Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Mississippi: The 2025 Real‑World Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This hub cuts through noise and gets you to real help fast. Every section starts with the one action that moves your case forward. Expect straight talk on wait times, denials, and backups. Always confirm availability before you apply—funding shifts month to month. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Stop a shutoff today: Call your electric or gas company and ask for a “medical or extreme weather protection hold” and a payment plan. Mississippi law pauses disconnections during freeze warnings and excessive heat warnings, and gives a 60‑day medical protection with a doctor’s note. Then ask for a same‑day payment arrangement. Use your provider’s emergency help line: Entergy Mississippi customer line at 1-800-368-3749, Mississippi Power customer care at 1-800-532-1502, and the Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) consumer lines by district at 1-800-356-6428/6430/6429, with the PSC complaint form if the company won’t work with you. (psc.ms.gov)
• Apply for LIHEAP now: Submit the pre‑application through the Access MS Common Web Portal and select Community Services for energy bill help. After you submit, your local Community Action Agency (CAA) schedules your appointment; vulnerable households should get an appointment within 30 business days, others within 45 days. Keep your email/phone on and gather documents in the list below. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Use crisis rules when service is off or at risk: Tell your CAA you have an “energy crisis.” Mississippi policy requires non‑life‑threatening crises be relieved within 48 hours of approval; life‑threatening crises may be handled faster. Ask the CAA to send an immediate pledge to your utility to stop a shutoff while payment posts. (regulations.justia.com)

Quick Help Box — Key Contacts to Save in Your Phone

• MDHS Community Services (LIHEAP/WAP/CSBG): Call 1-800-421-0762 and use the MDHS LIHEAP page and Division of Community Services page for program details and county agency look‑up. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) — customer rights and complaints: See the PSC Bill of Rights, call your district consumer line (North 1-800-356-6428, Central 1-800-356-6430, South 1-800-356-6429), or file an online complaint. (psc.ms.gov)
• 211 Mississippi referrals: Dial 211 or 1-866-472-8265 for nearby churches/charities; use the United Way 211 pages to search local help. (unitedwaysems.org)
• JXN Water (Jackson): Call 1-601-500-5200, review JXN Water rates and SNAP customer class, and set up a payment plan in the self‑service portal. (jxnwater.com)
• FEMA/MEMA after storms: Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA helpline 1-800-621-3362, and check MEMA updates for Mississippi disaster deadlines and locations. (msema.org)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Mississippi Today

Do this first: If you have a shutoff notice, call your utility right now and request a payment extension or installment plan while you apply for aid. Use the company’s self‑service options and ask about medical holds.

• Entergy Mississippi: payment extension options, deferred payment plans (up to 4 months), and bill‑management tools via myEntergy or 1-800-368-3749. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
• Mississippi Power: Bill Extender due‑date change, Project SHARE bill assistance (via Catholic Charities), and discounts for SSI/TANF customers through 1-800-532-1502. (mississippipower.com)
• Local utilities (TVA distributors/co‑ops and city utilities like Oxford Utilities, Starkville Utilities, and JXN Water): Check your provider’s rules for medical postponements and hot/cold weather suspensions; Oxford Utilities, as one example, pauses disconnects at forecast highs above 95°F or below 32°F and allows 30‑day medical postponements with a doctor or NP form. (oxfordutilities.com)

Know your Mississippi rights: PSC rules give you strong protections:

• Freeze warning (electric or gas): No disconnections on days with a National Weather Service freeze warning for your county. (psc.ms.gov)
• Excessive heat warning (electric): No disconnections on days with an NWS excessive heat warning for your county. (psc.ms.gov)
• Medical certification: 60‑day disconnect extension when a licensed physician certifies shutoff would create a life‑threatening situation for you or a household member. (psc.ms.gov)
• Mid‑winter rule (Dec 1–Apr 1): Additional winter protections if you participate in the utility’s rule and enter a levelized plan. (psc.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the PSC district line for an informal complaint and file the PSC online complaint immediately. Tell the agent you attempted to set up a plan and applied for LIHEAP, and ask for a temporary hold while the dispute is reviewed. Then contact MDHS Community Services and your local CAA for an urgent LIHEAP appointment. (psc.ms.gov)

