Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last updated: September 2025 — figures and rules come from Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) for energy grants, Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) for shutoff protections, 211 Maryland for local referrals, USAC Lifeline for phone and internet discounts, and Maryland DHCD Energy Programs for weatherization and efficiency help. (dhs.maryland.gov)

---

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Call your utility and ask for a medical or crisis hold today: request a “medical certification” or life-support flag from your doctor to pause shutoff for 30 days; then set up a payment plan while your aid is processed. Use your provider’s emergency line on PSC’s “Who to Contact” list or your bill; if you can’t resolve it, dial PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-492-0474, and also call 211 Maryland for local help. (psc.state.md.us)
• Apply for OHEP energy help (MEAP/EUSP) now: submit online at MarylandBenefits.gov or drop a paper application at your local OHEP office; if you have a shutoff/termination, tell staff you need “crisis” processing under federal LIHEAP’s 48-hour and 18-hour life‑threatening rules. Track your case at myOHEPstatus after 15 days. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Stack local aid to close the gap: after OHEP, ask for a one‑time utility grant from Fuel Fund of Maryland (BGE customers), Washington Area Fuel Fund (Washington Gas area), or your county CAP; dial 211 Maryland for other churches and charities that pay last dollars toward reconnection. (fuelfundmaryland.org)

---

Quick Help Box — Keep These At Hand

• OHEP energy help: apply at MarylandBenefits.gov; find local OHEP offices; call 1-800-332-6347 for status; check myOHEPstatus after 15 days. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Public Service Commission help: contact PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-492-0474 if you can’t resolve a shutoff or deposit demand; learn shutoff rules at Restrictions on Terminations; see utility phone list under Who to Contact. (psc.state.md.us)
• Phone/internet discount: apply for Lifeline (Tel‑Life in MD); read MD consumer guide at OPC Lifeline page; ask your carrier to apply the credit. (lifelinesupport.org)
• Water bill programs (by area): Baltimore City Water4All; WSSC Water Customer Assistance Program (CAP) and Get Current 2.0; call 211 Maryland for other county water aid. (cityservices.baltimorecity.gov)
• Independent help lines: 211 Maryland for referrals, Office of People’s Counsel (OPC) for consumer guides, and Attorney General Consumer Protection for scams/mediation. (211md.org)

---

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Maryland Today

Start with the fastest protections first. Use the three‑call approach below the same day you get a notice.

Step 1 — Call your utility’s emergency line and request a medical or serious‑illness hold: tell the agent you have a “serious medical condition” in the home and will submit the PSC medical certification form signed by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant; this holds termination for 30 days when the form is received before the cutoff date. Ask to enroll in budget billing and a payment plan. Use the utility numbers on PSC’s contact page (BGE 1-800-685-0123; Pepco outages 1-877-737-2662; Delmarva 1-800-375-7117; Potomac Edison 1-800-255-3443). If you hit a wall, call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-800-492-0474 and OPC for guidance. (psc.state.md.us)

Step 2 — File your OHEP application and mark it “crisis” if shutoff is within 3 days: apply through MarylandBenefits.gov or bring your packet to your local OHEP office; during crisis season (Nov 1–Mar 31), agencies must address standard crises within 48 hours and life‑threatening cases within 18 hours after receiving a signed application (and the short Crisis Declaration during winter). Keep your confirmation and check myOHEPstatus after 15 days for updates. (acf.hhs.gov)

Step 3 — Fill the remaining gap with local funds while you wait: BGE customers can apply to the Fuel Fund of Maryland for a last‑dollar grant; Washington Gas area customers can seek the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) via Salvation Army; all residents can dial 211 Maryland to find county churches and nonprofits that help with deposits or fees. Ask your utility about one‑time corporate relief funds (for 2025, Exelon supported a Customer Relief Fund) and extended payment plans. (governor.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: file a same‑day complaint with PSC Consumer Affairs (mention health risks and kids), call OPC for coaching, and ask 211 Maryland to connect you to a nearby CAP agency to intervene directly with the utility. (psc.state.md.us)

---

Maryland Energy Help You Can Apply for Right Now

Single moms in Maryland can apply once per program year (July 1–June 30) for multiple energy grants in one application.

Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP)

MEAP gives a one‑time heating grant; EUSP lowers electric bills monthly and offers arrears help. Apply at MarylandBenefits.gov, or use your local OHEP office drop box; check myOHEPstatus after 15 days. According to the state, annual reviews must begin within 14 days after a complete packet arrives and decisions finalized within 45 days; crisis cases are faster. (aaccaa.org)

• Eligibility (FY26 monthly income limits): for MEAP/EUSP, the FY26 income limits are: 1 person $2,608;2people$3,525; 3 people $4,441;4people$5,358; 5 people $6,275;6people$7,191; larger households add roughly $917 per person; call to confirm updates. Find the official chart on OHEP or 211 Maryland and use the local office list for your county. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Typical benefit amounts (FY26): the Governor announced increased bill credits for FY26: many approved homes will get $250–$1,000 in electric help and $300–$550 for gas; amounts vary by usage and funds. Confirm with OHEP and review press details on the Governor’s news site; you can also call DHS 1-800-332-6347 to ask about this season. (governor.maryland.gov)
• Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA): if you have $300+inpast‑duebills,ARAcancoverupto$2,000 toward arrears; in some notices, gas arrears caps differ, so ask your office what applies this year. Apply via MarylandBenefits.gov or your local OHEP office; read state guidance on OHEP’s site before you submit. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Utility Service Protection Program (USPP): MEAP‑eligible families can join USPP for winter protection (Nov 1–Mar 31) and budget billing; reconnection and deposit fees are waived in winter once minimum payments are made. Enroll through OHEP and learn the rules on PSC’s consumer page; call PSC 1-800-492-0474 if you need help getting on the plan. (dhs.maryland.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: contact OPC for tips, appeal through your local OHEP office if denied, and ask 211 Maryland about Fuel Fund or church funds to close the remaining balance. (opc.maryland.gov)

---

Required Documents for OHEP (Attach These the First Time)

Send clear photos if you can’t scan. Use this list to avoid delays.

• Photo ID and SSNs: submit government photo ID and Social Security cards for everyone in the home; if missing, ask your office for alternative proofs listed by OHEP and check acceptable documentation; dial DHS 1-800-332-6347 to confirm. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Proof of residency and utility bills: include your lease/mortgage and the latest energy bill or termination notice; see examples on OHEP’s apply page and keep copies; find drop‑boxes via the local office list online. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Last 30 days of household income: pay stubs, award letters, child support, or a zero‑income form if no earnings; look up details on OHEP and see county‑level FAQs (many repeat the 14/45‑day processing rule) like Anne Arundel CAA guidance. (aaccaa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: don’t wait—email or call your local OHEP office to see what’s missing, use myOHEPstatus to check if they started your case after 15 days, and ask PSC Consumer Affairs for help if a shutoff is looming. (dhs.maryland.gov)

---

Timelines You Can Expect

• Standard: OHEP reviews a complete packet within 14 days and issues a decision within 45 days; your application shows in myOHEPstatus about 15 days after submission. Use the OHEP local office list for drop‑boxes, and call DHS 1-800-332-6347 for status if it’s late. (aaccaa.org)
• Winter crisis (Nov 1–Mar 31): standard crises within 48 hours; life‑threatening situations within 18 hours (you may file with a short crisis form and finish documents later). Learn rules at OPC crisis season update and federal LIHEAP FAQs. (content.govdelivery.com)
• Utility holds and reconnection: with medical certification, PSC requires a 30‑day hold; USPP allows winter reconnection without deposit when you make the designated payment. Details are on PSC medical hold rules and PSC USPP guidance pages. (psc.state.md.us)

---

Maryland Water Bill Help

Water is handled locally in Maryland. Two large systems have dedicated help; other cities and counties offer plans or refer to charities.

