Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan
Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan (2025 Hub Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
If your power, heat, or water is at risk, act now. This guide gives you the fastest steps, real phone numbers, and direct links for Michigan programs. You’ll see what to expect, who qualifies, and how to avoid delays.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call your utility’s shutoff line, tell them you submitted a State Emergency Relief application, and ask for a shutoff hold. For DTE, call 1-800-477-4747 and for Consumers Energy, call 1-800-477-5050; then apply the same day through MI Bridges and keep your confirmation number ready for the agent. Use Michigan 2‑1‑1 if you can’t reach anyone. (dteenergy.com)
- Submit a crisis request through MDHHS State Emergency Relief (SER) and upload your shutoff or past-due notice right away; then call your utility back and give them your case number to extend the hold. If you’re stuck on the application, ask a MI Bridges Navigator to help by phone. (michigan.gov)
- If a child or adult in your home has a qualifying medical condition, request a 21‑day medical hold today with your utility and have your doctor complete the MPSC medical certification form; ask about “critical care” status if someone relies on life‑support equipment. Use MPSC Customer Assistance if you need help. (regulations.justia.com)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- MDHHS benefits portal: Apply for SER at MI Bridges; check status and upload documents after you submit. (mibridges.me)
- Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC): Consumer help line 1-800-292-9555; read shutoff protections at MPSC Energy Assistance and winter tips at Be Winterwise. (michigan.gov)
- Michigan 2‑1‑1: Call 2‑1‑1 or use mi211.org for local agencies and after‑hours help; Upper Peninsula relay lines: 1-800-305-8137 and 1-800-338-1119. (mi211.org)
- Utility customer care: DTE Energy 1-800-477-4747 (TDD 1-800-888-6886), Consumers Energy 1-800-477-5050 (TRS 7‑1‑1), and SEMCO Energy Gas programs. (dteenergy.com)
- Water programs (SE Michigan): GLWA WRAP county contacts and Detroit’s DWSD Lifeline Plan via Wayne Metro 313-386-9727. (glwater.org)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Michigan Today
Step 1 — Apply for crisis help immediately: Submit a State Emergency Relief request through MI Bridges and upload your shutoff or disconnect notice; this is required before most energy grants. Use MPSC’s application guidance and call Michigan 2‑1‑1 if you need help. (michigan.gov)
Step 2 — Ask your utility for a hold: After you file, call DTE or Consumers Energy and tell them your SER case number; utilities “should put a shutoff hold” while MDHHS reviews. If anyone in the home has a health risk, request a 21‑day medical hold using the MPSC medical certification rule. (michigan.gov)
Step 3 — Add backup protection: Enroll in the Winter Protection Plan if you qualify (Nov 1–Mar 31), or ask about DTE’s LSP or Consumers CARE for affordable monthly payments and forgiveness credits. These plans can prevent shutoff while lowering what you owe each month. (michigangasutilities.com)
Reality check: Shutoff notices require at least 10‑days’ written notice, and utilities must make extra contact attempts before disconnecting; ask what exact date is set. If no hold is posted, call MPSC Customer Assistance at 1-800-292-9555 and note the rep’s name. (regulations.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with MPSC, contact a MEAP grantee for one‑time help, and have your doctor submit a new medical certification under R 460.130 to extend the hold. (michigan.gov)
Energy Help You Can Use Right Now
State Emergency Relief (SER): crisis energy bill help
Start here for shutoff or past‑due bills. SER is Michigan’s LIHEAP‑funded crisis aid for heat and electricity. Apply at MI Bridges and read the energy page at MDHHS Energy & Weatherization; after you apply, tell your utility so they can place a hold as MPSC advises. (michigan.gov)
- Eligibility: SER is income‑tested; MDHHS posts monthly income limits for energy requests and a $15,000 asset test for non‑energy services, with updated tables under SER eligibility and conditions of eligibility. Always check the current chart before you apply. (michigan.gov)
