov)

Western Alaska and Rural Villages

If your community is PCE‑eligible, your electric bill should show a PCE line credit each month (up to 500 kWh). Confirm the cap in AS 42.45.110, see AEA PCE overview, and ask your utility clerk when credits post. (touchngo.com)

Many tribes also run heating programs; check your regional housing authority and tribal council. Start with Bristol Bay Native Association LIHEAP, see Tanana Chiefs Conference Energy Assistance, and ask your utility office to send “Expedited Heating Request” if you’re out of fuel. (bbna.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If there’s a community‑level water/power issue, your city/tribe can ask AEA for technical help. Share AEA training & utility assistance, report water issues to DEC Drinking Water, and call RCA on regulated billing disputes. (akenergyauthority.org)

Disconnection Protections and Your Rights

Alaska requires utilities to give written notice before shutoff and to offer deferred payment plans to residential customers in hardship. You can pay at least one‑third down, then monthly installments over up to 12 months. Show providers 3 AAC 52.445 (deferred plans), read 3 AAC 52.450 (disconnection notice rules), and call RCA Consumer Protection if a provider doesn’t follow these steps. (regulations.justia.com)

Deposits are capped by rule (no more than twice the average monthly bill), and utilities must offer deposit payment arrangements in hardship. Read 3 AAC 52.420 (deposits), check RCA electric consumer page, and ask your utility to review your credit history for deposit refunds. (regulations.justia.com)

If your home has medically fragile occupants, ask for a medical flag and extended notice. Use Chugach Med‑Electric, show 3 AAC 52.450(c)(2), and ask your doctor to complete the form. (chugachelectric.com)

Summary Table — Disconnection Protections (Electric/Water/Gas)

Protection What it means Where it’s written
Payment plan in hardship Must offer a deferred plan; one‑third down; up to 12 months 3 AAC 52.445
Extended notice for medical/elderly/disabled/life‑support 30‑day notice; final 3‑day contact attempt 3 AAC 52.450(c)(2)
No Friday/holiday shutoffs Disconnections limited to Mon–Thu 8 a.m.–5 p.m. 3 AAC 52.450(e)
Deposit limits/refunds Deposit ≤ 2x average bill; refunds after good history 3 AAC 52.420
PCE monthly usage cap Credit applies to first 500 kWh AS 42.45.110(b)(2)

(regulations.justia.com)

Internet and Phone Discounts You Can Still Use

The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024, so new enrollments stopped. If you were on ACP, your bill likely rose after May–June 2024. Read the FCC ACP page, see the FCC wind‑down notice, and confirm the end‑date coverage. (fcc.gov)

Apply for Lifeline instead. Lifeline gives up to 9.25monthly(upto9.25 monthly (up to 34.25 on Tribal lands) off phone/internet and is still active statewide. Start at USAC Lifeline consumer site, review Lifeline overview (USAC), and apply via USAC Get Lifeline. (lifelinesupport.org)

Survivors of domestic violence can also claim a temporary Lifeline “survivor benefit” after a Safe Connections line separation. Read USAC survivor benefit, call Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473, and contact ANDVSA help map if you need safe support. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask providers about low‑income plans or bundle discounts, then call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for local connectivity vouchers. Use Alaska 2‑1‑1, keep your Lifeline recertification on time, and change companies if service is unreliable. (alaska211.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city clerk or tribal office about local assistance funds and whether they can coordinate with your fuel/electric vendor. Use Alaska 2‑1‑1, then call RCA if a regulated utility refuses a fair plan. (alaska211.org)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Resources

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask staff to note your name and pronouns, and ask for a private call‑back if safety is a concern. Reach out to Alaska 2‑1‑1 for LGBTQ‑friendly providers, contact ANDVSA member programs for survivor‑centered help, and use USAC Lifeline survivor benefit if you need to separate a phone line for safety. (alaska211.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask utilities to flag medical devices and request extended notice. Use 3 AAC 52.450(c)(2), enroll with Chugach Med‑Electric, and call RCA Consumer Protection if your plan is denied. (law.cornell.edu)

Veteran single mothers: Apply for SSVF (can cover utility arrears with housing stabilization services). Contact Catholic Social Services SSVF, dial the VA through case managers, and keep Alaska 2‑1‑1 for local veteran‑friendly supports. (cssalaska.org)

Immigrant or refugee single moms: Ask for interpreters and large‑print forms if needed. Use the “Language Access” links on HAP Client Resources, contact Catholic Social Services (Refugee Assistance), and ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 to connect you to bilingual services. (health.alaska.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re AI/AN, your Tribal LIHEAP usually replaces the state HAP—apply with your regional organization. Use Tanana Chiefs Conference Energy Assistance, Bristol Bay Native Association LIHEAP, and check PCE status via AEA. (tananachiefs.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Ask your vendor to email HAP to expedite fuel deliveries, and use village offices for fax/scan. Share HAP Client Resources (expedite), check AEA PCE, and call DEC Drinking Water Program for system issues that raise your costs. (health.alaska.gov)

