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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, plain‑English guide to finding and using real programs that can keep your lights, heat, water, and internet/phone on in Arkansas. Every section starts with the key step first, then adds details, timelines, and plan‑B options. You’ll see links throughout the text so you can click straight to the right office or form.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call your utility today and set a payment plan: Ask for “payment arrangement,” “deferment,” “extensions,” and any “medical or weather protections.” For electric or gas, contact your provider like Entergy Arkansas at 1-800-368-3749, SWEPCO at 1-888-216-3523, or Black Hills Energy at 1-888-890-5554. If you use AOG/Summit, call 1-800-842-5690 or Summit Utilities at 1-800-992-7552. If your utility refuses, ask for a supervisor and document the call. (entergy.com)
  • Apply for LIHEAP crisis help right now: Start with the state’s Arkansas Energy Office LIHEAP page, then click the map to find your local Community Action Agency (CAA). For example, CADC (Pulaski/Saline and more) lists current dates; EOA of Washington County shows required documents; Ozark Opportunities posts summer and crisis windows. Crisis aid must be provided within 48 hours if eligible (18 hours for life‑threatening). Call to confirm funding before you go. (adeq.state.ar.us)
  • Use Arkansas shutoff protections today: Ask your doctor’s office to fax a “medical certificate” to your utility to delay shutoff up to 30 days (renewable once). Cold Weather Rule: no electric/gas disconnection if the forecast is 32°F or colder next 24 hours. Hot Weather Rule: extra protections for 65+ or disabled at 95°F+. If the utility won’t honor rules, call the Arkansas Public Service Commission (APSC) Consumer Services at 1-800-482-1164 and open a complaint while you’re on the phone with the utility. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Arkansas Today

Do this first: Ask for a payment arrangement and name the protections that fit you. Keep notes: date, time, the rep’s name, and what was offered. Quote APSC rules when needed.

  • Use your provider’s speed paths: Entergy Arkansas at 1-800-368-3749 offers deferments and “Level Billing”; SWEPCO at 1-888-216-3523 offers AMP plans and extended arrangements; Black Hills Energy at 1-888-890-5554 can set payment plans and refer to Black Hills Cares; Summit/AOG at 1-800-842-5690 provides delayed payment agreements and medical holds. (entergy.com)
  • Invoke medical protections when needed: Ask your doctor’s office to notify the utility that a serious medical condition exists; the signed certificate must arrive within 7 days; it pauses disconnection up to 30 days and can be renewed once (total up to 60 days). Utilities are not required to accept more than one certificate per household per year. (casetext.com)
  • Use weather rules: Cold Weather Rule bans disconnects at 32°F or below in the next 24 hours. Hot Weather Rule protects 65+ or disabled customers at 95°F and above for electric/gas. Ask reps to check “today’s NWS forecast” for your zone. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
  • Leverage the gas moratorium (low‑income customers, Nov 1–Mar 31): If you receive SNAP, WIC, TEA, Medicaid, or LIHEAP, you can stop winter gas shutoffs by notifying your gas company, providing written proof within 14 days, signing the Suspension Moratorium Agreement, paying the minimum each month, and repaying deferred amounts April–October. Ask your gas utility for the SMA and DPA forms. (regulations.justia.com)
  • Call in reinforcements: If a social service agency agrees in writing to pay at least one‑fourth of your overdue bill, the utility must continue or reconnect service if you also enter a delayed payment agreement. Ask your caseworker to send a written guarantee. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Expected timeline: If you qualify for LIHEAP crisis aid, federal rules require help within 48 hours (18 hours if life‑threatening). Non‑crisis applications vary by county; ask your local agency for current processing times and check for document uploads to speed things up. (acf.hhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File an APSC complaint the same day through APSC Consumer Services (1-800-482-1164), then call Legal Aid of Arkansas (1-800-952-9243) for further help. Also ask your city water/sewer utility about hardship or discount programs (see Fort Smith Project Concern and Rogers H2O below). (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Quick Reference Tables

Program + What It Pays + Where to Apply

Program What it helps with Where to start Typical timing
LIHEAP (energy bill help) One‑time payment toward electric, gas, propane, wood/pellets; crisis and regular Arkansas LIHEAP; find your county CAA using the map; examples: CADC, EOA Washington County Crisis within 48 hours/18 hours if life‑threatening; regular varies; ask your local CAA. (adeq.state.ar.us)
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Free home energy upgrades (air sealing, insulation, HVAC fixes, detectors) Arkansas WAP; apply through your local provider listed on AEO site Year‑round; average grant about $5,000 per home (varies). (adeq.state.ar.us)
APSC complaint mediation Stops unfair shutoff, enforces medical/weather rules, mediates bills APSC Consumer Services, complaint line 1-800-482-1164 Utility must respond; APSC investigates quickly. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
Legal aid Appeals, consumer rights, benefits denials Legal Aid of Arkansas (1-800-952-9243) Helpline hours posted; online intake 24/7. (arlegalaid.org)
211 help Finds local churches, charities, and programs Arkansas 211; text ZIP to 898‑211 Immediate referrals; check site for any call‑center limits. (rivervalleyunitedway.org)

Arkansas LIHEAP 2025 Snapshot

Component Statewide 2025 dates Typical benefit (FY2025) Notes
Heating (regular) Opened Jan 6; closed Mar 31 50–50–475 Dates vary by agency. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Winter Crisis Jan 6–Apr 30 Up to $500 Crisis must prevent shutoff/restore energy. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Cooling (regular) Jul 7–Aug 29 50–50–287 First‑come, first‑served. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Summer Crisis Jul 7–Sep 30 Up to $500 Limited funds; apply early. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Key Shutoff Protections (APSC rules)

Protection What it does How to use
Medical Certificate Delays shutoff up to 30 days (one renewal allowed); certificate due within 7 days Ask your provider for their medical form; your doctor must sign; renew once if needed. (casetext.com)
Cold Weather Rule No disconnect on days forecast 32°F or below in next 24 hours Ask utility to check NWS forecast for your zone that morning. (regulations.justia.com)
Hot Weather Rule Protects customers 65+ or disabled at 95°F and above Call utility and mention “hot weather protection.” (apsc.arkansas.gov)
Gas Moratorium (Nov 1–Mar 31) For low‑income gas customers on SNAP/WIC/TEA/Medicaid/LIHEAP; pay minimum; balance deferred to Apr–Oct Notify utility, sign the SMA & DPA, provide proof within 14 days. (regulations.justia.com)

Utility Company Help — Phone and Programs

Company Phone Programs you can ask for
Entergy Arkansas 1-800-368-3749 Payment arrangements, Level Billing, “The Power to Care” (seniors/disabled), sales‑tax exemption on first 500 kWh for very low income, Single Stop benefits screener. (entergy.com)
SWEPCO (AEP) 1-888-216-3523 Payment plans/AMP, Dollar Energy Fund grants (off‑only, limited), late fee/deposit waivers in some situations. (tul150.swepco.com)
Black Hills Energy (gas) 1-888-890-5554 Payment arrangements, Budget Billing, Black Hills Cares, Medical Extension. (blackhillsenergy.com)
Summit Utilities/AOG (gas) 1-800-842-5690 Delayed/Deferred Payment Agreement, deposit waiver for victims of domestic crimes, Summit Heating Assistance Fund (seasonal). (aogc.com)

Water/Sewer Programs (examples)

Utility Area What’s offered
Fort Smith “Project Concern” Fort Smith 50% discount water; 50% sewer; 25% solid waste for eligible households. (fortsmithar.gov)
Rogers Water Utilities “H2O: Help to Others” Rogers One‑time water bill help via partner screening. (rwu.org)
Central Arkansas Water (CAW) Little Rock/North Little Rock metro Customer service support; payment options; TTY 711; ask about local aid and Quick Pay locations. (carkw.com)

LIHEAP in Arkansas: Eligibility, Amounts, How to Apply

Act now — start with your local CAA: LIHEAP in Arkansas is run by community‑based organizations, not the state office. Go to the AEO LIHEAP page, click “CBO Contact Information,” and pick your county. You’ll see the office name, address, phone, and website to get forms and dates. CADC posts summer/winter opening and closing dates; EOA of Washington County lists a clear document list; Ozark Opportunities posts program windows and intake tips. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Who qualifies (quick view): Arkansas uses income limits based on 60% of State Median Income, with benefits varying by fuel type and household size. FY2025 benefits range roughly from 50upto50 up to 475 for regular heat, 50to50 to 287 for regular cooling, and up to $500 for crisis (winter or summer). Always check your agency’s current chart and call to confirm funding before you go. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Documents you’ll need: Photo ID; Social Security cards (adults) and numbers (minors); last utility bills (electric and gas/propane if you have both); proof of last month’s income for every adult; if no income, bring a Zero‑Income and Contribution Statement; if job loss, bring employer letter or the agency’s “Earning Statement.” See examples on AEO’s LIHEAP forms page and local agency pages like EOA and CADC. (adeq.state.ar.us)

How to apply: Apply in person or follow your agency’s posted instructions. Many allow uploads via client kiosks or email; hours vary (for example, Central Delta CAA posts county hours and email options). Payments go straight to your utility. Crisis help must resolve the energy emergency within 48 hours (18 hours if life‑threatening). (cdcaa.org)

Timelines you can expect: Crisis is fast by federal rule (48/18). Regular applications can take longer and depend on volume; ask your office about current wait times and whether document uploads can speed things up. CADC notes very high call volume; try email when phones are busy. (cadc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funding ran out, ask your utility for a longer payment plan and call 211 to locate churches or local funds. Also ask about seasonal utility‑sponsored funds: SWEPCO’s Dollar Energy Fund, Entergy’s Power to Care partners, or AOG/Summit Heating Assistance Fund when open. (dollarenergy.org)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Lower Bills for Good

Start with an application through your local provider: WAP upgrades homes at no cost for eligible households statewide. Typical measures include air sealing, insulation, weather‑stripping, HVAC repairs or replacement, LED bulbs, and safety items like CO/smoke detectors. Apply through your local provider via the Arkansas WAP page, which also lists participating utilities like Entergy Arkansas and AOG that help leverage funds. (adeq.state.ar.us)

What WAP pays for: The Arkansas Energy Office notes an average grant of about $5,000 per household, but work is based on an energy audit and could include HVAC work or minor repairs related to the energy measures. The program is year‑round and prioritizes homes with the biggest energy waste. (adeq.state.ar.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your electric/gas utility about their separate weatherization rebates or efficiency kits. Check Black Hills Energy’s rebates/tips and SWEPCO savings pages, and ask the APSC staff which programs are active in your area. (blackhillsenergy.com)

Utility Company Programs You Can Use This Week

Entergy Arkansas: Call 1-800-368-3749. Ask for a payment arrangement, Level Billing, and “Power to Care” partner referrals. Check Entergy’s winter bill tools and Bill Toolkit. If your annual household income is $12,000 or less, register for the state sales‑tax exemption on the first 500 kWh each month (Ark. Code §26‑52‑416). This exemption applies statewide across utilities. (entergy.com)

SWEPCO (AEP): Call 1-888-216-3523. Ask about AMP (Average Monthly Payment), extended arrangements, and the Dollar Energy Fund grant (up to $200; “off‑only” window; limited funds). You can also request late‑fee and deposit waivers in special circumstances and set arrangements online. (dollarenergy.org)

Black Hills Energy (gas): Call 1-888-890-5554. Ask for payment arrangements, Budget Billing, Black Hills Cares referrals through Arkansas 211, and a Medical Extension if needed. Their page lists kiosks, Western Union/CheckFreePay locations, and other options to pay. (blackhillsenergy.com)

Summit Utilities/AOG (gas): Call 1-800-842-5690 (AOG) or 1-800-992-7552 (Summit). Ask for delayed/deferred payment agreements and the deposit waiver for victims of domestic crimes. During winter, check the Summit Heating Assistance Fund (often Jan–Mar; up to $200 via United Way partners; funding limited). (summitutilities.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the APSC complaint line, apply for LIHEAP crisis, and ask 211 for churches that can pledge at least one‑fourth of your overdue bill (that guarantee forces continuation/reconnection when paired with a payment agreement). (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Water, Sewer, and Trash Help (City/County Utilities)

Check your city’s utility site first: City utilities aren’t always under APSC rules, but many have their own aid.

  • Fort Smith: “Project Concern” offers a 50% discount on water and sewer, and 25% on solid waste for qualifying households; call 1-479-494-3907. See the city notice on updated 2025 income guidelines. (fortsmithar.gov)
  • Rogers: “H2O: Help to Others” provides water bill help through a nonprofit partner (screening required); 24‑hour Customer Service 1-479-621-1142. (rwu.org)
  • Central Arkansas Water (CAW): Payment options, Quick Pay locations, and TTY 711 are posted on CAW’s customer pages with phone support at 1-501-372-5161 or 1-855-742-0309. Ask about any local assistance partners. (carkw.com)
  • Statewide note: Federal LIHWAP water aid has ended; the Arkansas Energy Office notes the call center/portal is permanently closed. Always check with your local water/sewer utility for current hardship funds. (adeq.state.ar.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for nearby churches/charities that help with water bills. Call Legal Aid of Arkansas for advice if a municipal utility denies a reasonable payment plan for a past‑due balance you’re trying to resolve. (arlegalaid.org)

Internet and Phone: Low‑Cost Options After ACP

Use Lifeline to cut your phone/internet bill: Lifeline gives qualifying households up to a $9.25 monthly discount (more on Tribal lands). Apply through the FCC Lifeline program; enroll using the National Verifier. Then choose a participating provider, like Access from AT&T in many Arkansas areas. (fcc.gov)

Check Arkansas’s affordability resources: The Arkansas State Broadband Office lists low‑cost plans and links to Lifeline applications. Use their dashboard to identify providers with low‑cost offerings near you. (broadband.arkansas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your mobile carrier for a hardship plan, or switch to a Lifeline mobile provider if home internet is too expensive short‑term. For school‑age kids, ask your district if they still lend hotspots or list low‑cost options. (fcc.gov)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Doors to Knock On

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask Legal Aid of Arkansas for help if you face discrimination from a landlord or utility while seeking payment plans, and use APSC Consumer Services if a regulated utility treats you unfairly. For safety planning and referrals, use Arkansas 211 or the 988 Lifeline. Request TTY or language access if needed. (arlegalaid.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use the medical certificate protection to delay shutoff for up to 30 days (renew once). Ask your doctor’s office to notify the utility today and send the form within 7 days. If denied, call APSC and Legal Aid. For benefits or special services, call DHS Hotlines and ask for Medicaid or home‑based supports. (casetext.com)

Veteran single mothers: Connect with the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs for Women Veterans program events and support (Women Veterans Coordinator 1-870-404-6944), and use DWS Veterans Services for priority of service. Ask your utility for military hardship options while LIHEAP or WAP applications move. (veterans.arkansas.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for LIHEAP if you meet income and identity rules; check your local CAA’s document list and ask for language help. Access Arkansas offers Spanish and Marshallese guides; Arkansas United can help navigate benefits and 211. You have the right to an interpreter; ask for one. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Tribal‑specific notes: If you’re a member served by a Tribal LIHEAP (often for citizens inside the tribe’s jurisdiction), apply through your tribe’s energy office; see the LIHEAP Tribal resource hub for details and plan links. Arkansas residents near Oklahoma borders sometimes receive services from tribes based on residency in that tribal area. Confirm service area before applying. (liheapch.acf.gov)

Rural moms with limited access: If you can’t travel during business hours, ask your CAA about email or kiosk uploads (many allow scans/photos). Use Arkansas 211 for nearby intake sites, and call your utility to set arrangements first so you’re not disconnected while you gather paperwork. If your call‑center can’t answer (limited coverage in some counties), the website search works 24/7. (rivervalleyunitedway.org)

Single fathers: The same protections and programs apply to you. Ask for medical/weather protections, LIHEAP crisis, and payment plans. Use APSC Consumer Services and Legal Aid as needed. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Language access and accessibility: Ask for large‑print forms, TTY 711, and interpreter services. CAW posts TTY and multiple contact paths; Access Arkansas lists Spanish/Marshallese toolkits; utilities must accommodate disabilities under APSC rules. (carkw.com)

Resources by Region — Where to Start Locally

Northwest Arkansas (Benton, Washington, Madison, Carroll counties): Apply through EOA of Washington County (LIHEAP and water aid for some cities), or Ozark Opportunities (Baxter/Boone/Marion/Searcy). For SWEPCO customers, ask about Dollar Energy Fund grants. Use River Valley United Way 211 if you’re in Johnson/Pope/Yell. (eoawc.org)

Central Arkansas (Pulaski, Saline, Faulkner and nearby): CADC runs LIHEAP; CAW serves water/sewer customers in LR/NLR with multiple payment channels; APSC handles regulated electric/gas complaints. (cadc.com)

Fort Smith/River Valley: Crawford‑Sebastian CDC serves LIHEAP locally (find via the AEO CBO map), and Project Concern discounts water/sewer/solid waste. For AOG gas, ask about the Summit Heating Assistance Fund in season. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Jonesboro/Northeast (Craighead and surrounding): Use Crowley’s Ridge DC via the AEO CBO map for LIHEAP; Salvation Army Jonesboro may help with utilities when funds allow; call first. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Delta/Southeast: Central Delta CAA lists county office hours and email options for LIHEAP; check AEO’s map to find other CAAs. Churches and Catholic Charities of Arkansas may provide short‑term aid or referrals. (cdcaa.org)

Southwest/Hot Springs/Texarkana: Start with your local CAA via the AEO CBO tool; SWEPCO and Entergy both serve parts of this area—ask each about their programs; Black Hills Energy serves gas customers in portions of NWA/SW. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing documents: Not bringing Social Security cards, all bill pages, or last month’s income proof stalls LIHEAP. Use the lists on AEO LIHEAP and EOA’s checklist before you go. CADC provides printable forms, including Zero‑Income and Contribution Statements. (adeq.state.ar.us)
  • Waiting until power is off: Apply at “past due” or “disconnect notice,” not after disconnection. Crisis aid is faster but funding runs out. Use APSC rules to pause shutoff while you apply. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
  • Not asking for all options: Mention “medical certificate,” “Cold/Hot Weather Rule,” and “gas moratorium” if you qualify. If refused, call APSC Consumer Services during the call. (regulations.justia.com)
  • Ignoring utility‑sponsored help: SWEPCO Dollar Energy, Entergy’s Power to Care, Black Hills Cares, and Summit Heating Assistance are real and time‑limited. Visit SWEPCO Dollar Energy, Entergy toolkit, and Black Hills Energy assistance to check status. (dollarenergy.org)

Reality Check — Delays, Denials, Funding Shortages

  • High demand: Summer and winter LIHEAP windows fill fast; crisis lines get busy. CADC posts limited online submission windows or high call volumes. Expect to try at 8:00 a.m., bring full documents, and refresh the website. (cadc.com)
  • Funding limits: Utility charitable funds (Power to Care, Dollar Energy, Summit’s fund) are small and often “last resort.” Call early in the month and ask if your agency can “pledge” to the utility to stop a shutoff. (dollarenergy.org)
  • Policy rules are strict: Gas moratorium requires you to pay the minimum and sign agreements; missing one payment can cancel protection. Keep every receipt and set reminders. (regulations.justia.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Printable/Screenshot‑Friendly Application Checklist

  • Photo ID for you: Driver’s license or state ID; check your CAA’s list on AEO LIHEAP.
  • Social Security cards/numbers: Adults must show cards; minors may need numbers; see EOA.
  • Utility bills: Most recent electric plus gas/propane if you use both; include every page. See forms posted by CADC.
  • Proof of income (last 30 days) for everyone over 18: Paystubs, SSA/SSI, unemployment, child support, VA, etc.; use an Earning Statement form if your employer needs one. (eoawc.org)
  • If no income: Zero‑Income form and Contribution Statement if anyone helped you; many agencies post these forms online. (cadc.com)
  • Crisis documents: Shutoff notice or empty‑tank statement; medical certificate if applicable; ask your provider for the medical form. (casetext.com)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Request the reason in writing: Ask your CAA for a written denial and exactly what’s missing. Use the AEO LIHEAP page to find the appeals contact; Arkansas lists a Benefits Appeal Hearing process. (adeq.state.ar.us)
  • Fix and reapply fast: If it’s a document issue, bring the missing items and reapply within the program window. Ask if a supervisor can review on the spot.
  • Escalate: If you believe rules were misapplied, call APSC Consumer Services for regulated utility issues and Legal Aid of Arkansas for appeal advice. Keep copies of everything. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

FAQs (Arkansas‑Specific)

  1. How fast can LIHEAP crisis help arrive: Federal rules require crisis aid within 48 hours after eligibility is decided, or 18 hours for life‑threatening emergencies. Bring every document to avoid delays. Use your agency’s upload tools if available. (acf.hhs.gov)
  2. Are there 2025 Arkansas LIHEAP dates and benefit ranges: Heating opened Jan 6 and closed Mar 31; Winter Crisis ran through Apr 30; Summer regular opened Jul 7 and closed Aug 29; Summer Crisis runs through Sep 30. Typical FY2025 benefits: Heating 50–50–475; Cooling 50–50–287; Crisis up to $500. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  3. Can my doctor stop a shutoff: Yes. A medical certificate can delay shutoff up to 30 days, renewable once. The utility must receive the signed certificate within 7 days after the doctor’s initial notice. Keep paying what you can; balances are still due. (casetext.com)
  4. What if my gas is being cut off in winter: If you receive SNAP, WIC, TEA, Medicaid, or LIHEAP, the Gas Moratorium (Nov 1–Mar 31) can stop shutoff if you notify the utility, provide proof within 14 days, and sign the payment agreements. Pay on time to keep protection. (regulations.justia.com)
  5. Is there help if SWEPCO already turned power off: Ask about the Dollar Energy Fund (grants up to $200; off‑only; limited). Also apply for LIHEAP crisis and request a payment plan with SWEPCO at 1-888-216-3523. (dollarenergy.org)
  6. Does Arkansas reduce the electric bill sales tax for very low income: Yes. If your household income is $12,000 or less, the first 500 kWh each month are exempt from state sales tax; notify your electric utility with the DFA form. This is set by Arkansas Code §26‑52‑416. (codes.findlaw.com)
  7. Can I get phone/internet help now that ACP funding ended: Apply for Lifeline for a monthly discount, then pick a provider (for example Access from AT&T). Also check the Arkansas Broadband Office for low‑cost plans. (fcc.gov)
  8. Where can I complain if a utility ignores protections: Contact APSC Consumer Services at 1-800-482-1164. If it’s a city water utility (often not APSC‑regulated), ask your city’s utility office for their hardship policy and appeal path, and call Legal Aid of Arkansas for advice. (apsc.arkansas.gov)
  9. Do any churches help with utilities in Arkansas: Try parish conferences of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and local Salvation Army units; use Arkansas 211 to find currently funded sites. Funding changes monthly; call first. (dolr.org)
  10. What if I need help in Spanish or Marshallese: The Access Arkansas portal has Spanish and Marshallese toolkits; ask your CAA for an interpreter and large‑print forms if needed. Utilities should provide TTY and accessibility options (for example CAW’s TTY 711). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)

Application Steps (Fast, Simple)

  • Step 1 — Call your utility and set a plan: Ask for “payment arrangement,” “medical hold,” and “weather rule” checks. If denied, say you’ll call APSC now and then do it.
  • Step 2 — Apply for LIHEAP crisis/regular: Use the AEO LIHEAP page to find your county office. Bring or upload all documents. Ask if they can fax a pledge to your utility today.
  • Step 3 — Add a backup: Check WAP for permanent savings; ask your utility about their own charitable or hardship funds (e.g., Dollar Energy Fund, Power to Care). (adeq.state.ar.us)

Real‑World Examples

  • Pulaski County mom: Past due $420 with Entergy. She called, got a 4‑month arrangement, then applied for LIHEAP with CADC using a Zero‑Income form and Contribution Statement. Entergy paused her disconnect while CADC sent a pledge. She also enrolled in Level Billing to avoid spikes. (cadc.com)
  • Sebastian County dad: Gas shutoff pending in February. He notified AOG he receives SNAP, signed the Gas Moratorium forms, and paid the minimum monthly. The remainder deferred to April–October. He also applied for WAP to fix attic insulation. (regulations.justia.com)
  • SWEPCO customer in Miller County: Service off. Local agency processed a Dollar Energy Fund grant (off‑only) plus LIHEAP crisis. He set a payment plan for the remaining balance. (dollarenergy.org)

What to Bring to Every Utility Office Visit

  • Three IDs: Photo ID, Social Security cards/numbers, and your current utility bill.
  • Proof of income: Paystubs/benefit letters for last 30 days; if none, bring Zero‑Income and Contribution statements from your CAA website.
  • Shutoff notice: Or proof of empty tank; bring doctor’s contact if requesting a medical certificate.

Find forms on AEO LIHEAP and local agency pages like EOA and CADC. (adeq.state.ar.us)

Plan B Options If You Hit a Wall

Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA; verifique los detalles con las oficinas oficiales antes de aplicar.

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 information, not legal advice or a guarantee of eligibility. Program dates, amounts, and rules can change during the year; always confirm with your local agency or utility before applying or making financial decisions. Use APSC Consumer Services for regulated utility disputes, and contact Legal Aid of Arkansas for legal help. (apsc.arkansas.gov)

Final Tip

When in doubt, do all three at once: call your utility, file LIHEAP crisis, and get an APSC complaint number if rules aren’t followed. Then add WAP to permanently lower bills. The mix of payment plan + crisis pledge + rule protections is what usually keeps the power and water on.

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