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Mississippi LIHEAP (energy bill help): Eligibility, Amounts, and How to Apply

Most important action: Submit the LIHEAP pre‑application today through the Access MS Common Web Portal (select Community Services). This routes your case to your local Community Action Agency (CAA), which will schedule your appointment. Vulnerable households (elderly, disabled, or with a child under 5) should receive an appointment within 30 business days; others within 45 days. (mdhs.ms.gov)

• Eligibility: Mississippi uses 60% State Median Income (SMI). For FFY 2025, LIHEAP benefits can help with electric, natural gas, propane, wood, and other fuels. Weatherization uses 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG). Call 1-800-421-0762 to check your income against 60% SMI. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Benefit amounts (FFY 2025): Regular heating/cooling range from as low as $1toashighas$1,500; crisis assistance up to $1,500;Weatherizationupto$12,000. Amounts vary by county, funding, and your energy burden—always ask your CAA what’s available this month. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Where to get help: Use the county finder on the MDHS LIHEAP page, call the MDHS Community Services line at 1-800-421-0762, or pick your CAA from the MDHS contact directory with addresses and phone numbers. (mdhs.ms.gov)

LIHEAP at a glance (Mississippi FFY 2025)

According to the federal LIHEAP Clearinghouse (updated March 18, 2025), Mississippi’s income rule is 60% SMI and the caps above apply statewide; local funding can still change how much you receive. Call to confirm what your county has right now. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

2025 income limits — 60% of Mississippi State Median Income (SMI)

Use these as a quick screen; your CAA will confirm with current charts. See the ACF LIHEAP SMI table for Mississippi (FFY 2025) for how SMI is calculated and adjusted by family size. (liheapch.acf.gov)

How to apply (fastest path)

• Submit your pre‑application: Use the Access MS portal and select Community Services. Keep your email and phone working so the CAA can reach you. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Watch for your appointment letter: Vulnerable households should get a date within 30 business days; others within 45. If you can’t attend, call to reschedule. Don’t wait—go even if you’re still missing a document; you can upload later. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Bring the right documents: Photo IDs for adults, Social Security cards for all household members, income proof (last 30 days), your current utility bill, and lease/mortgage proof. The MDHS LIHEAP page lists the exact items accepted. (mdhs.ms.gov)

Required documents — screenshot‑friendly checklist

• Photo ID for adults: MS driver’s license or state ID, passport, military, or tribal ID as listed on the MDHS LIHEAP page. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Social Security numbers for all household members: originals or copies; ask your CAA if you’re waiting on a card. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Income proof (last 30 days): pay stubs, award letters (SSI/SSDI), unemployment, 1099/W‑2, or other official proof described by MDHS. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Residence and bill: current utility bill in the head of household’s name (or notarized landlord statement/lease if utilities are in a landlord’s name). (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Crisis proof (if disconnected/shutoff): shutoff notice, disconnection status, or medical certification your doctor can sign for a 60‑day protection (use your provider’s form under PSC Bill of Rights). (psc.ms.gov)

How long it takes

• Appointment scheduling: 30 business days if you’re elderly, disabled, or have a child under 5; within 45 days for others. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Crisis timing: Non‑life‑threatening crisis must be relieved within 48 hours of approval; life‑threatening crises may be handled faster. Ask your caseworker to send a same‑day pledge to stop a shutoff. (regulations.justia.com)
• Processing milestones: Internal LIHEAP policy used by CAAs instructs that once your case is initiated, status should move to “Waiting on Approval” within 10 business days and then to “Approved” or “Denied” within 2 business days, with your approval/denial notice within 72 hours. These timelines vary by agency and funding levels—ask your CAA about current local timelines. (fliphtml5.com)
• When credit shows on your bill: If approved, payment goes straight to the utility; you should see a credit on your next bill. Bring your bill to the appointment and verify account numbers to avoid delays. (mdhs.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you can’t get an appointment fast enough: Call your CAA daily, ask to be on a cancellation list, and call your utility to request an extension/medical hold, referring to the PSC Bill of Rights. (psc.ms.gov)
• If you’re denied: Request the CAA’s appeal process in writing and ask for a supervisor review. If unresolved, you can escalate to the MDHS Office of Administrative Hearings. Many CAAs outline appeal timelines; ask for that policy in writing at your office. (fliphtml5.com)

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Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Lower Your Bills for Good

Most important action: Apply for WAP through the same Access MS portal (choose Community Services). Weatherization can add insulation, seal leaks, repair/replace unsafe heaters or A/C, and cut monthly bills long‑term. (mdhs.ms.gov)

• Eligibility: Typically ≤200% FPG; priority for seniors, disabled, households with kids under 5, high energy users, or high burden. See the MDHS WAP page and DOE’s WAP “How to Apply” for federal guidance. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Services: Air sealing, insulation, duct work, and sometimes furnace/AC repair or replacement after an energy audit. Benefits can total thousands; Mississippi lists Weatherization up to $12,000 per home when justified by the audit. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Timelines: You will be placed on a waitlist after eligibility is verified. Ask your CAA about their current queue and whether crisis HVAC repair is possible under LIHEAP ECIP while you wait. (energy.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about free energy audits and kits. Entergy Mississippi hosts energy‑saving tools and free kit events under Operation Bill Assist; Mississippi Power offers energy programs and can refer you to local partners. (entergy.com)

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Water and Sewer Bill Help in Mississippi

Most important action: Call your water provider today and request a written payment plan. For state‑regulated systems, PSC complaint help is available; for city‑owned systems, use the city’s customer service and council contacts and ask about leak adjustments, payment plans, or special rates.

• Jackson (JXN Water): There’s a SNAP customer class that reduces the fixed availability charge to $10/month for verified SNAP customers. JXN Water also allows 12‑month payment plans and has a self‑service portal; call 1-601-500-5200 for help. Past‑due relief programs have run in waves; check the JXN Water site and any current local relief campaigns. (jxnwater.com)
• Hattiesburg: The city offers standard payment methods and customer service support through its water billing office; you can request bank drafts and discuss bills at 1-601-545-4634. Use the Hattiesburg water/sewer page for rates and contact details. (hattiesburgms.com)
• Statewide consumer help: For general questions on drinking water safety or boil notices, use the MSDH Bureau of Public Water Supply and the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. For disconnections at regulated systems, review the PSC Bill of Rights and file a complaint if needed. (msdh.ms.gov)
• LIHWAP ended federally, but some cities and charities still fund local water help. Use 211 Mississippi and Catholic Charities of South Mississippi for Gulf Coast referrals, and ask your city clerk about hardship policies and leak adjustments. Always call to confirm funds. (unitedwaysems.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about a medical hardship or life‑threatening health note to get a short postponement while you arrange aid, and request any available leak or billing adjustments in writing. If you’re in Jackson, call JXN Water to ask about SNAP class verification and a 12‑month plan. (jxnwater.com)

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Electric and Gas Company Programs You Can Use

Most important action: Call your utility’s customer assistance line and ask for all programs you qualify for (bill credits, payment plans, charitable funds, third‑party notification, and level billing). Then apply for LIHEAP the same day.

• Entergy Mississippi (electric): Payment extensions, deferred installment plans up to 4 months, Pick‑A‑Date due‑date choice, and customer assistance through The Power to Care (administered by local agencies). Entergy has also funded Operation Bill Assist with energy‑saving kits and bill assistance. Call 1-800-368-3749, and review bill help tools. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
• Mississippi Power (electric): Bill Extender due‑date change, LIHEAP referrals, and charity aid via Project SHARE (up to $300/year) in partnership with Catholic Charities. Call 1-800-532-1502 for assistance programs and LIHEAP referrals. (mississippipower.com)
• Natural gas (CenterPoint assets now Delta Utilities): As of April 1, 2025, CenterPoint sold its Mississippi and Louisiana natural gas utilities to Delta Utilities, which now serves those gas customers; confirm your account branding and assistance options. Atmos Energy also funds “Sharing the Warmth” events in Mississippi through local nonprofits—check 211 and Salvation Army for current gas‑bill events. (investors.centerpointenergy.com)
• Company‑charity partnerships: Atmos, Entergy, and Mississippi Power regularly fund Salvation Army and Catholic Charities energy assistance; these events can cover past‑due balances when funds allow. Watch local news and call your nearest Salvation Army. (wapt.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑request a different kind of arrangement (short extension now, longer installment after payday), and add a third‑party notification so someone else gets your disconnect notice and can help. If still stuck, call the PSC and file a complaint. (entergy-mississippi.com)