Single fathers: You can use every program here—same forms, same eligibility. Start with HAP, ask your utility for a plan under 3 AAC 52.445, and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for a list of local faith groups. (health.alaska.gov)

Language access: Ask for interpreters by phone and large‑print applications. Use “Language Access” on DPA services, call Alaska 2‑1‑1 to request translated referrals, and ask the RCA for TTY/Relay (7‑1‑1) when making a complaint. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If discrimination occurs, document dates and contacts and escalate. Use RCA complaint portal, call Consumer Protection Unit, and get advocacy from ANDVSA programs. (rca.alaska.gov)

Reality Check — What Single Moms Report This Year

Processing can be slow. The HAP FAQ says up to 45 days for normal cases, and local news outlets reported continuing delays across DPA programs in 2025. Keep utilities informed you have an active HAP application, set a payment plan, and keep proof of all payments. See HAP FAQ and watchdog reporting at Anchorage Daily News. (health.alaska.gov)

Funds can run out. Programs like utility hardship funds (AWWU, GVEA Benevolent Fund) depend on donations and may close and re‑open. Always call to confirm funding before you apply—ask staff to timestamp when you called. Use AWWU Coins Can Count, check GVEA’s assistance page, and keep Alaska 2‑1‑1 handy to locate an open program. (awwu.biz)

Winter rules are limited. Alaska has no blanket cold weather moratorium—only special protections apply (medical, elderly, disabled) plus required notice and payment plans. See 3 AAC 52.450, read LIHEAP disconnection summary (state table), and save the RCA consumer line. (law.cornell.edu)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Printable/Screenshot‑Friendly Application Checklist

If Your Application Gets Denied

Read the denial letter carefully—often it’s missing documents or a timing issue. Call the HAP line and ask exactly what’s missing and how to fix it by the deadline. Use HAP FAQ (status & NOA), call the Virtual Contact Center, and ask your vendor to hold while you resubmit. (health.alaska.gov)

If you’re AI/AN and applied to the state by mistake, apply through your Tribal LIHEAP instead. Use Tanana Chiefs Conference, BBNA LIHEAP, and ask your tribal office to confirm your eligibility. (tananachiefs.org)

If you disagree with the decision, ask how to appeal and what deadline applies. Keep paying what you can and ask your utility for a written deferred payment plan. Cite 3 AAC 52.445 and keep RCA contact info ready in case a regulated utility refuses. (regulations.justia.com)

Resources by Region (Boroughs/Census Areas)

Tables — Know the Numbers

HAP/L IHEAP Season & Processing

Item What to expect Where to check
Season Oct 1 – Apr 30 (standard); crisis year‑round HAP
Income limit example 4‑person household $4,875/month (FY2025) HAP FY2025
Processing timeline Up to 45 days; vendor paid ~1 week after NOA HAP FAQ

(health.alaska.gov)

Key RCA Protections

Rule You can ask for Source
3 AAC 52.445 Deferred plan: 1/3 down; up to 12 months Deferred payment rule
3 AAC 52.450 15–30 day notice; 3‑day final contact; no Fri/holiday shutoff Disconnection rule
3 AAC 52.420 Deposit ≤ 2x average bill; hardship deposit arrangements Deposit rule

(regulations.justia.com)

Internet/Phone

Program What it does Apply
Lifeline Up to 9.25/mo(upto9.25/mo (up to 34.25 on Tribal lands) off phone/internet Get Lifeline (USAC)
ACP Ended in 2024; no new enrollments FCC ACP

(usac.org)

Water/Sewer (Examples)

Location Program Contact
Anchorage AWWU Coins Can Count Anchorage Health Dept. 1-907-343-7770
Juneau CBJ Utilities online portal & rates CBJ Utilities 1-907-586-0898
Rural systems DEC Drinking Water Program Anchorage 1-866-956-7656

(awwu.biz)

Regional Tribal Energy Programs (Examples)

Region Program Notes
Interior Tanana Chiefs Conference Energy Assistance Oct–Sept program year; village/urban guidelines
Bristol Bay BBNA LIHEAP Heating and vendor wood options
Southeast THRHA LIHEAP updates Draft LIHEAP plans, service areas

(tananachiefs.org)

Real‑World Examples

  • Anchorage mom on oxygen concentrator: She enrolled in Chugach’s Med‑Electric, sent a doctor note, and received a 30‑day disconnect extension to set a payment plan. She also applied to HAP and checked status by IVR. (chugachelectric.com)
  • Bethel renter with fuel oil: She called her vendor when out of fuel and asked them to email “Expedited Heating Request” to HAP. She filed HAP, and her Tribal office confirmed she should apply through them instead. She switched to BBNA LIHEAP. (health.alaska.gov)
  • Nome parent with high electric rate: The family saw a PCE credit on the bill but usage above 500 kWh wasn’t credited. They read the 500 kWh cap in AS 42.45.110 and then focused on weatherization through AHFC providers. (touchngo.com)

FAQs — Alaska Utility Help for Single Moms

  1. How much will HAP pay on my bill?
    Amounts vary by heat type and location; in FY2025 the range is roughly 350to350 to 6,125 for heating or crisis. Always verify current funding before you apply. See LIHEAP Clearinghouse (03/18/2025), HAP main page, and HAP FAQ. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  2. How long does HAP take and how do I check status?
    Up to 45 days for non‑crisis; vendors receive payment about a week after your approval notice. Check the IVR daily with your application number. See HAP FAQ (timelines & IVR), and use Client Resources. (health.alaska.gov)
  3. Who do I call if a utility refuses a payment plan?
    File with the RCA and cite the deferred payment rule (one‑third down; up to 12 months). Use RCA Consumer Protection, and read 3 AAC 52.445. (rca.alaska.gov)
  4. Is there a winter shutoff ban?
    No blanket ban; Alaska relies on extended notice for medically vulnerable customers plus required payment plans and notice rules. See 3 AAC 52.450, and call RCA if your situation is urgent. (law.cornell.edu)
  5. How do I get water help?
    Anchorage has Coins Can Count via the Health Department; other areas use city payment plans or emergency funds. Start with AWWU Coins Can Count, check CBJ utilities, and call Alaska 2‑1‑1. (awwu.biz)
  6. What is PCE and how do I know if it’s on my bill?
    PCE is a state program that lowers rural electric bills up to 500 kWh monthly. Ask your utility to point out the PCE line item. Read AS 42.45.110 and AEA’s program overview. (touchngo.com)
  7. Can I get help with internet/phone now that ACP ended?
    Yes—Lifeline is still active with higher support on Tribal lands. Apply through USAC Get Lifeline, learn more at USAC Lifeline, and confirm ACP’s end on the FCC ACP page. (usac.org)
  8. Who handles water safety or outages in my village system?
    Report to your city/tribe and call the DEC Drinking Water Program to reach regional engineers. Use DEC Drinking Water contacts, review DEC SRF program info, and ask the RCA only if the utility is regulated and it’s a billing/service issue. (dec.alaska.gov)
  9. I’m a DV survivor—how do I stay connected safely?
    Use Safe Connections to separate your phone line and get temporary Lifeline support; then keep your plan under Lifeline after six months. Start with USAC Survivor Benefit, find local advocates via ANDVSA, and save the OVW national hotline list. (lifelinesupport.org)
  10. Who else can I call for general consumer help?
    For scams or unfair practices, call the state Consumer Protection Unit, and for utility issues use the RCA. Use AK Consumer Protection Unit contacts, RCA Consumer Protection, and Alaska 2‑1‑1 to find immediate local aid. (law.alaska.gov)

Birmingham Water Bill Help

This section intentionally uses an Alaska equivalent: look for your city’s utility assistance page and call to confirm current programs. For Anchorage, use AWWU Coins Can Count; for Juneau, use CBJ utilities; for rural systems, call DEC Drinking Water. (awwu.biz)

Application Timeline — What to Expect

Step HAP (non‑crisis) Utility payment plan
Day 0 File complete, signed app Call provider; request deferred plan
Day 1–10 Acknowledgement Written plan issued
Day 10–45 Case processed Pay agreed amount each month
After approval Vendor receives credit in ~1 week Keep plan current; revisit if income changes

Check sources: HAP FAQ (45‑day & vendor payment timing) and 3 AAC 52.445 (plans). (health.alaska.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección es un resumen de lo más importante y fue producida con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique detalles con las oficinas oficiales.

Para ayuda con calefacción, aplique al Programa de Asistencia de Calefacción (HAP) entre el 1 de octubre y el 30 de abril; para emergencias, hay proceso acelerado todo el año en Recursos para clientes y línea 1-800-478-7778. Para electricidad en pueblos rurales, el Programa PCE reduce el costo de los primeros 500 kWh por mes. Si una empresa no coopera, presente queja con RCA 1-800-390-2782 y pida un plan de pagos conforme a 3 AAC 52.445. Para descuentos en internet/teléfono, use Lifeline (USAC) ya que el ACP de la FCC terminó. Para referencias, llame a Alaska 2‑1‑1. (health.alaska.gov)

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. (health.alaska.gov)

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It is not legal advice, not financial advice, and not a government publication. Program eligibility and funding change during the year—always confirm details with agencies before applying or making payment decisions. Use official sites such as Alaska DOH/DPA HAP, RCA Consumer Protection, and Alaska 2‑1‑1 to verify current options. (health.alaska.gov)

Notes on using this hub: Every program name here links straight to the right place. When you call, write down the date, the person you spoke with, and what they promised—this helps if you need to escalate or appeal.

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