• Baltimore City Water4All (tenants and owners): income‑based credits (often targeting 1–3% of income), with tenants now eligible even when water is in the landlord’s name; submit online, by mail, or at a CAP center, and expect credits to appear within about three months. Apply via Water4All, read the FAQs, and get help through Baltimore CAP centers. (cityservices.baltimorecity.gov)
• WSSC Water (Montgomery & Prince George’s): if you’re approved by OHEP, you can enroll in CAP for fee exemptions and payment plans (up to 48 months); if you’re behind, apply for Get Current 2.0 through Oct 31, 2025, to get late fees waived and part of your balance forgiven when you pay your share; the Water Fund via Salvation Army can add up to $500 per year. (wsscwater.com)
• Private or smaller utilities: some regulated water companies (e.g., Artesian Maryland) offer payment options and refer to state or county aid; see company pages and ask about hardship funds; use 211 Maryland for local programs. Start with the utility “contact us” page (e.g., Artesian Water), then call your local OHEP office for add‑ons. (artesianwater.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: get a flexible payment plan via Baltimore DPW PromisePay (City) or WSSC Promise; call 211 Maryland for charity funds; if you face shutoff, ask for a medical exemption and appeal through your provider’s customer advocate, then contact PSC Consumer Affairs if your water company is PSC‑regulated. (publicworks.baltimorecity.gov)

---

Add Savings You Don’t Have to Pay Back

• EmPOWER Maryland income‑eligible upgrades: free insulation, air sealing, and appliance measures for qualifying homes; call DHCD 1-855-583-8976 or ask your electric utility about a no‑cost Quick Home Energy Check‑up (Pepco) or BGE Check‑up. These EmPOWER programs are funded through a small charge on your bill. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): DHCD runs WAP for deep energy fixes with income cutoffs set around 60% of State Median Income; see current limits on WAP’s page and call the hotline listed under EmPOWER. You can also check 211 Maryland for local weatherization partners. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• Phone/Internet Lifeline: households at or below 135% FPL—or on SNAP/Medicaid/SSI—can get a monthly credit toward phone or broadband; apply with USAC Lifeline and review MD’s consumer explainer at OPC Lifeline; ask your provider to apply it to your plan. (lifelinesupport.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call DHCD’s energy hotline for a referral, ask your utility for EmPOWER programs you can use now (like a free Quick Check‑up), and have 211 Maryland search weatherization slots in your county. (homeenergysavings.pepco.com)

---

Program Snapshot (At‑a‑Glance)

---

Income Limits (FY26) — OHEP (MEAP/EUSP)

---

Utility Providers — Key Numbers and Protections

---

Real‑World Examples (Maryland Single Moms)

• Baltimore City mom with a BGE shutoff: she filed a medical certification to pause termination, applied the same day at MarylandBenefits.gov, and brought papers to the Baltimore CAP center. OHEP issued crisis help within 48 hours; Fuel Fund added a small grant; BGE set budget billing. Timeline tips and escalation are on PSC Consumers pages. (psc.state.md.us)
• Prince George’s County mom behind on water and Pepco: she applied for EUSP/MEAP and then enrolled in WSSC CAP; when funds were short, Catholic Charities DC helped with a small utility check. She also booked a Pepco Quick Check‑up to lower future bills. (wsscwater.com)
• Western Maryland mom using gas heat (Columbia Gas): she applied to MEAP and asked about the Gas Arrearage Retirement Assistance cap; when still short, OPC pointed her to the Community Energy Fund (Potomac Edison area) and 211 Maryland for local church help. (columbiagasmd.com)

---

Reality Check: Delays, Funding Gaps, and Rate Changes

Expect gaps. OHEP non‑crisis cases can take up to 45 days; status often appears after 15 days in the myOHEPstatus tool; winter “crisis” is faster under the 48/18‑hour rule. Utilities may change fees or rates during the year; see PSC updates and company notices (e.g., EmPOWER charges, Pepco or Potomac Edison rate items) and budget for swings until credits hit. Keep proof you applied and call PSC Consumer Affairs if you need a mediated payment plan. (aaccaa.org)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the day of shutoff: apply to OHEP as soon as you get a high bill; ask your utility for a medical or crisis hold and a payment plan; escalate to PSC Consumer Affairs and OPC if needed. (psc.state.md.us)
• Sending an incomplete packet: missing IDs or the last 30 days of income can restart the clock; use OHEP’s document list and deliver everything to your local office at once; then watch myOHEPstatus for updates. (aaccaa.org)
• Not asking for all programs on one application: MEAP, EUSP, USPP, and ARA are one application; apply at MarylandBenefits.gov and confirm you checked every box with your worker; read OHEP’s program overview to avoid missing help. (dhs.maryland.gov)