- How much help: According to MDHHS, annual heat benefits for deliverable fuels (propane, fuel oil, wood, pellets, coal) range roughly 450–450–850 depending on fuel and funding; MDHHS issues one heat payment and one non‑heat electric payment per fiscal year. In July 2025, utilities reported MDHHS policy allowed up to $500 per commodity for natural gas and electricity, which aligns with the year’s SER caps—call your worker to confirm the current cap in your county. (michigan.gov)
- Timeline: Processing varies by county and season; agencies report 7–10 business days is common when funding is open. Ask your worker for a “decision due date,” and use a MEAP grantee if a co‑pay is required. (michigan.gov)
Required documents: Upload your shutoff/past‑due notice, a photo ID, Social Security numbers, and proof of the last 30 days’ income; MPSC’s checklist outlines what MDHHS needs and notes that utilities should hold shutoff while your SER is in review. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the utility about a short‑term plan while you re‑apply, call 2‑1‑1 to find a MEAP partner for co‑pays or denials, and consider a 21‑day medical hold if anyone’s health is at risk. (mi211.org)
Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): ongoing help plus budget plans
MEAP funds community groups that pay energy bills and enroll families in affordable payment plans. Read the overview at MPSC Energy Assistance; you must apply for SER first, then work with a grantee like THAW or TrueNorth emPower. (michigan.gov)
- New for FY2026 (starts Oct 1, 2025): State law raised MEAP income limits to 60% of State Median Income and increased the meter charge that funds assistance; MPSC set the 2025 funding factor at $1.25/meter and anticipates phased increases. Expect more households to qualify this fall—apply early. (michigan.gov)
- Typical benefits and timing: Grantees use MEAP to cover arrears, pay monthly credits, and set up payment plans (LSP/CARE). Some agencies note processing can take up to 10 days during heavy demand—keep paying what you can. (superiorwatersheds.org)
Where to apply: Contact a grantee directly—United Way SEM 1-844-211-4994, THAW 1-800-866-8429, TrueNorth 231-355-5880, Superior Watershed 906-273-2742, or find your local Community Action. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are paused, keep checking your agency’s page (MEAP years restart Oct 1), ask your utility about their income‑based plan below, and call MPSC if a promised hold falls off. (michigan.gov)
Utility Payment Plans that lock in affordable monthly amounts
- DTE Low‑Income Self‑Sufficiency Plan (LSP): Fixed monthly payments, shutoff protection, and monthly forgiveness of past‑due balances (24‑month plan). Enroll through partner agencies listed on DTE’s LSP page or call DTE’s Energy Advocacy Group 1-800-317-9073. (dteenergy.com)
- Consumers Energy CARE: Affordable payments with self‑sufficiency support; enroll via Consumers CARE and United Way Energy Help after your SER is in. (consumersenergy.com)
- Winter Protection Plan (WPP): From Nov 1–Mar 31, seniors (65+) and households up to 150% FPL can avoid shutoff by paying 7% of estimated annual usage monthly; ask your gas or electric provider to enroll. See details at Michigan Gas Utilities WPP. (michigangasutilities.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied or removed, ask for a standard payment plan, call 2‑1‑1 for one‑time help, and re‑apply at the next enrollment window. Keep the MPSC number handy if you can’t reach a resolution. (mi211.org)
Michigan Home Heating Credit (HHC): a once‑a‑year credit toward heat costs
Claim your HHC with the MI‑1040CR‑7 by September 30, 2025. You can choose an energy draft paid to your enrolled heat provider or request a refund of any overage; instructions and deadlines are on the Treasury HHC page. (michigan.gov)
- Key points: You don’t need to file a full income tax return to claim HHC; if your provider is DTE, Consumers, or SEMCO, the credit may go directly to them. The energy draft can be refunded if it exceeds your balance and you check the box on line 18. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your draft can’t be used (bulk fuel already purchased, heat in landlord’s name), mail it back to Treasury with an explanation to request a check, as explained on the HHC FAQs. (michigan.gov)
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): cut energy bills 20–25%
WAP provides free insulation, air sealing, and furnace work for income‑eligible homes. Learn about it at MDHHS Weatherization and find your local operator on the statewide provider map; many providers are Community Action agencies. (michigan.gov)
- Funding and timing: MDHHS announced new WAP grants in April 2025, with awards based on county needs; call your local operator about current waitlists and priority groups. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about no‑cost home energy visits (DTE/Consumers), apply for WPP to manage winter bills, and keep receipts in case of future credits. (michigangasutilities.com)
Internet and Phone Discounts (Lifeline): what still exists after ACP ended
The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended June 1, 2024. The ongoing option is Lifeline, which offers a monthly discount on phone or broadband for eligible households; you can apply through USAC’s National Verifier and see Michigan’s state Lifeline details at MPSC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Lifeline Support Center 1-800-234-9473, ask your carrier if they have a low‑income plan, and use Michigan’s Wi‑Fi map to find public hotspots. (fcc.gov)
Water Bill Help Where You Live
Detroit Water Bill Help — DWSD Lifeline Plan
Detroit’s DWSD Lifeline Plan sets fixed bills (18/18/43/$56) by income and erases past‑due balances at enrollment. New enrollments were paused in late 2024 until more funding; check status and recertification windows, and call Wayne Metro 313-386-9727 for help. See DWSD’s program page for EasyPay and plumbing repair options. (detroitmi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for WRAP if eligible by address, ask Wayne Metro about one‑time help, and consider the EasyPay $10‑down 36‑month plan if you don’t qualify for income‑based aid. (glwater.org)
GLWA WRAP — Regional water help (SE Michigan)
The Water Residential Assistance Program (WRAP) offers past‑due assistance, monthly bill credits, and minor plumbing repairs for many communities served by the Great Lakes Water Authority, including counties like Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, St. Clair, and Monroe. Contact Wayne Metro 313-386-9727, Macomb Community Action 586-469-6464, or United Way SEM (Oakland/Washtenaw) 1-844-211-4994. (glwater.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your city isn’t a WRAP member, your county CAA may still have local funds; call 2‑1‑1 for non‑WRAP options and request a payment plan with your local water department. (macombgov.org)
Grand Rapids Water Payment Help
Grand Rapids’ income‑based penalty fund (ICB Assistance) is managed by Kent County Community Action; you must be a GR water/sewer customer with a delinquent bill—call 616-632-7950. For general questions, use the city’s Water System page or dial 311/616-456-3000. (grandrapidsmi.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask United Way 2‑1‑1 for other Kent County aid and request a payment schedule with the city’s billing office. (mi211.org)
Flint Water Assistance
Eligible Flint/Genesee residents can get up to $3,000 toward past‑due water/sewer bills via GCCARD; call the Emergency Services Hotline 810-768-4675 or GCCARD 810-232-2185. For water resources and filter support, see the state’s Flint Water site. (cityofflint.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re a renter and not eligible for the $3,000 program, ask the city about smaller renter grants (when open), and call 2‑1‑1 for other emergency water funds. (wnem.com)
Quick Comparison Tables
Energy Programs at a Glance
| Program | Who runs it | Income benchmark | Typical help | Where to apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SER (LIHEAP crisis) | MDHHS | MDHHS energy income table | One heat and one non‑heat electric payment per year; deliverable fuels often 450–450–850; FY2025 utilities report $500 cap per commodity for gas/electric | MI Bridges | Apply before MEAP; ask your utility for a hold. (michigan.gov) |
| MEAP | MPSC grantees | 60% SMI starting Oct 1, 2025 | Arrears help + affordable plans (LSP/CARE) | THAW, TrueNorth, United Way SEM | Funding renews Oct 1; processing may take up to ~10 days. (michigan.gov) |
| WPP (Nov–Mar) | Your utility (MPSC rule) | 150% FPL (low‑income) or age 65+ | Low‑income pays 7% of estimated annual bill monthly; seniors protected | Call your utility; see MGU WPP | Arrears spread Apr–Nov. (michigangasutilities.com) |
| HHC | Michigan Treasury | Standard allowance vs. actual cost | Energy draft or refund; deadline Sept 30 | Mail/e‑file MI‑1040CR‑7 | Draft may go direct to DTE/Consumers/SEMCO. (michigan.gov) |
Shutoff Protections — What You Can Ask For
| Protection | Who qualifies | What it does | How to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Emergency Hold | Anyone in home with qualifying condition | 21‑day shutoff hold; extendable up to 63 days per household member (126 days/household/yr) | Doctor completes MPSC form; call utility. (regulations.justia.com) |
| Critical Care | Life‑support equipment at home | No shutoff when life‑threatening; annual certification | File MPSC critical care form with utility. (regulations.justia.com) |
| Winter Protection Plan | 65+ or ≤150% FPL | Prevents winter disconnection with plan payments | Call your gas/electric utility. (michigangasutilities.com) |
| SER Application Hold | Any SER applicant | Utility should place hold while SER is reviewed | Apply at MI Bridges; call utility with confirmation. (michigan.gov) |
Water Assistance by Area (examples)
| Area | Program | What it offers | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit | DWSD Lifeline | Fixed bill (18/18/43/$56), debt erasure, repairs (as funded) | Wayne Metro 313-386-9727. (detroitmi.gov) |
| Wayne/Monroe | WRAP | Arrears help, credits, repairs | Wayne Metro 313-386-9727. (glwater.org) |
| Oakland/Washtenaw | WRAP via United Way SEM | Credits, arrears help | 1-844-211-4994; portal open Jul 1, 2025–Jun 30, 2026. (uwsem.smapply.org) |
| Macomb/St. Clair/Lapeer | WRAP via MCA | Bill help + repairs | 586-469-6464 (Michigan Relay 7‑1‑1). (macombgov.org) |
| Grand Rapids | ICB Assistance | One‑time payment help for GR customers | KCCA 616-632-7950. (grandrapidsmi.gov) |
| Flint/Genesee | GCCARD Water Aid | Up to $3,000 late bills | Hotline 810-768-4675. (cityofflint.com) |
Utility Customer Numbers — Quick Reach
| Company | Electric/Gas | Customer service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DTE Energy | Both | 1-800-477-4747 (TDD 1-800-888-6886) | Ask for LSP, medical holds, and shutoff protections. (dteenergy.com) |
| Consumers Energy | Both | 1-800-477-5050 (TRS 7‑1‑1) | Ask for CARE, crisis credits, and SER confirmations. (consumersenergy.com) |
| SEMCO Energy Gas | Gas | See website | WPP enrollment and payment plans. (semcoenergygas.com) |
| Lansing BWL | Electric/Water | 517-702-7001 | Ask about resource fairs and Pennies for Power. (lbwl.com) |
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
- MEAP and community partners: THAW 1-800-866-8429, TrueNorth emPower 231-355-5880, United Way SEM 1-844-211-4994, and Superior Watershed Partnership 906-273-2742 help with payments and payment plans. (thawfund.org)
- Salvation Army (statewide): Energy aid and assistance navigation via Great Lakes Division Energy Assistance and the online portal; always apply for SER first. Call 2‑1‑1 if local offices are closed. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
- St. Vincent de Paul (SE MI): Utility help (varies by parish) through SVdP Detroit and referral via MPSC grantee list; call 1‑877‑788‑4623. (dteenergy.com)
- Lansing BWL area: “Pennies for Power” shutoff prevention via BWL program, and regular community resource fairs to connect customers with help. (lbwl.com)
- Michigan 2‑1‑1: Use mi211.org and regional centers like NE Michigan 2‑1‑1 to reach church funds, township funds, and local donors that pay small balances fast. Keep your bill and ID ready. (mi211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask each agency’s wait time, leave a voicemail during business hours, and call MPSC if your utility removes a hold while you’re actively working with a grantee. (michigan.gov)
Resources by Region (examples to get you started)
- Wayne County (Detroit and suburbs): Wayne Metro 313-386-9727 for WRAP, DTE LSP partners, and DWSD Lifeline recertifications. Call MPSC if you hit a roadblock. (glwater.org)
- Oakland County (Birmingham, Southfield, Pontiac): United Way SEM WRAP 1-844-211-4994, city water offices like Birmingham Water, and DTE LSP. Use MPSC if a shutoff date is looming. (stories.opengov.com)
- Macomb County (Warren, Sterling Heights): MCA WRAP 586-469-6464, MCA Community Action Centers, and Consumers CARE. (macombgov.org)
- Washtenaw County (Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti): United Way SEM WRAP and energy help through SER/MEAP; use MI Bridges to apply fast. (unitedwaysem.org)
- Genesee County (Flint): GCCARD water aid, SER, and Consumers Energy hardship teams. (cityofflint.com)
- Kent County (Grand Rapids): KCCA water help, SER/MEAP, and 2‑1‑1 for church funds. (grandrapidsmi.gov)
- Ingham County (Lansing): Lansing BWL 517-702-7001, Pennies for Power, and MPSC help if you can’t reach a plan. (lbwl.com)
- Upper Peninsula (UP): Call UPCAP 2‑1‑1, check Superior Watershed Partnership (906-273-2742) for MEAP timing, and apply for SER. (upcap.org)
Diverse Communities — Tailored Notes and Help
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Connect with Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center in Ferndale for housing/utility navigation events and referrals; call 248-398-7105 for accessibility or language needs. Pair that with SER/MEAP and local WRAP if you live in the GLWA area. Ask for large‑print materials or a relay call if needed. (goaffirmations.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your utility to mark your account “critical care” if someone uses life‑support equipment and use the 21‑day medical hold during medical crises. Use TTY/TDD lines (e.g., DTE TDD 1-800-888-6886) or MI Relay 7‑1‑1, and ask agencies for “reasonable accommodation” and large‑print forms. Apply to SER ASAP and request a case note about your medical need. (regulations.justia.com)
Veteran single mothers: Call the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency at 1-800-MICH‑VET (1-800-642-4838) for emergency grants from the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund; ask your county Veterans Services about Soldiers & Sailors Relief. Pair with SER and MEAP for full coverage. (michigan.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for SER based on household status; if you’re unsure about eligibility or language access, call the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center for guidance and interpretation support. Ask MDHHS for interpreter help; many state sites offer language services. (michiganimmigrant.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Some tribes run their own LIHEAP. Contact Sault Ste. Marie Tribe ACFS or find your tribal LIHEAP contact in the federal ACF directory; the Inter‑Tribal Council of Michigan can also guide you. You can still apply for SER if you need state help. (saulttribe.com)
Rural single moms using propane or fuel oil: Apply for SER before the tank hits 30%; talk to your supplier early. Review safe‑handling tips via MDHHS/MPGA propane safety and ask for partial fills to stretch funds. (michigan.gov)
Single fathers (heads of household): You’re eligible for all programs listed. Use MPSC Energy Assistance for grantee contacts and 2‑1‑1 to locate nearby help if offices are backlogged. (michigan.gov)
Language access: Ask every agency for interpreter services; state portals include Treasury language pages, and major utilities accept relay calls (7‑1‑1). Health systems and MDHHS can provide interpreters upon request—don’t hesitate to ask. (michigan.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to call the utility after you apply: Your SER application doesn’t automatically notify them. Call DTE or Consumers Energy and give your case number to secure a hold. (michigan.gov)
- Waiting until the tank is empty (propane/fuel oil): Apply to SER before you’re out; deliverable fuel benefits are capped and suppliers may need lead time. See propane safety reminders at MDHHS/MPGA. (michigan.gov)
- Skipping required documents: Upload your ID, Social Security numbers, income for the last 30 days, and the shutoff/past‑due notice as MPSC lists; missing items slow approvals. (michigan.gov)
- Not using winter protections: If you’re 65+ or low‑income, ask for WPP to avoid winter shutoff. (michigangasutilities.com)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Shortages
- Funding pauses happen: Many MEAP grantees pause when funds run out, then reopen around Oct 1. Apply early and keep a small monthly payment going to avoid removal from plans like LSP. (superiorwatersheds.org)
- Hold doesn’t mean debt disappears: A medical hold or SER hold delays shutoff but you still owe. Keep paying what you can. (regulations.justia.com)
- Shutoff notices are legal documents: Michigan rules require at least 10‑days’ written notice and same‑day attempts before shutoff; use that time to get a hold posted and a plan set. (regulations.justia.com)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call | Second call | Online |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light/heat shutoff notice | Your utility (DTE/Consumers) | MPSC Consumer Help | Apply SER – MI Bridges |
| Water shutoff (Detroit/SE MI) | WRAP/DWSD Lifeline | County CAA | 2‑1‑1 |
| Income‑based energy plan | DTE LSP or Consumers CARE | MEAP grantee | LSP/CARE pages |
| Annual heating credit | Your heat provider | Michigan Treasury | File MI‑1040CR‑7 |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID for the applicant and Social Security numbers for all household members. See docs list on MPSC’s page. (michigan.gov)
- Shutoff or past‑due notice for electricity, gas, or water. Upload to MI Bridges with your application. (michigan.gov)
- Last 30 days of income for everyone (pay stubs, benefits, child support); required for SER and MEAP. (michigan.gov)
- Medical certification if anyone has a qualifying condition; use the MPSC medical hold rule and fax to your utility. (regulations.justia.com)
- Vendor account numbers (DTE, Consumers, water account) and a working phone for callbacks; add an alternate contact per MPSC notice rules. (regulations.justia.com)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Read the denial reason: If it’s income over the limit or missing docs, fix and re‑apply at MI Bridges; ask for navigator help listed on MPSC’s SER page. (michigan.gov)
- Ask a MEAP agency to help with co‑pays or partials: Call THAW 1‑800‑866‑8429, TrueNorth 231‑355‑5880, or United Way SEM 1‑844‑211‑4994. (thawfund.org)
- Request a utility payment plan while you re‑apply: Use DTE’s LSP or Consumers CARE; ask for a 7–10 day hold pending MEAP assistance. (dteenergy.com)
- Escalate if needed: Call MPSC 1‑800‑292‑9555 to log a complaint about shutoff while an application is active. (michigan.gov)
County‑Specific Variations to Know
- SER caps can vary by fuel and year: MDHHS posts annual caps for deliverable fuels (450–450–850 typical) and counts one heat and one non‑heat payment per fiscal year; utilities reported $500 per commodity for gas/electric in FY2025—verify with your local office before you plan your payments. (michigan.gov)
- Water aid varies: WRAP covers many GLWA communities with plumbing repairs; in Detroit, DWSD Lifeline is income‑based but enrollment status can change with funding. Grand Rapids and Flint run separate local programs. (glwater.org)
- City utilities run their own events and funds: In Lansing, BWL raises customer funds for shutoff prevention and runs resource fairs that clear arrears on‑site. (lbwl.com)
How long will this take? Realistic timelines
- SER (energy): Many counties take 7–10 business days when funding is open; ask for a hold per MPSC guidance and keep paying what you can. (michigan.gov)
- MEAP (grantees): Agencies report up to ~10 days in busy seasons, and funds often reset Oct 1. Watch the agency website for pauses. (superiorwatersheds.org)
- WRAP (water): United Way SEM notes up to 10 business days after you upload documents; Detroit Lifeline recerts follow DWSD schedules. (unitedwaysem.org)
- WPP (winter protection): Enrollment is immediate if you meet criteria; confirm your monthly amount (usually 7% of annual bill for low‑income). (michigangasutilities.com)
Birmingham Water Bill Help — Where to call first
Start here: City of Birmingham Water Department 248‑530‑1830 or email water@bhamgov.org, and ask about WRAP eligibility. Check the city’s Water & Sewer FAQ and GLWA contacts; if you’re in a WRAP community, United Way SEM handles intake. (stories.opengov.com)
Plan B: If you’re not in a WRAP city, ask about internal payment plans and dial 2‑1‑1 to find churches or township aid for small balances. (mi211.org)
How to handle deliverable fuels (propane, fuel oil)
- Apply early through SER: Benefits have annual caps and suppliers need time to schedule delivery. Ask for partial fills if funds are tight. (michigan.gov)
- Safety first: Review propane safety guidance and don’t tamper with tanks or valves. (michigan.gov)
- Plan B: Contact 2‑1‑1 for donor funds, ask your supplier about budget plans, and look for WAP weatherization to reduce use. (mi211.org)
Frequently Asked Questions (Michigan‑specific)
Q: How do I get a same‑day stop on my shutoff?
Call your utility after you submit SER and give them your confirmation number; per MPSC, utilities should place a shutoff hold while your case is reviewed. If anyone is medically at risk, request a 21‑day medical hold. (michigan.gov)
Q: What are the new income rules for MEAP this year?
Starting Oct 1, 2025, MEAP eligibility shifts to 60% of State Median Income under 2024 legislation; MPSC set the 2025 funding factor at $1.25 per meter. Apply as soon as enrollment opens. See the MPSC announcement. (michigan.gov)
Q: Can I still get internet help now that ACP ended?
Yes—Lifeline remains, with monthly discounts on phone or broadband. ACP ended June 1, 2024; see the FCC’s ACP end notice and apply via USAC. (fcc.gov)
Q: What if my landlord controls the water bill?
Ask your city water office about tenant protections and payment plans; in GLWA communities, WRAP can sometimes help tenants responsible for payment. If heat is included in rent, your Home Heating Credit rules are a bit different—check the instructions. (glwater.org)
Q: How long does HHC take and can I get cash instead of an energy draft?
Treasury issues an energy draft to your heat provider; if the draft exceeds your balance, request a refund from the provider (see line 18). If your provider isn’t enrolled or heat is in someone else’s name, return the draft with an explanation to request a check. See Treasury’s HHC page. (michigan.gov)
Q: My child uses medical equipment at home—what do I ask for?
Ask to be coded “critical care” and request a medical emergency hold if you’re behind; this prevents shutoff while you get SER/MEAP in place. (regulations.justia.com)
Q: Can my utility shut me off without warning?
No. Michigan rules require at least 10 days’ written notice and further day‑before contact attempts; keep the notice and call dates. See R 460.139. (regulations.justia.com)
Q: Where do I find a local office to help me fill out forms?
Start with 2‑1‑1, your county’s Community Action office, or a MEAP grantee. Many offices offer MIBridges Navigator help. (micommunityaction.org)
Q: Are seniors protected in winter?
Yes. If you’re 65+, you qualify for the Winter Protection Plan from Nov 1–Mar 31; ask your utility for details. (michigangasutilities.com)
Q: Does weatherization actually lower my bill?
State data estimates 20–25% savings with WAP upgrades; sign up with your local operator via the MDHHS map. (michigan.gov)
Q: I’m a veteran—can anyone cover a furnace or big utility debt?
Yes—call MVAA 1‑800‑642‑4838 and ask about the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund emergency grants; combine with SER. (michigan.gov)
Spanish Quick Summary (Resumen en español)
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA.
• Para evitar un corte inmediato, presente una solicitud de State Emergency Relief (SER) y llame a su compañía (DTE 1‑800‑477‑4747, Consumers 1‑800‑477‑5050) para pedir una pausa de corte. Llame a MPSC 1‑800‑292‑9555 si necesita ayuda. (michigan.gov)
• Busque ayuda continua por medio de MEAP con agencias como THAW, TrueNorth, o United Way SEM. Primero debe solicitar SER. (michigan.gov)
• Para agua: en Detroit, revise Lifeline Plan; en otros municipios de GLWA pida WRAP. En Grand Rapids, contacte KCCA; en Flint, llame a 810‑768‑4675. (detroitmi.gov)
• El Home Heating Credit se presenta antes del 30 de septiembre de 2025 y puede pagarse directamente a su proveedor de calefacción. (michigan.gov)
• Para internet/telefonía, use Lifeline (ACP terminó en 2024). (fcc.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) — SER, Energy & Weatherization. (michigan.gov)
- Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) — Energy Assistance & Consumer Help. (michigan.gov)
- Michigan Department of Treasury — Home Heating Credit. (michigan.gov)
- DTE Energy — LSP and customer protections and Consumers Energy — CARE. (dteenergy.com)
- GLWA WRAP and DWSD Lifeline water programs. (glwater.org)
- Michigan 2‑1‑1 and Michigan Community Action directories. (mi211.org)
- FCC — Lifeline and ACP wind‑down. (fcc.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
This guide is informational, not legal advice. Program rules, dollar amounts, and funding change often and may vary by county or provider. Always confirm current availability and eligibility with your local agency, MDHHS office, your utility, or the MPSC before you decide. If you are in danger of shutoff, contact your utility and apply through MI Bridges immediately. (michigan.gov)
What to do if this entire plan still doesn’t work
- Try different doorways: Call 2‑1‑1 nightly until you reach a live navigator, ask your doctor for a medical hold, and contact MPSC to log an urgent complaint. (mi211.org)
- Reset for the next window: MEAP reopens each Oct 1 under the MPSC funding cycle; prep documents now and re‑apply the first day. (michigan.gov)
- Keep safety first: If you smell gas or see downed lines, call 9‑1‑1 and your utility’s emergency line (DTE 1‑800‑477‑4747, Consumers 1‑800‑477‑5050), and follow MPSC safety tips. (dteenergy.com)
Last note: Always save your case numbers, upload receipts, and confirm any “hold” with the utility before you hang up. This boring step prevents most surprise shutoffs.
🏛️More Michigan Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Michigan
- 📋 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