Quick comparison — utility programs and contacts

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Your Rights Under Mississippi PSC Rules

Most important action: Use your rights when talking to the utility and the PSC. Quote them clearly on the phone.

• No shutoffs on freeze‑warning days (gas/electric) or excessive‑heat‑warning days (electric) for your county. (psc.ms.gov)
• Medical 60‑day extension with a doctor’s certificate; renew if needed and keep making good‑faith payments. (psc.ms.gov)
• Winter protections (Dec 1–Apr 1) and the right to ask for levelized billing. (psc.ms.gov)
• Written shutoff notice at least 5 days prior and the right to negotiate a delayed payment plan. (psc.ms.gov)
• If a LIHEAP award equals your delinquent balance and the utility has notice within 30 days, you have the right to avoid discontinuation. (psc.ms.gov)

Summary table — PSC consumer protections (Mississippi)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply: Funding runs in cycles. Submit the Access MS pre‑application now—appointments can take 30–45 business days to schedule—and call your CAA for cancellations. Also set a payment extension with the utility today. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Missing documents: Don’t skip your appointment if you’re missing a paycheck stub; go and upload later. The official MDHS LIHEAP page lists accepted documents. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Not asking for crisis handling: Tell your caseworker in plain words: “My service is off/at risk.” Crisis cases have faster clock rules (48‑hour relief after approval). (regulations.justia.com)
• Ignoring PSC protections: Quote the PSC Bill of Rights when asking for a hold. If the utility refuses a reasonable plan, file a PSC complaint. (psc.ms.gov)
• Assuming water help doesn’t exist: JXN Water offers a SNAP class and payment plans; cities like Hattiesburg have standard adjustments and bank draft options; always ask. Use 211 to find church funds. (jxnwater.com)

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Reality Check

• Funding ebbs and flows: LIHEAP and charity funds can run out mid‑month. Apply at the start of the month where possible and ask when the next funding drops. Use MDHS and LIHEAP Clearinghouse updates to track the program. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Processing time isn’t instant: Expect weeks for non‑crisis cases, plus utility posting lag after a pledge. Crisis approvals must receive quick action, but you still need to call the utility and confirm the pledge posted. (regulations.justia.com)
• Rules are real: Medical certificates expire, and holds don’t erase your bill. Maintain good‑faith payments during holds to avoid larger deposits or reconnection fees later. See PSC Bill of Rights and your utility’s deposit rules. (psc.ms.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply here first: Access MS Common Web Portal (choose Community Services) for LIHEAP and WAP; then call your CAA if you need a crisis appointment. Use MDHS LIHEAP to verify documents. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Use your rights: Freeze/heat warnings pause shutoffs; medical notes protect you 60 days; winter protections apply Dec–Mar. See PSC Bill of Rights and keep district phone numbers handy. (psc.ms.gov)
• Water help: JXN Water SNAP class and payment plans; MSDH for boil notices and system info; EPA Hotline 1‑800‑426‑4791 for drinking‑water questions. (jxnwater.com)
• Company aid: Entergy bill help and Power to Care, Mississippi Power Project SHARE, and charity events with Salvation Army. Ask for extensions before the due date. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)

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Application Checklist (printable)

• Pre‑apply at Access MS: Use the Access MS portal and select Community Services. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Schedule and attend your CAA appointment: Watch email/text; ask for cancellations. The MDHS LIHEAP page lists what to bring. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Gather proofs: Photo ID, SSNs for all, last 30 days of income, current utility bill, lease/mortgage. See MDHS LIHEAP documents. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• If crisis: Bring shutoff/disconnect notice; ask the CAA to send a same‑day pledge and mark your case urgent under ECIP. Cite Mississippi crisis rules. (regulations.justia.com)
• Call your utility: Request a payment extension or installment plan today; refer to PSC Bill of Rights if needed. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)

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If Your Application Gets Denied

Most important action: Ask for the appeal process the same day and request a supervisor review in writing. Provide any missing documents immediately.

• Ask the agency for its written appeal policy and timelines. Many Mississippi CAAs provide a quick appeal window and then allow an MDHS hearing request if not resolved—get those steps in writing. (fliphtml5.com)
• File a PSC complaint if a shutoff is looming and you have a pending appeal or new documents. Use the PSC complaint form and cite your LIHEAP pre‑application number and any pledges. (psc.ms.gov)
• Re‑apply next cycle or request a reopen if your situation changed (job loss, new medical condition). Follow the MDHS Community Services updates for plan changes and program openings. (mdhs.ms.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for respectful, privacy‑minded service at your CAA and utility. Use United Way 211 to locate inclusive agencies; call the PSC if you encounter discrimination during a disconnection dispute; and use MDHS Community Services to report issues with a subgrantee. Accessibility and translation are available on request. (unitedwaysems.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request accommodations at every step—extended timeslots, large‑print forms, or phone/online interviews. Contact the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS) at 1-800-443-1000 for disability supports; call Medicaid at 1-800-421-2408 for eligibility and disability‑related coverage; and use the DOE Weatherization “how to apply” guide to see how disability status may prioritize your case. TTY services are available at VA and many agencies; ask your office to arrange relay support. (mdrs.ms.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask for veteran‑aware case handling and request a letter of hardship from VA if you’re in treatment. Use the VA Gulf Coast Health Care System (Biloxi) patient advocates at 1-228-523-5000 or 1-800-296-8872; connect with Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) for a benefits specialist in your county; and keep FEMA/MEMA contacts handy after storm damage. (va.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for LIHEAP if you’re a citizen or certain lawfully present non‑citizen; mixed‑status households may qualify based on eligible members. For trusted help, contact Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance (MIRA) for language and legal support; use MDHS Community Services for program access; and call 211 Mississippi for local churches with disaster or utility funds. Ask for translated notices in your preferred language. (yourmira.org)
• Tribal members (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians): Check tribal programs first. Contact MBCI Family & Community Services (601-650-1778) or Assistance Services (601-650-1666) to ask about energy or emergency supports for eligible Choctaw families; apply for state LIHEAP/WAP through your CAA if advised. For health‑related needs, the Choctaw Health Center can document medical conditions supporting utility holds. (choctaw.org)
• Rural single moms with limited internet: Apply by phone and use paper uploads. Use the MDHS LIHEAP phone line (1‑800‑421‑0762), visit your CAA office, and ask the utility to mail forms or set an in‑person arrangement. If storms hit, follow MEMA updates for local disaster centers. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Single fathers caring for kids: You’re eligible for the same programs. Apply via the Access MS portal, talk to MDHS Community Services about priority status if you have a child under 5, and use PSC protections for shutoff holds. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Language access: Ask for interpreters and large‑print forms. MDHS, Medicaid, and VA offer translation or TTY/relay options; 211 offers access in 180+ languages. Use Medicaid’s contact center for help applying by phone and VA Gulf Coast for TTY (dial 711). (medicaid.ms.gov)

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Resources by Region (who to call first)

• Jackson Metro (Hinds, Madison, Rankin): Start with Hinds County Human Resource Agency (HCHRA) for LIHEAP (601-923-3950), submit your Access MS pre‑application, and set up a JXN Water payment plan or SNAP class if you live in Jackson. Use United Way 211 for church funds while you wait. (hchra.org)
• Gulf Coast (Harrison, Jackson, Hancock): Contact Community Action of South Mississippi (Gulfport 1-228-284-6772, Moss Point 1-228-769-3156), apply via Access MS, and ask Catholic Charities of South MS at 1-228-701-0555 about Project SHARE or emergency funds. Check Mississippi Power programs if you’re their customer. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Delta (Washington, Issaquena, Bolivar, Sunflower, Leflore): Contact WWISCAA (Greenville 1-662-378-8663; Vicksburg 1-601-638-2474) and Bolivar County CAA at 1-662-846-1491. Submit Access MS, and if you have CenterPoint‑legacy gas service, confirm your provider is now Delta Utilities and ask about assistance partners. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Northeast and Golden Triangle (Lee, Oktibbeha, Lowndes): Call LIFT, Inc. or Prairie Opportunity, Inc. (1-888-397-5550) for LIHEAP/Weatherization; apply via Access MS; and ask your TVA city utility (Starkville, Columbus, Tupelo) about local “round‑up” funds. Use United Way for additional referrals. (prairieopportunityinc.com)
• Pine Belt (Forrest, Lamar, Jones): Apply via Access MS and call your local CAA. For water/sewer, contact the City of Hattiesburg Water Billing office at 1-601-545-4634 to request adjustments or bank draft; use MEMA if storms damaged utilities. (hattiesburgms.com)
• Southwest (Adams, Pike, Franklin, Claiborne, Jefferson, Copiah): Reach out to AJFC Community Action offices (Natchez 1-601-442-8681; Brookhaven 1-601-833-6349; Port Gibson 1-601-437-5419), file through Access MS, and call your electric provider for extensions while you wait. (mdhs.ms.gov)

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Tables You Can Use Quickly

Program‑by‑program checklist

Processing times (what’s typical)

Confirm with your local CAA—timelines vary by county and month. (mdhs.ms.gov)

Household income quick screen (60% SMI, FFY 2025)

Use the ACF SMI table for 2025; confirm with your CAA. (liheapch.acf.gov)

Company programs snapshot

PSC protections you can cite on the phone

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

• Salvation Army: Many sites partner with Atmos/Entergy/Mississippi Power for energy events and one‑time pledges. Check local corps via 211 Mississippi and watch news releases for “Energy Assistance Blitz” days. (unitedwaysems.org)
• Catholic Charities: Gulf Coast residents can contact Catholic Charities of South Mississippi at 1-228-701-0555; central/north residents can contact Catholic Charities of Jackson for community assistance referrals. Ask about utility aid or Project SHARE intake. (catholiccharitiesofsouthms.org)
• Legal aid for billing disputes: If a billing error leads to shutoff, contact Mississippi Legal Services (statewide intake 1-800-498-1804) and Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (MVLP) for help. Use the PSC online complaint at the same time. (mslegalservices.org)

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FAQs — Detailed Answers for Mississippi Single Moms

1. How do I apply for LIHEAP in Mississippi without internet?
   Call MDHS Community Services at 1-800-421-0762 to locate your CAA and ask for help completing the Access MS pre‑application in the office. Bring IDs, SSNs, last 30 days of income, and your bill. Vulnerable households should get an appointment within 30 business days. (mdhs.ms.gov)
2. How much will LIHEAP actually pay on my bill?
   Benefits vary by energy burden and county funding. For FFY 2025, regular heating/cooling can pay up to $1,500;crisisaidcanalsopayupto$1,500. Payments post as a credit to your account. Confirm with your CAA what’s available this month. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
3. What if my power is scheduled to be disconnected tomorrow?
   Ask your utility for a same‑day extension/arrangement and cite PSC Bill of Rights protections (freeze/heat warnings and 60‑day medical). Then file a crisis LIHEAP request with your CAA; non‑life‑threatening crises must be relieved within 48 hours after approval. (psc.ms.gov)
4. Does Mississippi have water bill assistance like LIHWAP?
   The federal LIHWAP program ended, but local aid still exists. In Jackson, JXN Water offers a SNAP customer class and 12‑month payment plans; many cities offer payment plans or leak adjustments. Use 211 Mississippi to find church funds. (jxnwater.com)
5. Can I prevent disconnection during extreme heat or cold?
   Yes. The PSC pauses electric disconnections on excessive heat warning days and gas/electric disconnections on freeze warning days. If a life‑threatening condition exists, a doctor’s certification can stop disconnects for 60 days. (psc.ms.gov)
6. I’m a renter and utilities are in my landlord’s name—can LIHEAP help?
   Yes, if your lease states you’re responsible for utilities or you have a notarized letter from the landlord. Bring the lease/letter and bills to your CAA appointment. The MDHS LIHEAP page lists acceptable proofs. (mdhs.ms.gov)
7. How long does it take to get help?
   Expect several weeks for non‑crisis appointments; vulnerable households are prioritized. Crisis cases must be addressed quickly after approval. Agency policies instruct quick status movement and notices, but volumes vary—ask your CAA for current timing. (mdhs.ms.gov)
8. Who do I call if the utility won’t accept my payment plan?
   File with the PSC (call your district consumer line and submit the online complaint). Quote your rights and document all calls and emails. Keep trying with the utility’s payment extension options. (psc.ms.gov)
9. I’m a veteran—are there special resources?
   Yes. Contact MSVA to reach a county veterans benefits specialist and the VA Gulf Coast Health Care System (Biloxi) for patient advocates. They can provide letters supporting medical hardship if you’re in treatment and help with other benefits. (msva.ms.gov)
10. Storm damage cut power and ruined my food—can I get help?
    Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, call 1-800-621-3362, and check MEMA news for Disaster Recovery Centers and deadlines. Keep receipts and photos; ask utilities for storm‑related holds. (msema.org)

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Spanish quick summary (resumen en español)

Esta guía fue traducida con herramientas de IA — verifique la información directamente con las agencias oficiales.

• Electricidad y gas (LIHEAP): Solicite por el portal Access MS (Community Services). Llame a MDHS Community Services 1‑800‑421‑0762. Beneficios máximos en 2025: hasta 1,500porcalefaccioˊn/airey1,500 por calefacción/aire y 1,500porcalefaccioˊn/airey1,500 por crisis. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Protecciones del PSC: No hay cortes en días con “freeze warning” (frío extremo) ni con “excessive heat warning” (calor extremo). Con certificado médico, puede obtener una extensión de 60 días. Revise la PSC Bill of Rights. (psc.ms.gov)
• Agua (Jackson): JXN Water tiene una tarifa para clientes SNAP y planes de pago de 12 meses. Llame al 1‑601‑500‑5200. Para otras ciudades, pida planes de pago al proveedor y llame al 211 para caridades locales. (jxnwater.com)
• Weatherization (WAP): Aísla la casa y baja la factura. Solicite por Access MS (Community Services). (mdhs.ms.gov)
• Desastres: Use DisasterAssistance.gov y MEMA para centros de recuperación y fechas límite. (msema.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Mississippi Department of Human Services — LIHEAP & WAP pages and MDHS Community Services program hub. (mdhs.ms.gov)
• The LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ACF) — Mississippi program profile, income/benefit caps, and 60% SMI references. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Mississippi Public Service Commission — Bill of Rights consumer protections and complaint process. (psc.ms.gov)
• Entergy Mississippi bill‑help toolkit and Mississippi Power payment assistance program pages. (billtoolkit.entergy.com)
• JXN Water rates, SNAP class, and payment options. (jxnwater.com)
• Mississippi Division of Medicaid contact/apply pages and the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services (MDRS). (medicaid.ms.gov)
• MEMA disaster releases and FEMA assistance references. (msema.org)
• Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) and VA Gulf Coast Health Care contacts. (msva.ms.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.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information and is not legal advice or an eligibility determination. Program rules, funding, and wait times change frequently. Always confirm availability with your local CAA, utility provider, and relevant state/federal agencies before making decisions. Use the linked official resources, call the listed numbers, and document every interaction. If you’re facing a shutoff or denial, contact your provider first, then the Mississippi Public Service Commission, and consider legal help through Mississippi Legal Services or MVLP. (psc.ms.gov)

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🏛️More Mississippi Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Mississippi

You may also need: Housing Assistance Emergency Assistance

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• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery