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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Indiana

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Indiana

Last updated: September 2025

Single moms in Indiana need fast, reliable ways to keep the lights and heat on, lower water bills, and stop shutoffs before they happen. This guide pulls together state programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, local city utility discounts, emergency help from township trustees, and company hardship funds. You’ll find exact dates, phone numbers, wait times, document lists, and realistic next steps. Use links throughout to go straight to official pages for the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA), the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) Consumer Affairs, the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC), and Indiana 211 (FSSA). According to IHCDA, Program Year 2025 ran October 1, 2024 through April 14, 2025, with the winter disconnection moratorium active December 1, 2024 through March 15, 2025; Program Year 2026 is scheduled to reopen October 1, 2025—check dates and status before you apply. (in.gov)


Reality check: Funding isn’t unlimited. Benefits often cover only a portion of a bill and can take weeks to post. Indiana’s winter moratorium protects qualifying applicants from gas/electric shutoff only from December 1 to March 15, and only if you apply for Energy Assistance and give proof to your utility. Keep paying something and use payment plans to avoid a big balance later. See moratorium and notice rules at the OUCC and IURC links in this guide. (in.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call your utility now and set a payment plan. Ask for a 3–12‑month arrangement, request fees be waived, and ask about medical holds if someone is ill. Use your company’s assistance page (for example, AES Indiana payment help, Duke Energy Share the Light, NIPSCO assistance), and write down confirmation numbers. Indiana shutoff rules and minimum payments that can stop disconnection are listed by the OUCC and IURC. (in.gov)
  • Apply for the Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP) the day the portal opens. The IHCDA online portal opens October 1, 2025; moratorium protection starts once you apply and notify your utility. Use the IHCDA EAP page, find your Local Service Provider (LSP) on the county map, or for Marion County use IndyEAP. If the portal is closed today, call Indiana 211 to get on a waitlist and to locate local help. (in.gov)
  • If shutoff is today or someone’s health is at risk, file a same‑day complaint and request a medical hold. Ask your doctor or public health official for a note to postpone shutoff for 10 days (can be renewed once). Call the IURC Consumer Affairs Division at 1-800-851-4268 if disconnection is looming. Review the OUCC disconnection rules to know your rights and required notice periods. (in.gov)

Quick Help — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Indiana Today

Start with the steps that stop shutoff fast. Indiana has clear rules on notice, payment plans, and medical holds. Use the OUCC disconnection guide, file disputes through the IURC, and leverage protections tied to the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). If you live in Marion County, see IndyEAP for local intake and timelines. (in.gov)

  • Call your utility right now and request a payment arrangement. Indiana rules let many customers avoid shutoff by paying the lesser of 10or1010 or 10% (electric/water/sewer) or 25 or 10% (gas) and setting up a plan for the rest within 3 months. Ask the agent to notate your account and confirm by text or email. Check your company’s assistance page such as AES Indiana, Duke Energy, or NIPSCO. (in.gov)
  • Ask for a 10‑day medical postponement if someone’s health would be threatened. A licensed physician or public health official can provide a statement to postpone disconnection for 10 days; you can extend once with a new statement. Gas utilities may extend further at their discretion. Share the note with your utility’s medical desk the same day and ask for a callback. Rules are in the Indiana Administrative Code and explained by the OUCC. (law.cornell.edu)
  • Submit an EAP application and tell your utility you applied. During the winter season (Dec 1–Mar 15), applicants who are eligible for EAP and have applied get disconnection protection once the utility has proof. Apply via the IHCDA portal or IndyEAP as soon as applications open October 1. If the portal is closed, call Indiana 211 to find interim options. (in.gov)
  • If you already received a disconnection notice, verify the dates. Electric and gas must give 14‑day written notice; regulated water/sewer must give 7 days. Shutoffs for nonpayment can happen only 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. on open business days. If your notice is shorter or outside hours, ask for a supervisor and mention the rule. See the OUCC notice rules and the IAC sections for electric and gas/water. (in.gov)
  • Escalate urgent cases. For shutoff today or wrongful disconnection, call the IURC Consumer Affairs Division at 1-800-851-4268 and file the online complaint. For policy and ratepayer advocacy, contact the OUCC at 1-888-441-2494. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Indiana 211 and your Township Trustee for emergency aid; ask your utility about company hardship grants like Share the Light (Duke) or Neighbor to Neighbor (I&M); and re-check IHCDA EAP dates to submit the moment the portal reopens. (investors.duke-energy.com)

Indiana Utility Aid at a Glance

Use this quick table to see the main options for single moms. Confirm the current status before you apply because dates and funding can shift.

Program What it does Who’s eligible How to apply Typical timeline
Energy Assistance Program (EAP/LIHEAP) One‑time credit for heat/electric; winter shutoff protection after you apply Up to 60% State Median Income; renters and homeowners; mixed‑status households allowed—only eligible members counted Apply online or via LSP; in Marion County use IndyEAP Up to 55 days for decision + up to ~30 days for vendor to post
Weatherization Assistance (WAP) Free home energy upgrades (insulation, air sealing, furnace checks) Generally up to 200% FPL; EAP recipients prioritized Apply through your LSP via IHCDA’s map Waitlist common; expect months
OUCC/IURC consumer protections Notice rules, medical holds, complaint mediation All regulated utility customers Call IURC Consumer Affairs 1-800-851-4268 Same‑day advice; resolutions vary
Company hardship funds One‑time emergency grants from partner utilities Income-qualified; often must try EAP first Apply through partner agencies Funds open/close by season
Indiana 211 Local referrals to churches/charities and township aid Anyone in Indiana Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211 Same day referrals

Source details: EAP dates, moratorium, and processing times from IHCDA; notice rules and medical postponements from OUCC/IURC. Company grants vary by utility and funding availability. (in.gov)

Energy Bill Help: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/EAP)

Most important action: Apply the first week applications open and upload every document the portal asks for. In Indiana, the IHCDA EAP portal opens October 1, 2025 for the 2025–2026 heating season; Marion County applicants use IndyEAP. The OUCC winter moratorium page explains how protection works after you apply. (in.gov)

  • Eligibility basics: Indiana uses 60% State Median Income (SMI). IHCDA posts monthly and 3‑month income limits; IndyEAP lists sample thresholds. Use the IHCDA EAP eligibility chart and IndyEAP eligibility page to check your last 90 days of income. Households with utilities in rent can qualify with a landlord affidavit. (in.gov)
  • Benefit amounts: For FY2025 the LIHEAP Clearinghouse shows typical Indiana heating benefits ranging roughly from 100–100–675, with up to $800 for winter crisis in some cases; cooling may be offered if funds remain. Expect annual variation by county and funding. Always call your LSP to confirm current max benefits before you count on a figure. See Indiana’s profile at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS OCS). (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • Timelines and moratorium: Local Service Providers can take up to 55 days to determine eligibility; vendors may take about 30 days after award to post credits. Moratorium protection runs December 1–March 15 for customers who are eligible and applied—tell your utility as soon as you submit so they can flag your account. See IHCDA EAP FAQs and OUCC winter FAQ. (in.gov)
  • How to apply: Apply online through the IHCDA portal, by mail, or in-person via your LSP; for Marion County use IndyEAP. If you lack internet, dial Indiana 211 to connect with an agency that can scan documents for you. (in.gov)
  • What you’ll need: Last 90‑days income for adults 18+; recent electric and heat bills; landlord affidavit if utilities are included in rent; Social Security or award letters (SSI/SSDI/TANF). See example checklists from REAL Services (St. Joseph County) and Brightpoint (NE Indiana). (realservices.org)
  • Realistic wait time: Non‑crisis decisions take 10–15 business days in faster offices and up to the 55‑day limit in busy months; then allow 30 more days for the utility to post the credit. Keep paying as you’re able to prevent a large balance. See IHCDA processing guidance. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about company funds like Duke Energy’s Share the Light, AES Indiana Power of Change, or I&M Neighbor to Neighbor; call Indiana 211 for churches and township trustees; and if you’re a veteran mom, see the IDVA Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF). (investors.duke-energy.com)

Crisis Protections and Indiana Shutoff Rules

Most important action: Know your rights before you call. Indiana law requires notice, offers medical postponements, and restricts shutoff hours. Read the OUCC disconnection guide and cite it if needed; the IURC’s customer page and Indiana Administrative Code sections for electric and gas/water back you up. (in.gov)

  • Notices: Electric/gas—14 days written; regulated water/sewer—7 days. Shutoffs only 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on business days when the office is open. If rules weren’t followed, ask for a supervisor and reference the code. See OUCC rules. (in.gov)
  • Payment plans that can avert shutoff: Pay the lesser of 10or1010 or 10% (electric/water/sewer) or 25 or 10% (gas), agree to pay the rest within 3 months, and keep current on future bills. Ask for confirmation in writing. See OUCC disconnection rules. (in.gov)
  • Medical postponements: Provide a doctor/public health note that shutoff would pose an immediate health threat; utilities must postpone for 10 days and accept one renewal. Gas utilities may allow more time. See OUCC and 170 IAC 4‑1‑16. (in.gov)
  • Moratorium (winter): From December 1 to March 15, regulated utilities cannot disconnect EAP‑eligible applicants who have applied and provided proof. Keep paying what you can; balances still accrue. See OUCC winter FAQ and IHCDA EAP. (in.gov)
  • Reconnections: Once you pay or set an arrangement, utilities must reconnect within one working day; they can charge approved reconnection fees. See OUCC reconnection guidance. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the IURC at 1-800-851-4268 for immediate help; file a complaint online if needed; contact the OUCC at 1-888-441-2494 for advocacy; and if you dispute charges, pay the undisputed portion so service continues during the review under 170 IAC 16‑1‑7. (in.gov)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Most important action: Get on the weatherization waitlist while you apply for EAP. Weatherization cuts bills long term through insulation, air sealing, ventilation, and furnace safety checks. In Indiana, WAP is run by IHCDA and delivered by Local Service Providers you can find on the IHCDA weatherization page. Agencies like TRI‑CAP and Brightpoint can explain your local process. (in.gov)

  • Eligibility: Generally up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level; EAP recipients and households with high energy burdens often receive priority. Contact your LSP via the IHCDA Wx page. (in.gov)
  • What to expect: An energy audit checks your home; approved measures are installed at no cost. Expect a wait of weeks to months depending on county. IHCDA notes regular policy updates and software improvements in 2025 for agencies. See WAP program updates. (in.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use your utility’s free “ways to save” tools (for example AES Indiana tips, CenterPoint Energy savings, Citizens Energy conservation), and ask for budget billing to smooth bill spikes while you wait. (in.gov)

Water and Sewer Bill Help in Indiana

Most important action: Check your city’s local programs and your water provider’s discounts. The federal pandemic LIHWAP ended in Indiana; water help now comes from city utilities, charities, and trustee aid. Start with your local utility page and your township trustee. See IHCDA LIHWAP notice (closed) and local programs below. (in.gov)

  • Indianapolis (Citizens Energy Group): Citizens runs the Warm Heart Warm Home Foundation for grants and automatically gives EAP‑approved customers a 10–25% gas discount plus a 6–6–15 monthly wastewater credit. See Citizens’ moratorium reminder and help page, and call 1-317-924-3311. The United Way Winter Assistance Fund (Marion County) helps households over income for EAP during winter. (blog.citizensenergygroup.com)
  • Fort Wayne (City Utilities): The City Utilities Relief Fund (CURF) can provide up to $150 per year; many customers also qualify for trustee help. Call 1-260-427-1234 for CURF and payment plans. (utilities.cityoffortwayne.org)
  • South Bend: The city’s Utility Assistance Program can lower water/sewer bills by up to $25.50 per month for a year (reapply annually). Use the 311 portal or call 1-574-233-0311; TTY 1-574-235-5567. (southbendin.gov)
  • Evansville: EWSU’s Bill Relief Program offers a 30monthlycreditfor12monthsforqualifyinghouseholds(upto30 monthly credit for 12 months for qualifying households (up to 360/year) and a Leak Repair Program up to $1,000 for minor repairs. Call 1-812-436-7846. (ewsu.com)
  • Gary: Contact the Gary Sanitary District customer service team about bills and payment plans (219-883-1027). Ask about penalty waivers and any hardship arrangements on “Concerned Wednesdays.” (garysanitary.gov)
  • Indiana American Water (statewide communities): Following a 2024 rate case, the IURC approved an affordability design with a flat charge covering the first 1,500 gallons per month for residential water customers—around $20/month before additional usage charges. Call 1-800-492-8373 and ask about affordability options. See the company’s assistance press release. (amwater.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Indiana 211 and your Township Trustee, ask your water utility to set a payment plan and waive fees, and apply for seasonal city programs listed above. If a shutoff is imminent, call the IURC to learn if your water/sewer is regulated and what rules apply. (in.gov)

Utility Company Hardship Funds and Discounts

Most important action: Ask your utility which fund they use and which agency takes applications. Many grants are administered by the Dollar Energy Fund, and many require you to apply for EAP first.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Indiana 211 to find a community action agency handling that fund; ask your utility about budget billing; and contact the OUCC if you believe a regulated utility isn’t following its tariff or state rules. (in.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Most important action: Line up two appointments — one with your Township Trustee and one with a local charity that pays toward disconnect amounts. Start with Indiana 211 to locate agencies by ZIP. Many groups require a trustee decision first.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city utility about internal hardship funds (see company resources above), request a payment extension, and ask the IURC Consumer Affairs Division whether additional regulated options apply in your area. (in.gov)

Resources by Region (Where to Go Locally)

Use your county’s Local Service Provider (LSP) for EAP applications, then layer in local utilities and charities. Start with the IHCDA county map or your region’s community action page.

Indianapolis & Marion County

Apply through IndyEAP when it opens October 1; energy benefits post to AES Indiana and Citizens Energy Group accounts. For water/wastewater, ask Citizens about Warm Heart Warm Home and EAP‑based credits; winter overflow help may be available from the Winter Assistance Fund. (indyeap.org)

Northwest Indiana (Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton, Jasper, Starke)

Check your LSP (for example, LCCS Energy Assistance for several counties) and utility help from NIPSCO. For wastewater in Gary, contact the Gary Sanitary District about arrangements. Catholic Charities Diocese of Gary also takes utility requests. (lccs.care)

Fort Wayne & Northeast (Allen, DeKalb, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Whitley)

Apply with Brightpoint for EAP; ask Fort Wayne City Utilities about CURF and payment plans; for electric hardship, use I&M Neighbor to Neighbor. Catholic Charities FWSB accepts applications by region. (mybrightpoint.org)

South Bend & St. Joseph region (Elkhart, Fulton, Kosciusko, Marshall)

Use REAL Services for EAP and the Team Heat matching program; check South Bend Utilities for the monthly discount; and contact St. Vincent de Paul St. Joseph County for utility assistance sign‑up days. (realservices.org)

Lafayette & Tippecanoe (plus Area IV counties)

Apply through Area IV Agency (Energy Assistance) listed on the INCAA county directory; for electric, check Duke Energy; for water, contact your city utility billing office. Verify trustee contacts via 211. (incap.org)

Bloomington & Monroe County

Ask City of Bloomington Utilities about payment plans and its expanded financial assistance partnership with SCCAP. The city raised income limits to as high as 300% FPL in 2024; call 1-812-349-3930 for current details and apply via CBU’s link. Electric customers often use Duke Energy’s fund. (bloomington.in.gov)

Evansville & Vanderburgh

Submit EAP through CAPE and ask EWSU for the $30/month bill credit and leak repair program. Gas/electric customers can check CenterPoint Energy options and trustee lists from 211 or the county page. (incap.org)

Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Contacts

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for name‑consistent billing and preferred contact. Utilities and agencies should use the name on your current IDs; if your legal name differs, include both on applications. For community support and case management referrals, contact Indiana 211, ask your LSP for culturally competent intake staff, and check local centers via your city. For consumer rights during disputes, use the IURC Consumer Affairs line and document any bias incidents when seeking payment arrangements. (in.gov)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Request accessible formats and a medical postponement if needed. Ask your LSP for large‑print forms or email attachments; ask your utility’s medical desk for a 10‑day medical hold with a doctor’s note. For assistance navigating benefits, call Indiana 211 and read the OUCC disconnection guide. TTY is available on many city pages (for example, South Bend TTY 1-574-235-5567). (in.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Use the state’s emergency grant. The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) offers up to $2,500 for utilities and other essentials, with special seasonal programs. Apply online or at the Indiana Veterans Center; call 1-317-232-3910. Ask your County Veteran Service Officer for help. (in.gov)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may be eligible for EAP even with mixed household status. EAP eligibility is based on household income and citizenship/qualified status of the applying members; check with your LSP through the IHCDA EAP page. For case management, contact Catholic Charities (Refugee/Immigrant Services) or a resettlement agency in your city. (in.gov)
  • Tribal citizens in north‑central Indiana: Check your tribal LIHEAP office. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi runs LIHEAP and supplemental heating for eligible citizens in counties including LaPorte, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Starke, Marshall, and Kosciusko. Call 1-269-782-4300 or 1-800-517-0777. You can also apply for state EAP if you qualify. (pokagonband-nsn.gov)
  • Rural single moms with limited access: Use phone‑based applications and drop boxes. Many LSPs accept mail‑in packets and phone help; see Brightpoint and REAL Services. For water service questions or to check availability when moving, use your provider’s forms (for Indy metro, Citizens utility availability). (mybrightpoint.org)
  • Single fathers (heads of household): You qualify on the same terms. EAP, WAP, city water discounts, and company funds are household‑based. Use the IHCDA EAP portal and your local LSP; ask OUCC about your rights if you face shutoff. (in.gov)
  • Language access: Ask for interpreter services. Many utilities and agencies provide interpreters upon request; 211 offers text help by ZIP. Use Indiana 211 for multilingual referrals. Marion County customers can also review Citizens’ multilingual outreach linked from its moratorium updates. (in.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Shortages

  • Expect slower processing right after the portal opens. IHCDA allows up to 55 days for LSP decisions and ~30 days for vendor posting; Marion County notes similar timelines for IndyEAP. Apply early and keep paying what you can. See IHCDA and IndyEAP. (in.gov)
  • Company hardship funds open and close as dollars come and go. For example, AES Power of Change may close when grants are exhausted; Duke’s Share the Light adds seasonal funding. Check status each month. (dollarenergy.org)
  • Federal program changes can impact amounts. LIHEAP benefit ranges and funding fluctuate yearly; Indiana’s FY2025 heating benefits generally ranged 100–100–675 with up to $800 in crisis, but confirm your county’s matrix. See the LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need Who to contact first Backup options Notes
Stop shutoff this week Your utility’s payment arrangements page (e.g., AES Indiana, Duke Energy) IURC Consumer Affairs 1‑800‑851‑4268; OUCC Ask about medical 10‑day hold; pay minimums to set plan
Winter protection IHCDA EAP portal IndyEAP (Marion Co.); Indiana 211 Apply Oct 1; moratorium Dec 1–Mar 15 after you apply
Water bill help Your city utility (e.g., EWSU, South Bend UAP, Citizens) Township Trustee; Indiana 211 State LIHWAP closed
Company grant Dollar Energy Fund locator LSP/CAA Requires EAP attempt in many cases
Phone/internet FCC Lifeline Your carrier; 211 ACP ended; Lifeline still active

Sources: linked pages in each cell; timelines from IHCDA and OUCC. (in.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot and Use

If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Ask for a written reason and fixable issues. Many denials are missing documents. Use your LSP’s portal message and resubmit quickly. For Marion County, message IndyEAP through the chat box. (indyeap.org)
  • File an appeal with your LSP or IHCDA. Use the contact on the decision letter; email eap@ihcda.in.gov if needed. Keep receipts and upload confirmations from the IHCDA portal. (in.gov)
  • Maintain service during appeal. Pay the undisputed portion while the dispute is reviewed to avoid shutoff (see 170 IAC 16‑1‑7). If shutoff is imminent, call the IURC Consumer Affairs Division at 1‑800‑851‑4268. (law.cornell.edu)

County‑Specific Variations You Should Know

Tables You Can Use

EAP vs. City Water Programs vs. Utility Hardship Funds

Bill type Primary program Seasonal protection Backup options
Electric/Gas EAP/LIHEAP (IHCDA) Moratorium Dec 1–Mar 15 after you apply Company funds: AES Power of Change, Duke Share the Light, I&M Neighbor to Neighbor
Water/Sewer City programs (e.g., EWSU Bill Relief, South Bend UAP, Citizens WHWH) No statewide moratorium Trustee help, charities, payment plans
Phone/Internet FCC Lifeline N/A Carrier hardship plans

(in.gov)

Indiana Shutoff Protections — Snapshot

Protection Where it applies What to do
Winter moratorium Electric/gas for EAP‑eligible applicants Apply to EAP and give proof to your utility
Medical postponement All regulated utilities Submit doctor/public health note using OUCC rules
Notice periods 14 days electric/gas; 7 days water/sewer Verify dates; call utility; escalate to IURC if violated

(in.gov)

Major Utility Hardship Funds

Utility Fund Typical max Where to apply
AES Indiana Power of Change Up to ~$240 Partner agencies via Dollar Energy
Duke Energy Share the Light Up to ~$300 Local community action agency
Indiana Michigan Power Neighbor to Neighbor Up to ~$250 Partner agencies via Dollar Energy
NIPSCO CARE/Hardship/SERV/SILVER Varies by fund Local agencies; NIPSCO partners

(dollarenergy.org)

City Water/Sewer Help — Selected Indiana Cities

City Program Amount Contact
Indianapolis Citizens Warm Heart Warm Home Grants; EAP‑linked discounts 1-317-924-3311
Fort Wayne City Utilities Relief Fund Up to $150/year 1-260-427-1234
South Bend Utility Assistance Program Up to $25.50/mo Dial 311
Evansville EWSU Bill Relief $30/mo up to 12 mos 1-812-436-7846

(blog.citizensenergygroup.com)

Who to Call for Help by Issue

Issue First call Second call Third call
Wrongful disconnection Your utility IURC 1‑800‑851‑4268 OUCC 1‑888‑441‑2494
Can’t complete EAP app LSP on IHCDA map Indiana 211 Email eap@ihcda.in.gov
City water help Your city’s utility page Township Trustee Local charity via 211

FAQs — Indiana Utility Assistance (2025)

  1. How soon will EAP open again and how long does it take?
    EAP is scheduled to reopen October 1, 2025 for the 2025–2026 program year. Processing can take up to 55 days, and utilities may take about 30 more days to post benefits. Apply opening week. Use the IHCDA EAP site and your county’s LSP link. (in.gov)
  2. What income counts for EAP, and do I need to be a citizen?
    Indiana uses the last 90 days of household income; limits are based on 60% SMI. Only eligible members are counted; mixed‑status households can still apply. Check the IHCDA EAP eligibility table or IndyEAP eligibility. (in.gov)
  3. What if I’m just above EAP income limits in Marion County?
    Try the Winter Assistance Fund (opens each January through May while funds last), and ask Citizens about payment arrangements. Also check Duke or AES fund status if those are your providers. (uwci.org)
  4. Does Indiana have hot‑weather shutoff rules?
    Indiana does not have statewide summer disconnection bans, but companies can grant extensions. Keep in close contact with your utility and ask about community funds. See the LIHEAP Clearinghouse cold weather table and the OUCC. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  5. My water bill is the problem. Can EAP help?
    State water assistance (LIHWAP) is closed. Use city programs like EWSU Bill Relief, South Bend UAP, or Citizens Warm Heart Warm Home. Check with your city’s utility office for local discounts. (in.gov)
  6. Are there phone or internet discounts?
    Yes. The FCC Lifeline program offers monthly discounts for qualifying households. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) wound down in 2024 absent new funding. Ask your carrier about low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)
  7. What if I disagree with a bill?
    Pay the undisputed part while the dispute is reviewed to avoid shutoff. Then call the IURC if needed and keep records. See 170 IAC 16‑1‑7. (law.cornell.edu)
  8. Who helps veterans with utilities?
    Apply to the IDVA Military Family Relief Fund for emergency grants (utilities included), and call your County Veteran Service Officer. If your utility is Duke, also ask about Share the Light. (in.gov)
  9. Can a utility shut me off with kids at home?
    Indiana’s protections are based on EAP eligibility and medical situations, not household composition. Apply to EAP and use medical postponements if applicable. See OUCC FAQ. (in.gov)
  10. What’s the best timing strategy?
    Apply for EAP in early October, request payment plans before notices expire, and use trustees/charities for disconnect amounts while your EAP is pending. Keep OUCC/IURC numbers ready. Start with IHCDA EAP and Indiana 211. (in.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA; verifique siempre los detalles en los enlaces oficiales. Para ayuda con facturas de energía (luz/gas), presente la solicitud del Programa de Asistencia de Energía (EAP/LIHEAP) cuando abra el 1 de octubre de 2025. Si aplica y notifica a su compañía, la ley de Indiana protege contra desconexiones de 1 de diciembre a 15 de marzo. Para emergencias de desconexión, llame al IURC (Atención al Consumidor) al 1‑800‑851‑4268 y solicite un plan de pago con su empresa. Para ayuda local de iglesias y organizaciones, marque 211 de Indiana (FSSA). Para agua/alcantarillado use programas municipales como EWSU en Evansville, South Bend UAP, o Citizens Energy Group (Indianápolis). Para internet/teléfono, pregunte por Lifeline (FCC). (in.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.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 information is for general guidance for Indiana residents as of September 2025. Program funding, eligibility, and timelines can change without notice. Always confirm availability with your Local Service Provider, city utility, or state agency before applying or making financial decisions. For urgent shutoff issues, contact your utility and the IURC Consumer Affairs Division at 1‑800‑851‑4268 immediately. (in.gov)

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