---

Application Checklist — Screenshot‑Friendly

• Photo ID for adult(s): driver’s license, state ID, or passport listed on OHEP docs; ask your local office for alternatives if missing; keep a copy for myOHEPstatus follow‑ups. (myohepstatus.benefits.maryland.gov)
• Social Security cards for each person: if missing, talk to OHEP about options; match names to the utility bill to prevent processing errors. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Proof of Maryland address: lease, mortgage, or mail plus your latest utility bill or notice; if bulk fuel, include a vendor receipt. Use your local office drop box if you can’t submit online. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Last 30 days of household income: stubs, award letters, child support; if $0 income, add zero‑income and resource provider forms; see county FAQs like Anne Arundel CAA for timelines and tips. (aaccaa.org)
• Crisis paperwork (if within 3 days): winter Crisis Declaration plus the signed app to start the 48/18‑hour clock; read OPC’s crisis brief and federal LIHEAP timing rules. (content.govdelivery.com)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

---

Resources by Region (Find Your Local Office and Local Aid)

Every county has an OHEP site, and many areas have extra local help. Use the official directory and add the groups below.

Baltimore City: apply at Baltimore CAP centers for energy, water, and rent assistance; use Water4All for water credits; BGE families can add Fuel Fund of Maryland for last‑dollar help. If issues persist, call PSC Consumer Affairs for mediation. (bmorechildren.com)

Baltimore County: the Drumcastle OHEP site handles applications; ask St. Vincent de Paul Baltimore about limited utility funds; BGE customers can try the Fuel Fund. Keep PSC numbers handy. (dhs.maryland.gov)

Montgomery & Prince George’s (WSSC area): file at Montgomery OHEP or PG OHEP; enroll in WSSC CAP and Get Current 2.0; for emergency utility checks, try Catholic Charities DC or Interfaith Works (MoCo). (wsscwater.com)

Anne Arundel & Howard: Anne Arundel CAA OHEP posts timelines and document lists; Howard residents apply via CAC Howard; for electric savings, book an EmPOWER Check‑up. Call 211 MD for churches with small grants. (aaccaa.org)

Western Maryland (Allegany, Garrett, Washington, Frederick): use the county OHEP list; Potomac Edison customers can ask about the Community Energy Fund; Columbia Gas families should ask about MEAP/GARA. Always dial 211 MD for local CAPs. (firstenergycorp.com)

Southern Maryland (Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s): apply through Southern MD Tri‑County Community Action (OHEP); SMECO customers can set extended payment plans at SMECO; Washington Gas families can try WAFF when state funds aren’t enough. (smeco.coop)

Eastern Shore (Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, Wicomico, Worcester, Somerset): use OHEP’s county directory (Shore Up! serves several counties); Delmarva Power sometimes offers seasonal payment relief; see local updates and call 211 Maryland for churches and CAP agencies. (wmdt.com)

---

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: use identity‑safe services and ask for name updates on accounts; call PSC Consumer Affairs if a supplier refuses reasonable changes; seek legal help at FreeState Justice via the Governor’s community initiatives, and enroll in Lifeline to cut phone/broadband costs. (psc.state.md.us)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: ask your clinician to complete the PSC medical certification to pause shutoff for 30 days; call Maryland Relay 7‑1‑1 or TTY 1-800-735-2258; request large‑print forms from your local OHEP office and ask your utility’s ADA coordinator about priority restoration. Also apply for Lifeline. (psc.state.md.us)

Veteran single mothers: if you receive income‑based VA benefits, you may be automatically eligible for FY26 energy credits; apply at MarylandBenefits.gov and bring VA letters; for appeals or denials, get free help from OPC and contact MDVA service offices. (governor.maryland.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: OHEP accepts clear photos of documents; local CAP staff can help you apply; ask for interpreters at OHEP and connect with Catholic Charities DC or LSS/NCA for case management. Also enroll in Lifeline to reduce phone costs. (catholiccharitiesdc.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: inquire through the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs for community contacts; Washington Gas area families can use WAFF during winter; confirm eligibility for Lifeline Tribal benefit. (goci.maryland.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: if you lack internet, call DHS 1‑800‑332‑6347 for a paper application and mail or drop it at your local OHEP office; SMECO, Choptank, and Potomac Edison all offer payment plans and EmPOWER savings—start with SMECO or FirstEnergy Bill Assist. (smeco.coop)

Single fathers: OHEP is household‑based—dads can and should apply too; use OHEP for energy help, PSC for mediation, and 211 MD for church help; add Lifeline to cut monthly costs. (psc.state.md.us)

Language access: request interpreters at OHEP and PSC; use Maryland Relay/TTY for hearing services; many forms are available in Spanish on OHEP; call your utility to flag your account for communications needs. (psc.state.md.us)

---

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Use these alongside OHEP. Confirm availability before you go.

• Fuel Fund of Maryland (BGE territory): last‑dollar electric help; apply online at Fuel Fund “Get Help”; ask your BGE agent to note your application; call United Way 211 if you need navigation. Pair with OHEP to maximize aid. (fuelfundmaryland.org)
• Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF): Salvation Army‑run heat help for Washington Gas area (PG, Montgomery, Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s); apply when the season opens and show denial letters from other aid; visit WAFF or eligibility pages. (washingtonareafuelfund.org)
• Catholic Charities (Baltimore & DC regions): limited emergency funds for rent and utilities; see Catholic Charities DC Emergency Help and Catholic Charities of Baltimore (Samaritan Center); also ask St. Vincent de Paul Baltimore for local referrals. (cc-md.org)
• Interfaith Works (Montgomery County): emergency rental/utility assistance via the Connections Program; call 240-641-6307; see the Essential Needs Center for food and diapers. Pair with WSSC CAP. (iworksmc.org)
• 211 Maryland (statewide navigator): get a caseworker by dialing 2‑1‑1; if 2‑1‑1 doesn’t connect, call 1‑800-492-0618 (United Way) or text your ZIP to 898‑211; search “utility assistance” at 211 Maryland and confirm hours with the provider. (uwcm.org)

---

County‑Specific Variations (What’s Different)

• WSSC area (MoCo/PG): OHEP eligibility triggers CAP water benefits automatically; see rules on WSSC CAP; if you’re behind, use Get Current 2.0 through Oct 31, 2025, for forgiveness after partial payment; check Water Fund limits with Salvation Army numbers. (wsscwater.com)
• Baltimore City: Water4All uses an income formula and includes tenants; credits may take up to three months to post (per Water4All FAQ); flexible water payment plans are through PromisePay; use Baltimore CAP centers for in‑person help. (cityservices.baltimorecity.gov)
• Eastern Shore and Southern Maryland: Shore Up! and Tri‑County CAP offices handle multiple counties; call ahead using the OHEP directory; ask Delmarva Power about seasonal disconnection pauses and bill support offers. (wmdt.com)

---

“Why Was I Denied?” and How to Fix It

• Missing documents: send what’s listed in your notice within the deadline; if the office “pends” your case, you can still get winter crisis help with the short Crisis Declaration; read OPC’s crisis guidance and ask your local OHEP office to note the emergency. (content.govdelivery.com)
• Over income: check if your household count was wrong (count everyone living there today); ask about deductions that may apply; then ask 211 MD for charities like Fuel Fund or WAFF to close the gap. (fuelfundmaryland.org)
• Still not enough to reconnect: ask your utility to extend payment terms; winter USPP rules and medical certification may eliminate deposits; escalate to PSC Consumer Affairs and ask OPC to guide your statement. (psc.state.md.us)

---

Frequently Asked Questions (Maryland‑Specific)

How fast can MEAP/EUSP stop a shutoff: in winter, crisis cases must be handled within 48 hours (18 hours if life‑threatening) after a signed application is received; outside winter, processing can take up to 45 days for non‑crisis cases; always ask your local OHEP office if they can contact the utility with a pledge. Read OPC’s crisis season guide and LIHEAP 48/18 rule. (aaccaa.org)

What are the current income limits: for FY26, households of 1–10 range from $2,608to$10,859 monthly; confirm the newest chart on OHEP or 211 Maryland and call 1‑800‑332‑6347 with questions; use myOHEPstatus to track. (dhs.maryland.gov)

What if I already got help this year: OHEP is once per program year (July–June); if you still need help, try Fuel Fund (BGE), WAFF (Washington Gas), or county CAP funds via 211 MD; ask your utility for longer payment plans. (fuelfundmaryland.org)

Can I get help if I rent and the landlord pays the water: yes in Baltimore City under Water4All if your lease lists water charges; bring the lease and billing proof; outside Baltimore, ask your utility/DPW and call 211 MD for tenant programs. See Water4All FAQ. (cityservices.baltimorecity.gov)

What’s USPP and why should I enroll: it’s winter shutoff protection with budget billing for MEAP‑eligible homes; reconnection and deposit fees are waived during the heating season; enroll via OHEP and learn rules on PSC’s USPP page; keep payments to stay covered. (psc.state.md.us)

How do I get faster water help in WSSC area: enroll in CAP once OHEP approves your energy aid; if you’re behind, apply to Get Current 2.0 (through Oct 31, 2025) for fee waivers and partial forgiveness; the Water Fund can add up to $500 per year. (wsscwater.com)

Is there phone/internet help now that ACP ended: yes, Lifeline offers up to $9.25 off monthly; MD resources at OPC Lifeline explain how to apply; ask your carrier to apply it to voice or home internet. (lifelinesupport.org)

Do utilities have special relief funds now: in 2025, Exelon announced a Customer Relief Fund across BGE/Pepco/Delmarva; check your utility’s website or 211 MD to see if applications are open; ask for extended payment arrangements. (governor.maryland.gov)

What if my utility refuses a plan or asks for a huge deposit: call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1‑800‑492‑0474 and also notify OPC; explain you applied to OHEP and ask for a mediated plan under state rules. (psc.state.md.us)

Where can I get help filling the application: visit your local OHEP office for in‑person help, dial 211 Maryland to book assistance, or use community groups like Interfaith Works (MoCo) or CAC Howard to sit with you. (iworksmc.org)

What if my heating system is unsafe: note this on your OHEP and DHCD applications; ask about EmPOWER LIEEP and WAP repairs; schedule a Quick Home Energy Check‑up to get free items while you wait. (dhcd.maryland.gov)

---

Tables — Timelines, Water, and Savings

Processing & Crisis Timelines

Water Assistance Highlights

Energy Savings You Keep

Lifeline and Consumer Help

---

What to Do If Your Application Gets Denied

• Read the denial notice and respond fast: some denials allow 15 days to cure missing items; contact your local OHEP office and ask for the clearest list of what’s needed; call DHS 1‑800‑332‑6347 to log your attempt. Use 211 MD for a helper to upload documents. (aaccaa.org)
• Reapply next program year or appeal: you can reapply each July; if you believe the decision was wrong, request a review via your local OHEP office and ask OPC what to include; keep paying on a plan to prevent shutoff while you wait. (opc.maryland.gov)
• Bridge the gap: ask Fuel Fund or WAFF for last‑dollar help; if water, use Water4All or WSSC Water Fund. (fuelfundmaryland.org)

---

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Nota: esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las agencias oficiales para obtener la información más reciente.

Para recibir ayuda con sus facturas de servicios en Maryland, solicite en MarylandBenefits.gov los programas de energía MEAP/EUSP; llame al PSC 1‑800‑492‑0474 si tiene un aviso de desconexión; marque 211 Maryland para encontrar organizaciones locales; para agua use Water4All Baltimore o WSSC CAP; y para teléfono/internet aplique a Lifeline (descuento mensual). (dhs.maryland.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) — applications, income charts, and program rules. (dhs.maryland.gov)
• Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) — medical holds, winter protections, and complaint mediation. (psc.state.md.us)
• 211 Maryland — statewide referral database for utility help. (211md.org)
• Maryland DHCD Energy Programs — EmPOWER and Weatherization assistance. (dhcd.maryland.gov)
• USAC Lifeline — federal phone/internet discount program. (lifelinesupport.org)
• Governor’s Office Press Releases — FY26 energy benefit increases and 2025 Relief Fund. (governor.maryland.gov)

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

Important: this article provides general information only. Program rules, amounts, and timelines can change based on funding and your county. Always confirm with OHEP or your utility, check PSC consumer updates for current protections, and call 211 Maryland to verify local availability before you spend money or make decisions. If you are in immediate danger from extreme heat/cold or lack of electricity for medical devices, tell your utility it’s life‑threatening, call your clinician to submit the PSC medical form, and contact PSC Consumer Affairs for urgent intervention. (acf.hhs.gov)

---

Tips in this guide aim for plain language and realistic timelines, with links embedded right where you need them. If something here doesn’t match what your worker or utility is telling you, reference the linked source in your conversation and ask them to check the latest bulletin for this program year. Always keep copies of what you send and note names, dates, and times of every call.

---

Learn more:

1. Applying For Energy Assistance? – Maryland Department of Human Services
2. Who to Contact – Electricity
3. Get Help – Fuel Fund of Maryland
4. Consumers – Maryland Public Service Commission
5. Home – Universal Service Administrative Company
6. Water4All | City of Baltimore
7. Utility Assistance | 211 Maryland
8. LIHEAP FAQs for Professionals | The Administration for Children and Families
9. Governor Moore Announces $19 Million in Relief for Limited- and Middle-Income Energy Ratepayers in Maryland – Press Releases – News – Office of Governor Wes Moore
10. FAQ – Community Action Agency of Anne Arundel County
11. Governor Moore Announces Increased Energy Assistance Benefits – Press Releases – News – Office of Governor Wes Moore
12. Energy Assistance – Maryland Department of Human Services
13. Other Programs to Help – Maryland Department of Human Services
14. Financial Help With My Gas and Electric Bill
15. Local Home Energy Program Office – Maryland Department of Human Services
16. Crisis season at energy assistance | Baltimore City rental assistance program | Info session on energy efficiency programs today at noon
17. Restrictions on Terminations – Maryland Public Service Commission
18. Customer Assistance Program (CAP) | WSSC Water
19. Payment Options | Artesian Water
20. Water Bill Payment Plan Program | Baltimore City Department of Public Works
21. EmPOWER
22. WAP
23. Quick Home Energy Check-up Program | Pepco
24. Need Help Paying Your Bill or Have a Termination Notice? – Maryland Public Service Commission
25. Water4All | City of Baltimore
26. OHEP | Online Status Check
27. Find a Payment Location | Baltimore Gas and Electric Company
28. Delmarva Power announces assistance options for customers facing high winter energy bills – 47abc
29. Potomac Edison Reminds Maryland Customers of Available Assistance Programs to Help with Winter Bills
30. Ways to Pay – Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative
31. Eligibility – Washington Area Fuel Fund
32. Income-Eligible Assistance Programs – Columbia Gas of Maryland
33. Community Action Partnership — Mayor’s Office of Children & Family Success
34. Potomac Edison Encourages Customers to Arrange Payment Plans and Bill Assistance to Avoid Unmanageable Balances
35. Delmarva Power extending support to help customers manage winter energy bills – 47abc
36. Emergency Help – Catholic Charities DC
37. Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives
38. Washington Area Fuel Fund – A Washington Gas and Salvation Army Partnership
39. Samaritan Center | Catholic Charities of Baltimore
40. Get Assistance — Interfaith Works
41. 211 Helpline – United Way of Central Maryland
42. Appointment Request | Pepco

🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland

You may also need: Housing Assistance Emergency Assistance

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery